Westminster hosts event with Channel 4’s Cathy Newman in collaboration with Women in Journalism

In the event, which took place on 10 October at the Regent Street site’s Fyvie Hall, Newman shared her experience and tips for aspiring journalists with Eleanor Mills, Women in Journalism Chair, Editor of the Sunday Times Magazine and editorial director of the Sunday Times. Those in attendance included Westminster students and industry professionals. 

The event promoted Newman’s new book titled ‘Bloody Brilliant Women: The Pioneers, Revolutionaries, and Geniuses Your History Teacher Forgot to Mention’. After the talk, the over 80 attendees were given the opportunity to speak with Newman and buy a signed copy of her book. 

As the event was held under Chatham House Rules (no live tweeting, no quoting the speakers), the attendees were in a unique position to learn the hard-earned secrets of the industry first-hand. Newman and Mills spoke of how to succeed in the competitive media field and how to overcome issues they have faced because of their gender. 

The event was sponsored by Lexington Communications and Green & Blacks chocolate, who gave out free chocolate bars to attendees after the talk. 

Dr Anastasia Denisova, Lecturer on the Journalism BA Honours course, helped to organise the event in collaboration with Women in Journalism, a non-profit organisation that engages in networking, campaigning and training for women in the media. As part of this, they host public speaking and networking events across the UK. They have previously held a similar event at the University with BBC’s Mishal Husain. 

Dr Denisova said about the event: “Having Cathy Newman sharing her incredible career insights at University of Westminster is an honour. She is a role model for so many of our students, especially for BA Journalism where the majority of students are women. 

“On the night, guests were not shy and asked many good questions, which showed that they were very engaged with the topics of the conversation. The event was a success and I am grateful to all attendees and Women in Journalism for making it a fantastic night’

Learn more about Women in Journalism on their website.