Tony Karon on Digital-First Newsrooms and Storytelling in the Global South

Navigating the Future: Tony Karon on Digital-First Newsrooms and Storytelling in the Global South

As the global media landscape shifts towards digital-first strategies, journalists must rethink storytelling approaches to remain relevant. This was the central message from Tony Karon a seasoned journalist and editor at AJ Plus, who addressed the SANEF Young Women Leaders in News Media Seminar on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

Speaking to a room full of aspiring and established journalists, Karon shared insights on the evolution of digital-first newsrooms and the role of journalists in challenging dominant Western narratives.

Digital-First Journalism: A New Paradigm

Karon originally from South Africa and now working with Al Jazeera’s digital platform, emphasised that digital-first journalism requires a shift in perspective. Unlike traditional newsrooms with fixed programming schedules, platforms like AJ Plus publish directly into social feeds, competing for attention alongside major Western media outlets such as CNN, BBC, and The New York Times.

“You have one shot to make an impact,” Karon explained. “We do not follow the ‘he said, she said’ format of mainstream news. Instead, we focus on whose voices are being ignored and whose stories are not being told.”

The traditional structure of news prioritises statements from officials and those in power, but digital-first platforms like AJ Plus adopt a bottom-up approach, amplifying the voices of those experiencing global crises firsthand. This shift is particularly evident in the outlet’s coverage of Gaza, where they prioritise stories from civilians rather than government representatives.

Decentring the Western Narrative

A major theme of Karon’s talk was the need to challenge and deconstruct Western-centric narratives that have long dominated global journalism. He praised South Africa’s vocal stance on Palestine, noting how the country has emerged as a leader in advocating for media narratives that expose imbalances of power.

“In many ways, Al Jazeera was founded to address these imbalances,” he noted. “The question isn’t just about presenting facts, but about which facts matter and whose perspectives are included.”

Karon highlighted how global audiences—especially young people—are increasingly disillusioned with traditional media narratives. Platforms like TikTok, often dismissed as trivial, are hosting deep discussions about history and politics. “Young people are not disengaged. They do not trust the old ways of storytelling,” he said.

The Toolbox for the Future Journalist

For those looking to thrive in a digital-first newsroom, Karon stressed the importance of adaptability, multilingualism, and a global outlook. He recounted experiences from his newsroom, where colleagues seamlessly switch between English, Arabic, French, and Mandarin—an asset in an increasingly interconnected world.

“Adding a language to your skill set opens up job opportunities and allows you to engage with diverse sources directly,” he advised.

Additionally, he underscored the importance of recognising the shifting geopolitical landscape. The era when U.S. policy dictated global outcomes is waning, he argued, and journalists in the Global South must embrace their agency in shaping narratives that matter to their communities.

A Call to Action

Karon’s message to young journalists was clear: the future of journalism belongs to those who embrace new formats, prioritise underrepresented voices, and think beyond the traditional structures of power.

“Your world is not centred in America,” he concluded. “It’s up to you to tell the stories that matter to your people.”

His talk energised the audience, reinforcing the idea that digital-first journalism is not just about technology, but about reclaiming storytelling for those whose voices have too often been ignored.

• The workshop, organised by Sisanda Nkoala, Sanef’s Western Cape convenor, in collaboration with multi-award-winning veteran journalist, Crystal Orderson, focuses on empowering young women in journalism.
• Sisanda highlighted the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions within the news media, despite a majority of journalism students being women. The event aims to inspire and equip participants with the tools needed to effect change in the industry.
• The workshop focused on empowering young women journalists by addressing the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles within the news media. Sisanda Nkoala highlighted the disparity between the number of female journalism students and their presence in leadership positions, expressing gratitude to contributors like Dzudzie Netshisaulu, Sanef administrator and events organiser.
• The event included a video featuring messages from women leaders in the industry and aimed to provide attendees with inspiration and practical tools to navigate their careers. Dianne Walker and Judy Sanderson shared their experiences and advice, emphasising the importance of understanding management dynamics, professionalism, and strategic networking for aspiring future young women leaders.
• The program featured a panel of distinguished women in media, including Crystal Orderson, Pam Zokufa, Anne Wentzel, Deirdre Ewing, and Zulpha Khan, who shared insights from their diverse backgrounds.
• Deirdre recounted her journey into journalism, emphasising the importance of public broadcasting and local storytelling. The discussion also touched on the evolving media landscape, including the challenges posed by technology and the need for ethical standards in journalism.
• Deirdre highlighted the financial challenges facing traditional broadcasters like the SABC and the necessity for journalists to balance storytelling with financial viability, advocating for credibility over speed in news reporting. The overall aim was to equip the next generation of women journalists with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in a changing industry. Ends