In a statement of intent, seasoned journalist and media professional, Thomas Josephus Dixon, has officially declared his candidacy for the position of Chairman of the GUILD of Newspaper Editors (GoNE). Expressing his commitment to the media fraternity, Thomas Josephus Dixon emphasized his desire to serve rather than lead, pledging to revitalize and strengthen the Guild.
“It is an honor, punctuated with a deep sense of humility, that I solicit the support of all members of the GUILD of Newspaper Editors (GoNE) to serve as your Chairman,” he stated. “I deliberately use the word ‘SERVE’ rather than ‘LEAD’ because I believe it is always an opportunity to serve my colleagues in a professional entity. I am not embarking on this journey for self-serving purposes but to awaken the sleeping giant in the GUILD of NEWSPAPER EDITORS.”
Thomas Josephus Dixon is a prominent figure within Sierra Leone’s journalism sector, having risen through the ranks to become the Managing Editor of New Age Newspaper. His vast experience spans multiple editorial roles, including serving as Student Editor of Aureol Torch Newspaper, Consultant Editor of News Watch Newspaper, Editor of Salone Times and Managing Editor of New Age Newspaper. Additionally, he is a lecturer at the Journalism and Media Studies Department of the Faculty of Communication, Media and Information Studies at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone.
His previous involvement with the Guild includes serving as Acting Secretary-General, where he played a key role in organizing the first-ever successful Guild Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Tokeh. Despite stepping aside to allow others to contribute, he remains committed to the Guild’s progress.
Thomas Josephus Dixon’s candidacy is anchored on what he terms the GUILD Manifesto, an acronym that outlines his strategic vision for the Guild:
- G – GREATNESS: He vows to make the Guild a formidable force within Sierra Leone’s media ecosystem, partnering with international journalism organizations to enhance its influence and credibility.
- U – UNITY: Acknowledging the diverse perspectives among editors, he aims to foster unity, ensuring that differences strengthen rather than divide the Guild.
- I – INCLUSIVITY: Committed to gender sensitivity, he pledges to encourage greater participation of women and disabled professionals in journalism, making the industry more inclusive.
- L – LEADERSHIP: Dixon promises transparent, accountable and competent leadership that listens to critical views and respects all voices within the Guild.
- D – DEVELOPMENT: Recognizing the challenges posed by new media, artificial intelligence and the rising costs of newspaper operations, he advocates for the empowerment of editors through digital transformation, modern management techniques and capacity-building initiatives both locally and internationally.
Thomas Josephus Dixon called on fellow editors to support his vision of a reinvigorated Guild that embraces greatness, unity, inclusivity, responsible leadership and sustainable development.
“Colleagues, we have the responsibility to make the GUILD of NEWSPAPER EDITORS (GoNE) a great institution that serves its purpose. By considering this request, we will bring out the GREATNESS in the Guild, promote UNITY, enhance INCLUSIVITY, ensure responsible LEADERSHIP and unleash DEVELOPMENT,” he urged.
As the election approaches, members of the Guild will have the opportunity to choose a leader who aims to reshape the future of journalism in Sierra Leone and elevate the role of editors in nation-building.
Thomas Josephus Dixon’s declaration has already generated discussions among media professionals, with many keenly observing how his vision aligns with the Guild’s broader objectives. As the campaign unfolds, stakeholders within the journalism sector will be looking to see how his manifesto translates into actionable strategies for the growth of the Guild and the industry at large.
