By Lugein Mohammed
Growing up, in the streets of Khartoum in Sudan, I would wake up to people who couldn’t afford to buy newspapers swarming around newspaper vendors just to get a glimpse of the headlines. It never occurred to me what happens in the newsrooms and I cared less.
Years later, after my studies in the US I found myself in the air flying to the CITY OF GOLD- Dubai for yet another chapter of my life.
And guess what?
One morning I found myself heading to the newsroom, Daily times Newspaper in Dubai. Memories of the streets of Khartoum flooded back as I stepped in to the newsroom for the first time.
I reached the company offices at an appropriate time to join as my first day as a trainee and ironically, I had forgotten the office floor. “What kind of luck is that? “I wondered.
My legs started shaking and I remembered that Mobenna knew the company I was about to join and was a good friend to the CEO.
She directed me and in no time, I found myself knocking at the door while drawing a smile on my cheeks.
The receptionist, welcomed me and immediately took me to the CEO’s office who introduced me to the rest of the team.
The warm welcome from the team instantly put me at ease. I felt at home and by midday, I had already sat in on my first editorial meeting, where I observed the fast-paced discussions about upcoming stories and breaking news. Though I mostly listened, I could already see how much I would learn in the weeks ahead.
The newsroom culture was both professional and welcoming. There was a clear sense of teamwork and passion for delivering the news. What struck me most was the camaraderie among employees—whether it was a lighthearted joke during a coffee break or a collaborative effort to meet a tight deadline, the energy was contagious.
As my first day came to a close, I reflected on the incredible hospitality and support I had received. The Daily Times Newspaper team had not only welcomed me but had also ignited my passion for journalism even further. I left the newsroom that day feeling inspired and excited for the journey ahead.
