Chaimae Chouiekh, a 2nd year Master of Journalism student, completed her program internships at CBC Radio and CBC News Toronto, and at Global News BC.
In this Q&A, Chouiekh shares what it’s like to work as a writer and producer for two of the biggest news organisations in Canada. She says the hands-on experience she gained at the internships has helped her move beyond her comfort zone.
Chaimae Chouiekh, 2nd-year Master of Journalism student
Can you tell us a bit more about the internships?
I was the Associate Producer and Web Writer for CBC Radio and CBC News Toronto between April and May 2024. From May to June 2024, I also interned as a TV Producer and Digital Writer at Global News BC.
What was the process behind getting them?
I heard about the CBC News internship through the School, where it was advertised to us, and through Kathryn Gretsinger, who encouraged me to apply.
As for my internship at Global BC, I got the opportunity thanks to the help of my mentor with the Canadian Association of Journalists, Tara Nelson. She was instrumental in guiding me on how to approach newsroom leaders, demonstrate my willingness to work, and create my own opportunities. Her mentorship helped me understand how to break into TV reporting and gain hands-on experience in a broadcast newsroom. Kathryn also helped me with the introductions and how to plan it out given my schedule.
What made you choose these internships?
I wanted to be in fast-paced, bustling newsrooms where I could work on international stories. I was looking for environments where I wouldn’t just observe but actively contribute—whether through reporting, interviewing, or producing. Working in radio, TV, and digital with exposure to real-world newsroom dynamics, tight deadlines, and breaking news situations was important to me, as was the opportunity to receive mentorship from experienced journalists from both a national radio show with the public broadcaster and the British Columbia TV network.
I was also drawn to opportunities that allowed me to work on the ground, covering stories that had a tangible impact. I wanted to sharpen my ability to navigate complex topics, build trust with sources, and develop strong storytelling skills. Being in situations where I had to think quickly, adapt, and take initiative helped me grow as a journalist. Ultimately, I wanted experiences that would push me beyond my comfort zone and prepare me for a career where I could tell meaningful, well-researched stories that matter, especially to underrepresented voices.
“Being in situations where I had to think quickly, adapt, and take initiative helped me grow as a journalist. Ultimately, I wanted experiences that would push me beyond my comfort zone”
Please describe your experience. What did you learn?
I began a six-week internship as a producer at CBC Toronto’s award-winning current affairs radio show, As It Happens. It was an amazing opportunity. It was my first time going to Toronto, and I completely fell in love with the city, and its bustling energy ran through my veins. While on CBC Radio, my focus was on “international underrepresented voices,” primarily from the Global South. I gained invaluable experience in pre-interviewing, audio editing, guest chasing, and script writing. Working closely with Nil Köksal and Chris Howden, Austin Webb and Katie Geleff provided insights into the fast-paced world of radio production.
The most challenging and rewarding part was building trust with guests who had long rejected their portrayal in Western media. During my internship, I covered significant topics, including the impact of heat waves on education inequalities in the Philippines, challenges faced by pregnant women in Missouri, USA due to restrictive abortion laws, and the impact of climate change on Pakistani families.
Following this experience, I took on a reporting internship at Global TV BC for one month. Beyond the camera and video editing skills acquired, I found myself in a unique position to become an on-the-ground reporter on the day pro-Palestine protesters at UBC blocked all intersections in and out of campus. I could not reach the newsroom, nor could Global TV access the event. I then contributed directly by interviewing protesters, as well as sending footage that was used directly on the air.
I also participated to the website by reporting on a proposed class-action lawsuit against the Vancouver Whitecaps and MLS over an alleged bait-and-switch tactic involving Lionel Messi, as well as Vancouver’s new Indigenous rights action plans.
How did the Master of Journalism program help?
It has been instrumental in preparing me for these internships by giving me both the foundational skills and the confidence to step into high-pressure newsroom environments. The program provided hands-on training in research, and storytelling , which allowed me to hit the ground running when I started working in professional newsrooms.
Beyond technical skills, the program emphasized critical thinking, ethics, and the importance of amplifying underrepresented voices—something that shaped my approach to reporting. It also gave me access to a strong network of journalists and mentors, including faculty members and guest speakers, who provided guidance and helped open doors to these opportunities.
Additionally, the program encouraged initiative and adaptability, which were crucial when I had to navigate breaking news situations or take on reporting roles beyond my initial responsibilities.
“Beyond technical skills, the (Master of Journalism) program emphasized critical thinking, ethics, and the importance of amplifying underrepresented voices—something that shaped my approach to reporting. It also gave me access to a strong network of journalists and mentors, including faculty members and guest speakers, who provided guidance and helped open doors to these opportunities.”
