Interview by Vassilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis
(IG: @vassiliosvitsilogiannis)
Elsa Poimenidou is a seasoned journalist with a rich background in news reporting, cultural coverage, and educational content. With over twenty-four years of experience in the field, Elsa’s career has been marked by her tenure at the Greek State TV channel 3 in Thessaloniki, where she diligently covered a wide range of topics. For thirteen years, she hosted a live daily show focusing on current affairs, showcasing her expertise and dedication to informing and engaging her audience.
Beyond her television work, Elsa’s influence extended to print media and online platforms, where she contributed articles to newspapers and prominent websites like www.protothema.gr and www.livemedia.gr. Her passion for staying abreast of social media trends and networking opportunities reflects her adaptability and commitment to evolving in the digital age.
Elsa’s profound understanding of the social landscape in Greece, coupled with her extensive network and keen interest in current affairs, positions her as a valuable asset in the realm of online media. Her aspirations to explore roles such as Community Manager, Content Creator, or Moderator underscore her desire to leverage her skills and experience in shaping impactful online narratives and fostering engaging digital communities.
What was your main inspiration to choose journalism as a profession?
Since I was young, I enjoyed exploring, observing, and recording. People and their relationships, as well as the scenes of my city, were an inspiration for me. Whether with a pencil and paper or with a camera, I was probably a journalist from then on.
How have the conditions of your work as a journalist changed during your career?
The work remains the same, whether with tapes or digital media, a tape recorder or a mobile camera, Google or the phone. The responsibility to present the topic in the right way remains the same.
In your opinion, what are the biggest problems and issues of journalism in Greece today?
I would say challenges not problems. This happens because traditional media is “withdrawing” under the pressure of new digital forms of information, mainly the communicative gigantism we are experiencing. This has created new conditions for journalists and the practice of the profession. Adaptations are required, which means new forms of information, but mainly new rules for ethics, independence, and freedom in journalism. Reliability is always an essential factor.
Which medium do you prefer to work in, on conventional television or web television?
The medium will change. I mentioned earlier that new forms of information and entertainment are emerging. But for me, the television studio is like my living room, and I feel comfortable whether it’s web or conventional television.
How has the internet era affected the work of journalists?
Undoubtedly, our work is affected in many ways. In employment positions and working conditions, mainly. However, I will emphasize the most important, in my opinion. Information is more accessible, but the cross-examination of its accuracy is more necessary.
Do you believe news reporting is objective? How do you try to maintain objectivity in your work?
Objective information is a perennial requirement and a constant challenge for journalists. So, it remains relevant. However, it becomes more necessary as communication permeates society and the media interact with powers. Journalistic ethics set the framework for us, and adhering to them is our defense against any attempt to manipulate information. This is what we do and will continue to do in the future.
What is your family’s role in supporting your professional career as a journalist?
Family, home as we Greeks say, is our haven, our safety. The love, respect and tranquility that fill my home have all given me the strength and support for everything I have done until today.
How have social media influenced the news process? What are the advantages and disadvantages of using them?
Social media have not so much influenced the news process as they have influenced the quality of the news. Social media shape the new environment in which people communicate. They have entered our lives and will stay. Along with them come hoaxes, exaggeration, fake news and hate speech. Images and information “change” and “travel” easily in the world of social media platforms, finding easily receptive ears. So, we need to learn why and how we use social media. We need to learn how and if we will consume what they offer. Caution, control and genuine knowledge are required.
What is your opinion on the role of journalism in becoming the guardian of democracy?
Freedom of speech is the right at the heart of democracy and journalism serves this expression by seeking the truth. So, the role of journalism in a democratic state is obvious. Journalism checks the principles of democracy, ensures transparency and defends citizens’ right to information. As long as it is practiced with ethics and truth.
What are the greatest challenges you face as a journalist in the modern world and how do you tackle them?
The speed at which news spreads is incredible, as are the stories themselves. Scientific achievements, war conflicts, humanitarian crises, heinous crimes and human tragedies are more visible than ever. In this landscape, the proliferation of informational sources and the need for faster and more accurate information management make professionals face modern challenges such as a higher level of education, modern digital skills and the need for continuous training. However, in my opinion, the greatest challenge emerges from serving a value code based on ethics, inclusion and truth.
