Dedicated in the field of journalism for 22 years now, Shiva Gaunle is an investigative journalist and editor of Centre for Investigative Journalism (CIJ), Jawalakhel. Originally from Jhapa, his career in media initiated when he moved to Kathmandu to work as a correspondent for a weekly newspaper ‘Swadhin Sambaadh’. Despite the fact that he earned a Bachelor’s in Law (BL) degree from Nepal Law Campus in 1994, he decided to continue his career in the field of journalism. Moreover, driven by his passion further he worked as a president for Three years at Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) and further 11 years in Himal Magazine. Along with a numerous awards throughout the journey he was awarded ‘Senior Journalist Award’ by the government of Nepal in 2016.

My City’s Sonam Lama caught up with Shiva Gaunle to talk about his experiences and challenges in his journalism career.

How has your journey in media been so far?

My early experience of working for a wall magazine while I was in college fascinated me to make a journey this far. My career began with working as a correspondent for a weekly newspaper. Since then I have experienced a worthwhile journey from my work. It has always been a profession where you achieve an instant impact of your work. We hold a responsibility to affect society through our stories and take immense pride to shoulder the responsibility of being a prime mediator of any information.

What do you think are the challenges of investigative journalism in Nepal?

Having worked in the field of investigative journalism for about 12 years, I find that the depth of knowledge and research has improved. Although security for investigative journalists is questioned time and again, I feel we are rather challenged to come up with an in-depth reporting on many issues that are yet to be covered. The drive to reach to the root of the information is absent which keeps us away from getting a clear picture of any story.

In what ways has the media sector grown over the decades?

It definitely has progressed over the decades. The broadened scope of media now has provided numerous platforms for people who are keen, hard working and eager to make a mark in this field. Media ethics are properly implemented and the practice of using media to serve one’s personal interest has reduced. However, with the change in time, journalism has become more corporate which has resulted in creating limitation within. With media developing at a fast pace, the authority to control it now lies in both the skilled and ordinary hands.

As per you, what should be done to let media flourish in Nepal?

I believe government should work on establishing media education institutes and universities in order to deliver effective knowledge on media and conduct training programs to hone people’s skills. Moreover, it is important for media personnel to not be driven by their vested interests, and abide by the laws and ethics of media.

What advice would you give young people aspiring for a career in media?

Media sector is in need of competent youths. Their agility and creativity are highly required in order to take journalism to new heights. Moreover, it also provides platform to gain hands-on information on issues related to diverse background which help enhance your intellectual, analytical and communication skills.