GOLD Star Daily's marketing and editorial staff recently completed a two-day innovative workshop after being selected as a recipient of the Amplify Asia program, an initiative of the Prague-based Media Development Investment Fund.
On Monday, September 15, all GSD staff gathered at the Luxe Hotel with Amplify Asia coaches to discuss new strategies for adapting to the digital landscape.
Amplify Asia is an innovative coaching program for independent media working to build their business capacity and financial sustainability. It provides support to independent media based in or serving selected countries in Southeast and South Asia.
The workshop was made possible through the efforts of GSD’s CEO, Gladys Chu, the daughter of the newspaper’s founder, Ernesto Chu.
During the session, Gladys Chu shared her father’s vision of creating a publication that highlights the best of Mindanao.
“We wanted to show Mindanao beyond the conflict,” Chu said.
Celebrating its 36th year, GSD aims to be the most credible newspaper in Mindanao.
Ai Lian Lim, Amplify Asia Coach, pointed out that the loyalty of its staff is a key strength.
Flordelis Paler, a long-time employee, started as an enoder in 1992 and has seen the newspaper transform over the years.
“I started in 1992 as an encoder, and I am still here,” Paler said, reflecting the strong staff loyalty.
Mayuri Mei Lin, Amplify Asia’s senior program officer for Asia, explained how the organization helps media entities achieve financial sustainability.
She noted that they have assisted other outlets, including Rappler, Indonesia’s Bandung Bergerak.Id, HIMAL, and the Pakistan Press International.
