The Imperial As One Media Academy (IAO Media Academy) provides expert communications training for minority ethnic researchers who remain underrepresented in the media and wider public sphere.

This award-winning programme builds skills across a wide range of communications areas, including writing opinion pieces and blogs, media interview techniques, public engagement and influencing policy. Participants also gain practical experience in podcasting, video production and using social media to reach broader audiences.

Taking place annually, the IAO Media Academy is organised by a dedicated committee from Imperial's Faculty of Medicine, Communications Division and race equity network, Imperial As One. It is funded by Research England’s ‘Enhancing Research Culture’ award.

To date, 138 people have graduated from the IAO Media Academy, with many alumni featuring in national and international media outlets, appearing on podcasts and launching their own blogs. Find out what our graduates are saying and doing.

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Media training for engaging with journalists

Wednesday 15 May, 10.00-15.30

Build confidence and skills to become a key media player. This session will cover media work and will include practical sessions and interview practice.

In this session you will learn about: 

  • How the media operates 
  • Practical tips for talking to the media and journalist interviews 
  • Communicating your key messages 
  • Handling sensitive questions 
  • Keeping interviews on track

Trainer(s): Elizabeth Bananuka is the founder of BME PR Pros & Blueprinted. 

The power of podcasts

Thursday 23 April, 10.00-16.00

Whether you are interested in appearing on podcasts or have had an idea for starting one yourself, they are an excellent way to reach a dedicated audience and demonstrate your expertise. 

In this session you will learn: 

  • The benefits of appearing on and creating podcasts 
  • How podcasts are put together 
  • Key considerations when starting a podcast 
  • Interview techniques 

Trainer(s): Imriel Morgan is the founder of Content is Queen and host of the award-winning Wanna Be Podcast. 

Powerful words

Friday 1 May, 11.00-14.00

Learn how to get the most out of social media to share your research: from which platforms to choose and cutting through the noise to positioning yourself as an expert and staying safe online. 

In this session you will learn about: 

  • How to write good copy

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    The different types of writing formats

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    What journalists and editors look for in commentaries and opinion pieces

     

Trainer(s): Meera Senthilingham is an Emmy award-winning global health journalist and editor with two decades experience working with CNN and the Thomas Reuters Foundation. 

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Public Engagement

Thursday 7 May, 10.00-15.30

Discover the power of exchanging ideas, insights and skills with wider public audiences. From engaging families at science festivals to having conversations about your research at the local cafe.

In this session you will learn: 

  • What public engagement is and its benefits
  • Key principles for high-quality public engagement
  • How to plan an engagement project  
  • Practical tips for presenting and talking about your research

Trainers: Charlotte Coales and Sam Crisp (she/her) from Imperial's Public Engagement team

Powerful Words

Thursday 12 May, 10.00-16.30

Learn how to get the most out of social media to raise your profile and share your research – from which platforms to choose and cutting through the noise to positioning yourself as an expert. 

In this session you will learn:  

  • What social media is  
  • The main platforms and how they can be used  
  • How to stay safe online 
  • How to create compelling video content with just your smartphone 

Trainer: Omobolaji Ajibare is a social media content creator and expert.

Guest speaker: Social media sensation - Big Manny!

Public affairs and policy

Tuesday 19 May, 10.00-16.00

Imperial's Policy Forum training session aims to demystify government and Parliament by explaining how to engage successfully with policymakers. 

During the session, you will: 

  • Gain an improved understanding of the governmental landscape and key players. 
  • Hear about the policymaking process. 
  • Learn practical tips for engaging with Parliament and the Civil Service. 

Trainer(s): The Imperial Policy Forum team 

Networking and celebration event: After the final session, we host a drinks reception celebrating participants' completion of the Imperial As One Media Academy. Previous participants, trainers, and other communications professionals will be in attendance making it a fantastic opportunity to network and create contacts to help in your future endeavours beyond the programme.

Cancellations: Those enrolling onto the Media Academy are expected to attend all the sessions of the programme and complete all evaluation surveys.