Young professionals are making their mark on broadcasting in Wisconsin and the WBA is recognizing them.
The WBA Young Professional of the Year Award seeks to recognize young broadcasters who have made a significant impact on their stations and communities. A subcommittee of the WBA Board of Directors selected five young professionals to recognize in 2024, and one of those five has been identified as the “Young Professional of the Year.”
Two of the other honorees were identified in the last Wisconsin Broadcaster, Keith Heisler and Briggs LeSavage. The Young Professional of the Year will be announced in the May/June newsletter and awarded at the WBA Summer Conference on June 19 in Fond du Lac. The honorees will also be recognized at the conference luncheon.
Our next two honorees are Salam Fatayer and Shannon Hoyt.
Salam Fatayer
Company: Radio Milwaukee
Position: Audio Storyteller
Years at station: 2018 – Present (5 years)
Started in broadcasting (year): 2017
How did you get into broadcasting?
Amidst the significant events of the 2016 election, I found myself not only navigating the political landscape but also delving into my commitment to storytelling. In that transformative year, I made a crucial decision to shift my academic focus from a science emphasis to a major that would foster my passion. It became clear that storytelling was my true calling, and I was driven by the fundamental questions of who gets to ask questions and what questions are being asked. While majoring in journalism at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, I secured an internship with Radio Milwaukee. Initially, I worked under the guidance of our previous music director. Through dedication and commitment, I evolved into an essential member of the team and became an audio producer. This position, in turn, transitioned into that of an audio storyteller and the host of “Uniquely Milwaukee,” where I continue to craft stories that stick with you.
How do you view the role of young professionals in broadcasting?
The role of young professionals in this industry is incredibly pivotal. In today’s digital age, news is at our fingertips. While this may lead to saturation, it also presents an opportunity for broadcasters to engage with audiences in a fresh and authentic manner.
What advice would you give to other young broadcasters?
Curiosity is your secret weapon—nurture it. Ask questions, even if you believe you know the answer, but be mindful not to waste someone’s time. Striking that right balance will come with experience and practice. Additionally, there will be a pivotal moment in your career when you must confidently stand up for your stories and pitch them with conviction. Remember, you’ve earned a seat at the table for a reason; you deserve to be there.
What does the future of broadcasting look like to you?
A well-informed public is crucial for the health of our democracy and communities. Public media will always be needed. However, within this industry, challenges and growing pains persist. I am mindful of the shifts in consumer behavior and the disruptions caused by artificial intelligence. Despite these challenges, I envision a future where there is a commitment to diverse and impactful reporting, as well as adopting more sustainable practices across this industry.
Shannon Hoyt
Company: WQOW News 18, Eau Claire
Position: Evening Anchor, Evening Executive Producer
Years at station: 6.5
Started in broadcasting (year): 2017
How did you get into broadcasting?
As a graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, I was looking to get involved in as much as I could. I initially struggled to find a path forward my first year. So, I sat myself down and thought about what I was good at and what I found pure joy in. Some dread giving speeches. I couldn’t wait for mine. I was also involved in theater, behind-the-scenes and on stage. I also had a knack for writing. I quickly realized journalism, specifically broadcast, was my calling. I joined the UW-Stout paper, finishing my senior year as editor in chief. I also joined a local group called Take2. Take2 provided the Stout community with on-air updates on events happening on campus. My senior year, I locked in an internship at WQOW News 18 in Eau Claire, WI. Once I finished my 10-week program, my news director at the time called me back to work part-time. Once I graduated, I took on a full-time multimedia journalist position, working my way through the ranks. Today I am proud to hold a position of leadership, helping my team produce and deliver broadcasts to the Chippewa Valley.
How do you view the role of young professionals in broadcasting?
Each generation can offer so much. Young professionals in broadcasting bring a new and fresh perspective to our communities and fellow coworkers. Not only that, but we learn from older generations to continue building these professions and upholding what we stand for. One day, these young professionals in broadcast will become newsroom leaders. Those leaders will prepare new leaders. In this ever-evolving world of news, young broadcasters keep journalism alive and strong.
What advice would you give to other young broadcasters?
My advice to young broadcasters is to take feedback whenever you can and ask questions. This is a profession where you learn as you go. Use the experience of others to build yours. I’ve had so many mentors to thank that have gotten me to where I am today.
What does the future of broadcasting look like to you?
Even though I may be considered a young professional in broadcasting, I’ve already become a mentor to young journalists entering the field for the first time. It’s a proud feeling seeing others achieve and that’s what my future looks like. I’ll always love sharing local stories and being a part of our viewers lives, but I want to share what I’ve learned to young broadcasters, and continue to learn from those I, to this day, consider a mentor to me.
