ABC11 presents "The Art of Storytelling: The New Age of Content Creation" workshop at NCCU

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Almost 100 young minds filled the auditorium Saturday at North Carolina Central University.

ABC11 presented "The Art of Storytelling: The New Age of Content Creation" workshop, which is tailored for students who are passionate about news and media. The event -- which happened in the School of Education Building -- gave students a look into the world of storytelling and content creation.

It was the perfect event for NCCU student Shimei Cook.

Cook said watching daytime television with his great-grandmother sparked his interest in media.

"My ultimate goal is to have my own syndicated talk show or radio show," he said.

These aspiring storytellers were hosted by WTVD Minority Advisory Committee and ABC11.

"The MAC committee has been in place to sure there is equity on screen and with the TV station. It's been in existence for many years. And it has evolved. We have seen a lot of work being done and that is very visual now on screen," Truitt O'Neal, MAC Member and Event Co-chair, said.

College and high school students attended various sessions on topics from video editing to producing on digital platforms. Panels included faces viewers see daily like anchors Joel Brown and Ana Rivera.

"A lot of people will say is new media a place for me? If I can see myself and we see those different ethnicities. They can see it as a place for them. And as a career they could be successful in," O'Neal said.

There was also a focus on aspects behind the scenes and the dynamic roles helping to make news possible like news management, marketing and producing.

"We need to know the weather, traffic. Not just pop culture. Not just entertainment. We need to know what's going on in our community," Cook said. "With this knowledge the next generation is ready to share the facts, hold leaders accountable, and create the first rough draft of history."

"Storytelling is really important," he added, "especially as a journalist. Everyone has a story to tell."

'The Art of Storytelling: The New Age of Content Creation' workshop was sponsored by ABC11's WTVD Minority Advisory Committee.