In the realm of journalism, recognition can be both a crowning achievement and a springboard to influence further. For Tyisha Blade, a graduate student and founder of East Cleveland Magazine, it has recently been the latter. The Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists has named Blade Print Journalist of the Year, an accolade that not only honors her tireless work but also highlights the voice she brings to her community.
Blade's journey was highlighted in the second episode of Viking Voices, a Cleveland State University series that taps into the stories of its most engaging figures. According to Cleveland State University's announcement, the episode dove into how CSU played a pivotal role in Blade's transition from public relations professional to a career in writing. She reflects on this change with a poignant clarity: "Cleveland State University played a key role in her decision to transition from public relations to a writing career."
Blade is not only a journalist but also an entrepreneur and student navigating the complex landscape of local media. Her foundation, the East Cleveland Magazine, serves as a testament to her commitment to storytelling and community engagement. The podcast episode captures her reflection on this momentous shift in her career and presumably encapsulates her philosophy on what it means to be a journalist in today's sociopolitical environment.
For Blade, the award is more than just a personal honor, it represents larger strides for black journalists in the industry. It's a recognition that diversity in newsrooms is not just about representation, but also about the richness of narratives that can arise when different perspectives are respected and honored. Being named Print Journalist of the Year by the Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists is not just a personal milestone for the Blade, It's indicative of the broader strides being made for diversity in media.
