Inclusive storytelling is increasingly recognized as a vital tool for inspiring positive societal changes. This is according to Executive Director of Gender Strategy Advancement International (GSAI), Dr. Adaora Sydney-Jack.
She spoke at the Gender the Agenda Project Story Circle Exhibition and Award Presentation in Abuja, Nigeria.
The Gender the Agenda project, a three-year initiative, aims to bolster media independence and accountability, with a focus on gender-responsive budgeting, women’s political participation, and overall gender inclusivity
Dr. Sydney-Jack highlighted the transformative power of inclusive storytelling in driving social and political progress.
‘In today’s media environment, where attention spans are short and information is overwhelming, storytelling has never been more essential. Effective storytelling can cut through the noise, engage audiences, and address important issues. Whether through long-form features, traditional media, talk shows, or multimedia presentations, journalists
have diverse tools to create impactful narratives,’ she explained.
She stressed that great journalism balances factual accuracy with engaging narrative techniques.
‘While facts must remain accurate and verifiable, storytelling devices can enhance audience engagement and create a memorable impact. This balance between factual accuracy and storytelling distinguishes exceptional journalism from mere reporting,’ Dr. Sydney-Jack noted.
The Story Circle Exhibition, she added, was more than a showcase of journalists’ work but a testament to their resilience and dedication in seeking truth and accountability, especially concerning women and persons with disabilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The exhibition also highlighted the challenges journalists face and their role in redefining opportunities in an often adversarial environment.
Director of the MacArthur Foundation, Kole Shettima emphasized his organization’s commitment to accountability and investigative journalism.
‘We prioritize supporting
independent journalism as it is crucial for societal progress and development. Our goal is to hold duty bearers accountable and support civil society organizations. We approach our work with a focus on gender and social inclusion, ensuring that our efforts address the needs of women, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups.’
Motunrayo Alaka of the Wole Soyinka Center for Investigative Journalism, represented by Kimberly Chukwu, said ‘The MacArthur Foundation and the Wole Soyinka Center strive to create an environment where transparency, accountability, and good governance are prioritized. Gender-lensed reporting is essential for a comprehensive understanding of current issues, and including women’s perspectives helps to uncover the full truth of societal dynamics.’
At the event, Laraba Murey was awarded for the best Print Media story, and Momso Demien, the best in the TV category. Each winner received a prize of one hundred thousand naira.
The Story Circle Exhibition was organized by Gende
r Strategy Advancement International, with support from the Wole Soyinka Center for Investigative Journalism and the MacArthur Foundation.
Source: Voice of Nigeria