From Audience to Reporter

Abstract

This study explores a hyperlocal news website that has trained dozens of community members to report on their own multiethnic city. It examines two approaches to participatory media used by the site: a loose community contributor model based around monthly in-person meetings and a more structured youth training program. Using the observations of the founding editor (the lead author), a professional journalist who facilitated both programs, as well as feedback from content contributors collected through a focus group, interviews and written reflections, we look at the process and investigate the outcomes on contributors’ sense of agency to tell local stories. Reflecting on best practices and key challenges, including sustainability, we situate this case within the context of the rise of locally based community news websites, and changing ideas of what defines a journalist.