Meet Trailblazer Loureen Ayyoub

Today we’d like to introduce you to Loureen Ayyoub.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My journey as a reporter started as a child. I was always very inquisitive, overwhelming both my family and teachers with countless questions. But this curiosity developed into a purpose and passion when I visited my parents’ native country, Jordan. There as a young teen, I began to realize the great privilege I have as a United States citizen to be able to express myself freely. I began to understand the power of the first amendment, and I told myself I would never take this gift for granted. Fast forward years later, after getting my MA in International Relations and working on humanitarian initiatives, I began to return to my interest in telling people’s stories from a unique lens; a lens which celebrates and empowers vulnerable communities that are often misunderstood and underrepresented.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road has definitely been far from smooth. I would compare it to a safari ride, lots of shakes and bumps in the road, but ultimately an adventure that has been worthwhile. Being both a first-generation American and college graduate, I really had to go out and search long and hard for answers. Things that might be familiar to the average student were often a mystery to me. While my family was graciously supportive in trying to understand my crazy ideas, I still had to push myself out of my “safety zone” and take unconventional risks.

Even though most of my work has been in the general “communications” realm, I still had to make some difficult decisions and career transitions. I sacrificed “job security” in order to be true to my path and purpose. I took many jobs that would have been considered by society as far “below my pay grade” – humbled myself many times because nothing was more valuable than learning certain skills that would contribute to what I am truly passionate about. [And by the way, that process never stops! We are ever evolving, and that is the beauty of life.] Ultimately my path as a journalist has been extremely non-linear, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Advice I would give in this area is: trust your instincts. No one knows you better than you do. Seek counsel from those you respect. But ultimately, check in with yourself and confirm if you are at peace with those decisions.

I have often been told that I am “too ambitious” or need to “settle down and focus on traditional goals” so I’m well aware that the pressure, especially for women, in this industry, can certainly be intense! My advice for young women starting out, whether it is in media or whatever the given career path may be, is to always ask yourself why? Why am I pursuing this? What do I want to contribute to this space? Why does this line of work speak to me? Is there a higher purpose? Be honest with yourself and those answers should lead you to make healthy decisions, one baby step at a time.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I have the honor of working as a Multimedia Journalist for Spectrum News 1. The network launched November 16 and delivers 24/7 local news and information including news reporting and stories focused on the issues and community concerns shaping Southern California.

As an “MMJ,” I pitch, shoot, edit, and report on local stories that are relevant to the community. My areas of focus are Civic Issues and Art & Culture in Los Angeles. I love being able to explore and report on the diverse stories that impact the neighborhoods and people in my community. I speak English, Arabic, and Spanish, so being able to immerse myself in various intercultural environments is a great joy for me.

I would say what makes Spectrum News 1 different is its commitment to telling stories that are in-depth, positive, informative, and relevant. We provide the news and information that enables viewers to more fully engage in the issues impacting their neighborhoods.

So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
I believe fresh opportunities are indeed available for both men and women, but some are more accessible than others. For women, we have come a long way, with our numbers increasing in STEM-related and executive positions. Nonetheless, this is an ever-evolving process. I don’t think there are particular positions that a woman is “well-positioned” for, I believe no matter the career goal, there will be a unique set of obstacles, some more than others, but with the right will and determination, growth is always possible.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/la-west/on-air/2018/11/14/loureen-ayyoub-multimedia-journalist
• Email: loureen.ayyoub@charter.com
• Instagram: @LA_Loureen
• Twitter: @LA_Loureen

Image Credit:
loureen ayyoub

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