Media has the power to shape the agenda and provoke change. But at a time when the news cycle is overwhelmed by fast-changing international events or is heavily focused on domestic themes, it can be difficult to know how to get your story noticed.

As a journalist or filmmaker you may have access to a story with the potential for impact, but how do you ensure it will get picked up by commissioners, engage audiences, and in turn, shift opinion?

Join us at Channel 4 headquarters for a day of sessions exploring these questions by bringing together leading industry experts to discuss social impact and media.

This year’s event will be focusing on environmental reporting, with special guests including Gethin Chamberlain, Tom Clarke, Monica Garnsey, Phil Harding, Craig Hunter, Nicola Milne, Rosamund Pearce, and Sue Turton.

Find out more

SESSIONS

STORIES, NOT ISSUES
3pm-4.15pm

People connect with people, which makes stories that connect climate change with real human consequences the gold standard of environmental reporting. This session will explore the traits of environmental stories that grip audiences, and look at the how-tos of environmental reporting from seasoned experts.

CAN YOU BE AN ACTIVIST AND A REPORTER?
4.30pm-5.30pm

What is the role of environmental journalism in a time when we’re seemingly inundated with ever-increasing environmental threats? Are environmental reporters in a different position then other journalists – ie. should they/can they push people to act? Should they be advocates for change fighting the destruction of our planet while reporting the facts or should they remain neutral? Journalists covering increasingly overwhelming environmental stories will debate how to grapple with these issues while on the job.

ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTING: MEET THE GATEKEEPERS
5.45pm-7pm

For the last session of the afternoon, a panel of top editors will detail their remit for commissioning reports and documentaries on environmental issues. The panel will share valuable insights into exactly what they look for when commissioning, from the optimum length to the specific form and content that they aim to produce for their diverse audiences. You will learn how to best pitch your ideas, as well as inside information on how major media outlets work with freelancers.