What inspired you to pursue a career in journalism? My journey into journalism was deeply influenced by my upbringing and my mother’s values. She instilled in me ideals of freedom, justice and education from a young age. I initially considered a career in law, thinking it would be my path to contribute to justice, but the opportunities for women in Lebanon at that time were limited. Journalism offered an alternative way to advocate for truth and social change. I decided to study mass communication and political science, which gave me a strong foundation in understanding the world around me. Early in my career, I focused on women’s issues, but as I gained experience, I discovered my passion for politics and interviews. My curiosity and love for storytelling made journalism feel less like a job and more like a calling. As a Middle Eastern woman in journalism, what challenges did you face in the early part of your career? When I began, journalism was a maledominated field, as were many academic fields which were deemed unsuitable for women. There were societal expectations that I needed to navigate, even from within my own family, but I was determined to prove that women could excel in any field. I also faced professional challenges and deadlines, such as working in high-pressure environments, taking late-night assignments and confronting tough political issues. However, as I gained experience, I began earning the respect of my colleagues, many of whom became my mentors. Lebanon, despite its challenges, has always been a hub for journalism in the Arab world. I was fortunate to study at the American University of Beirut, where I learned from some of the best minds in the field. You’ve interviewed some of the world’s most influential leaders. How have these interviews impacted you? Interviewing global leaders and activists has been an incredibly enriching experience, both personally and professionally. Some leaders left me with a bad impression, but others severely impacted me. One of the most memorable interviews I conducted was with Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, shortly before her assassination. Her humility and dedication to her country left a lasting impression on me and she taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of leadership and service. I’ve also interviewed other inspiring people in Bahrain and the Middle East including HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, his father Shaikh Isa, King Hussein of Jordan, and the famous poet Ghazi Al Gosaibi. How do you view the progress of women’s rights in the Middle East compared to 30 years ago? There has been undeniable progress, but it varies significantly by country. Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have made strides in areas like education, workforce participation and leadership. Women in these Womanthismonth.com 28 December 2024 Baria Alamuddin is trailblazing, awardwinning journalist and broadcaster who has made an indelible mark on Middle Eastern and global media. Over her illustrious career, she has interviewed influential political and cultural leaders, championed women’s rights and advocated for social justice. Known for her sharp insights and fearless reporting, she has become a role model for women in journalism in a region where such achievements were once rare. Ahead of her appearance as Chief Guest at the Woman of the Year Awards 2024, Ms. Alamuddin sat down with Kristian Harrison to reflect on her journey, the challenges she overcame, and her hopes for the future of journalism and gender equality. A PIONEER OF WOMEN’S ADVOCACY PEOPLE | interview Media plays a crucial role in challenging societal norms and amplifying the voices of the marginalised.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==