The Walrus has introduced Mostafa Al-A’sar as its second Contributing Writer through the Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) initiative. This programme, which commenced in 2024, allows internationally trained journalists residing in Canada to share in-depth narratives about their native countries and global experiences. Soraya Amiri, a journalist from Afghanistan, was the inaugural writer in this collaborative venture.
Mostafa Al-A’sar is an esteemed Egyptian journalist armed with over 15 years of expertise as a journalist, researcher, and human rights advocate. After settling in Canada, he joined PEN Canada’s Writers in Exile group, earning certification as a Human Rights Defender with Front Line Defenders, while also establishing the nonprofit organisation REDWORD.
In his role, Mostafa will collaborate with The Walrus editorial team creating long-form pieces focusing on Egypt and its diaspora. He expressed enthusiasm for this new chapter, stating, “I feel the professional and ethical challenge and responsibility to produce stories and investigative journalism capable of capturing the world’s attention. I hope to rise to the responsibility and be a powerful voice for the voiceless communities in the Canadian media landscape.”
The establishment of the Contributing Writers programme highlights The Walrus’s commitment to broadening its global coverage. It aims to bridge the informational void concerning crises or limited press freedom in certain nations, particularly for diasporic communities.
Jordan MacInnis, JHR’s Domestic Programs Director, conveyed excitement about Mostafa joining the programme to extend the reach of his important work in Canada and beyond.
Mostafa Al-A’sar has been announced as the second Contributing Writer in a programme by The Walrus and Journalists for Human Rights (JHR). With over fifteen years of experience as a journalist and human rights defender, he will produce long-form journalism about Egypt and its diaspora. His work aims to amplify the voices of marginalized communities in the Canadian media landscape, with support from The Walrus’s editorial team.
In summary, Mostafa Al-A’sar’s appointment as a Contributing Writer marks a significant step in amplifying underrepresented voices from Egypt and enhancing The Walrus’s international narrative. His extensive experience as a journalist and human rights advocate will enrich the media landscape in Canada, while the Contributing Writers programme serves as a vital link for diverse stories to be told and heard.
Original Source: thewalrus.ca
