Ureport; A game changer for freelance journalists

Growing up, I always wanted to be a journalist. I admired television anchors, newspaper writers and radio presenters. I would copy what they did and said as I worked hard to become a journalist myself one day.

In fact, after finishing my form four, I started writing a gutter newspaper. It was cheap but quite popular in my region. I had no skills in writing and reporting and no knowledge of legal and ethical requirements but I still run my own gutter press. My passion for journalism informed my decision to pursue a diploma course in mass communication and journalism at one of the renowned media school in Kenya.

In college I was always one of the best students and was even elected a leader, to be an example of real talent. I developed my writing and reporting skills which wasn’t hard because it was something flowing naturally in me. Equipped with the necessary skills, great ambitions and driven by an inborn passion, I completed college filled with hope of becoming one of the world’s best media personalities.

Things never went as I hoped. The media industry in Kenya is a cut-throat business that requires connections and exchange of favors. Coming from a humble background, I had no acquaintances in the media industry. It dawned on me that achieving my dreams wasn’t going to be easy.

I remember how getting an internship spot even in local media firms was hard. After being recruited as an intern, I was never given a chance to present myself to the world. I came to realize that most incumbent journalists would do whatever it takes to remain on top of their game, even if it means killing the dreams of others.

Politics have infiltrated into the fourth estate. All the media firms are owned or affiliated to politicians. Journalism, or if you like, the media, is no longer a middle ground, a watchdog and the voice of the voiceless.

Although the idea of coming up with reality shows such as The Presenter on KTN is a noble idea, it makes journalism appear like a singing or dancing competition. The idea of making young stars popular or famous on television because of how they answer rehearsed questions makes a mockery of journalism.

However an idea such as Ureport that the Standard group has unveiled taps talent and ultimately gives a platform to practice journalism. Although it’s a citizen reporting platform, it gives trained journalists like me to put practice our calling. I thank the Standard Media that now I can publish my articles.