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What is Sahafi Summit?
The Sahafi Summit is more than a conference—it is a forum for innovation and reflection on the evolving challenges and opportunities within journalism in Pakistan and the region. Built on a foundation of free expression and collaborative dialogue, the summit invites participants to explore how media can better navigate the digital age while safeguarding its core values.
With a strong focus on emerging technologies and the shifting media economy, the summit provides a constructive space to discuss critical issues like digital freedoms, the media economy, and the erosion of the information ecosystem. By bringing together voices from across the industry, the Sahafi Summit creates an environment where innovation, integrity, and resilience converge to shape a sustainable future for media in Pakistan.
The first edition of the Sahafi Summit, held in 2019, pioneered discussions around media viability, the economy, and digital disruption—opening a critical dialogue on how the media landscape must evolve in response to both challenges and opportunities presented by the digital era.
About
Media Matters for Democracy, in collaboration with the Association of Media and Communication Academic Professionals (AMCAP) and Beaconhouse National University (BNU), is proud to present the second edition of the Sahafi Summit. Scheduled for November 21-23, 2024, in Lahore, this gathering will bring together a diverse range of voices from Pakistan’s journalism sector, including journalists, editors, media educators, students, and consumers. The Sahafi Summit aims to provide a constructive platform for addressing critical challenges in the media landscape, offering space for thoughtful discussions on media and digital freedoms, combating Misinformation, Disinformation, and Mal-Information (MDM), and upholding journalism ethics. It also strives to foster solidarity and skill-building among media professionals, ensuring the future of Pakistan’s journalism is both resilient and forward-looking.
2024 Theme: Youth Leadership for a Resilient Media Ecosystem
The theme for this year’s summit—Youth Leadership for a Resilient Media Ecosystem—underscores the vital role young media practitioners play in shaping the future of journalism. With Pakistan’s youth population representing a significant part of the country’s media workforce, empowering them is key to fostering a sustainable media environment. As the media grapples with rapid technological advances, disinformation, and economic pressures, young journalists hold the potential to redefine the future of the industry.
The Sahafi Summit 2024 will serve as a platform for young journalists and students to build essential skills and actively participate in creating a more resilient and sustainable media ecosystem. Through peer-driven learning and collaboration with experienced professionals, participants will gain invaluable insights and training, enabling them to thrive in today’s fast-paced media environment.
Core Sub-Themes
Erosion of the Information Ecosystem
As disinformation and hate speech rise, public trust in media continues to erode. This sub-theme focuses on strategies to counter misinformation and rebuild trust in journalism. Participants will discuss how young media professionals can take a leading role in re-establishing credibility and promoting ethical journalism.
Media and Digital Freedoms
In an era where media freedoms are under threat from censorship and manipulation, this sub-theme highlights the importance of preserving digital and media freedoms to ensure a thriving press. Discussions will center on how journalists can navigate these challenges and advocate for freedom while adapting to the complexities of the digital age.
Traditional and Digital Media Economy
With big tech companies dominating the digital advertising space, traditional media outlets face financial strain. This sub-theme will examine how media organizations can innovate to remain financially viable while maintaining editorial independence. Solutions will be explored around new revenue models and collaborations.
Featured Speakers
A diverse range of speakers will address the summit, sharing insights into the future of journalism, digital content creation, safety of journalists, monetization of digital platforms, and the impact of social media on public discourse.
Networking and Mentorship Opportunities
The summit will also offer numerous networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with established media professionals, seek mentorship, and collaborate on future projects. Through these interactions, young journalists will gain career guidance, build professional connections, and receive the support needed to thrive in the industry.
Workshops and Panel Discussions
The Sahafi Summit will feature interactive workshops, skill tutorials, and panel discussions tailored to the needs of young journalists and students. Sessions will include:
Digital Storytelling
Techniques for creating compelling multimedia content.
Media Literacy
Critical skills to identify misinformation and promote informed media consumption.
Envisioning a Career in Media
Expert insights on navigating the media landscape.
Digital Security
Tools and strategies to safeguard digital privacy and security.
Physical Safety of Journalists
Equipping professionals with knowledge and strategies to protect themselves in the field.
Monetization Strategies
Practical solutions for monetizing online journalism in Pakistan.
Investigative Reporting Tools
Leveraging AI and data tools to enhance investigative journalism.
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