The Caribbean has secured a vital seat at the global media table with the recent election of Trinidadian Kiran Maharaj, President of the Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC), to the Steering Committee of the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD).
Maharaj’s appointment was confirmed during the GFMD’s Extraordinary General Assembly on Wednesday, July 16, following an online vote by its member organisations. She will now represent Latin America and the Caribbean, alongside Adriana Garcia, Executive Secretary of the Brazilian Association of Investigative Journalism.
The GFMD is the world’s largest network of media development and journalism support organisations, with 203 members across 82 countries. The Steering Committee plays a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s global agenda, advocating for press freedom, ethical journalism, and innovation in media.
In her remarks following the announcement, Maharaj said “Given the current challenges faced by global media and news outlets, it is a profound honour to represent the Caribbean at the GFMD’s highest decision-making level. This appointment ensures our region’s experiences and priorities are heard on the international stage and allows the Caribbean to play a vital role in shaping global efforts to strengthen ethical, operational, and innovative media environments.”
She added, “I am committed to supporting GFMD’s mission and promoting the diverse voices of the Caribbean in the vital work to safeguard media freedom and democracy worldwide.”
Maharaj’s election marks a significant moment for Caribbean media, signaling not only the region’s increasing influence on the international journalism landscape but also its enduring commitment to press freedom and sustainable media practices.
The Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC), under Maharaj’s leadership, has been instrumental in fostering responsible journalism and media innovation in the region. Through training, advocacy, and collaboration, MIC supports the development of viable media business models and works to empower Caribbean journalists to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and democratic integrity.
Her presence on the GFMD Steering Committee ensures that Caribbean perspectives, often underrepresented in global forums, will contribute meaningfully to shaping the future of journalism worldwide.
