Gbemi is a future trainee solicitor currently working at a prestigious UK firm after earning her LLB Law degree with enhanced competency in French in 2023. As the founder of the award-winning non-profit organisation “BlackWomenAspiringLawyers,” she has made a significant impact by supporting thousands of Black women in their legal careers. As a polyglot with the ability to communicate in five languages, Gbemi has a deep interest in diverse cultures leading her to undertake programmes abroad in France and Nigeria. This drives her passion for connecting with individuals from various backgrounds. Her interest in Politics is deeply rooted in her desire to keep the future alive by educating and helping the younger generation to reach their full potential.

Rosa Prince, Deputy UK Editor at POLITICO in London, is a standout leader in political journalism. Her exceptional career in several senior editorial roles highlights her expertise and talent for deciphering complex political issues. Ms Prince impartial reporting crafts a narrative that helps audiences grasp the intricacies of governance, both of UK and US politics. She is a true force in the journaling industry, continually raising the bar for what political journalism can achieve.

Though Ms Prince’s reporting remains objective, it is through her career journey that we understand her dedication to informing the public. Ms Prince has covered multiple administrations, worked across continents, and continues to shape political journalism with a keen sense of professionalism and integrity. Her background in the Lobby at the House of Commons, where she worked for publications such as the Daily Mirror and the Telegraph, is a reflection of her deep understanding of UK politics. This experience culminated in award-winning coverage, including the pivotal 2009 MPs’ Expenses Scandal.

The Masterclass discussion with Ms Prince highlighted the complexities of a career in journalism, which can often feel overwhelming – similar to entering a vast workplace without a clear sense of agency. Below are some of the key takeaways from the insightful evening. 

One key takeaway from Ms Prince’s masterclass is her ability to learn and adapt, a journey that took her from covering Westminster to the US, using her dual citizenship to become a freelance reporter covering American politics for British media, and vice versa. This international perspective sets her apart, allowing her to provide a nuanced analysis of the political systems she covers. Rosa’s openness to new challenges and continuous learning is evident in her career choices. She has moved from UK-based reporting to becoming a bridge between two of the world’s major political powers, even covering 9/11 at an early stage in her career. Her subsequent return to the UK is admirable, motivated by her desire to seek new challenges and shape her own narrative. 

Ms Prince further emphasised the importance of seeking help and learning from each experience, underscoring that even as the Deputy UK Editor at POLITICO, her journey has been collaborative, highlighting the necessity of relying on those around us for support. 

Ms Prince also spoke about the evolving landscape of journalism, particularly in the digital age. She noted that while information is more accessible than ever, the challenge lies in maintaining trust amidst scepticism towards the media. This reality encourages journalists to uphold high standards of integrity and clarity in their reporting.

When discussing her motivations for writing books on UK politics, Ms Prince revealed how her authorial experience has enriched her perspective as a political journalist. It allows her to explore deeper narratives and contextualise current events in a way that resonates with readers. 

Finally, she gave advice to young people aspiring to enter journalism. In an ever-evolving political landscape, Ms Prince encouraged young people to remain engaged and proactive. Her insights serve as a reminder that perseverance and confidence are key ingredients for thriving in both journalism and broader societal engagement. For young women especially, Ms Prince offered practical advice: stay curious, build a robust network, and don’t shy away from voicing your thoughts. She reminded everyone that confidence is crucial for success. While feedback can sometimes feel daunting, it’s important to focus on the positives and learn from every interaction. 

The group found themselves deeply inspired by the insights shared by Ms Prince and the Chair during her Masterclass, sparking a lively and passionate debate on the topic of censorship in journalism. Their discussions delved into the ethical dilemmas that journalists face when balancing the need for transparency with the realities of editorial constraints. Participants expressed varying perspectives on how censorship can hinder the pursuit of truth and accountability, while others acknowledged the complexities involved in maintaining journalistic integrity. This exchange not only illuminated the challenges of the profession but also underscored the critical importance of fostering open dialogue about these issues.

On behalf of our cohort, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Rosa Prince for taking the time to share her journey and insights. Her openness and advice left a lasting impression, reminding us all of the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and the confidence to trust in our own abilities.