The Global Business Journalism website is pleased to share the complete texts of many of the speakers at our 2023 graduation ceremonies. Today we hear from Farah Mubarak, a 2022 valedictorian and winner of the best thesis award from the Global Business Journalism program. A citizen of Jordan, she is now pursuing a Ph.D. at Peking University.
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed faculty members, distinguished guests, and graduates of the Global Business Journalism Program,
For those of you who don't know me, my name is Farah. I am the first Jordanian to have enrolled in this truly global program, which allowed me to showcase my culture and Palestinian roots through my work.
I graduated last year, and like most of my peers, I did not have the opportunity to attend the graduation on campus. As soon as I returned to China, I prioritized visiting the beautiful Tsinghua campus and meeting the GBJ community. I was welcomed with open arms. It was as if I had always been here and never left.
It is an honor to stand before you today as an alumni representative and witness this momentous occasion. On behalf of the entire alumni community, I extend my warmest congratulations to each and every one of you for receiving your well-deserved diplomas.
As we gather here today, I cannot help but reflect on the transformative power of this program. The Global Business Journalism Program has been a beacon of excellence, equipping aspiring journalists like you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and ethical framework to navigate the complex world of reporting. Throughout your time here, you have been immersed in a dynamic learning environment, engaging with industry experts, conducting investigative research, and refining your storytelling abilities.
In an era of rapid technological advancements and evolving media landscapes, the importance of quality journalism cannot be overstated. Now, more than ever, we need individuals like you, armed with integrity, curiosity, and a commitment to truth, to uncover stories that shape our world. Your role as a journalist carries immense responsibility— to amplify the voices of those whose stories often go unheard.
In a world flooded with information, misinformation, and disinformation, your ability to share reliable, accurate news is crucial. Stay true to the principles instilled in you during your time in this program—accuracy, objectivity, fairness—and never lose sight of the power of your words.
Remember, journalism thrives on collaboration, partnerships, and on diverse perspectives. As you embark on your careers, take advantage of the networks you have built during your time here, build bridges between communities, and continue to foster dialogue across borders. Your voices have the potential to shape narratives, challenge status quos, and pave the way for a more informed and fair society.
As you move forward, know that whether your dream is to begin a professional journalism career or continue your academic journey and research media-related issues like I am doing now, the Global Business Journalism Program will always be there to support you.
Finally, I encourage you to embrace the power of storytelling. Hold your pens and cameras with purpose, and never lose sight of the impact you can have on the world through your work. The Global Business Journalism Program has provided you with a solid foundation; now, writing the next chapter is up to you.
Congratulations, Class of 2023. You are now officially part of the GBJ alumni community. The world awaits your stories.
Thank you.