BY JOY FASIA
GRACE Palapu, a ground-breaking news anchor and broadcaster for Solomon Island Broadcasting Corporation, who reads the now and then compelling stories of national interest is the recipient of the 2022 Broadcast Storytelling Award.
Grace is from Temotu and Guadalcanal provinces and works at the Solomon Island Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) as a news presenter for the past 2 years.
The 29-year-old told Solomon Women that she is humbled to receive such prestigious recognition from the Media Association Solomon Islands (MASI).
“This award was unexpected. I am truly humbled! It is an honour to be awarded such a prestigious recognition,” Grace said. “I am still very new to radio broadcasting and I am still finding my way around with regards to performing my duties related to the radio program productions.”
Grace is the daughter of a former professional broadcaster of SIBC, David Palapu from Temotu province, and she wishes to follow the similar footsteps of her father, a long-time career news broadcaster.
Although Grace has no qualifications in journalism and media, she continues to defy all odds and strive with passion to deliver what is expected of her in the field of broadcasting.
“I am the daughter of a former radio broadcaster.
“My father previously worked at SIBC and so I’ve been exposed to it from a very early age.
“From this influence, I might have developed an imaginary idea to choose a public speaking career.
“At university, I enrolled in a different program. I didn’t set out a career plan to be a radio broadcaster, journalist, or media officer.
“Never did I ever imagine I will one day work in my father’s previous workplace.
“My application to SIBC was my first practice run at writing application letters to vacancy notices after university.
“I was surprised when I got the call back because I know I lack skills and experience.
“My career journey is a testament to “Proverbs 16:1 we may make our plans, but God has the last word”.
“I have long since developed a profound interest in my work and committed myself to work hard and learning as much as I can to be able to deliver expected outcomes.
“I am not too sure if I should refer to myself as a ‘journalist’ because I am not qualified for the title.
“I guess you can refer to me as a radio broadcaster, and I find radio broadcasting to be both exciting and challenging.
“Every new day presents its opportunities, and with new opportunities come the challenges that one must strive to overcome in performing duties.
“My line of work requires me to go out of my comfort zone, interact with people, handle technical equipment for recording and productions, and also calls for a lot of creativity in presenting the stories through broadcast, and again, being new to this work, I’ve had to make numerous break-through to get to where I am today, thanks to all the motivational tips and reassurances I have received along the way.
“My work colleagues always make work fun, even in the most stressful of situations. That is always a plus,” she said.
Grace also encourages journalists in the industry to always remain confident and work hard.
“From personal experience, being new to this field of work, one can get trapped in the fear of getting things wrong or sounding foolish. So I would advise, upcoming journalists, to ‘BUILD CONFIDENCE’.
“Have confidence in yourself and your abilities. Never settle for less! Have big dreams and set your goals! Then WORK HARD and be committed to achieving those goals.
“Believe that you can do it and eventually, it will come to be. And above all, have fun and enjoy it.”
Meanwhile, she thanked individuals who have helped, recognise and support her through her journey in the field of broadcasting journalism.
“I am forever thankful to the Lord Almighty for his grace and favor that still keeps me going.
“I owe SIBC a debt of gratitude for taking me on board to join Team-SIBC.
“I stepped into SIBC Headquarters on my first day with zero experience and a very limited skill set for the work.
“I am expected to do, and every day since that first day, I’ve been given room to grow and space to learn.
“I am also grateful for the advice, encouragement, and helpful tips from my superiors and colleagues that helped me to gradually improve.
“On that note, thank you for the nomination! You recognized my talent for program production when I think that I am only a junior officer.
“My profound appreciation also goes to my family who has been the firm foundation of my support system.
“Their endless love, support, understanding, and prayers are always appreciated even though I don’t thank them enough,” she said.
