Three of Bangladesh’s most promising young journalists have secured a place at Future News Worldwide, a prestigious international media conference was held in Edinburgh, Scotland, from 4 - 7 July. Selected from a highly competitive field of over 2,500 worldwide applicants, they will be joining fellow aspiring reporters from 50 countries for an intensive three-day learning programme.
Bangladeshi Participants Myat Moe Khaing, trainee in Grameenphone, Norma Hilton, student of Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Australia and Jawwad Shadman Siddique, student of Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (BUET) have been selected through vigorous screening procedures by the British Council network. Selection was based on their qualifications and applications in response to the Future News Worldwide online campaign earlier this year. The participants were chosen from among hundreds of applicants across Bangladesh solely on their passion towards journalism and the impact of their work in journalism so far.
Developed by the British Council, working in partnership with some of the world's leading media organisations, the conference identifies, trains and connects the next generation of international journalists by giving them rare access to insights from leading global media professionals.Already confirmed to appear are: BBC News presenter and former China Editor, Carrie Gracie; Reuters Global News Editor, Alessandra Galloni; and veteran Kenyan Editor and open-data champion Catherine Gicheru.
Taking place at the Scottish Parliament, Future News Worldwide coincides with, and offers a major international contribution to, Scotland’s Year of Young People as a once-in-a lifetime opportunity for the next generation of top journalists to hone their skills and make global connections.
With the media itself increasingly the subject of news headlines, the event presents a timely opportunity to focus on the universal values of objectivity, balance and evidence that underpin the profession. Topics under the lens will include storytelling and the challenges facing journalism in the digital age.
Participant Jawwad Shadman Siddique says, “Never underestimate the power of a voice. When you have a voice, you could make a difference. Future News Worldwide acknowledges the existence of aspiring journalists who have the potential to make a difference through their voice. I feel overwhelmed to be a part of this elite platform.”Barbara Wickham, Director Bangladesh, British Council says, “Huge congratulations to aspiring journalists Myat Moe Khaing, Norma Hilton and Jawwad Siddique on being selected to attend the Future News Worldwide conference in Edinburgh. The Conference is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other future leaders in media and development across the world. These three participants not only represent Bangladesh’s promising youth, they have demonstrated their passion for journalism and enthusiasm to build strong connections with the next generation of media leaders in other countries. This conference and fabulous networking opportunity will help them develop the journalism skills needed to create a positive impact in their fields when they return home. I’m sure they’ll make the most of it!"
Mark Wood, former Editor-in-Chief of Reuters and Chair of the Future News Advisory Board said, "Future News Worldwide 2018 is a unique event which gives young journalists from 50 countries the opportunity to meet and learn from some of the most outstanding media figures of our time. As well as focussing on high-quality, reliable journalism, they will take part in workshops which equip them to deal with all forms of digital communication. At a time when the demand for trustworthy news has never been greater, this conference will help plant the roots of dependable, quality journalism in countries around the world."