By Karen Kelly
Shelby Lisk recently opened TVO’s Indigenous hub at Carleton University.
As TVO’s first reporter in its new Indigenous hub based at Carleton University, Shelby Lisk is responsible for telling the stories of Indigenous people throughout Ontario. It’s basically her dream job.
“I knew as soon as I started in journalism that I wanted to tell the stories of the Indigenous co
mmunity,” recalls Lisk, who grew up near Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory in Ontario, her family’s traditional territory. “I didn’t have a lot of connection to my community, but this gave me the license to just ask questions and learn about who I am and where I come from—to create a connection with my community.”
Lisk writes about that experience in one of her first posts for TVO’s website, “What learning Mohawk has taught me about not fitting in”. The story was also translated into the Mohawk language.
“TVO’s mandate is education, so a lot of the stories aren’t breaking news. We focus on what Canadians need to know,” says Lisk. “I focus on bridging the gaps between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. I’m also drawn to sharing positive stories, because so many of the stories about Indigenous people are about trauma or stereotypes. I want to cover every facet of life.”
Since taking up her post in October, Lisk has been featured on TVO’s television news program The Agenda and writes for the network’s webpage. She is also frequently traveling, seeking out stories among the 127 First Nations within Ontario.
“Growing up, you heard elders say that you need to find the thing you can contribute to the community as a whole. I think a lot about how and if my work is helping my community,” she explains. “How can I make them proud?”
Along with reporting for TVO, Lisk also serves as the TVO journalist in residence with the School of Journalism and Communication’s Journalism program. She has already made a guest appearance in two classes to give students her perspective on journalism, storytelling and Indigenous communities.
“Everyone has been really supportive and excited about this new position and about integrating more Indigenous perspectives into their classrooms,” says Lisk. “I think the students have responded well, are interested in asking questions, and can relate to me as a recent graduate myself.”
Read Carleton University’s story about the new TVO Indigenous Hub.
Wednesday, November 27, 2019 in General, Journalism News
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