Indigenous researchers shine at NITV

By Lyndal Byford, the Australian Science Media Centre

When we recall Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the media, we might remember sports stars, dancers, artists, and activists - we seldom remember Indigenous doctors, scientists or engineers.

But with the help of our media partners at NITV, last week the AusSMC worked with seven Indigenous scientists to tip these scales by empowering them to engage with the media through our Indigenous Media Mentoring Program.

Led by National Indigenous Affairs Editor at SBS and NITV, John-Paul Janke, this unique program combines practical hands-on media experience with mentoring from Indigenous researchers, journalists and science communication experts.

"This is such a well-thought-out, culturally appropriate program. It’s so needed for mob in research, and it was perfectly tailored for mob in research," reflected one of this year's participants at the conclusion of the two-day program.

Alongside practical TV and radio interviews with the NITV team, and a session on pitching to The Conversation,  the program includes frank discussions about what it can mean to be an Indigenous expert in the media, and on the realities of the Australian media landscape.

Participants said these discussions were eye-opening in revealing how much is involved in the media landscape and how much Indigenous people in the media need to be aware of.

A tour of the SBS/NITV studios is also a highlight of the two days, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how news is delivered to audiences each night.

"I loved the studio tour and seeing how it all comes together," said one participant. "Having that familiarity developed through this, I think I will be able to comfortably go into studios for media engagement."

The program, which is supported by NITV/SBS, CSIRO and CSL, is now in its 10th year and has seen over 70 Indigenous scientists build their confidence and skills around engaging with the media.

We can't wait to see this year's crew in the media soon.

You can read more about the Program here

This article originally appeared in Science Deadline, a weekly newsletter from the AusSMC. You are free to republish this story, in full, with appropriate credit.

Contact: Lyndal Byford

Phone: +61 8 7120 8666

Email: info@smc.org.au