Whose story?
In conversation with Youth Media Forward reporters
Back in late 2024, Christabel Nsiah-Buadi led a kick-off session with Youth Media Forward participants called “Whose Story”, providing guidance on conducting effective interviews. One year on, Christabel joins four Youth Media Forward reporters to hear about the stories they have reported so far. They also discuss what representation can look like in the media. And of course, who they will be supporting in the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
The reporters also share things that they have learned through Youth Media Forward. From realizing the breadth of interconnections between human rights and sports, to learning from the diverse perspectives of other participants and presenters, to the importance of a platform for reaching new audiences with their stories, to practical tips, like leaving space for an interviewee to keep talking and elaborate on their answers.
The podcast guests are:
Ma’Net, based in Los Angeles, whose Youth Media Forward stories so far are an interview with a high school sports captain on “when some school sports get all the love”, and her op-ed “performative feminism in the world of social media”.
Camilo, also based in Los Angeles, who interviewed coach Lopez. Lopez has been Camilo’s basketball coach for several years. In the podcast, Camilo shares why it was important for the interview to be available in Spanish and English.
Declan, based in New Jersey, whose Youth Media Forward articles ask “How will the FIFA World Cup impact tourism and services in New York and New Jersey?” (a Q&A with the NYNJ host committee), and “What will new US border restrictions mean for the World Cup?”
Together with another New Jersey-based YMF reporter, Fatima, Declan interviewed Yael Averbuch West, the General Manager of Gotham FC, a US National Women’s Soccer League team.Camilla, based in New York City, whose commentary “Keep your eyes on Venezuela” explores the new narratives and possibilities that can emerge from sports and sports coverage, through the story of her family watching a Venezuelan “Vino Tinto” team qualifying match. Camilla also interviewed her former running coach for “Running culture - how Shane Myers is building a club and a movement”.