The AIBs 2025 Masterclass
The AIBs, our annual competition for journalism and factual productions, is not just about the trophies. It’s about sharing knowledge, ideas and experiences among the media industry: video, audio and digital.
As part of our work to make sure that we help to share best practice and concepts, and to facilitate learning among the media industry, we hold Masterclasses that bring together finalists from the AIBs.
When we launched the AIBs 2025 in April, we held a Masterclass at the Rose Shure Experience Centre at the kind invitation of Shure Inc. We had a wide range of guests in the room, including journalists, producers and editors, along with students studying journalism. Online, there was a similar range of attendees, representing more than 15 countries.
There were three sessions:
Session 1: Investigative Journalism – Breaking Barriers and Exposing Truth
• Focus: A behind-the-scenes look at award-nominated investigative reports.
• Panellists: Journalists and producers from shortlisted investigative stories.
• Key Topics:
◦ Challenges of investigative reporting in different regions.
◦ Ethical considerations and journalist safety.
◦ The role of new technology (OSINT, AI) in uncovering stories.
• Interactive Element: Case study discussion—breaking down a real investigative piece.
• Peter Smith, ITV News
• Paul Myles, On Our Radar
Session 2: Storytelling in Factual Productions – Engaging Global Audiences
• Focus: How to craft compelling factual content for international impact.
• Panellists: Creators of shortlisted factual documentaries and series.
• Key Topics:
◦ Blending narrative with factual integrity.
◦ Using visual storytelling techniques for audience engagement.
◦ Challenges of covering sensitive topics while maintaining authenticity.
• Amanda Burrell, Freelance
• Mouhssine Ennaimi, TRT WORLD
• Greg Moyer, Blue Chalk Media
Session 3: Journalism in the Digital Age – Adapting to New Platforms
• Focus: The evolving landscape of news reporting in the era of social media and AI, as well as the way other players – such as the print media – are embracing video and audio.
• Panellists: Journalists and producers using innovative digital storytelling methods.
• Key Topics:
◦ The impact of AI and automation in newsrooms.
◦ Social media’s influence on news production and distribution.
◦ Fighting misinformation and maintaining credibility.
• Dan Wright, Times Radio
• Veronica Kan-Dapaah, FT
Moderated by Henry Peirse, co-founder, Paydesk