For Lillie-Rose Lenga-Kroma, one of this year’s five Travel Media Awards Step Up interns, there has been a lot to learn about digital travel journalism. Lillie-Rose — who was mentored across the four-week stint by consultant editor for travel, Alice Murphy — supported a variety of projects across Metro’s platforms, such as:

• Collaborating with the social and video team to script, produce and record voiceovers for TikTok videos.
• Writing topical articles for the Metro website — learning about SEO, using a content management system and conducting research.
• Gaining insight into newsletter production, including interpreting audience data.

“I’ve come away with more skills and insight into the world of travel journalism than I could ever imagine,” says Lillie-Rose. “I felt so welcomed and encouraged by everyone. I was amazed at how well Metro celebrates their journalists’ individual voices and specialties and encourages collaboration. I couldn’t be more grateful!”

One of her biggest highlights from her TMA Step Up placement was an investigative research trip to Canterbury for a digital feature. Whilst on location, Lillie-Rose explored the city, interviewed locals and requested comments from large organisations in the travel and business sectors.

Upon completion of their placements, the TMA Step Up interns will also receive six months of mentoring from an experienced industry professional, as well as a coveted ticket to the Travel Media Awards at the Pan Pacific London hotel on 13 October. Follow the TMA Step Up interns’ journeys on Instagram and LinkedIn.