A level 300 Journalism and Mass Communication student from the University of Buea, Ngala Eugine Nfinyu, recently completed a transformative 1-month internship on environmental journalism and storytelling with Voice of Nature (VoNat)’s media and publication arm, Voice of Nature News (VoN News).
Eugine was immersed in a comprehensive learning experience that combined practical skills with real-world environmental issues, starting June 1, 2025. Under the mentorship of VoNat’s Executive Director, Ndimuh B. Shancho, and Communications Officer, Jabi Katy Chale, he developed competencies in field reporting, article writing, event coverage, grant writing, and professional communication, all crucial for driving impactful environmental narratives.
During his internship, Eugine actively contributed to raising awareness on key environmental issues, including waste management, climate change impacts, and food insecurity. His fieldwork extended beyond journalism to hands-on participation in nursery management and tree donation initiatives around Mount Cameroon, bridging storytelling with tangible community conservation efforts.
Reflecting on his experience, Eugine described the internship as “enriching and transformative.” “This opportunity has profoundly shaped my passion for environmental journalism. Learning to write compelling articles, use a camera effectively, and engage directly with communities has given me practical tools to influence positive change,” he noted.
Despite facing challenges such as sourcing expert interviews and adjusting to professional routines, Eugine found encouragement through VoNat’s supportive environment. “The warm mentorship and inclusive culture made me feel like a valued member of the team. I even gained essential soft skills, like writing professional emails, which I did not master before. This internship truly equipped me with the confidence and practical knowledge to pursue a career dedicated to environmental sustainability.”
VoNat’s commitment to empowering young communicators like Eugine reflects its broader mission to nurture the next generation of environmental leaders. By providing hands-on training and mentorship, VoNat ensures that passionate youth are equipped to tell impactful stories and contribute meaningfully to building a greener, safer and more sustainable planet for current and future generations. Through internships such as Eugine’s, VoNat is not only advancing conservation efforts but also building a cadre of skilled journalists and advocates ready to amplify critical environmental issues and foster community resilience.