【Article by GCIT】

On December 18th, the Master's program in Global Communication and Innovation Technology (GCIT) at National Chengchi University had the honor of hosting Ms. Susan Ferroa, a distinguished freelance journalist based in Singapore. With an impressive portfolio that includes contributions to CNA (Channel NewsAsia) Documentaries, CNA News Special Projects, and Hitachi Asia. She delivered a compelling lecture, sharing vivid accounts from her career and unique insights into journalism.

Unusual Experiences as a Journalist in Singapore

Ms. Ferroa began her talk by recounting her experiences as a journalist in Singapore. She described her travels around the globe, often equipped with only a small bag and her passport, ready to report, film, and present facts without misconceptions or bias. Her work requires an unwavering commitment to uncovering and delivering the truth. She also offered a nuanced perspective on Singapore, often called the "little red dot" on the map between Indonesia and Malaysia. Singapore is a cosmopolitan city where news consumption focuses on potential future developments. Ms. Ferroa highlighted the growing threat of fake news and deepfake technology, explaining how media organizations, like CNA, have set up dedicated teams to detect and combat misinformation. She also shared her experiences covering major historical events, such as the Gulf War, where live reporting from the frontlines became a turning point in journalism.

The "5Cs" of Journalism

Ms. Ferroa distilled her advice for aspiring journalists into five essential qualities, the "5Cs," which are invaluable not only for journalists but for anyone aspiring to professional excellence:

1. Crewing: She emphasized the importance of collaborating with local crews, particularly when navigating unfamiliar environments or dealing with local authorities. Local expertise often facilitates smoother operations and better outcomes. For example, she recounted a situation in Indonesia where local crew members handled police interactions, ensuring the project proceeded smoothly.
2. Contacts: Building and maintaining a network of contacts, no matter how small, is crucial. Even the slightest connection can evolve into a vital partnership in the future. Ms. Ferroa shared a story of how a referral from a freelancer turned into long-term correspondents in the U.S. and London.
3. Context: Context is key in storytelling. Ms. Ferroa illustrated this point by showing four contrasting photos of Indonesia, each depicting a different atmosphere. She stressed the importance of providing accurate context to avoid leading the audience to misconceptions. She also noted the ethical responsibility of journalists to avoid sensationalism.
4. Crises: Reporting often involves engaging with people from diverse backgrounds. This interaction enriches the story and reveals the journalist's biases, encouraging growth and broader perspectives. Ms. Ferroa also discussed the emotional toll of covering crises and the importance of post-assignment support for journalists.
5. Communication: Clear and effective communication is essential in conveying stories and collaborating with teams. Ms. Ferroa emphasized that honing this skill is critical for success in journalism

Engaging Q&A Session

The session concluded with a lively Q&A segment, where students posed thought-provoking questions. One query that resonated with many GCIT students was how to avoid burnout in such a demanding profession. Ms. Ferroa advised taking breaks, stepping away from work to gain fresh perspectives, and sharing drafts with peers for feedback. She underscored the importance of self-care and collaboration in maintaining quality and well-being.

A Memorable Experience for GCIT Students

Ms. Ferroa’s session provided invaluable insights for GCIT students aspiring to careers in journalism and content creation. Her professional expertise and practical advice inspired the audience to approach their future endeavors with curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. She reminded the students that journalism is not just about telling stories—it is about telling them responsibly and with respect for the diverse perspectives of the people involved.

[此中英文稿和圖片以及全球傳播與創新科技碩士學位學程均獲得中華民國文化部的補助。]