Ijeoma Nwatu’s Post

My first piece for Stacker is all about summer holidays. This went live several weeks ago (I'm late). I am sharing here because the #2024Olympics are upon us and I compiled party activities and ideas for celebrating. Thanks to Carren Jao for the opportunity. https://lnkd.in/eW9aBZuk Image via Stacker Studio

Public radio is such a great resource. I'm an active listener, so it was a pleasure to hear a segment I pitched to WYPR's On the Record about the impact of the construction of the Frederick Douglass Tunnel in West Baltimore: https://lnkd.in/e-yXmW4E Thank you, Melissa Gerr.

Depending on the work and/or client, I live and die by the AP Stylebook. and these reminders are helpful. Hopefully, this information is useful for a writer or copyeditor. #APStylebook https://lnkd.in/eSnVkg6q via PR Newswire

#Journalism in the U.S., and perhaps globally, is constantly shifting and continues to experience layoffs of all sorts. No matter the season, it's important to highlight and honor journalism that makes us challenge, smile, appreciate, and make changes. I'm working with the Washington, D.C. Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists to promote their annual Dateline awards. Journalists in the Washington, D.C. (DMV) area are encouraged to submit their best clips in print, broadcast and digital journalism in nearly 60 categories – from breaking news and features to commentary, blogs and photography. You can see a full list of divisions and categories on the SPJDC website at https://lnkd.in/eGBmqkwN. ***Submission deadline is March 3, 2024. The awards dinner will be in June 2024 at the National Press Club, seen below at last year's event. Photo Credit:  Louise Krafft Special thanks to President, Denise Dunbar, Treasurer Dan Kubiske, and Corresponding Secretary Amy Fickling.

I've been doing this type of recap post since 2022 of who I worked with the previous year on contractual or freelance basis. I'm always grateful to work with different people and organizations that excite and challenge me, including: Diversity Woman Media - wrote a feature article and seeing my name in the print magazine was a 2023 highlight Mission Partners, Benefit LLC - copyediting work Jim Webb - copyediting and proofreading Lauren Strayhorn, MPS - editorial consulting

October 1 is always a special time. It ushers in a new month, and the last quarter of the year. This day also marks Nigeria's Independence from British colonial rule. I'm proud to be #Nigerian, to be part of the African diaspora, because it colors so much of my life, personally and professionally. I've had the opportunity to celebrate my culture through music, clothing, and food in different settings, including work. I take pride in cultural awareness and appreciation, and in sharing the correct pronunciation of name 😄. I wish all Nigerians and the people who love them, a Happy Independence Day! 🇳🇬 #NigerianIndependenceDay

I haven't done much writing this year and nailing this interview with Michael Blackshear took some interesting turns, including re-doing our conversation because my first audio did NOT save! It's always a pleasure to get solid career advice from someone who is intentional about your profession while supporting others. What stuck out to me the most was Michael's focus on family, particularly his late father, and the importance of supporting Black undergraduate and graduate student via scholarships. Have a read in my first Diversity Woman Media piece➡ https://lnkd.in/evKg9tHA

In 2022, I gratefully continued work with Mount Holyoke College and Association for Neighborhood & Housing Development (ANHD). I also added new projects from the following: Eva Jannotta · Thought Leader Advisor and Trainer Mission Partners, Benefit LLC (cc Carrie Fox (she/her) Genius Guild (h/t Stacey Ferguson) The Aspen Institute (cc Nicole Corea) I'm looking forward to another mix of writing, editing, and communications work in 2023. I especially need to get back to pitching and #freelancewriting✍🏾.

I recently wrapped up my year-long contract with Association for Neighborhood & Housing Development (ANHD) and was fortunate to have a send off. My colleagues shared photos and special moments during my time, which was nice and atypical as part-timer (and freelancer). If you have non-full-time staff, it's important to recognize their contributions too. I worked with in many areas of #communications and #marketing - email, social media content development, copyediting, proofreading, strategy, and media relations to name a few. Special thanks to my supervisor Lauren D. Nye and the organization's executive director Barika Williams.

Late last year, I decided to rethink how I do cover letters. I lean into my storytelling skills and opt for a narrative approach, which Natalie was trying to do as well. Writing cover letters does not have to be a miserable experience. Should I teach a class or workshop? #CoverLetters