Text by Samantha Mendes, journalism intern, under the supervision of journalist Alice Martins.
Daniela Souza, journalist and executive coordinator of Portal Assobiar (MA), led the third training session of the III Amazônia Vox Training Cycle, with the theme “Media Literacy: what it is and how to start applying it in my community”. The activity addressed strategies to foster critical thinking and conscious reading of content based on experiences in the cities of Açailândia and Imperatriz, in Maranhão, encouraging transformative actions in local communities through media literacy.
In a debate on how media literacy can be a strategic tool for exercising citizenship and deconstructing stereotypes in communities, Daniela highlighted the importance of critically analyzing information to combat prejudiced narratives and strengthen social participation. “Paying attention to signs, such as public hearings or the way the community informs itself, is an important step towards changing local reality and promoting fairer and more inclusive communication,” she emphasized.
Another point highlighted during the training was the importance of using technology and social media as tools to amplify voices and bring relevant community issues to light. Daniela emphasized that it is not necessary to have a large following or large financial resources to start getting involved in media education and local issues. “Filtering information, being aware of our role and promoting conversations that generate a positive impact are fundamental steps in this digital universe,” she pointed out.
During the session, Daniela answered a question about the difference between everyone’s ability to communicate through the media and training to be a journalist. She explained that media education helps people discover their affinities and talents, such as opening an agency, working with photography or producing content for YouTube. “In the workshops, we explore what each person would like to share in the media, and smaller groups allow for more personalized monitoring,” she highlighted, reinforcing the positive impact of this work on communities.
The session ended with a question and answer dynamic organized by the trainer, who randomly selected some participants to discuss, based on guiding questions, the importance of media education and its impact on communities.
The next meeting of the III Amazônia Vox Training Cycle will be on November 19, with the 4th training session addressing the theme “Toolbox: Solutions Journalism applied to the coverage of culture and education in the Amazon”.
About Amazon Vox - The platform brings together a Database of Amazonian Knowledge Sources and a network of freelance journalists from the region. It also produces journalistic content based on Solutions Journalism, showcasing local initiatives and voices that are responding to the challenges of the region. The project was developed with the support of the Bem da Amazônia Institute. Amazônia Vox is also supported by the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), through the Knight Fellow global grant.
About Itaú Foundation - It seeks to inspire and create conditions to promote the development of each Brazilian as a citizen capable of transforming society. It is responsible for expanding Itaú Unibanco's commitment to the fields of education and culture, as well as focusing on the health sector.