The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I first started writing articles during my sophomore year of college. As a voracious reader, I often articulated my views through conversations and presentations. As the semester ended, an old friend encouraged me to write for the student newspaper. Having nothing to lose, I wrote my first op-ed, focusing on the complexities of being an international black student in the United states.

I was drawn to writing because I wanted my voice heard. Op-ed writing complemented my pursuit as a leader and scholar-activist. fast-forward, and I have continued writing prolifically. I have been writing for local newspapers like the Nassau Guardian and The Tribune for the last few months. Yet, people often ask, “How and why do you write for the newspapers?”

For us in Generation Z, it’s easy to feel that our voices don’t always matter in the grand scheme of things. You might wonder, “Why would older people listen to me? I’m no expert, so why would they?” But here’s the thing-writing in the news- papers is for everyone. It’s a space where all voices, regardless of expertise or experience, can be heard and all views can be expressed. It’s a platform that welcomes and values your unique perspective.

Writing in the newspapers can serve as an effective medium for communicating ideas to the public. Your words have the power to influence and shape public discourse. for me, newspapers serve as a platform to express my views on various policy issues, ranging from climate change to economic development. Write with an end goal in mind, both for yourself and your readers. this goal will be met by conducting thorough research on your piece. If you continue to write, you will begin to notice progress in your portfolio. My writing has advanced dramatically from my first article.

Your voice is a powerful tool for self-expression and a catalyst for empowering others to raise theirs. Writing for newspapers is not just a serious endeavor; it’s also fun and rewarding. Imagine seeing your thoughts printed on ground-wood paper, ready to be viewed by thousands. People may come across your piece and agree or disagree with your stance. You may encourage someone with similar or dissimilar views to write their own article. this cycle complements the spirit of democracy. Whether you choose to write about the impact of bunker oil on marine ecosystems, revamping gender rights education in The Bahamas (shoutout to Ashley Hanna and Crystal King for their column in the Nassau Guardian), make an argument for the decriminalization of cannabis, discuss the importance of cultural maintenance (shoutout to Jervon sands in the Tribune), or analyse the Drake vs Kendrick beef (FYI, Kendrick won), your words have the power to invoke passionate discourse and inspire constructive change.

Don’t let the seemingly more significant front-page topics or the images of prominent figures make you feel like an imposter. Your voice matters, and the newspapers are the perfect platform to make it heard. In the spirit of the slogan “read Bahamas read!”, I echo the sentiment: ‘Write, Bahamians, Write!’ this sentiment primarily targets the youth of The Bahamas. Your voice is essential, and it deserves to be heard.

LIAM MILLER

New Providence August 18 2024.