Uncovering the TRUTH behind the HEADLINES
Tala Michell Issa: Chief Reporter - Arabian Business
In the latest episode of The Dollar Diaries, we had the privilege of hosting Tala, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, to dive into the multifaceted world of journalism. From recounting her early inspirations to tackling the challenges of the modern media landscape, Tala’s journey offers a compelling look into what it takes to thrive in an ever-changing field. She unveils the complexities, responsibilities, and rewards of being a journalist in today’s digital age through her candid reflections and insightful anecdotes.
A Journey Shaped by Curiosity and Passion
For Tala, the seeds of her journalistic aspirations were planted early. She described how her love for writing and history as a child developed into a deep curiosity about the stories behind historical events. “I used to think about who documented these moments,” she shared. “It occurred to me that journalists are the first recorders of history.” This realization ignited her desire to pursue journalism as a means to capture unfolding narratives and contribute to society's collective memory.
Her path was further influenced by personal encounters with journalists during her formative years. Tala vividly recalled meeting a journalist through her parents, who emphasized the importance of asking incisive questions and challenging the status quo. These experiences instilled in her a profound respect for the power of storytelling and its potential to shape perceptions and drive change.
A Multifaceted Approach to Media
Tala’s academic and professional journey reflects her commitment to mastering the art and science of journalism. She pursued an education that spanned various facets of media, from PR and advertising to multimedia journalism. This holistic approach allowed her to develop a versatile skill set, including writing, photography, and video production.
One of the pivotal moments in her career was the realization that multimedia journalism offered the opportunity to integrate these diverse interests. “Every day is different,” she explained. “I can write, take photos, and produce videos, connecting with people and uncovering their stories.” This adaptability has been a cornerstone of her success, enabling her to thrive in a field that demands creativity and analytical rigor.
The Challenges of Investigative Journalism
While journalism is often romanticized as a pursuit of truth, Tala shed light on the practical challenges that investigative reporters face, particularly in the UAE. She noted that the lack of resources and a culture of chasing stories with urgency can hinder the development of hard-hitting investigative pieces. “There’s not always the time or funding to dedicate months to a single story,” she explained.
Despite these obstacles, Tala emphasized the importance of persistence and resourcefulness. She shared examples of how she leverages unconventional sources like Reddit or personal conversations to uncover stories that might otherwise go untold. Her ability to identify patterns and connect disparate pieces of information underscores the ingenuity required to excel in this field.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
The conversation also touched on the often-blurred lines between professional and personal life in journalism. Tala described her work as a 24/7 commitment, particularly for those covering breaking news or geopolitics. However, she believed in “work-life integration” rather than work-life balance. “It’s about finding a way to make both fit,” she said, highlighting how the relational aspects of journalism—meeting people and building trust—often overlap with personal interactions.
The Evolution of Journalism in the Digital Age
Tala’s reflections on the changing landscape of journalism were particularly thought-provoking. She acknowledged the growing influence of social media as a news medium and its challenges for traditional outlets. “The days of typing a website URL every morning are gone,” she observed. Instead, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit have become primary sources of information for many.
This shift has necessitated a more interactive and engaging approach to storytelling. Journalists must now capture readers’ attention within seconds, often through visually compelling or trend-aligned content. However, Tala expressed optimism about the continued relevance of long-form and print journalism, particularly in the context of magazines. “There’s still a big audience that appreciates the depth and structure of print,” she noted.
The Role of AI in Journalism
A particularly lively segment of the episode revolved around the role of AI in journalism. While some fear AI could replace human reporters, Tala argued that its true potential lies in enhancing efficiency rather than replacing creativity. She described how tools like ChatGPT can streamline tasks such as summarizing lengthy reports or generating outlines, freeing up time for journalists to focus on in-depth analysis and storytelling.
That said, she cautioned against over-reliance on AI, citing poorly executed content lacking nuance and authenticity. “AI can assist, but it can’t replicate the human judgment and context that good journalism requires,” she affirmed.
Lessons from the Field
Throughout the episode, Tala’s stories illustrated the resilience and adaptability needed to navigate the complexities of journalism. Whether chasing a high-profile interview for over a year or uncovering underreported issues like ADHD medication shortages, her commitment to delivering meaningful stories was evident.
She also touched on the importance of mentorship and collaboration in shaping her career. Tala credited her mentors at Al Arabiya for teaching her the ropes and instilling a sense of professional rigor. “Having experienced journalists guide you can make all the difference,” she reflected.
As the conversation drew close, Tala offered valuable advice for aspiring journalists. She encouraged them to cultivate curiosity, embrace technology as a tool, and remain steadfast in their pursuit of truth. “Journalism is demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding,” she concluded. “The stories you tell have the power to inform, inspire, and create change.”
This episode is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the inner workings of journalism or seeking inspiration from a seasoned professional. Tala’s candid insights and passion for storytelling provide a nuanced understanding of what it means to be a journalist in today’s world.