Media training session to strengthen journalists’ coverage of disaster zones

On Tuesday 18th November, the Voice of America, the Broadcasting Board of Governors and the Aid & International Development Forum (AIDF) will join forces to train journalists, reporters and spokespersons to strengthen disaster coverage.

The one-day workshop will take place at the VOA headquarters in Washington, DC and includes topics on using social media effectively in disaster relief, partnering with private sector companies and engaging communities and the local government.

Joan Mower, Head of Development for VOA said, “BBG/VOA is delighted to work with AIDF on a program that helps journalists improve their coverage of disaster zones. Journalists, like medical and law enforcement officials, are often the first on the scene of a disaster. They need training, support and knowledge before they embark on these hazardous assignments. This workshop will provide journalists with tools and know-how in advance of the next disaster.”

Agnes Gradzewicz, head of Marketing from AIDF expressed, “It’s great to be able to work with such great organizations as VOA & BBG, and with the frequent occurrences of disasters around the world, it is only right that journalists are given adequate training. I’m pleased that we are able to make this happen.”

VOA is a dynamic multimedia international media network which broadcasts in 45 languages and is funded by the U.S. government. VOA has trained more than 6,000 media representatives in more than 130 countries.

Aid & International Development Forum is the world leading forum in humanitarian aid and recognizes the need to collaborate and partner across regions and sectors for aid and sustainable development goals to be achieved. AIDF’s Disaster Relief Summit which takes place on November 19 and 20 will gather world leading experts, including senior representatives from UN and government agencies.

This year’s programme focuses on the best practices in logistics and transport, innovations in water security and ICT solutions for disaster relief.