Nov 22, 2022
One of the participants in this discussion from the archives, Yolisa Qunta, passed away last year. Listening to this episode again reminds me of her heart, insight, and humor. I’m thankful to have had her as a writer friend.
In this episode, we discussed the challenges and opportunities for multilingual writers. We speak with freelancers from Brazil, Poland, and South Africa, who have all used their locations and language skills to build relationships with editors overseas. This is a fascinating discussion for everyone interested in developing a better understanding of international coverage.
+ Centering local stories for foreign audiences (i.e. not allowing an “othering” or so-called exotic gaze) and making sure that editors understand the cultural significance of story angles
+ Working as a fixer with a foreign correspondent and networking to find freelance gigs
+ Building confidence with language skills and leaning into an understanding of local topics
+ Crafting different angles for editors in different countries
+ Challenging stereotypes about who can be and who is best suited for covering news in foreign countries, e.g. a non-Western perspective
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✏️ Applications are now open for the Yolisa Qunta scholarship for Freelance Writer Bootcamp
Yolisa Qunta was a freelance writer, author, and Freelance Writer Bootcamp alumni. For years after her initial enrollment, she stayed active in the Bootcamp alumni group, where we enjoyed her generosity, talent, advice, camaraderie, and humor. She was an excellent wordsmith and a writer friend. Yolisa passed away at the age of 41 in 2021. I asked her family’s permission to rename the scholarship in her honor and they agreed.
I’m offering a full scholarship for one person to attend the next round of Freelance Writer Bootcamp. That person could be you! Alumni of my group coaching program have broken into publications like the New York Times, the Guardian, BBC Travel, Al Jazeera, Bustle, and many more.
✏️ Work with me in Freelance Writer Bootcamp
Break into your dream publications and get paid well while covering stories that matter.
Alumni of my group coaching program have used the proven Bootcamp processes to break into the New York Times, the Guardian, Bustle, Fodor’s, Ms., Nat Geo Travel, Al Jazeera, the BBC, and many more.
To apply for a regular (paid) spot, visit www.FreelanceWriterBootcamp.com
🎁 Download my free guide on how to pitch freelance article ideas, “5 Proven Steps to Writing Queries that Sell.”
www.rebeccalweber.com/howtopitch
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📝 More info and complete show notes: www.rebeccalweber.com/podcast206