As an international blog, having a support system is essential. Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, having people who believe in your work and your mission can make all the difference.
Supporters can take many forms. They can be editors who provide constructive feedback, fellow reporters who share information and resources, or local contacts who help navigate cultural and linguistic barriers. They can also be readers and viewers who appreciate the stories being told and share them with others.
But perhaps the most important supporters are those who are impacted by the stories being told. For example, reporting on issues like human rights abuses or environmental degradation can be emotionally taxing, but hearing from people who have been affected by these issues and appreciate the attention being brought to them can be a powerful motivator.
Supporters can also help with the practical aspects of reporting, like funding and logistics. Crowdfunding platforms and grants can provide the financial resources needed to cover travel and equipment costs. Local fixers and translators can help with logistics and provide valuable insights into the communities being covered.
Ultimately, supporters are essential to the work of international reporting. They help ensure that stories are told accurately and effectively, and that the voices of those who might otherwise go unheard are heard loud and clear. So if you’re an international reporter, don’t hesitate to reach out to your supporters – and if you’re a supporter of international reporting, thank you for all that you do.
The International Reporting Project is grateful for support from these current or past donors:
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation
Rockefeller Brothers Fund
Carnegie Corporation of New York
The Stanley Foundation
Humanity United
The Rockefeller Foundation
The Pew Charitable Trusts
John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The New York Times Company Foundation
Philip L. Graham Fund
McCormick Foundation
… and others.