VPM multimedia reporter Keyris Manzanares recently connected with Ms. Abby Huffman, who teaches a Spanish class at Turner Ashby High School in Rockingham County. About half of Ms. Huffman’s class speaks Spanish as a first language while the other half is learning Spanish. So, Keyris and Ms. Huffman set up a chance for her students to tour VPM’s headquarters at 23 Sesame St. to learn about Keyris’ career path, her personal story, what VPM does, how it operates and how it serves communities in Central Virginia. The students that attended were all interested in journalism, TV, radio and other forms of media.
One of the highlights of the tour included the students getting the opportunity to watch a news report from Keyris that premiered on VPM News Focal Point. The report highlighted how Latinos are contributing to life on the Eastern Shore. (You can watch and read more on the report here)
In her conversation with the students about the reporting piece, Keyris noted that before joining VPM, she had not seen many long-form stories or journalism highlighting the impact of Latino people in Virginia and that she wanted to help change that.
“One of my favorite parts of being a reporter is using my language skills as a way to connect with others,” said Keyris. “It’s important to build trust with the people you are reporting on and the best way to do that is to sit down, talk and listen.”
Each day, VPM works to create content and resources that represent the communities we serve. Among these residents are those who primarily speak Spanish, which is why Keyris is leading an effort to create more content for these citizens.
In addition to talking with Keyris, the students had the opportunity to hear from several VPM employees, including VPM morning news host Phil Liles and VPM Music host Shawn Evans. The kids were enthused to learn about what the VPM hosts liked most and least about being on the air, as well as what some of their favorite things to report on have been.
One of the students in attendance, Kensi, has been hosting her own podcast for about two months. Kensi interviews fellow seniors at Turner Ashby H.S. so that they can all learn more about each other. While it was her first time visiting VPM, she enjoyed getting the opportunity to watch Keyris’ report on Latino residents on the Eastern Shore as she appreciates stories about groups of people that don’t always get the spotlight.
“I’m so excited to see the next generation eager to learn more about civic involvement and journalism,” Keyris added. “Not only that, but to see so many students that come from Spanish-speaking families wanting to get involved is really special.”
