From Theory to Practice: My PRNigeria Fellowship Journey
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela. This quote perfectly encapsulates my experience in the PRNigeria Fellowship, a program that not only expanded my knowledge but also transformed my outlook on journalism, communication, and personal growth.
Before joining the PRNigeria Fellowship, public speaking was my greatest fear. The thought of addressing an audience left me overwhelmed and camera-shy. However, through the fellowship’s rigorous training, I faced my fears head-on. Public speaking assignments initially left me nervous, but with consistent practice, I began to improve. This journey not only boosted my confidence but also helped me overcome a fear I had struggled with for years.
Embarking on a Transformative Journey
My name is Hadiza Yusuf Ahmad, and I had the privilege of being part of the Kano cohort of the PRNigeria Fellowship in 2024. I joined the program to enhance my public speaking skills and deepen my understanding of modern journalism practices.
During the fellowship, I gained invaluable knowledge about journalism and media practices, including the fundamentals of news writing, investigative journalism, and the processes involved in development and solution journalism.
One of the most eye-opening lessons was understanding that artificial intelligence (AI) is not here to replace us but to serve as a powerful tool for enhancing our work. I explored various AI tools such as Gemini, Otter, and ChatGPT, mastering prompt engineering to effectively utilize AI as an assistant in my tasks.
The program also provided hands-on training in camera operations and photo editing using tools like Lightroom, as well as video editing with Adobe software. These technical skills enriched my storytelling capabilities, enabling me to present stories in visually compelling ways.
Building Professional Skills
As an aspiring media spokesperson, I learned essential strategies for working effectively in corporate environments. These included issuing press releases, conducting press briefings, and organizing press tours. Additionally, I gained insights into advertising, advertorials, crisis management, and issues management—skills that are critical for proactive and reactive communication strategies.
The training sessions were lively and interactive, with our instructors fostering an environment that encouraged us to learn, share ideas, and grow.
The Power of Teamwork and Collaboration
One of the most remarkable aspects of the fellowship was the camaraderie among my co-fellows. We began the program as strangers but quickly became a close-knit family. Teamwork and collaboration were seamlessly woven into our activities, helping us execute tasks with efficiency and mutual support.
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A particularly memorable moment was our field visit to Jakara for a reporting assignment. Nervous about being on camera, I needed several takes to get it right. My colleagues were incredibly supportive, offering encouragement and reminding me to take a deep breath and believe in myself. Their kindness and reassurance helped me overcome my camera shyness, turning the experience into a confidence-boosting milestone.
Practical Exposure and Networking Opportunities
As part of the program, we visited print and broadcast media organizations and toured Maryam Abacha American University. These visits were eye-opening, providing a firsthand look at the workings of professional media environments.
The fellowship also offered invaluable networking opportunities with seasoned professionals across various fields of journalism. I gained access to mentors who continue to guide and support me, further boosting my confidence and helping me carve a path toward self-branding.
A Commitment to Excellence
PRNigeria provided not just training but a platform for us to practice and showcase what we learned. They emphasized their commitment to keeping us engaged and monitoring our progress, which gave us a sense of belonging and motivation to excel.
One of the most impactful moments of the fellowship was meeting the CEO of Image Merchants Nigeria Limited, Alhaji Yushau Shuaib. His warmth, support, and fatherly guidance made the training both engaging and worthwhile.
At the conclusion of my fellowship journey, I was honored to be appointed as the leader of the Kano cohort. This role allowed me to represent my colleagues and share our collective experiences, a responsibility that I carried with pride and gratitude.
Gratitude and Reflection
I am deeply grateful to PRNigeria for organizing such an impactful program. The fellowship has equipped me with the tools to upgrade my skills and has provided aspiring journalists like me with the ethical foundation to stand out in a crowded field.
To the dedicated trainers—Mr. Mahmud Abdulsalam, Mr. Muhammad Dahiru, Mr. Salis Manaja, and Mr. Zakari—thank you for your hard work, patience, and guidance. Your efforts made learning an enjoyable and enriching experience.
The PRNigeria Fellowship has been a game-changer, teaching me to structure and write articles, source and document news, and embrace lifelong learning. It has also sparked my interest in consuming quality journalism, particularly from PRNigeria.
A Call to Continue the Legacy
I encourage PRNigeria to continue hosting this fellowship annually, as it empowers journalists and aspiring media professionals with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their careers.
The PRNigeria Fellowship has been a transformative journey, and I am proud to have been part of it. It has not only shaped me into a more skilled communicator but also reinforced my belief in the power of education to change lives.
Hadiza Yusuf Ahmad
PRNigeria Fellow
Contact: [email protected]
