My first couple of weeks of a Media Coordinator placement at Amnesty International have been a whirlwind. I was thrilled to have secured the position as I was told that although they had no internships available they would create one for me considering I had media relations knowledge. I had been wanting to work for Amnesty International for quite some time- they're the largest human rights organisation in the world and they work to assist with issues such as Indigenous rights, refugee rights and LGBTQI rights. I was surprised to find out at my interview though that they were receiving little media coverage in WA.
Therefore, my main goal in during my 7 weeks part-time internship was to get Amnesty International WA more press coverage. My supervisor informed me he hoped to get the media to run at least 2 stories about their organisation during my placement. And I'm happy to say that the press release I sent off on my very first day is going to run in the Joondalup Times. I didn't write the whole release myself, but I did make some changes. I added quotes, include more event information, added a letterhead and full contact details, and added a captioned photo that was similar to the sort that the publication normally featured. I then addressed it to one of the publication's Journalists and sent it off. Very grateful for all the things my Media Relations tutor Bridget taught me now!
So now we're discussing other article ideas, and I'm really keen to get started on some more press releases. As our office is there to facilitate the activities of the local groups I'll have to contact them to source more ideas. The action groups and the office are run mainly by volunteers who are usually only in for a couple of hours a week, so I'll be sending some emails out to see what they're up to.
As well as the strategy and press releases, I've been working to create a detailed local media contact list. Not the most enjoyable job in the world, but a valuable resource I'm sure! I've also had to do loads of research on Amnesty International to understand the organisation and current human rights issues. Next up will probably be a radio script to promote one of our events, and I think I need to try to secure the radio spot too. So, I've been up to a lot at Amnesty International but I love it! I'm now feeling excited about working in the industry, and so glad that all the nervousness I felt at first has gone away. Will keep you updated on my progress, Jolene xx
1 comment:
Hi Jolene,
Wow that's fantastic having your own media release published! It’s great to be able to show what we have been taught in the classroom into real life. Bridget was a great tutor and her advice has helped me greatly as well. Sounds like you are on top of your internship duties and creating a media strategy that's great work. Our internships are very different as I intern with a large consultancy company, so everyone works full time and provides great guidance when needed. However, I think your very on top of it and doing a great job.
I look forward to reading your next post :)
Thanks, Chelsea x
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