The Press Club of St. Joseph’s Senior Secondary School on Thursday held a mentorship and basic news writing session, bringing together over 30 aspiring student journalists and some of The Gambia’s most respected media professionals. The event, held in the school’s, was part of an initiative to nurture young voices and inspire a new generation of female journalists.
Organized by Annette Camara, a former student of the school, journalist, and President of the Women Journalists Association of The Gambia (WoJAG), the session marked a key moment in the school’s efforts to revive student-led journalism and promote female participation in the media.
Speaking at the event, Fatou Sanneh Ceesay, former Acting Director General of GRTS, with over two decades in broadcast journalism and an alumni of the school , shared her personal journey, offering words of encouragement and wisdom. “You may be young, but your voice has the power to shape how people think, feel, and act. The world is waiting for your truth,” she told the students.
Halimatou Ceesay, founder of SheTale Media and a rising voice in digital storytelling, facilitated a hands-on session titled *“The Basics of News Writing Every Young Journalist Should Know.”* She guided students through the structure of a news report, the ethics of reporting, and how to identify a strong news angle.
The event also featured the presence of Isatou Keita, President of the Gambia Press Union,a journalism trainer who commended the initiative and emphasized the need to support student press clubs as incubators of ethical journalism and civic engagement.
“This press club is more than just an extracurricular activity. It’s an initiative that empowers young girls to find their voices and challenge stereotypes,” said Annette Camara. “Our aim is to create a space where girls can learn, express themselves, and become future leaders in the media industry.”
The students, visibly inspired, engaged the speakers with questions about career paths, challenges in the industry, and the role of women in media. Many expressed excitement about continuing their work as young reporters and using journalism as a tool for social change.
As the session concluded, one student reflected: “Today, I felt seen and heard. I now believe that I, too, can become a journalist.”
The press club initiative is expected to continue with future mentorship activities, story competitions, and collaborations with national media houses, aiming to provide consistent exposure and growth opportunities for student journalists.
