20/04/2023
It's nearly been two decades since I started my journey supporting media teams around the globe. As an ex-military personnel, I did not know that I would fall into supporting media organizations through a friend back in Iraq in the early 2000s. But quickly became my passion as I realised that these brave people take on huge risks to bring stories to the public.
Over the years, I've had the honour to work with some of the most well-known organisations globally, including print, television, and film. I am and my particularly passionate about my work with freelance journalists. I've met global leaders, presidents, prime ministers, leading television personalities, and some not so palatable individuals along the way.
It's been a rollercoaster journey, but I've enjoyed every bit of it, and I hope to continue doing it for years to come. I'm grateful to have had some fantastic mentors, including Paul B, Andy K, and Bob S, as well as countless correspondents, producers, engineers, and camera operators, who have shared their knowledge and experience with me.
One of the essential lessons I have learned along the way is the need to keep current, not just about the risks and threats but also about the technological capabilities and advancements of media equipment. Staying on top of that allows me to advise accordingly and assist them in creating the best journalism.
It is also why I conduct Hostile Environment and First Aid Training. By preparing people to operate safely in hostile environments, my hope is that people take their safety seriously and understand that no story is worth risking their lives.
Over the years, I have lost friends. It's a stark reminder of the importance of media safety advice and the work we do. It extends beyond bombs and bullets. It's also about risk assessments, logistics, cultural awareness, and effective communication.
When I was 15, I read Don McCullin’s Unreasonable Behaviour. I was captivated by the life he led as a photojournalist. I did not I think I could do anything remotely similar. At 16, with no education, I joined the army. But the skills I learned set me up for a second career, supporting the likes of Don.
After many years of working with different companies, I decided to branch out and start my own company. It was scary. In the early days there was a lot of trial and error. Eventually the growing pains led to a company with a reputation for being reliable, forward-thinking an innovative, providing quality services to clients.
Eventually, I was invited to a meeting with the US Secretary of State on journalist safety. It was an unforgettable experience. It validated my hard work.
I developed bespoke training courses for members of the media, designed to meet the specific needs of our clients. Eventually, I went on to become the first to develop and accredit a Media Safety Advisors Course. It was a significant achievement and it opened the door to even more opportunities.
It's been an incredible journey so far, but I am aware that it's not yet over. There is still so much to learn, share, and accomplish in the media safety field, and I'm honoured to be part of the community that supports media personnel worldwide. I hope that my story serves as inspiration to anyone who wants to follow their dreams, that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Thank you for reading!
