Valentine Lamar's Profile
Reporter, Columbia Missourian
MA Student, Missouri School of Journalism
Cell phone: (573) 268-7061
WHAT DO YOU DO AT THE MISSOURIAN? I am a reporter in but not limited to the Public Life beat that covers city, county and state government. I’m required to attend regular budget meetings, report and write on deadline, and work weekly general assignment shifts. I am both learning the fundamental skills required for telling good stories irrespective of subject matters and striving to build a portfolio in political reporting.
WHAT KIND OF JOURNALISM KEEPS YOU GOING? I’d like to produce a body of work that informs and empowers people to participate both as actors and as beneficiaries in the democratization processes of their communities.
WHAT'S YOUR WORK AND EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND? Starting October 2005, I worked for nearly four years for an international NGO, HOPE worldwide (Kenya) from where I developed specialties in program design and implementation, community mobilizing and organizing sustainable community development and HIV prevention programs. In my last year at HOPE, my job involved writing and editing stories for both website and bi-annual newsletter, and producing related publicity materials. I’ve also worked as a consultant training facilitator for most at risk populations, and for the past two years, as freelance journalist for http://www.africa-interactive.com. At the online media publisher, I traveled extensively on assignments to many parts of Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Geography at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, in 2006.
WHAT'S YOUR LIFE OUTSIDE OF WORK LIKE? When not working or doing school related stuff, I enjoy puzzles, fitness, political discourse, mentoring, volunteering and socializing.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT COLUMBIA? I am originally from Kenya, a beautiful sunny country that straddles the Equator to the east of Africa. So, for the next three years, Columbia will be my second home. I plan on taking initiatives, personal or otherwise, that permit me to build intimate relationships with the people of Columbia. So far, I think that Columbia is a cool place with just enough entertainment spots that don’t distract majorly from studies. I hope, in due time, to explore discover and experience the rest of the city.
