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| Joseph Wemakor |
The Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), Joseph Kobla Wemakor, has charged Ghanaian media professionals to rise above the challenges that confront them in the performance of their duties, putting in the time and energy and pushing boundaries to achieve excellence and effect change.
Proving his reputation as a powerhouse in his field, Wemakor expressed his convictions about the critical role of journalism in bringing about profound societal change, regardless of the challenges.
“You see, irrespective of the challenges that bedevil us in the media space, we journalists must be daring, be bold, and go beyond boundaries to overcome challenges and excel to bring about the needed change”.
The HRRG boss made this known while addressing a gathering of Ghanaian journalists at the recently held ‘Anti-Incineration and Plastic Pollution Campaign Media Conference’ in Accra on Friday, August 11, 2023.
The event, an initiative of Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO), was organized in partnership with the Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), Climate Journalism Network Ghana, the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA), and GAYO Echo-Club Campus Chapters.
This conference served as a vehicle to increase public awareness of the distressing effects that plastic pollution and incineration practices have on the environment and human health.
The event’s goal, according to its organizers, is to give journalists the knowledge, abilities, and resources they need to report on these complicated issues in a precise, thorough, and engaging way.
Wemakor, who was applauded at the event in front of his peers for his outstanding work in the area of human rights advocacy, which saw him raise the Ghanaian flag high on the international stage by winning the 5th Global Entreps Awards presented by Rachel Torres, the Secretary General of Entreps-International Board of Global Actors and Business for Sustainability in collaboration with the United Nations in Costa Rica, could not conceal his opinions after listening to journalists’ reports.
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| Mr. Wemakor speaking to journalists |
“Yes, we must admit that there are always challenges out there for us, but the fact must be made known. You see, for anyone to win an award, it is not an easy thing.”
“Sometimes you have to forgo your sleep at night; other times, you have to follow stories that will not pay, but that should not deter you from pushing the boundaries to get your stories out to cause that positive change. And by so doing, God will also see that you are doing something and recognize you”.
The prominent Ghanaian journalist and advocate for human rights challenged journalists to always try to prove themselves, no matter the challenges they face, in order to become agents of societal change. His kind words were intended to inspire, motivate, and give journalists hope.
His words showcase immense respect for journalism, the cornerstone of democracy, and the desire for journalists to rise to the challenges they face with newfound courage and determination.
Wemakor also emphasized the importance of creativity in today’s journalism during his passionate address. He stated that journalists must always look for new ways to create content and disseminate news to the public if they are to prosper and remain relevant in a media environment that is constantly changing.
His candid considerations served to inspire many who stood before him. It was evident that instilling these values — hard work, courage, and innovation — into the media fraternity could indeed effect real, meaningful change in society.
While journalism’s role in societal reformation cannot be overstated, Joseph Wemakor’s address served as a timely reminder of the potential journalists have to shape the world around us. His powerful and compelling reminder is sure to linger in the hearts and minds of Ghanaian journalists and beyond, undoubtedly becoming a beacon for those seeking to create a significant impact through their work.
GAYO’s ’Anti-Incineration and Plastic Pollution Campaign Media Conference’ provided a platform for discussing sustainable solutions to these growing problems. The organization’s ongoing dedication to nurturing a more environmentally conscious society provides hope and practical solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing environmental challenges.
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