With the incredible efforts of REVIVE Radio + Media two Philadelphia Non-traditional Journalists of Color and one Student Journalist of Color will attend the 2023 NABJ Convention and Career Fair as first-time attendees. Together, these non-traditional journalists will form a small cohort, providing Philadelphia with a unique representation at this year’s convention.
In a noteworthy stride towards media inclusivity, we are thrilled to announce that REVIVE Radio + Media has secured funding through the Knight-Lenfest Local News Transformation Fund. This funding will pave the way for creating a dynamic and trailblazing five-day cohort poised to make a powerful impact at the highly anticipated 2023 National Association of Black Journalists Convention and Career Fair. Spearheaded by REVIVE Radio + Media, this cohort is a testament to the grassroots leader’s unwavering commitment to fostering change and representation in the media landscape, especially in a city as vibrant and diverse as Philadelphia.
This cohort for REVIVE Radio + Media is of paramount importance as a grassroots leader in the industry, giving a platform for voices to be heard and amplifying underrepresented perspectives is the driving force behind this initiative. With the city of Philadelphia as our backdrop, a city that thrives on local and hyper-local stories, the cohort’s impact is poised to resonate deeply within the media maker’s ecosystem.
This cohort serves as a game-changer for non-traditional media makers, addressing critical challenges and opening doors of opportunity. Non-traditional journalists have been underrepresented and often overlooked in the industry, and this experience is transformative. The NABJ convention provides an unparalleled networking platform, connecting them with seasoned professionals, influential leaders, and potential career growth.
The 2023 NABJ Convention and Career Fair is a treasure trove of knowledge and skill-building workshops. Through engaging seminars, panels, and interactive sessions, these non-traditional media makers gain access to cutting-edge journalism practices, the latest technological innovations, and impactful storytelling techniques. This infusion of expertise equips them to navigate the industry with newfound confidence and creativity.
For too long, non-traditional media makers have struggled to gain recognition and representation. Now, at the heart of this vibrant media event, REVIVE Radio + Media will help to reclaim the narrative, shed light on issues affecting their communities, and help showcase their unique perspectives. This empowerment fosters a sense of agency and drives them to break barriers, shaping the future of journalism. This cohort provides a platform for those who didn’t start their careers in mainstream media. With this, we will ignite a sense of agency, inspiring them to navigate the industry with boldness and resilience.
Financial Support
The creation of this cohort marks a significant stride towards inclusivity and diversity in the media industry. Thanks to the support of the Knight-Lenfest Local News Transformation Fund, these non-traditional media makers and student journalists are set to make their mark at the 2023 NABJ Convention and Career Fair. As they embark on this developmental journey, the impact on their careers and the broader media landscape promises to be unconventional. REVIVE Radio + Media’s commitment to empowering non-traditional journalists and student journalists of color showcases the powerful potential of grassroots leadership in driving meaningful change in media, championing representation, diversity, and social transformation.
2023 NABJ Convention and Career Fair
Each cohort member is bracing themselves for an electrifying event as Birmingham, the magic city, gears up to host the 2023 NABJ Convention and Career Fair from August 2 to August 6. Celebrating an impressive 48 years, the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) is all set to transform the media landscape with this year’s exhilarating theme “From Revolution to Evolution.”
With a heart full of excitement and pride, said Tamara Russell, founder of REVIVE Radio + REVIVE Media, who is also known as P.O.C. (Proof of Consciousness), “as a non-traditional journalist, cannot contain my enthusiasm for this premier multi-day conference that promises to be a game-changer for all who attend”.
The vibrant energy of Birmingham, known for its commitment to social justice, will set the stage for a groundbreaking convergence of the nation’s finest journalists, media executives, educators, and communication professionals. From engaging workshops and career development opportunities to networking sessions with industry luminaries, this gathering will be an epicenter of innovation, creativity, and growth.
In this grand celebration of voices, the REVIVE Radio + Media NABJ cohort looks forward to experiencing Birmingham’s vibrant food and arts scene. Alongside its commitment to progressive business and entrepreneurship, adding brilliance to this extraordinary event.
Impact
Philadelphia’s journalism ecosystem is thriving with innovation and expansion, driven by ambitious new media founders who aim to make a significant impact. Through a five-day cohort, these individuals can engage in valuable peer-to-peer interactions, fostering the exchange of experiences, ideas, and unique perspectives. This collaborative environment nurtures growth, stimulates innovation, and inspires fresh approaches to journalism.
- Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Supporting these journalists who have completed the PMFE fellowship aligns with the objective of promoting diversity and inclusion within the journalism industry. By funding their attendance at the convention, the Knight-Lenfest fund actively contributes to amplifying non-traditional voices, fostering greater representation, and breaking down barriers.
- Professional Development Opportunities: The NABJ Convention and Career Fair offer valuable professional development opportunities, including workshops, panels, and educational sessions. By attending, these journalists can enhance their skills, gain industry insights, and stay up to date with the latest trends, empowering them to produce higher-quality work and contribute to the growth of local journalism.
- Networking and Collaboration: Attending the convention enables these journalists to network with peers, industry leaders, and potential mentors. These connections can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and new career opportunities. By fostering these relationships, REVIVE Radio + Media plays a crucial role in supporting the growth and success of black independent journalists in Philadelphia who identifies as a person of color.
- Greater Visibility and Recognition: This exposure can open doors to new opportunities, attract attention from media organizations, and highlight their unique perspectives and contributions to journalism.
- Community Impact: Supporting these journalists in attending the convention has a positive ripple effect on the broader Philadelphia community. By empowering diverse voices and promoting their representation, REVIVE Radio + Media helps create a more inclusive media landscape that better reflects the community it serves. This, in turn, leads to more accurate and comprehensive reporting, increased trust, and a stronger connection between journalists and their audiences.
With a refreshing amount of support and with hearts brimming with excitement, cohort members eagerly anticipate the 2023 National Association of Black Journalists Convention and Career Fair, where these media makers will make their mark, leaving an indelible imprint on the world of journalism.
MEET THE COHORT FELLOWS
Philadelphia Non – Traditional Journalist:
P.O.C.
Tamara Rusell, also known as P.O.C. (Proof of Consciousness), is the Founder and Host of REVIVE RADIO, an online broadcasting platform, and a media correspondent for the joint venture REVIVE Media. The depth of her interviews stimulates conversation ranging from politics, societal issues, small businesses, music, health, nonprofits, and trending topics. When she is not behind the mic, she is curating workshops for the youth, engaging with the community by meeting them where they are, and volunteering for different community services.
P.O.C. became the youngest African-American woman regularly scheduled on Philadelphia’s NPR WHYY station 90.9 FM in 2020. She is an active member of Philadelphia’s NPR PBS WHYY “N.I.C.E.” News Infomation Community Exchange Program and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism Constellation News Leadership Initiative Fellowship. Also, P.O.C. is an honorary founding member of the National Black Media and Press Association and a member of For(bes) The Culture. Lastly, P.O.C. is the recipient of The National Black Media and Press Association Award for excellence in audio media. This is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and never-ending willingness to uplift others’ voices through arts and entertainment.
Dr. Phillip J. Roundtree
Dr. Phillip J. Roundtree is a dynamic scholar-activist, renowned speaker, and mental health advocate focused on the African diaspora’s wellness. Through his powerful keynotes, such as his TedxTalk Black Mental Health Matters, he promotes mental health prioritization and community strength among Black people.
As the host of Rhetorically Speaking and the #YouGoodMan? Men’s Wellness Podcast, he engages audiences in insightful conversations about contemporary issues and men’s health. With a focus on Black male well-being, he offers valuable insights and advocates for liberation and healing, fostering a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by Black men.
Philadelphia Student Journalist:
Abigail Chang
Abigail Chang (she/her) is a Southwest Philly writer and reporter. She is enrolled at NYU, studying Activism in Medicine with a minor in journalism and broadcasting.
Coming from a family of Jamaican immigrants, Abigail learned at a young age the importance of hard work and establishing a community. She often writes about Philly’s community organizers and events while highlighting societal issues on gun violence, sports commentary, and more. She has worked with The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Philadelphia Citizen, WHYY, and appeared on Fox29 and PHL17.
In her future career, Abigail hopes to tackle the intersections of medical disparities and racial injustice through the combined efforts of scientific justice and activism.
