Global Press Celebrates 19 Years of Trailblazing Journalism

Amid a worldwide crackdown on press freedom, Global Press remains committed to covering some of the world's most-challenging places.

WASHINGTON, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This month, Global Press marks 19 years of groundbreaking, award-winning journalism—celebrating a legacy of impactful storytelling, ethical reporting, and an unwavering commitment to serving global audiences.

Founded in 2006 by decorated social entrepreneur Cristi Hegranes, Global Press has redefined international journalism by training and employing hundreds of local women and non-binary reporters in some of the world's least-covered regions.

Manori Wijesekera, who has been with Global Press for 15 years as a reporter, editor and trainer, said the organization's investment in local reporters has been an investment in the global media industry.

"We're not only producing stories that challenge the way most of the world understands countries and issues, but we're also nurturing and elevating local journalists who will continue to produce ethical, authentic stories from where they live," Wijesekera said.

As one of the first nonprofit media organizations of its kind, Global Press has stood the test of time in an evolving media landscape. Today, it continues to produce high-impact investigative and explanatory journalism, with a focus on civil liberties, environmental justice, and global health.

Dr. Geetha Murali, CEO of Room to Read and a Global Press board member, credits the organization's longevity and success to its visionary leadership and dedication to both journalistic integrity and reporter well-being.

"The organization has endured and thrived because of its unwavering commitment to ethical, high-quality journalism and the remarkable team of local women reporters who bring critical stories to the world with dignity and accuracy," Murali said. "A powerful example of this is its industry-leading Duty of Care program—a testament to Cristi's foresight and deep commitment to both journalism and the reporters at its heart. By setting new standards for safety, integrity, and sustainability, Global Press has redefined what journalism can and should be."

Over the years, Global Press's impact has been profound. With more than 60 journalism and innovation awards, a syndication network of 100+ media partners, and stories that have sparked real-world change, the organization has become a global force for truth and accountability.

Global Press reporting has led to policy shifts in Nepal, new social sector initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and environmental protections in Mexico. Its investigation into virginity testing in Mongolian schools led to a government ban on the practice, while its deep-dive reporting has been cited in dozens of academic research and international policy discussions.

Global Press was born out of a radical reimagination of international journalism—moving beyond static narratives of war, poverty, and disaster, and instead centering local women as leaders in global storytelling.

"Global Press has redefined international journalism, proving that when local women lead the news, the world gets a more accurate, diverse, and transformative view of itself," Hegranes said.

"Today, our work is more challenging than ever," Hegranes added. "As Global Press enters its next chapter, we're met with a rising tide of authoritarianism, threats to press freedom and fights for funding and audience attention. But we remain steadfast in our commitment to producing independent journalism that meets the moment."

Last month, Global Press launched its Shifting Democracies Fellowship, welcoming 10 powerhouse journalists from across the world, including Ukraine, El Salvador, and Indonesia.

Ukrainian journalist and Global Press fellow Liubov Velychko said: "The best job in the world is the one that helps you grow, learn, and gain experience from others; Global Press reminds me of an ocean of opportunities, where you never get tired of swimming and exploring new depths."

For more information or to arrange an interview, contact Louise Scrivens, [email protected]. Learn more about 19-year history here.

Contact: Louise Scrivens
[email protected]

SOURCE Global Press