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Showing posts from April, 2025

The 2025 Trade War between the USA and China: A Journalist's Analysis

The year 2025 will be remembered as a watershed moment in the history of international trade relations. The trade war between the United States of America and the People's Republic of China, which began in 2018, reached its climax in 2025, sending shockwaves across the global economy. As a journalist, it is essential to analyse the causes, consequences, and implications of this trade war, which has altered the dynamics of international trade and diplomacy. Causes of the Trade War The roots of the trade war can be traced back to the Trump administration's decision to impose tariffs on Chinese goods in 2018. The move was seen as a response to China's alleged intellectual property theft, forced technology transfer, and unfair trade practices. However, the real motivation behind the tariffs was to address the massive trade deficit between the two countries, which had grown to over $400 billion in 2017. The Chinese government, under President Xi Jinping, retaliated with tariffs ...

A Concise History of Newsletters: From Ancient Rome to Digital Age

The concept of newsletters has been around for centuries, serving as a vital means of communication, information dissemination, and news sharing among communities, organisations, and individuals. From ancient Rome to the digital age, newsletters have undergone significant transformations, adapting to changing technologies, social trends, and consumer preferences. This piece provides a concise history of newsletters, exploring their evolution, milestones, and impact on society. Ancient Origins (100 BCE - 500 CE) In ancient Rome, newsletters, known as "Acta Diurna," were inscribed on stone or metal and posted in public spaces, sharing news, announcements, and official decrees with the masses. These early newsletters played a crucial role in disseminating information, fostering community engagement, and promoting civic participation. The tradition of newsletters continued through the Middle Ages, with monasteries and churches producing handwritten newsletters, known as "new...

Lessons From Completing Newsletter Assignments

The completion of newsletter assignments has been a transformative experience, imparting valuable lessons that extend beyond the realm of academic writing. As I reflect on the journey, I have distilled the major takeaways that have had a profound impact on my writing skills, critical thinking, and overall approach to communication. First and foremost, the newsletter assignments have honed my ability to write concisely and effectively. With the constraint of limited word count, I learned to prioritize information, focus on key messages, and convey complex ideas clearly and concisely. This skill has proven invaluable in various aspects of life, from crafting compelling social media posts to drafting concise emails. By mastering the art of brevity, I have become a more efficient and impactful communicator. Another significant takeaway is the importance of research and verification. While working on the newsletters, I had to delve into diverse topics, often venturing into uncharted territo...

Identifying A Good Press Release

  The press release I chose is titled "Amazon Announces Plans to Invest in 100,000 New Jobs in the U.S. in the Next 18 Months". The release was issued by Amazon, the e-commerce giant, in January 2020. Here's why I chose it. First and foremost, the headline is attention-grabbing and newsworthy. The announcement of 100,000 new jobs is a significant development that is likely to resonate with the public, policymakers, and the media. The use of a specific number and a clear timeframe adds credibility and creates a sense of urgency. The opening paragraph is concise and to the point, providing essential context and background information. The language is clear and free of jargon, making it accessible to a broad audience. The release quickly gets to the heart of the matter, outlining Amazon's commitment to creating new job opportunities across the United States. One of the key strengths of this press release is its focus on the benefits of the announcement. Rather than simpl...

SAMPLE: Full Creative Brief; Newsletter, Social Media posts & VIdeo for I-fitness Gym

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Sample: Creative Brief for I-Fitness Gym Explanation of the Brief This video production brief provides a comprehensive outline of the project's objectives, target audience, key messages, and deliverables. It outlines the creative vision and style for the video, as well as the technical requirements and timeline for the project. By following this brief, the video production team can create a high-quality video that effectively promotes I-Fitness Gym Company and resonates with the target audience. The Brief Project Overview I-Fitness Gym Company is seeking a high-energy, motivational, and engaging video production that showcases its state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge equipment, and diverse range of fitness programs. The video aims to promote the gym's unique selling proposition, highlight its commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment, and drive membership sales. Objective The primary objective of this video production is to create an attention-grabbing...

Favourite Project on Conducting Interviews This Semester

 This semester, I had the privilege of working on a project that involved conducting interviews, and it has been my favorite project so far. This project not only allowed me to develop my communication and interpersonal skills, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of the industry I am interested in pursuing a career in. As I reflect on the experience, it has significantly impacted my plans for my future career, shaping my goals and aspirations in ways I never thought possible. One of the primary reasons why this project stands out as my favorite is the opportunity it provided to engage with professionals in my desired field. Conducting interviews allowed me to connect with individuals who have extensive experience and expertise, gaining valuable insights into their daily tasks, challenges, and accomplishments. This exposure not only helped me  but also gave me a chance to learn from their experiences, both successes and failures. The conversations I had with these profes...

Broadcast Media Excellence: The Backbone of Quality Journalism

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  In an era where social media dominates the news landscape, broadcast media stands firm as a vital defender of quality journalism. While platforms like Twitter and Facebook have transformed how information spreads, dedicated professionals in broadcast media work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that the public receives accurate, unbiased, and engaging news content. Among these professionals is Mr. Abiola Afolabi, a seasoned journalist and esteemed colleague at a media house. In a recent interview, Afolabi shared his insights on the importance of excellence in broadcast media and its critical role in shaping public opinion. "Broadcast media is the backbone of quality journalism," Afolabi emphasized. "It provides an avenue for journalists to tell stories that inform, educate, and entertain the masses. The reach and impact of broadcast media are unmatched, making it a powerful tool for shaping public opinion and influencing policy decisions." His perspective ref...

Giving Our All

The concept of "giving our all" is a profound and timeless principle that has been taught by religious leaders and spiritual guides throughout history. It is an idea that transcends cultural and socio-economic boundaries, speaking directly to the human heart and its capacity for selflessness and generosity. In the article, a powerful illustration of this concept is provided through the story of a young widow named Maria. Maria's story is a testament to the power of faith and devotion. Despite facing incredible hardship and poverty, she continues to give generously to her church and community, exemplifying the spirit of "giving our all." Her story serves as a reminder that true discipleship requires sacrifice, commitment, and a willingness to surrender all that we have to the Lord. The concept of "giving our all" is rooted in the biblical account of the widow's mite, found in Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4. In this passage, Jesus observes a poor wido...

Personality Interviewing, The Basics

  The concept of personality interviewing has been a topic of debate among psychologists, researchers, and hiring managers for decades. While some argue that personality interviewing is an effective tool for selecting the best candidate for a job, others claim that it is a flawed and unreliable method that can lead to biased hiring decisions.  On the one hand, proponents of personality interviewing argue that it provides valuable insights into a candidate's personality, behavior, and values, which are essential in determining their fit for a particular job role. By asking questions that assess a candidate's attitudes, motivations, and emotional intelligence, hiring managers can get a sense of how well they will adapt to the company culture and work environment. For instance, a candidate who is introverted and prefers to work independently may not be the best fit for a team-based role that requires frequent communication and collaboration. By identifying these traits early on, ...

The Impact Of Interviewing On Me As A Communications Student

  As a communications student, I have had the opportunity to engage in various forms of research and data collection methods, but none have had a more profound impact on me than interviewing. Interviewing, a qualitative research method that involves collecting data through face-to-face conversations, has not only enhanced my understanding of the subject matter but has also transformed me as a researcher, a communicator, and an individual.  Firstly, interviewing has significantly improved my research skills. Through interviewing, I have learned how to craft open-ended questions that elicit meaningful responses, how to actively listen to participants, and how to analyze and interpret data. These skills have enabled me to collect rich, in-depth data that provides valuable insights into the research topic. Moreover, interviewing has taught me the importance of empathy, neutrality, and objectivity in research, which are essential qualities for any researcher. For instance, during m...

Principles From Joseph Smith Quote To Enhance And Improve News Writing

The quote by Joseph Smith highlights the transformative power of kindness, compassion, and mercy in human relationships. While it may initially seem unrelated to news writing, I believe it has significant implications for how journalists approach their work. In this essay, I will explore how the. To start with, the quote emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion in our interactions with others. In the context of news writing, this translates to a more nuanced and human-centered approach to storytelling. Rather than simply reporting facts and figures, journalists should strive to understand the experiences and perspectives of the people they are covering. This empathetic approach can lead to more compelling and relatable stories that resonate with readers. Moreover, it can help journalists avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes and biases, which can have serious consequences for marginalized communities. By adopting a more compassionate tone, news writers can contribute to a m...

Unlocking Economic Growth: The Impact of AfCFTA on Oyo State

"The best way to predict the future is to create it" The saying above is often attributed to Abraham Lincoln or Peter Drucker. It emphasizes that instead of passively waiting for events to unfold, we should actively shape our own futures through intentional actions and choices. This quote suggests that focusing on creating the future you desire, rather than merely trying to predict it, is a more effective approach. It highlights the power individuals have to influence their own destinies through proactive decisions and actions. It encourages people to take initiative and actively participate in crafting the future rather than waiting for it to happen.  Similarly, like Abraham Lincoln, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is committed to ensuring the best possible economic future for the Pace Setter State. Sequel to the success of the Consultative Forum on the Development of the AfCFTA Sub-national Implementation Strategy for Oyo State, held at the International Conference Centr...

The Art of Modern Parenting: A Guide to Raising Godly Children in Today's World

In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, modern parenting has become a daunting task. With the rise of social media, peer pressure, and changing values, it can be challenging for parents to raise children who are grounded in morals, values, and spirituality. However, parents must take an active role in shaping their children's character and guiding them towards a life of purpose and fulfillment. This essay will explore the art of modern parenting and provide a comprehensive guide to raising godly children in today's world. First and foremost, modern parents must prioritize building a strong relationship with their children. This can be achieved by spending quality time with them, engaging in open and honest communication, and demonstrating unconditional love and acceptance. A strong parent-child bond lays the foundation for trust, respect, and obedience, making it easier for parents to instill values and morals in their children. As the Bible says, "Train up a c...

The Influence of Regular Blogging on My Life

In today's digital age, blogging has become an increasingly popular platform for individuals to express their thoughts, share their experiences, and showcase their expertise. With the rise of social media and online publishing, blogging has become more accessible than ever, allowing individuals to reach a global audience with ease. However, as blogging becomes more frequent and demanding, it can significantly impact an individual's personal life. On the one hand, frequent blog writing can have several positive effects on an individual's personal life. For instance, blogging can help individuals develop their writing skills, critical thinking, and creativity. The process of researching, writing, and editing a blog post requires discipline, organization, and attention to detail, all of which are valuable skills that can be applied to other areas of life. Moreover, blogging can provide an outlet for self-expression and personal growth, allowing individuals to share their exper...

Strengths Of Feature Writing Over News Writing

Feature writing has long been considered a distinct form of journalism that offers a unique set of strengths and weaknesses compared to traditional news writing. While news writing is primarily focused on conveying factual information about current events, feature writing takes a more in-depth and nuanced approach, delving into the human experience and exploring the complexities of a particular topic or issue One of the primary strengths of feature writing is its ability to tell a story. Unlike news writing, which often relies on a straightforward, inverted pyramid structure, feature writing employs a more narrative approach, using descriptive language and vivid imagery to paint a picture in the reader's mind. This allows feature writers to engage their audience deeper, drawing them into the story and encouraging them to invest emotionally in the subject matter. For example, a feature article on a local artist might describe the textures and colors of their work, the inspiration be...