We are thrilled to announce the arrival of an incredibly diverse and passionate group of individuals to our 6-week Planet Detroit Neighborhood Reporting Lab Cohort, where they will embark on an enriching journey into the world of community journalism. Each participant brings a unique perspective and a shared commitment to making a difference within their communities through the power of storytelling.
Our program is designed to equip each participant with the fundamental skills of journalism, from researching and interviewing to writing compelling stories that resonate with and impact our communities. It’s not just about learning the ropes; it’s about applying these skills to publish meaningful stories highlighting our neighborhoods’ vibrant lives and challenges.
Each student who participates will receive instruction from community journalism teacher Charlotte Morgan and one-on-one mentoring through the Detroit Writing Room and Energy News Network. Those who publish a story will receive a stipend.
Planet Detroit Community Journalism Editor Martina Guzmán will oversee the cohort. “Planet Detroit’s Neighborhood Reporting Lab aligns with the mission of the Race and Justice Reporting Initiative, which encourages journalists of color (BIPOC) to report in their communities,” Guzman said. “Of all the beats in journalism, reporting on the environment has the least BIPOC representation. Having EL CENTRAL reporters Andrea Meza and Estefania Arellano as part of Planet Detroit’s Neighborhood Reporting Lab cohort addresses a desperate need to report on pressing environmental issues in Southwest Detroit. I’m excited to see what stories are produced.”
We are profoundly grateful to the Kresge and Americana foundations for their generous support, making this opportunity accessible to our cohort.
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As we kick off this journey, we look forward to the stories that will emerge, the voices that will be amplified and the impact that will be made. Welcome to what promises an inspiring and transformative experience for all involved.
Selected for the Reporting Lab from the team of freelance writers frequently published by EL CENTRAL Hispanic News are:
Estefania Arellano-Bermudez, a Latina freelance writer for El Central Hispanic Newspaper, resides in Melvindale and works in Detroit. She hopes to focus on environmental issues through her writing. “My goal with the Planet Detroit Neighborhood Reporting Lab is to connect with my community regarding ways to serve the environment,” Arellano-Bermudez said. “Words lead to action. I hope to find the right words that will lead to positive, successful action in service to the environment.”
Andrea Meza, a freelance writer with roots in the Metro-Detroit area, is passionate about highlighting Southwest Detroit stories. Her participation in the reporting lab is fueled by a desire to expand her network and amplify local narratives. “I hope to strengthen my skills as a writer and expand my knowledge and network from other journalists in the community,” Meza said. “I am grateful to get to work further with Martina Guzman, and learn how to further inform and engage the community.”
Nina Misuraca Ignaczak is an award-winning Detroit-based journalist. She is the founder, publisher, and editor of Planet Detroit, a digital media startup telling Detroit’s environmental stories while building a community of engaged readers who are informed and empowered to take action.
