At just 20 years old, Riya Bhagwan is a beacon of inspiration in the field of journalism, fueled by her desire to engage with grassroots communities and advocate for the most vulnerable members of society. Originally from Nadi, Riya is now a second-year journalism and social work student at the University of the South Pacific.
Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, with her parents running an electronics business and a spice trade, Riya’s early exposure to the media came from daily newspapers and evening news broadcasts that her family closely followed. Her passion for journalism ignited during her time at Sangam SKM College in Nadi, where she originally intended to pursue a career in International Business and Marketing. However, her experiences in public speaking and leadership roles led her to recognize that she wanted a career that allowed for hands-on engagement rather than sitting behind a desk.
Riya draws inspiration from her grandfather, Mr. Bharat Morris, a former reporter for the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation. He shared stories of his journalism career, emphasizing the challenges and adventures that come with the job. This resonated with Riya and guided her toward a career in journalism.
Reflecting on her journey in the USP Journalism program, Riya stresses the importance of practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. She believes that while educational notes are valuable, the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios truly prepares student journalists for success. Her growing love for journalism has been cultivated through various practical assignments, including writing stories and conducting interviews.
Riya is particularly passionate about covering topics related to women, children, and vulnerable communities in Fiji. Balancing her studies in social work with her journalism aspirations, she recognizes the ongoing struggle for gender equality and aims to use investigative journalism to uncover the underlying social issues that affect these groups.
She has observed that the local media industry has grown increasingly competitive, often placing intense pressure on journalists to meet tight deadlines. While acknowledging that unrealistic timelines can impact report accuracy, she also believes that such pressures can strengthen resilience and adaptability among journalists.
Riya encourages young individuals not to shy away from pursuing journalism, despite the challenges and sometimes negative perceptions associated with the profession. For her, a true journalist operates out of a passion for making a difference, rather than seeking fame or financial rewards. She advocates for sticking to principles of fairness and integrity, emphasizing that challenges will always exist, but adhering to these values can lead to meaningful change and positively impact people’s lives.
In a world that often underestimates the role of journalism, Riya Bhagwan is a promising example of how dedication and passion can drive change and advocate for the marginalized. Her journey is a reminder of the importance of grassroots engagement in media and the potential for young journalists to influence society significantly.
This article serves as a hopeful reflection on the power of youthful ambition in journalism, highlighting that despite challenges, determination and passion can lead to impactful storytelling and transformative advocacy.
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