Jade Bramwell

The 2025 National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Convention was truly a homecoming for Black journalists. Attending the conference allowed me to reconnect with familiar faces—former co-workers, university friends, and the network of peers I've built over years of attending NABJ. That powerful sense of community and the collective joy of seeing my professional family is truly my favorite part of the experience.

My perspective on the current outlook for the industry shifted dramatically. Despite the persistent “'doom and gloom” surrounding journalism, I now recognize that it is more imperative than ever to continue the fight for free speech and open communication within our country.

The Shackelford Shines Stipend was crucial. To be frank, without this financial support, I would not have been able to afford the registration and travel costs. As a recent grad, I have been an avid user of the NABJ Careers Fair, but this year was especially different as I am seeking a full-time role.

Attending this conference opened a door for me professionally by exposing me to industry giants and pioneers and connecting me with the right people to propel my career forward. This stipend turned a critical “maybe next year” into a “'yes” that has already begun to impact me.