Grant Schreiber: Foreign Journalists as “Outsiders Looking In”

Grant Schreiber on what makes a high-profile interview unique, how journalists working abroad can offer a fresh perspective on American affairs, and the importance of transparency. Grant has more than 25 years of media and publishing experience behind him and has launched new titles for clients in South Africa, UK and the US. He has developed communication and media strategies for top brands, including Laureus and the Parliament of South Africa. He is also a best-selling author.

Please give us a description of your background and work.

I’m a South African editor, publisher and author who has worked in the U.S. for the past two-and-a-half years. I started my media career developing public health messages for the South African health authorities around HIV/AIDS and pioneering the use of photo comics for public health education. I’m the founding editor of Real Leaders magazine, which aims to inspire better leaders for a better world and show how business can help solve social problems.

What was the latest story you reported on?

I interviewed the American singer, musician, and activist Michael Franti recently.

How that story made you feel?

Some of my interviews with well-known people have been hard work, as they can be very serious. When Michael unexpectedly brought out his guitar and started playing a song, I knew it was going to be a very different kind of interview. It was uplifting, and his personal journey resonates very much with what’s happening in America right now. His multi-cultural heritage has attracted negative comments in the past, and his message is that, left unchecked, bad words can become bad deeds.

What is the definition of a special story for you as a journalist?

I’m always delighted when a well-known business leader, celebrity or public figure opens up about something personal. When you move away from familiar facts and toward a deeper understanding of what makes someone special, and a real leader, it becomes special and unique.

Do you believe in the importance of the work of foreign journalists? If so, why?

Foreign journalists give fresh insights on a country — that locals may not be aware of. They challenge established ways of thinking and give an “outsider looking in” perspective that can help balance the debates of the day. They help people understand how the rest of the world views them, and can promote greater critical thinking.

What do people in the U.S. not know about the work foreign journalists do in this country?

Foreign journalists will find an angle to a story that is unique, because a topic that is well-known in America may be completely new to a foreign journalist. They will ask questions that are not typical, and by approaching a story from their particular cultural background, create new ways of looking at the world.

Is journalism an impactful profession? Do you feel you make an impact on society? In what ways?

Journalists should strive to rise above the misinformation and chaos that has defined the past few years — driven in large part by social media. Good reporting and writing can have a positive impact if a story is authentic and sources are solid and well researched. Transparency is crucial. I strive to make an impact by interviewing a wide range of influential people and trying to find a solution to a common social problem. Choosing positive role models to highlight is always a good idea.

What message do you want the AFC-USA to convey to the outside world on behalf of foreign journalists?

America is seen as a turbulent place at this time in history, and foreign journalists should help reveal the complexities and diversity that exists here. The rest of the world holds too many simplistic views on America, and is unaware of the huge diversity of thought that exists here. There are very few countries in the world in which you can find your tribe, regardless of how obscure it may be.