THURSDAY, 9 JUNE
Migrant Voice held another successful Media Lab for their Glasgow-based members and Media Ambassadors, this time at Glasgow City Chambers, one of the city’s most prominent venues.
The multi-cultural event took place on 7 June and was hosted by Councillor Graham Campbell and chaired by Nazek Ramadan, director of Migrant Voice. Simon Israel, of Channel 4, led the Media Lab training.
Glasgow-based Migrant Voice Media Ambassadors were awarded certificates profiling their work, presented by councillor Graham Campbell.
This was a great networking opportunity for Glasgow members, some of whom did not have the chance to meet since the start of the pandemic. This was also an opportunity to work together on stories, with the full support and mentoring of Simon Israel, former Senior Home Affairs Correspondent, and a notable friend of the charity.
Simon shared advice from his long-standing career and experience and gave attendees the confidence to pursue their aspirations, to always fight for justice and their beliefs, and always approach journalists, who can get their stories across to a very broad audience, which can translate in finding the right support. The attendees were also taught to be resilient and to persevere and not to give up on making their voices heard.
While anyone can approach a journalist, it is good to be armed with facts beforehand and justify why the migration story we are pitching would be worthwhile. Although this was a general discussion, each participant was given the chance to get tailored mentoring for their ideas.
The current main issues of migrants’ concern were discussed across the board, and Nazek emphasized the need for urgent action and joining forces in the light of pressing events.
The event was informal, with snacks and refreshments provided, and everyone in attendance also got the opportunity to learn more about the history of the location and go on a private tour of the Glasgow City Chambers in the honourable company of Councillor Graham Campbell.
More events are yet to be announced, so keep a close eye on Migrant Voice’s social media pages for more exciting opportunities.
Andreea Nedelea is a Migrant Voice Ambassador.