Why the world needs journalism of hope

Bad news sells. It’s a central pillar of journalism, and its effect on the global population, whether intentional or not, is to project an image that humanity is on the verge of collapse. This, in turn, can lead to a sense of disenfranchisement, where only the elites seem to be heard, and ordinary people feel deprived of a voice.

Frédérique Bedos believes that a positive message can be disseminated through the media. Photo: Sarah Graham/FCC

In the era of fake news, Isis, Brexit, and Trump, public distrust of institutions has never been higher. But all is not lost, says a journalist and filmmaker who is head of an NGO with the sole aim of spreading hope through journalism.

Frédérique Bedos believes that a positive message can also be disseminated through the media by highlighting the stories of humble heroes – for example, those who have overcome diversity – to inspire others into action.

“If you dream of a better world it’s up to you to build it because we are the world,” Bedos said.

Speaking at the March 18 club lunch, Bedos, a former journalist, said she was inspired to create Le Projet Imagine – The Humble Heroes by the story of her adopted parents. The couple adopted 20 children from all walks of life, some with disabilities. Bedos said she realised there were many positive stories to be told.

Le Projet Imagine is an NGO that produces short, medium-length and full-feature films that are inspirational and aim to move people to take action. The documentary, Women and Men, about gender inequality, has received worldwide accolades and was shown at Cannes in 2015. The NGO works to encourage the media to put more emphasis on stories that bring hope.

Watch the full talk here.