Careers Week: Spotlight on careers in Journalism

Ben has a rare neuromuscular condition and uses assistive technology and support in his day‑to‑day life, but he hasn’t let that stop him from breaking barriers in the media industry. After studying Journalism at Winchester University and gaining hands‑on experience in local radio, Ben earned a place on the BBC’s highly competitive Advanced Journalism Apprenticeship Scheme — one of only 22 people selected from around 2,000 applicants.

In the workshop, Ben talked about his journey into journalism, the challenges he’s faced, the role of accessibility and technology in his career, and what it’s really like working behind the scenes at the BBC. His story is a brilliant example of resilience, ambition, and finding your own path into journalism. 

Today Ben works with BBC Verify fact checking user generated video content. Using AI detection software, meta data and even the shadows and sunlight in a video, his job is to verify that videos sent in to the BBC really are what they say they are. 

Students asked a range of questions about how Ben became a journalist. One student asked for advice on getting started. Ben encouraged students to get as much experience as possible, volunteer at a local newspaper or radio station, start a school magazine, and make your own opportunities. “Nothing should stop you!” 

Another student asked asked “What’s the best thing about working for the BBC?” Ben said he enjoys the opportunities he has at the BBC; he recently attended a BAFTA event, he meets inspiring people, and he’s sent to cover interesting stories, like an AI powered wheelchair in Belgium. But for Ben the most important aspect is that working for the BBC allows him to give a voice to individuals who might not otherwise be heard. This is what drives him throughout his career.

Students were interested in what assistive technology Ben uses to submit his articles, and asked about representation of disabled people within the BBC. Ben feels that representation is better than it was, but it sometimes feels tokenistic. He reminded Treloar’s students that they are in the best position to challenge that position!