ABOUT 100 aspiring young journalists and leading editors from around the world have gathered at Holyrood for a three-day event that aims to shape the future of a rapidly changing industry.
The would-be writers arrived at the Scottish Parliament yesterday for Future NEWS 2015. They will learn about everything from press freedom to writing, the use of social media and practical video skills.
Organisers have hailed the conference as a unique event to inspire the next generation of professionals.
It has attracted undergraduates aged from 18 to 25 who are viewed as the editors and journalists of the future. Senior media executives taking part come from CNN, BuzzFeed, Facebook, the BBC, STV and a consortium of Scottish media companies, including the Herald & Times Group and DC Thomson.
A highlight will be a dramatic presentation from Sue Turton, a war and foreign correspondent currently on the run after an Egyptian court convicted her in absentia for alleged terrorism while working as an Al Jazeera reporter.
Another keynote speaker is Paul Ingrassia, Reuters managing editor. He announced the leading agency is opening a new Edinburgh bureau later this year.
Last year Mr Ingrassia attended the inaugural Future News event Glasgow and was so struck by the independence referendum debate that he stationed a correspondent in Scotland to anchor its coverage.
He said: “While the referendum a year ago did not result in independence, Scotland’s place in the United Kingdom and its voice on public issues continues as a story of significant interest. Having a correspondent in Edinburgh, working closely with colleagues covering the UK from London, will add important perspective to our coverage.”
Leaders of leading British journalism schools will show how Britain is a world leader in media education and research.
The British Council selected 50 of the participants from countries around the world. Given the rigorous selection process, many can be expected to become the editors and opinion formers of the future in their countries.
Future NEWS director Karen Cunningham said: “Future NEWS 2015 aims to inspire talented young people with media ambitions to become journalists with a passion for freedom of the press and a belief in media integrity. We hope bringing these aspiring young journalists to Scotland, and our iconic parliament building, will reinforce the importance of an independent, diverse and thriving press to a democratic society.”
Conference director Tom Thomson, the managing editor of the Herald & Times Group, said: “This fantastic partnership between Britain’s leading media companies has allowed us to assemble a distinguished array of speakers.”Dr Lloyd Anderson, Director of British Council Scotland said: “British Council is proud to ensure that this golden opportunity for students to engage with some of the UK’s leading media groups is an international one.”
The event concludes tomorrow.
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