Women in the Media Industry: Unlocking Potential and Breaking Barriers
The media industry, encompassing journalism, broadcasting, television, radio, public relations, animation, and graphics, is a dynamic and influential sector that shapes public conversations and reflects the pulse of our dynamic society. Traditionally male-dominated, the industry is thankfully undergoing a transformation, opening exciting doors for women to thrive in various roles! However, despite progress, women continue to face significant challenges that impede their full participation and advancement in the media landscape. And of course, there s always an issue of the gender pay gap that we have to eradicate!
The initiative by Good Governance Africa to hold annual webinars infirming high school girls of the potential careers in various industries breaks the invisible barriers they create for themselves. The webinar this year is a timely response to the need for greater gender inclusivity in media. In 2024, the GGA webinar will be held at Boston Media House, and is designed to unlock new opportunities for girls across a wide range of subjects like media practices, advertising, animation, digital marketing, journalism, radio, and television. This initiative is a beacon of hope for aspiring young women. The media sector facilitates communication between individuals, communities, and institutions, making it a critical space for promoting transparency and accountability.
Women’s access to media training and advancement within the profession can be hindered by a combination of institutional, structural, and individual barriers. Institutional barriers, such as biased hiring and promotion practices, limit women’s opportunities to climb the career ladder. A lack of mentorship opportunities further exacerbates the issue, leaving many women without the guidance and support necessary to navigate the complexities of the media industry. Structural barriers, including pervasive societal norms and stereotypes about women’s roles, often discourage women from pursuing careers in media. Boston Media House is here to encourage you and to break barriers! With successful alumni such as Khutso Thebedi leading the way in radio, BMH helps girls break through boundaries.
There is significant potential for growth in women’s careers within the media industry. Journalism, broadcasting, and television are traditional media fields where women are increasingly making their mark. The rise of digital media has opened up new avenues in areas such as digital marketing, social media management, and content creation, where women can leverage their creativity and communication skills. Public relations is another field where women have excelled, utilising their ability to build relationships and manage communications for businesses and organisations. In addition, the animation and graphics sector offers exciting opportunities for women to combine artistic talent with technology to create visually compelling content.
To support women in overcoming these barriers, initiatives like scholarships, bursaries, and mentorship programmes are essential. GGA, for instance, has been at the forefront of supporting women in the media space, with initiatives aimed at improving the prospects for African girls. Since 2022, GGA has extended its efforts to include the publication of a special edition of Africa in Fact and the organization of conferences like Africa’s Girl Child Dialogues, held in 2022 and 2023. These programmes provide crucial mentorship and networking opportunities, enabling women to build the skills and connections necessary for success in the media industry.
The upcoming webinar, scheduled for Friday 1 October includes presentations and panel discussions covering the complete media offering from BMH. Speakers from GGA, BMH, and the M&G will share personal experiences and insights, the event promises to be an invaluable resource for women seeking to enter or advance in the media sector.
Join the webinar and unlock the full potential of women in media, ultimately enriching the industry and society as a whole. www.bostonmediahouse.ac.za
