In a recent statement, former BBC News head Deborah Turness raised concerns about the threat “creator journalism” poses to traditional mainstream news. Turness highlighted the case of the Brighton beach tragedy, where three women were rescued from the sea this month, as an illustration of this shift.
The digital landscape has empowered experienced journalists with strong social media skills to engage their audiences by covering important stories that national broadcasters may overlook. These journalists offer in-depth reporting, detailed analysis, and interviews that mainstream media might not have the capacity or inclination to feature.
The lack of sustained attention to the distressing incidents at Brighton beach, where eight Black individuals have been found dead in water bodies in the UK over six years, raises questions. Recent cases include Olisa Odukwe and Richard Okorogheye, both Black men who tragically lost their lives in 2021.
Criticism has been directed at the inadequate service provided to families of victims, like Richard, by law enforcement agencies. Ngozi Fulani, CEO of Sistah Space, a domestic violence charity, has expressed concerns about the Brighton beach incidents supported by statistical evidence.
While traditional media coverage has been limited, platforms like BlackCurrent News, led by Nadine White, have taken the lead in addressing these issues. The victims at Brighton beach were identified as Jane Adetoro, Christina Walters, and Rebecca Walters, along with other individuals like Blessing Olusegun and Taiwo Balogun, whose cases have received less attention.
The rise of creator journalism is evident as platforms like BlackCurrent News continue to challenge the narrative and demand further investigation into these incidents, emphasizing that lives are at stake. The persistence of journalists in cases like Owami Davies’ disappearance underscores the importance of independent reporting and the impact it can have when stories go viral.
Journalists are increasingly turning to content journalism to ensure that important stories are not overlooked or downplayed by mainstream media outlets. The commitment to amplifying voices and shedding light on underreported issues is a driving force behind this shift in journalistic approach.
