Written by Jesmin Papri
Finding your voice, your passion and building a career in journalism.
For three days in October, 20 young female journalism students from Chittagong University and Daffodil University in Bangladesh have explored, shared experiences and listened to seasoned journalists about how to pursue a profession as a woman media leader of tomorrow.
Participants engaged in lectures on leadership, exploring the journey from being a young woman in the media to becoming an experienced leader. They learned the difference between leadership and management and discussed challenges, failures and success stories in the journalism field. Sessions focused on building confidence, professional networks, mentorship and navigating newsroom dynamics. Also, many discussions were held about the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people.
Critical topics, including newsroom safety, handling harassment, managing emotions and responding to threats, were also addressed. Speakers highlighted the urgent need for more women in journalism in Bangladesh and offered career guidance from GIJN Bangladesh alongside insights from international journalists.
– It was amazing to see how the students’ commitment and passion for journalism grew during our days together, said one of the trainers Kersti Forsberg.
By the end, participants left motivated, better equipped, and ready to contribute as the next generation of women media leaders. The workshop underscored the essential role of mentoring, skill-building and support in shaping future journalism talent.
About the workshop
The AGILE Women Media Leaders of Tomorrow workshop, held from 26 to 28 October at BCDM Gazipur, Bangladesh, brought together 20 ambitious female students from Chittagong University and Daffodil University, eager to pursue careers in journalism. Led by experienced journalists and mentors including Kersti Forsberg, Jesmin Papri, Fellow Rest Of World, Sheikh Sabihah Alam, Dhaka Bureau Chief, AFP, Fahim Ahmed, CEO, Jamuna Television, SK Tanvir Mahmud, Editor GIJN Bangla, and Mariem Aziz Mourin, Staff Reporter, News24, the workshop offered practical guidance on leadership, media ethics, resilience, and career development.
AGILE is a global consortium (2025-2028) which aims to strengthen independent journalism globally, supported by the European Union. The consortium members are Internews Europe, Fojo Media Institute, CFI Développement Médias, Thomson Media and ARTICLE 19.