Somali Media Women Association Concludes Identity-Informed Newsroom Training for Female Journalists. The Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA), in collaboration with the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF), has successfully concluded the final two sessions of its virtual identity-informed newsroom training for Somali female journalists.
The initiative, which aimed to empower women in media, focused on equipping participants with critical skills to navigate the unique challenges they face in their profession. A total of 40 female journalists from all federal states of Somalia attended the virtual training sessions.
The response from the participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many described the training as insightful and highly beneficial, offering them practical tools to enhance their digital resilience and protect themselves in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Somali women journalists operate in one of the world’s most challenging environments for media practitioners.
Beyond the hurdles of conflict and limited resources, they face severe online violence, threats, and intimidation that specifically target them for their gender. Recognising these challenges, the training prioritised digital security and online safety as its central themes.
The training introduced participants to topics such as understanding digital risks, securing accounts, and safeguarding online data—skills vital for their safety and professional sustainability.Maryan Seylac, the executive director of SOMWA, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to IWMF for its support in organising the program.
“This timely and unique training has provided Somali female journalists with the knowledge and resources they need to strengthen their safety and resilience, both online and offline,” Seylac remarked. “We are deeply thankful to IWMF for addressing this critical need and standing with Somali women in media.
”As digital threats continue to rise, initiatives like this serve as a vital lifeline for female journalists who are committed to reporting in the face of adversity.
By focusing on practical solutions and fostering a supportive network, SOMWA and IWMF are making significant strides in ensuring the voices of Somali women journalists remain strong and protected.
