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 The journalist she never became

25 November 2024, 7:23 pm

Beatrice on the interview with Byamukama Alozious.

By Byamukama Alozious

Beatrice Apio Zola grew up admiring journalists—smartly dressed, confident news anchors on TV inspired her to dream of becoming a journalist. She envisioned herself as a news anchor and saw media as a platform to advocate for disability rights and support her political ambitions. 

However, societal negativity crushed her dreams. Friends warned her that journalism involved dangerous fieldwork and would be challenging for someone with a disability. “I didn’t ask media practitioners about the realities of the job. Instead, I listened to others’ negative voices, which dictated my decisions,” Beatrice shared. 

At a recent dialogue organised by the Uganda Media Women’s Association (UMWA) in Lira District, Beatrice revisited her aspirations. The training focused on public accountability and fair reporting, emphasising opportunities for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in media through digital tools. Trainers like Laira Ndagire, Byamukama Alozious, and Margaret Ssentemu showed how technology can make journalism accessible to all while training the journalists and Women politicians

“I realised journalism isn’t just about fieldwork. Technology allows PWDs to excel from anywhere,” Beatrice remarked. She now advocates for inclusive media spaces, urging young PWDs to join the industry. 

Komalworo Stella, a PWD leader in Itek subcounty, highlighted physical barriers such as lack of ramps, handrails, and accessible toilets in media houses. She called for inclusive infrastructure to ensure equal opportunities. 

UMWA’s partnership with Uganda Radio Network (URN), the Editors’ Guild, and the African Centre for Media Excellence underscores their commitment to creating accessible media spaces. Project Coordinator Connie Osuru emphasised addressing gender and disability disparities in media to foster inclusivity. 

Beatrice, now chairperson of Lira district Disabled Women Association, is determined to use journalism to amplify voices for PWDs. She concluded, “Let’s encourage each other to break barriers and pursue our dreams, no matter the challenges.”