In the latest ‘10 minutes with’ interview, the Daily Mirror’s Danya Bazaraa tells us about trusting the process, what inspired her to get into journalism and her heartwarming career highlight.
How did you get into journalism?
I’ve wanted to be a journalist since doing work experience at the Brighouse Echo at the age of 16. I remember following a local reporter around all week and thinking it was the most exciting and varied job I could possibly do. Six years later, in 2012, I moved from Yorkshire to London where I did my NCTJ diploma in journalism. My first journalism job was as a local reporter in Ealing, followed by a real-life features writer position back at PA, before I ended up at the Daily Mirror where I’m now a senior news reporter.
Why does journalism matter?
It matters because it gives people a voice, it informs people what is happening all around the world, it teaches us about different people’s lives and it opens our eyes to important issues.
Best scoop (yours or someone else’s)?
Daily Mirror journalists Pippa Crerar and Jeremy Armstrong’s exclusive on Dominic Cummings breaking the Covid lockdown was a big story that was talked about and followed by many.
What are you working on right now?
For the last year, my days have mainly been focused on reporting the latest coronavirus news, rules and updates.
Career highlight so far?
I wrote a feature once on a baby girl who desperately needed heart surgery to save her life but her parents couldn’t afford the treatment. Within 24 hours of the story being published with a fundraising link, thousands had been donated and the baby was soon able to have her life-saving operation. She’s now a healthy young girl who is growing well, and her parents continue to wish me a happy new year each year. It’s truly lovely when you can use journalism to help people.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Everything happens for a reason. I’ve had moments where I’ve been disappointed after not getting a job for example, but a more suitable one has always come along and I’ve been thankful for the way it’s all worked out. I’ve learned you have to trust the process.
Who or what inspires you most?
My family and friends inspire me every day – I tend to look up to role models who are in my life rather than celebs.
Who would be your fantasy dinner party guests and why?
Michelle Obama because after reading her autobiography ‘Becoming’ I realised just how impressive she is.
How do you switch off from work?
Pre-pandemic I used to see friends a lot, go out for dinners and generally love being around people. During the pandemic when those things haven’t been possible, I switch off by going on a nice walk or burying my head in a book.
Gym or Netflix?
I’d love to say gym but I’d be lying…
If I wasn’t a journalist, I would be…
I’d be an artist and spend all day painting. I’d also love to do a Master’s degree in poetry writing one day.
