THE BYLINE- APRIL 2024 ISSUE

April is the month of blossoming and resurgence. It’s also the month to celebrate arts, culture & creativity. Entering a new quarter of the year brings much needed reflection and motivation to us as we continue to carry out the goals we’ve set for ourselves. Journalism is so broad of a field that creativity, authenticity and alignment are the biggest factors in navigating your niche. Measuring success by their own meter, this issue highlights three professionals who have used their journalistic talents in creative ways to excel in a league of their own.  

Celebrate Arts, Culture & Creativity in Atlanta

• Atlanta Dogwood Festival April 12-14th at Piedmont Park
• Atlanta Film Festival begins April 25th
• Inman Park Festival April 27-28th

Enjoy exhibits from local museums and galleries such as The High Museum, Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA), The Atlanta History Center, The APEX Museum, ZuCot Gallery, Trap Music Museum, The King Center, Black Art in America, Spelman College Museum of Fine Art & Clark Atlanta Art Museum.

Announcements

• Our next meeting is April 13th at noon at WSB-TV Studios. We can’t wait to see you there!
• Congratulations to the iN Contact team for producing their first show for 2024!
• Thank you to everyone who attended the memorial service for the late Mr. James Washington. Read about his legacy & impact here.
• NABJ Upcoming Events:
  • April 12-13th: NABJ Region 3 Conference, Tulsa, OK
  • April 20th: NABJ Emerging Journalists Media Institute & Investigative Reporting Summit, New York, NY
  • July 31st – Aug 4th: NABJ National Convention, Chicago, IL

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How Ashley Drayton is Paving Her Own Path

By: Dante Miller

When journalists start their careers, it can be difficult for some to find their niche, especially for those who want to avoid the ‘news’ path. But Ashley Drayton knew from a young age what outlets and beats she wanted to work with; magazines and fashion. Instead of waiting for a path to open, she created her own. 

“I was collecting magazines as a child. I read them all the time. I had dreams of being in Teen Vogue. So I already had this childhood attachment to magazines.” 

Because of her attachment, Drayton continuously wondered how she could create magazine publications for her alma mater, Georgia State University, as a student. 

“Georgia State actually did not have a magazine. I was on Twitter, and this page called ‘Her Campus’ popped up on my feed. I was like, ‘Oh, look at this cute pink organization!’ I went to the website and saw ‘Start your own chapter,’ and it started from there. It launched in 2015 and is still a very prevalent organization today. That was my first experience writing for a magazine,” said Drayton. 

After starting ‘Her Campus’ for Georgia State, Drayton’s experience continued to grow, from working with another digital magazine to starting her blog for a time. In 2020, Drayton found herself scrolling through the internet and found a page that piqued her interest. She ran across CNK’s (Chicks n’ Kicks) Instagram page. CNK is a woman-owned digital publication that discusses women in the sneaker industry, which is very male-dominated. 

“I loved that these two women, Channing and Cassidy, have this platform and are using it to tell stories about women who work in the industry.” Despite not having prior experience writing about sneakers, Drayton wanted to jump out of her comfort zone and see what opportunities would follow–and it paid off. 

Since 2021, Drayton has been a freelance writer and editor for CNKDaily.com. In addition to her writing, she is also an assistant manager for Kate Spade New York. 

She says juggling everything can be a lot, but scheduling and open communication are necessary. 

“I write everything down and have everything on my phone, like reminders and deadlines. If I say I am showing up, I make sure that I have the time to and will show up. Sometimes, that means I bring my computer to work to do stuff on my break.”

Drayton said everyone’s path is different and has their own timeline. She encourages people to pave their path if that road is initially closed, whether you’re freelancing, creating a website, or writing a blog.  

“Keep your experience up, so when the time comes when someone asks for your stuff, you’re ready. I’m at a point where my writing is about to pivot into brand writing. I’m trying to combine retail and writing and venture into the copywriting route. As far as a career goes, that’s something I’m interested in, and I don’t think I would have known that if I didn’t work in retail.”

Drayton is still paving her path by combining her interests & expertise into one. She says that this chapter in her career will definitely start from the bottom up, but she looks forward to what her future holds. To follow her writing journey, check out her portfolio here.

Garrett Brown on What Versatility in the Industry Looks Like

By: Da’Zhane Johnson

At a young age, Garrett Brown became an NBA fan and followed the Atlanta Hawks closely. The hobby of watching the sport helped him decide on a career path in media. Today, Brown works as a content manager, mediacaster and on-air podcast host of his show, while managing his day job at Delta Airlines. 

“I’ve always loved watching basketball and the Atlanta Hawks. Now, I am able to cover them every week, which is cool. Like anything there have been some challenges to get to this place, but it’s just a part of the journey.” said Brown. 

The Georgia native spends his weeks managing four different media roles. Two of them are social media management roles. Although these roles require a sacrifice of time, Brown believes his work will cultivate a bigger job for himself. Brown also highlights his hard work and goal-driven mindset can lead to the longevity of his career. 

“When creating ‘TheGB3Show,’ there were challenges, but it was something I wanted to do.I had to put in many hours, but it happened exactly how I envisioned it. Working with my co-host has also taught me a lot,” he said. 

Brown’s development of multiple skill sets reflects how competitive the media industry is today. He shared how outside of content creation for social media, he’s learned producing, writing and sound engineering. When asked about the next chapter of his career, Brown explained he will become more versatile as an on-air talent. 

“I want to do more work with engineering,” he started. “I’m really looking to expand my podcast and role as a mediacaster. Hopefully as more people continue to tune in, I can stream more and more.”

Although versatility is significant, managing multiple skills and roles can be challenging. Nonetheless, Brown stated with time management and organization, anyone can grasp success.  Brown mentioned how he takes time to plan his weeks in advance so that his schedule goes completely smoothly. The key, he highlights, is to not procrastinate at all. 

“If you can, do it early. The earlier the better. You don’t want everything to pile up, so it’s better to get stuff out of the way, he said. “I will block out time just to plan my weeks or game days.” 

Today, it is common to see people in the media tackle various skills. Brown still wants to emphasize the significance of mastering the basic skills as a foundation. Skills like writing, reading and studying the industry are all significant building blocks for undertaking new talents. 

Brown explained further, “Writing, reading and studying the industry will help anyone become more versatile. Writing is especially big at any job. Keeping those skills intact will allow everything else to flow smoother and keep opportunities coming your way.” 

Overall, versatility comes with time and dedication. Brown hopes his peers can continue moving forward in their journeys, without stressing too much about mastering multiple skills. 

To keep up with Brown, follow him on Instagram @iam.gb_ or X @therealgb__

Ebonee Bailey Proves Diverse Interests Can Lead to a Fulfilling Career

By: Aaleah McConnell

If you ever felt stifled by the thought of choosing a single career, then snag a page from the textbook of this Dekalb County teacher, who manages to educate by day and create by night.

Ebonee Bailey is an interrelated co-teacher for the Dekalb County School District and creative director for an Atlanta-based collective called Creatives After Dark. At 27-years-old, Bailey sits at the helm of her classroom from Monday to Friday, providing unique lesson plans and accommodations for children with special needs. 

When school lets out, Bailey spends the evenings coordinating and conducting artist interviews, brainstorming themes for Creatives After Dark events, and designing marketing materials. Not to mention, the occasional freelance article she takes on for various music publications such as Flurry, an Afrocentric media platform that produces a biannual online magazine. 

Bailey, like many people, considers herself a multipotentialite. These individuals take up an interest in various intellectual and creative disciplines but rarely develop their expertise in more than one area of interest. So the question of which career to settle on presents a challenge for many in this group. For it often means sacrificing one passion over another. Or, having to carve out a new path that consolidates each interest into one, hopefully, lucrative career. 

Though Bailey says she loves teaching and appreciates “the acquisition of knowledge,” as she continues down two different career paths, she is no stranger to the anxiety-inducing, tug-and-pull of pursuing multiple creative endeavors. 

In sticking with the artistic theme, Bailey compares her multifaceted nature to the color orange,  because while some may settle for living in the dull, predictable gray – Bailey thrives in the bold, orange glow of her whimsical life. 

“You don’t know what to expect when you get orange, and I feel the same about myself,” Bailey said. “I could be doing my hair, I could be talking to my friends. I could be doing anything and [an idea] will pop up. Once I get that idea, I fixate on it.” 

But Bailey said her roles have quite a bit of overlap. As a fourth-generation educator, Bailey emphasizes educating Black artists, writers and musicians about the culture of mass media as they carve out their own space in Atlanta’s creative scene. 

And Bailey understands that the issue of not knowing how to balance multiple passions has roots in the classroom, she said just as her students need to see their culture represented in the curriculum to achieve academic success, professional artists need to see themselves reflected in the different creative mediums in which they aspire to excel. 

“Getting into this [field], you realize a lot of people are not media trained at all, they just start doing music because it’s something that they love to do,” Bailey said. “The beautiful thing is I’m teaching artists marketing and public relations.” 

“Through Creatives After Dark, I’m building a platform where Black women (and all Black people) are allowed to express themselves professionally,” Bailey said. “Creatives After Dark shines a spotlight on our people in a way that teaches our community to love ourselves, just the way we are.”

Establishing a seat at the proverbial table for Black artists is a goal Bailey clings to with all her might. Though Bailey remains adaptable and open to her synchronistic instincts, she believes focus is key to any creative routine. 

That requires a strong ability to concentrate and manage time wisely on self-guided projects, which is challenging for those who jump from interest to interest. Therefore, Bailey suggests planning a few small tasks to complete each day.  

“I focus on getting three things done every day. It doesn’t matter what those three things are. It’s just, every single day, something different from what I did yesterday,” Bailey said.

Bailey adds that, with structure and self-confidence, multi-talented people inevitably find their glow.

To stay up-to-date with Creatives After Dark, visit their website: creativesafterdark.us, and follow them on Instagram @creativesafterdark. Connect with Ebonee Bailey on Instagram @theefinestebonee. 

This issue of The Byline was edited by Mya Grant, Vice President of Print for the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (AABJ), and Mandisa Johnson, Chair of The Byline. 

THE BYLINE – MARCH 2024 ISSUE

Happy Women’s History Month! During the month of March, we shed light on the incredible contributions made by women and look forward to all the accomplishments to celebrate. In this issue of The Byline, we featured three amazing women in different areas of journalism. It’s also worth to note that all articles were written and edited by Black women writers. Throughout history, women have faced many trials and tribulations to get to where we are in society now and we’re still not done. Let’s continue to celebrate, support and protect women this month and beyond!

Announcements:

• The Byline is looking for an Editor/Chair! Please contact Mya at myagrant3716@gmail.com for inquiries and more information.
• Our next chapter meeting is March 9th at noon at WSB-TV Studios. We have an exciting Women’s History Month panel prepared! Come out, network & hear from some of the most influential Black women journalists.
• NABJ Upcoming Events:
  • March 23rd: NABJ Arts & Entertainment Media Institute, Los Angeles, CA
  • April 12-13th: NABJ Region 3 Conference, Tulsa, OK
  • April 20th: NABJ Emerging Journalists Media Institute & Investigative Reporting Summit, New York, NY
  • July 31st – Aug 4th: NABJ National Convention, Chicago, IL

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Madeline Thigpen Talks About Highlighting All Voices

By: Dante Miller

When you’re a Black woman who covers criminal justice, it can be a unique experience. Madeline Thigpen often found herself being the only Black woman while covering her stories and finding the ‘joys’ in her beat can be difficult. 

Thigpen has been Capital B’s criminal justice reporter since August 2022. Balanced reporting is important to her when covering a story—especially stories or people other media outlets might overlook.

“There’s a lot of messed up things happening with the criminal justice system,” said Thigpen. “But there’s also a lot of people doing the work to improve the criminal justice system.” 

A couple of those people doing the work include KaCey Venning, co-founder and executive director of HEY! (Helping Empower Youth), and Justin Ballenger, Morehouse professor and advocate for positive behavioral intervention and support. Thigpen spoke to them for her article “Inside One Black Mom’s Fight Against Expulsion in Fulton County,” a story about the expulsion of Zaire Byrd, who received a long-term suspension after getting into a fight even though he didn’t have a prior disciplinary record.

Before joining Capital B, the New Jersey native worked as an education reporter for The Atlanta Voice through Report for America. Her experience with both beats gave Thigpen a different perspective on how intertwined the education system and the criminal justice systems are.

When covering education and criminal justice, Thigpen looks at the bigger picture. She wants to report the socioeconomic reasons why a student is acting out in class or why an individual might commit a crime. She actively avoids being the reporter who parachutes in and out when covering a story once the article is submitted.

For about a year, Thigpen has been reporting on the infamous development of the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, also known as Cop City. She has touched on this with her interviews with NPR’s Morning Edition and All Things Considered. 

The development sparked controversy because of its location in one of Atlanta’s ‘Four Lungs’ in the Weelaunee Forest area. Surrounding residents in the predominantly Black community also feel that this will cause further excessive policing. Additionally, much of the land included in the development plans were a part of the abandoned Old Atlanta Prison Farm.

Even though the coverage of Cop City has gained national attention, Thigpen says at the end of the day, it’s a local story. 

“It’s important for local outlets like Capital B and others to be committed to covering everything,” said Thigpen. “Because many stories wouldn’t be public knowledge if it weren’t for local reporters.”

Thigpen also stressed the importance of being a Black woman who works in local journalism. 

“For so long, we have heard only one or two types of voices,” said Thigpen. “All of our voices are important.”

One of the things Thigpen enjoys about working with outlets like Capital B is that she can highlight Black voices.  

 “What I like about being a reporter and writer is that I demystify some of these things for our readers,” said Thigpen. “Capital B is committed to finding and highlighting black voices, especially for black readers.”

Although her hard news stories attribute to her reputation, highlighting stories like Black women who are fire chiefs are considered a win in her book, too. 

Read more of Thigpen’s stories here or keep up with her journey on X (formerly known as Twitter.)

Atlanta Nonprofit Leader is Reframing Narratives One Teen at a Time

By Aaleah McConnell

As Executive Director of VOX ATL, Charaun Cash is not only brainstorming ways to amplify the voices of Atlanta’s youth, but is also reframing what a person in power looks like. This Women’s History Month, we acknowledge Cash for leading the noble mission at VOX ATL, a nonprofit based in Atlanta, spearheaded by a cohort of teens ranging from ages 13 to 19. 

Cash proves that a high-powered executive can be anyone, from anywhere, and can even come packaged as a go-getting Black woman with a cause. The nonprofit, which celebrated its 30th year of operation in 2023, was built on the notion that teens are often misrepresented – being portrayed as aloof and uncaring about the issues impacting their world. So, as executive director of the teen-led organization, Cash is making sure that the next generation of decision-makers have the opportunity to publish multimedia work subverting these narratives.

Cash grew up in Jefferson Township right outside of Dayton, Ohio, where she graduated from a high school class of only 35 people. Growing up in such a tight-knit community provided a wealth of matriarchal figures who inspired her to help others and create change. 

“It takes a village,” said Cash. “I wouldn’t be here without my village of women who have poured into me and have continued to pour into me. They’re the reason I am who I am.”

And now, she is leading a village of young journalists of her own. 

“Honestly, teens already have their voice,” said Cash. “It’s just a matter of them harnessing its power.”

In addition to leading the news organization and raising funds to sustain operation, Cash also works hands-on with the nonprofit’s after-school program. There, she gets the opportunity to mentor teens one-on-one and see them grow as multimedia journalists. Cash says everyday brings with it a new set of challenges but as a first-time executive director, she is happy to take on the responsibility. 

“At Vox, they’ve learned how to harness the power of their voice and make it much louder,” said Cash. “We’re just here as a conduit. For me, that is the most fulfilling aspect of the work that we do.”

But being that it is Women’s History Month, Cash believes it is important to shine a light on the challenges that may come with accepting a leadership position. Cash admits that signing on for the role was nerve racking at first, especially with changes going on in her life as a wife and a mother. 

“I was very nervous about how I would be impacting my family,” said Cash. “Like the cautionary tale of a woman choosing a career over her family and being resented for it.” 

Though she jokes now that the only barrier keeping her from putting VOX ATL on the map as the city’s preferred source of news for teens, by teens, is not being able to duplicate herself. Cash is grateful to have a mother and a husband who provide a support system that helps her lean into the demands of the job without fear or judgment. 

“It’s not that I’m neglecting my family, because I choose to pursue my career,” said Cash. “It’s that I’m helping my family because I choose to pursue my career.”

Cash believes that women should be uplifted by their achievements and accomplishments, no matter how big. Inspiring the next generation is a huge honor and responsibility but nonetheless, rewarding. Cash says she is grateful that she didn’t let fear get in her way and encourages others to step outside of their comfort zones. 

To keep up with what Cash is doing with VOX ATL or become a volunteer on the team, visit VOXATL.org

The Glo-Getter of Paid Media

By: Radhiya Alston

Showing up every day as the best version of yourself is what Candii Woodson-Witchard lives by. As the Media Director of AT&T/Cricket Wireless and Founder of Miss Packlight, her journey has been a perfect example of tapping into your potential and investing in yourself. 

Woodson-Witchard’s journey began during her undergrad at Furman University majoring in communication studies. She envisioned herself working in public relations, sports marketing or radio and interned at multiple marketing firms and radio stations to help with narrowing down a pathway. 

“I thought this would help me lock down what direction I was going to go in,” said Woodson-Witchard. 

After completing her bachelor’s degree program at Furman, Woodson-Witchard went on to earn her master’s degree from Mercer University with a concentration in marketing. At this time, Woodson-Witchard was also working as a marketing intern for the Atlanta Braves before entering her career in radio sales, but she was starting to realize that she needed to make some shifts. 

“Radio was kind of a dying medium,” said Woodson-Witchard. “I knew it was time to make a change.”

Woodson-Witchard decided to shift into digital sales and looked towards media advertisement as her next step. In 2007, she started building her portfolio to pitch to paid media agencies and the rest is history. Since then, she’s had the opportunity to work with brands like Verizon Wireless, Baskin-Robbins, Dunkin Donuts and Georgia-Pacific, helping these brands grow their consumerism through paid advertisements. 

Her career path and experiences were things she didn’t think existed but her background in communications and business helped prepare for it, along with the network she’s developed over the years.

Since 2019, Woodson-Witchard has been the Media Director for AT&T/Cricket Wireless, where she’s responsible for the media planning of the company. She recalls the time she saw the position open and how one of her previous boss and mentor helped and encouraged Woodson-Witchard to apply. 

“It was such a full circle moment,” said Woodson-Witchard. “Going from having her as a boss to now having her as a client.”

Outside of being a media director, Woodson-Witchard is the proud founder of Miss Packlight, a supportive space that empowers women in all aspects of life. The organization started as a blog in 2010 and has grown into a successful community since 2018. 

“I created Miss Packlight to create that space to get real and not present ourselves as if everything is all awesome,” said Woodson-Witchard. 

Miss Packlight’s mission is for women to learn to live in their light, shine in their light and go towards that light. Woodson-Witchard’s goal with Miss Packlight is to create a tight knit community and hold a space for women to feel safe about being vulnerable and showing up as their authentic selves. There’s more in store as Woodson-Witchard is currently working on a new project, a space focused on the wellness and wellbeing of Black women and women of color, She Packlight. 

To follow Woodson-Witchard’s journey and keep up with Miss Packlight, visit her website or follow her on Instagram. 

This issue of The Byline was edited by Mya Grant, Vice President of Print for the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (AABJ)