Two Antiguans among regional journalists who completed an investigative journalism fellowship

By Zya Williams

Journalists from nine Caribbean nations congregated in Jamaica from April 21 to 25, 2024, to partake in an Investigative Journalism Fellowship organized by the Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC), with backing from UK International Development (UKAID).

Among the attendees were two Antiguans: Latrishka Thomas from Newsco/Observer Media and Philana Johnson from ABS.

As detailed in a media release, the event commenced with an address by Judith Slater, the British High Commissioner to Jamaica, who underscored the significance of training in fostering vital investigative journalism skills in the Caribbean.

Slater emphasized, “The UK is a proud champion of a strong media globally.”

“For over three years, we have been working with the Media Institute of the Caribbean to support journalism and build the capabilities of media practitioners across the Caribbean.A vibrant and free press, that enables the free flow of information, is an essential pillar of a modern democracy,” she added.

The fellowship featured a lineup of regional and international trainers leading sessions on various topics including interviewing techniques, journalistic storytelling, data utilization, and digital security in investigative reporting.

Specific attention was given to covering areas such as illicit financial flows, crime, corruption, and ensuring high levels of digital security.

Throughout the fellowship, journalists collaborated in teams under the guidance of editors/mentors to explore potential story ideas for development.

These teams have now transitioned into working groups tasked with crafting investigative reports on a wide array of current issues.

The editors/mentors for this initiative include renowned international and regional journalists Jim Clancy, Davan Maharaj, Freeman Rogers, and Wesley Gibbings.

Kiran Maharaj, President of MIC, highlighted the invaluable cross-border insights garnered from the workshop, stating that they provide a deeper understanding of how contemporary public affairs impact regional populations and facilitate joint approaches.

Maharaj also underscored the significance of the Caribbean Investigative Journalism Network (CIJN) platform, which serves as an unprecedented avenue for disseminating locally produced investigative reports with increasing global appeal.

“In supporting this initiative, the UK has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to Caribbean development through the enhancement of professional performance in this critical area,” Maharaj remarked.

The Investigative Journalism Fellowship stands as the flagship program hosted annually by MIC, symbolizing a commitment to fostering excellence in investigative journalism throughout the Caribbean.