Notebooks opened, cameras clicked, and quiet introductions gradually grew into confident conversations as young women journalists from various universities gathered in Kigali on the morning of January 26 for a two-day training organized by Ishya Media Ltd in partnership with the Fojo Media Institute.
The training, held from January 26 to 27, brought together emerging female journalists and media students to strengthen the skills in storytelling, gender-sensitive reporting, plus video, audio and digital media production. Through practical exercises and guided discussions, participants were encouraged not only to sharpen their technical skills but also to reflect on the responsibility and power that come with telling stories.
One of the organizers, Jeanne d’Arc Cyuzuzo, said the initiative was designed to address the persistent gap in women’s participation and visibility in journalism, which is often driven by sexual harassment and online bullying that force many young women to abandon their media careers early.
“There is still a gap in the media when it comes to women. Through this initiative, we wanted to build confidence and motivation among young women to remain in the profession, while also helping them access resources to navigate the media landscape,” Cyuzuzo said.
As the training progressed, participants grew more confident, freely exchanging ideas and building new professional connections. The second day further strengthened their skills through practical sessions on ethical and gender-sensitive reporting, reinforcing the principles of responsible journalism.
For many attendees, the training offered a rare opportunity to learn in a supportive, women centered environment while connecting with peers from different academic institutions.
“This space allowed us to speak freely, ask questions, and grow as storytellers, which is my dream career. It also helped us become more confident in our abilities as future journalists,” said Jeanne Uwingeneye.
Another participant, Fabiola Niwemutoni, a student at Mount Kigali University, said the training plays a crucial role in shaping young women journalists by equipping them with practical media skills.
“This training is a real booster for young women entering journalism. We learned important skills such as presentation, time management, professional conduct, and storytelling. The facilitators shared valuable insights based on real media experience, which will help me grow in my media career,” Niwemutoni said.
“Today’s session exceeded my expectations. It was well planned and professionally delivered, and we felt like we were being equipped step by step with the tools we need for the future,” she added.
By the end of training, initial hesitation had given way to confidence as participants exchanged ideas and formed new professional bonds. Organizers say the training, supported by the Fojo Media Institute, aims to equip young women journalists with practical skills and professional standards.
The initiative is part of Ishya Media’s long-term efforts, including the creation of Ishya Junior, to support young women journalists as they transition from classrooms to newsrooms and to promote gender balance in the media.
