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Celebrating 19 Years of Global Press

This March, Global Press proudly commemorates its 19th anniversary, a milestone that signifies nearly two decades of transformative journalism. Since its inception in 2006 by visionary social entrepreneur Cristi Hegranes, this nonprofit organization has profoundly redefined the landscape of international journalism. Through its innovative approach, Global Press has not only earned numerous accolades but has also created a sustainable model that empowers local reporters, particularly women and non-binary individuals, in some of the most underreported regions across the globe.

In a period marked by increasing constraints on press freedom, Global Press has remained steadfast in its mission. The organization’s commitment to ethical reporting and impactful storytelling has made it a significant player in the global media landscape. Manori Wijesekera, a long-time contributor to Global Press with 15 years of experience in various roles, emphasizes the importance of investing in local journalists. She states, “We’re not only producing stories that challenge the way most of the world understands countries and issues, but we’re also nurturing and elevating local journalists who will continue to produce ethical, authentic stories from where they live.”

Over the years, Global Press has not only focused on delivering stories that are accurate and compelling but has also become a pioneer in journalist welfare. Dr. Geetha Murali, CEO of Room to Read and a board member at Global Press, attributes this success to the organization’s visionary leadership and its unwavering dedication to journalist well-being. “A powerful example of this is its industry-leading Duty of Care program—a testament to Cristi's foresight and deep commitment to both journalism and the reporters at its heart,” Murali explains.

Global Press's influence can be measured through its remarkable achievements, including over 60 journalism awards and a robust syndication network of more than 100 media partners. The organization’s narratives have instigated real-world changes such as policy reforms in Nepal, social initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and increased environmental regulations in Mexico. One notable instance is its investigation into virginity testing in Mongolian schools, which successfully led to a governmental prohibition of the practice.

The organization’s revolutionary approach has shifted the traditional narrative surrounding international journalism. Rather than focusing on war, poverty, and catastrophe, Global Press centers local women as vital figures in storytelling. Founder Cristi Hegranes reflects on this transformation, stating, “Global Press has redefined international journalism, proving that when local women lead the news, the world gets a more accurate, diverse, and transformative view of itself.”

As Global Press steps into its tenth year, the challenges are greater than ever, with rising authoritarianism and threats to press freedom on the horizon. Nonetheless, the organization remains undeterred, committed to providing independent journalism that addresses today’s pressing issues. Just last month, Global Press launched the Shifting Democracies Fellowship, welcoming ten talented journalists from varied backgrounds including Ukraine, El Salvador, and Indonesia, further emphasizing its ongoing mission to foster global connections through journalism.

Liubov Velychko, a Ukrainian journalist and Global Press fellow, passionately shares her enthusiasm, stating, “The best job in the world is the one that helps you grow, learn, and gain experience from others; Global Press reminds me of an ocean of opportunities, where you never get tired of swimming and exploring new depths.”

With its rich history, steadfast commitment to ethical journalism, and a powerful network of local reporters, Global Press continues to inspire change and confront the challenges of modern journalism head-on. For those wanting to learn more, details about Global Press’s 19-year journey can be accessed through their platform.

Global Press stands as a beacon, a testament to the power of local journalism in creating a nuanced and comprehensive narrative about the world we inhabit.