By Humairaa Mayet
All my life I fought for two things: Firstly, for more young people to enter the journalistic industry, and secondly, for all to have the freedom to do what they wish, within allowable laws, of course. – Fakir Hassen
Fakir Hassen, one of South Africa’s iconic veteran journalists, had been making major contributions for 40 years by covering stories across all media: print, radio, and television. After retiring from the SABC four years ago, he has been working for the Lenasia Times and the Press Trust of India.
Hassen spoke to Salaamedia’s Azhar Vadi on the #TributeToMuslimBroadcastersSA segment on The Alternative View.
Recalling his early days in the field, Hassen explained how journalists had to work using typewriters with carbon paper. At the time, media was controlled strictly by the government; restrictions were placed on press freedom, and materials were oftentimes seized from journalists. Ironically enough, journalism back then was more accurate and far fairer than it is now. With the rise of social media, “everyone is a journalist,” said Hassen. The internet allows for the posting of unedited, unfiltered content which many tend to take at face value and unsuspectedly believe. Hassen claimed that the spread of information in this completely uncontrolled manner is dangerous – people are incredibly susceptible and fake news may put lives at risk in certain cases.
Journalism has changed significantly since Hassen began working in the field. “I have been tremendously privileged to have seen the change,” he said, as he reflected on his journey from the SABC to the Broadcasting Complaints Commission, to where he is now; ready to impart his knowledge onto the next generation of journalists.
In order for young journalists to rise successfully in the industry, they need solid foundations that should be implemented at a university level, and continuous learning as the field is ever-changing and new experiences are aplenty.
Hassen emphasised the need for objectivity in journalism – journalists have a responsibility to apply what they have learned and draw on their experiences without allowing personal biases to interfere.
Watch the full interview here:
