By Britton Edwards, COO, Atlanta Way 2.0
On Saturday, the energy inside Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) was palpable as aspiring journalists gathered for Press Pass to Success, an inspiring and informative event designed to support the next generation of storytellers. A partnership between Atlanta Way 2.0, VOX ATL, the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), the Asian American Journalists Association Atlanta Chapter (AAJA), and GPB, the event welcomed high school students, college-age attendees, recent graduates, and emerging professionals eager to make their mark in the field of journalism.
The event served as a dynamic space for dialogue, networking, and mentorship. In a media landscape often difficult to break into, this initiative was all about opening doors. Attendees had the rare opportunity to interact with seasoned professionals who generously shared both their journeys into journalism and hard-won advice on navigating the industry.
The conversation was masterfully moderated by Archith Seshadri, Atlanta Bureau Chief for Nexstar Media Group. His thoughtful questions and warm facilitation helped build bridges between the panelists and participants, sparking meaningful conversations that extended far beyond the stage.
“It was really wonderful to see the next generation of young journalists and students asked so many valuable questions and ask about the future of the media landscape,” said Seshadri. “The amazing group of panels provided their expertise everything from SOURCING to writing to pitching to social media to citizen journalism. In a world that constantly is changing with misinformation the power of journalism was reinforced this weekend with a passionate group of students.”
The two panels featured a diverse range of media professionals, including:
- Kennedy Felton, lifestyle correspondent at Straight Arrow News
- Alex Ip, publisher and editor of The Xylom
- Sean Keenan, freelance journalist (Atlanta Civic Circle, The New York Times, and more)
- MaryLynn Ryan, Vice President of News at Georgia Public Broadcasting
- Maria Saporta, journalist and founder of SaportaReport
- Donnell Suggs, Editor-in-Chief of The Atlanta Voice
- Denisha Thomas, News Content Director at WXIA/11Alive
The conversation explored multiple facets of journalism — from how to choose your career path to how to get hired! The panelists illuminated both challenges and opportunities for newcomers. One of the most impactful takeaways: breaking into journalism may feel daunting, but access to real people doing the work, and who are eager to offer support makes a difference. Joining a local press organization is also a great way to connect with mentors and veteran journalists who can help you get your desired job. The Society of Professional Journalists was represented by Susanna Capeluto, who encouraged the group to join and attend events like the workshop to get a leg up now.
As attendees asked questions and introduced themselves, it was clear that relationships were beginning to take root. Connections made at events like these can open doors to internships, freelance assignments, mentorships, and new confidence.
Charaun Cash, Executive Director, VOX ATL said, “Teens leverage VOX ATL’s platform to tell stories that matter to them, and they receive free media education and journalism training as they prepare for life after high school. Partnering with Atlanta Way 2.0 made sense because we had a common goal— to expose students and aspiring journalists to real-world experiences, and prepare them for what it means to be a journalist today.”
Atlanta Way 2.0 was proud to co-host Press Pass to Success as part of our broader mission to strengthen the civic fabric of Greater Atlanta. We believe that journalism is critical to a healthy civic culture—driving education, awareness, and accountability across communities. Our vision is an Atlanta where all people are connected, engaged, and empowered. By equipping up-and-coming journalists with access to insights and industry leaders, we are not only investing in their individual success but in the long-term vitality of our region’s civic ecosystem.
At Atlanta Way 2.0, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in the power of partnerships to spark solutions, build relationships, and catalyze lasting change. Whether we’re convening conversations around historic preservation, sustainability, or local journalism, our goal is to bring people together for collective impact.
What’s one of the most meaningful things you can do to help someone feel like part of their community? Connect them. That’s the ethos of Atlanta Way 2.0: helping people meet the people and find the resources they need to thrive. If your organization is seeking to build bridges, we’re here to help — with moderators, speakers, strategic introductions, and organizational support.
The future of journalism is bright, and on Saturday, we saw it in full view. We’re grateful to all our partners and panelists for making this event possible, to Atlanta Way 2.0 Board Member Lauri Strauss for her masterful guidance, to Delta Air Lines for supporting our mission through a generous gift, and to the brilliant young journalists who showed us that Atlanta’s next chapter in storytelling is in excellent hands.
A student journalist interviews Kennedy Felton at the Press Pass to success event 
Press Pass to success event. 
Press Pass to success event 
Arvon Bacon introduces himself at the Press Pass to success event 
Donnell Suggs of The Atlanta Voice speaks to the students at the Press Pass to success event 
Archith and the first panel address students at the Press Pass to success event 
Maria Saporta speaks to the students at the Press Pass to success event 
Archith and Kennedy meet a student at the Press Pass to success event 
Charaun Cash of VOX ATL speaks to the students at the Press Pass to success event 
Attendees and panelists at GPB for the Press Pass to Success event. 
Attendees and panelists at GPB for the Press Pass to Success event. Archith Seshadri introduces MaryLynn Ryan of GPB to Jose Burgos, a recent graduate interested in sports media.
