Christian journalists urged on humility

By Jackie Nalubwama

Recently, Christians in Uganda’s media hosted heavy weights in the world of journalism at their annual fete at the Sheraton hotel, as they reflected on the easily forgotten, and rarely spoken about subject of humility.

In this man-eat-man world, where more often than not, the strongest survive at the expense of the seemingly weak, the journalists were reminded of the power of modesty and having a low view of one's own importance.


Some of the guests at the media dinner

And who better to deliver on the all-important subject of humility than the world renown, Stephen Buckley, a former dean at the Poynter Institute – an American Ivy League Journalism school.

Buckley, a celebrated American journalist and former managing editor of the St. Petersburg Times, has practised journalist in several corners of the world including war-torn Iraq.

He has received numerous prizes in the process.

Buckley reminded journalists that humility is not thinking less of oneself but about thinking about oneself less.
He said a humble team leader is assertive and is not afraid to say ‘sorry’ when they are wrong.

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(L - R)Managing Editor Tampa Bay Times, Stephen Buckley, Guardian Newspaper MD, Emeka Izeze, Editor in Chief New Vision, Barbara Kaija, Caroline Comport TMP coordinator, Director of the John McCandlish Philips Journalism Institute,  Paul Glader, Vision Group board member, Monica Chibita and New Vision managing editor-editorial, David Mukholi  at the Media Gala Dinner at Sheraton Kampala Hotel on June 12, 2015

“A humble leader creates an environment where teamwork can thrive because no one is afraid to give their opinion. This leader values wisdom over intelligence. This leader has fierce professional will to keep improving.

“Research shows that there is a real economic advantage to companies that have humble leaders,” Buckley passionately told a gathering of journalists and Poynster fellows from across Africa.
The fellows came from as far as Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Zambia, Kenya, and Tanzania and were accompanied by US trainers.

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Watoto children performing at the dinner

Like the biblical wise bridegroom that kept the best wine for the end of the wedding, Buckley said the best part of a humble leader is that he or she is willing to forgive, heal and rebuild relationships.

Before Buckely made his speech, guests were completely blown away by songs by the Watoto Children’s choir.
Dressed in bright African kentenge wear, the children performed three energetic songs before receiving a well-earned standing ovation.

Watoto children performing at the dinner