Journalist and Managing Editor of New Age Newspaper, Thomas Josephus Dixon, has officially declared his intention to contest for the position of Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors (GoNE). In a statement emphasizing service, unity, and development, Dixon pledged to revitalize the Guild and enhance its role within Sierra Leone’s media landscape.
Dixon, a seasoned editor and media professional, brings extensive experience to the race, having previously served as Editor and Managing Editor of multiple publications, including Salone Times and News Watch. He also lectures at the Journalism and Media Studies Department at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. Notably, he played a key role as Acting Secretary-General of the Guild, where he helped organize its first-ever successful Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Tokeh.
In outlining his vision, Dixon introduced what he termed the “GUILD Manifesto,” a strategic roadmap aimed at strengthening the institution:
• G – I will use my service to make the Guild GREAT and a force to reckon with in the Sierra Leone Media Ecosystem. There was a reason for the formation of the Guild. The former Executive Representative of the UNITED NATIONS Secretary-General Residents saw that the Guild could bring sustainable development not only to its members but also to Sierra Leone through our pens. Therefore, I will ensure that myself and the executive make the Guild a GREAT institution, as envisioned by the SAHARA Declaration, and partner with other GUILDs worldwide.
• U – No matter what, editors and media personalities will always have diverse views on issues. I will ensure that those diverse views and disagreements don’t break us apart, but instead, I will use them to bring editors together as a UNITED voice on matters of importance. My service will not discriminate against editors based on their beliefs or perceived leanings, but will ensure that, despite our varied opinions, our collective voice on issues remains strong.l issues.
• I – My service to the GUILD will be done with a GENDER-SENSITIVE lens – INCLUSIVITY -, and I will encourage women to rise within the Editors Guild and the media fraternity. I will also take into consideration the disabled in the profession by helping to make the profession friendly to all.
• L – My service to the GUILD will bring transparent and accountable LEADERSHIP to the organization. It will be a competent leadership that works for all and takes into account views that are critical, with respect..
• D – My service to the GUILD will be one that enhances DEVELOPMENT through empowerment. Today, newspapers face an existential threat from new media and AI. These, coupled with the high cost of materials, have put the operation of newspapers and the job of editors in danger. To overcome this existing danger, we will need empowerment not only for editors but also for publishers. Editors must be empowered in digitization and modern management techniques. My service will look for opportunities both in Sierra Leone and outside to collaborate in training and exchanges that will empower and bring development to editors.
Dixon underscored the urgent need to empower editors in the digital age, emphasizing skills development in modern management and technological advancements. He reaffirmed his commitment to making the Guild a platform for progress and professional excellence.
“As we embark on this journey, I humbly seek the support of my colleagues to awaken the sleeping giant within the Guild of Newspaper Editors,” Dixon stated.
His candidacy signals a call for transformation within the organization, aiming to position it as a leading institution that upholds journalistic integrity and professionalism.
