Unlike The Proclaimers, I didn’t walk 500 miles, but I have now made the move from SE England to Scotland and started my journalism project.
The aim is to research, write and film positive stories around the interconnected themes of sustainability, community, and (responsible) travel & tourism. Start with a newsletter and web space, and work towards producing a magazine, digital or print.
A counterpoint to the ‘doom and gloom’ media reporting. A feature-led and fact-based approach to stories. Visiting the people and projects doing great things for good, and exploring places beyond the ‘top 10 tourist attractions’ list.
Blending the best of traditional journalistic values (accuracy and balance) with a modern approach to journalism (community-centred, co-creative and collaborative) within an independent media ecosystem.
Stories which include resources and action steps. Links to and recommendations for relevant websites, books, podcasts, articles and more. Things people can do if they want to ‘get involved’, be more active in the community or give back in some way.
Giving more local people a voice about where they live and what they’d love to see happen.
Looking to incorporate sustainable and regenerative principles into the essence of how the project/organisation/business operates.
“Beyond Scotland” because my focus will be on Scotland (and, for now, Glasgow and surrounding areas in particular) but also cover ideas, people and projects from around the globe. Scotland has much it can share with the world, and vice versa.
“Beyond Scotland” because it’s about sharing stories to help make Scotland a better place to live. And encouraging visitors, tourists and travellers to look beyond the cliches of this beautiful country.
You can see a sample of my articles and pieces to date on my web pages.
The Bigger Vision
This is early days. As part of my bigger vision, when funds and resources allow, I’d love to:
. Work and collaborate with other journalists, videographers, photographers, video editors and content creators
. Create a small team that works with a wider ‘team’ across Scotland and beyond.
. Publish a unique magazine, complemented by a podcast and video channel – experimenting with and exploring different ways to tell and present stories to the world.
. Have something that can be passed on, like a relay baton, so the work continues beyond my lifetime.
How You Can Help…
I’d love to know what ASP members think about this project, hear any suggestions for people or projects to cover, and receive recommendations for great books, podcasts, organisations or events to include.
Here’s to new horizons and new stories of hope.
By Gary Spinks
