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The Nairobian

Mentorship is critical in today's changing media landscape

Opinion

By David Omwoyo | Oct 23, 2024

**Kakamega journalists during World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2024.** [File, Standard]

The media landscape has undergone a seismic shift, driven by digital disruption and evolving consumer behaviours. In this context, it is critical that upcoming players in the media industry are properly guided to fit in the trade. Mentorship becomes even more crucial for navigating the complexities of the modern media world.

Mentorship is a profound human connection that has been around for centuries. Beyond just teaching skills, it involves sharing knowledge, providing encouragement and guiding someone on their journey. At its essence, it is a relationship founded on trust, where both the mentor and the mentee are dedicated to mutual growth.

Mentorship is about helping someone gain a clearer vision of their future, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed while also learning from the new insights they offer. What makes this relationship unique is its reciprocal nature. While a mentor offers guidance, they too benefit from the relationship.

The curiosity, enthusiasm and innovative ideas that mentees contribute invigorate the connection, while mentors provide the steady support and motivation necessary to overcome obstacles. It’s a shared journey that not only shapes careers but also fosters enduring relationships that go beyond professional limits.

Over the years, the nature of mentorship has undergone some considerable changes. Historically, it was often an informal relationship, where experienced individuals in various fields would guide newcomers. In media, this has transformed into structured programmes that aim to bridge gaps and ensure that knowledge and skills are passed down effectively.

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In today’s fast-paced environment, this concept is more crucial than ever. The urgency is particularly evident in dynamic fields like media, where the landscape is in a constant state of flux. The rapid evolution of technology and the emergence of new platforms can be daunting for young professionals trying to carve out their paths. With each innovation, there comes a learning curve that can leave many feeling lost or overwhelmed.

This is where mentorship steps in as a vital resource. A mentor acts as a steady anchor amidst the turbulence, providing not just guidance but also reassurance. They help mentees navigate the complexities of their careers, offering insights that come from experience and a broader perspective on the industry.

The reality is no one achieves success in isolation. Behind every accomplished journalist stands a mentor who played a pivotal role in helping them cultivate the skills, confidence, and resilience to excel. This is precisely why structured mentorship programmes are essential. They bridge the gap for individuals who might not otherwise have access to such valuable connections.

Media organisations, both large and small, should actively champion dedicated mentorship programmes. This can take various forms: assigning mentors to new hires, fostering informal peer-to-peer mentorship within teams, or partnering with educational institutions to create internship programmes with strong mentorship components.

By investing in mentorship initiatives, media organisations empower their employees, fostering a more knowledgeable and resilient workforce. This in turn fuels innovation, enhances ethical practices, and ultimately strengthens the media landscape as a whole.

Mr Omwoyo is the CEO of the Media Council of Kenya. [email protected]