I like this features gig, and am learning a lot

This is my second week in features and I am pleased to say things are getting easier, I’m now used to the flow of the department and happy with the attention I’m getting.

My colleagues are encouraging me to put in the time and develop my ideas, especially my mentor Mel, who has been helping me with my story structure.

I also have to point out how friendly everyone is — I like how curious they are about me and my goals. Seems they are aware of my interest in football, a couple of my colleagues have even talked with me about it.

This past week I learnt how to interview someone and how to structure a feature. I also found out that the interviews can be more personal and it’s better if it is more conversational.

At the start of the week I had to pitch 10 stories to Mel and during that process we talked through my ideas. She helped me to categorise each topic and target it toward a certain section, she was impressed with my ideas which gave me a positive feeling that I can do this.

I am beginning to understand how the features section works, and I know things will get easier once I get the hang of it.

One story I’m working on is about an Emirati singer who has a lot of talent, I met her for an interview and found out she is very down-to-earth which is great. She inspires me as an Emirati to push myself harder to reach my full potential.

Also speaking of interviews, Mel and I went to meet Khalid Al Balushi, the manager of the Capital Gate Tourism and Adventure company. I shadowed Mel to learn from her the process, I focused on how she conveyed her questions to Khalid, and I learnt a lot and highly appreciate the time I have spent with her.

Who knows what this week will bring, but I am looking forward to learning more about features journalism.