Aye Write!, as part of the Glasgow 2014 Cultural Programme, will offer the next generation of aspiring journalists the unique opportunity to join in with this year’s Commonwealth Games.
The three-day event begins on 14 April, just 100 days before the Games kick-off, and it’s a great opportunity for young writers to gain valuable experience before Scotland’s biggest ever cultural and sporting event.
The event, titled ‘Future 2014’ takes place at Glasgow’s Mitchell Library. The city landmark will host a ‘Live Games Newsroom’, which will see 40 aspiring journalists from Glasgow working on Games-related stories and compiling and editing reports.
Up to 300 young people between the ages of 14-16, will be selected from throughout 14 Commonwealth nations including the UK.
Budding writers have been selected through the city’s Education Services department and many are already involved in producing news for school publications. Such as Hillpark Secondary pupil and candidate Caitlin Marshall, 16:
"It is a massive privilege to be a part of such an exciting and dynamic opportunity. When you have your heart set on something to be allowed even the smallest of insights into the way it works is a great boost.
The lucky candidates will enjoy masterclasses from some of the world’s leading journalists. From press freedom and ethical reporting, to technical skills, features writing and research; the candidates will also be schooled on the importance of digital technology and social media when reporting in the modern media.
Endorsing the initiative, Alan Rusbridger, Editor-in-Chief, Guardian News & Media, said:
“This project will allow these young journalists to discuss these issues and will help to shape how the next generation reports on the news.
In Scotland, teen writers will be encouraged to develop their own portfolio of work and there will be ongoing support through a variety of placement and mentoring opportunities. These terrific opportunities will be developed in conjunction with local and national media partners, colleges and universities.
Eileen Gallagher, Independent Director on the Glasgow 2014 Board and Chair of the Ceremonies, Culture and Queen’s Baton Relay Committee, said:
“The Commonwealth Games will be reported all over the world in the coming months and this conference will inspire hundreds of young people to become the next generation of journalists and provide a further legacy of the Games.”