UKN: What does it mean to you to receive the Journalists of Courage Impact Award?
KS: This is the first award I have received in my 30 years of working as a journalist, after stints at The News, Dawn, Express Tribune and Aaj TV in addition to teaching at the Centre for Excellence in Journalism (CEJ) and Karachi University, and that is what makes the award especially meaningful for me. It is significant as it recognises my overall contribution to journalism rather than a single story. The East-West Centre, established by the University of Hawaii, aims to bridge the gap between the East and the West, and since 2006, they have observed my contributions to journalism. This award is a recognition of my long-term dedication and impact in the field.

UKN: What do you believe made your work stand out to the award committee?
KS: I believe my focus on raising issues related to censorship and violence against journalists, as well as discussing the state of the media in Pakistan, has been pivotal. I have consistently addressed these topics through my writing and at conferences. My approach involves knowing when to raise my voice and when to remain quiet, all the while aiming to support the community positively. All these elements, from raising important issues to consistent reporting and community support, have contributed to my recognition in the field.

UKN: Are you the first Pakistani to be given this award?
KS: These awards began in 2014 and are given every two years. I am the second Pakistani to be honoured. The first is Umar Cheema, an investigative journalist for The News International.

UKN: Can you elaborate on what ‘courage’ means in relation to this award? KS: In this context, courage doesn’t only mean undertaking daring investigative journalism projects. It also involves enduring challenges and continuing to work despite the odds. At the Tribune and Aaj, I faced significant pressure yet remained consistent in my reporting, which I believe exemplifies true courage.

UKN: How would you classify the area of your journalism specialty? KS: When I began my career, I aspired to be a political reporter. At The News, I started business reporting. When I joined the Asia Times, my reporting became more political but also economic. At Dawn, my editorials were primarily focused on business in addition to political issues. Thus, I started as a business reporter and then moved on to political and socio-economic reporting.

UKN: What inspired you to teach journalism?
KS: As an alumnus of Karachi University’s Mass Communication Department, I realised during my student days that our education didn’t adequately prepare us for the newsroom. This experience motivated me to bridge the gap between industry and academia by teaching. Now, I strive to push my students and help them secure jobs and gain exposure. I want them to engage in practical reporting assignments rather than theoretical ones.

UKN: How does receiving this award influence your future work?
KS: Unfortunately, the recognition I receive for my work abroad hasn’t been mirrored by the senior journalist community in Pakistan. However, this award has motivated me to speak out more about important issues, such as the relevance of mainstream media. We are witnessing a decline in its relevance as audiences increasingly shift to digital media. These are significant challenges facing our profession, and few people are stepping forward to address them. This award encourages me to discuss this issue more openly.

UKN: Could you share a specific, noteworthy article you worked on and the impact it made?
KS: When I started as a business reporter, I wrote an exposé on tax evasion in cigarette production in Mardan and KPK. Being new to the field, I uncovered some significant truths, and my work was widely appreciated. However, this led a person from Mardan to threaten me. I sought help from senior journalists, who intervened and ensured my safety. This incident was a wake-up call, highlighting that while we have the power to report important stories, we must prioritise our safety. It’s crucial to take adequate precautions and consider the consequences before pursuing a story. Another lesson I learned, particularly at the Tribune, is that reactions to stories often come through personal threats rather than legal channels. The Tribune office was even attacked. As an editor, you bear the responsibility for your staff’s safety, making it a delicate balancing act. It’s not just about reporting; it’s about leading a news organisation and ensuring the protection of your team.

UKN: Is there a difference between Pakistani journalism and international journalism?
KS: In Pakistan, we have a rich history of senior journalists who have tirelessly advocated for democracy since the country’s inception. When we participate in international forums, we are often honoured and respected for our dedication. However, it’s important to acknowledge that Pakistan is a perilous environment for journalists. Sadly, the number of journalists killed and the lack of adequate response from the state are shameful. This has made it easier for journalists to be attacked, kidnapped, threatened, and harassed. Despite these challenges, Pakistani journalists are to be respected for their courage in facing these adversities, often challenging the status quo. What we can learn from international media are best practices and ethical standards. Our legal framework is sometimes inadequate, allowing journalists to sensationalise stories without consequences. To safeguard against these risks, credibility and relevance are paramount. Journalists must uphold these principles to protect themselves and maintain their integrity amidst the complexities of their profession.

UKN: Who have been your biggest influences in journalism, particularly in the context of courageous reporting?
KS: My mentor, Muhammad Ziauddin, who held a senior position at Dawn, taught me invaluable lessons. The most important thing is that a journalist should always be humble. Humility is crucial, though sadly rare, in our profession. Often, after just one or two bylines, journalists can become overly self-important. He also emphasised the importance of honesty and taught me that journalism should not be pursued for financial gain but for the joy of seeing your work acknowledged. He often said he wanted a salary that wasn’t too high so that if he had to leave a job, he wouldn’t regret it due to the money. It is important to keep a low profile and remember that you are not part of the story; you are just a reporter.