APL Media was pleased to welcome Kira Richards to the team as part of the Travel Media Awards Step Up scheme in July 2024! This fantastic initiative promotes diversity and inclusion in travel media. During her month-long internship, Kira worked with National Geographic Traveller (UK) and other publications, gaining invaluable experience in research, writing, editing and digital media. 

Reflecting on her time with us, Kira said:  

“I’ve had an amazing four weeks at APL! While the time has gone quickly, this experience has allowed me to work across the print and digital teams, as well as gain a better understanding of how magazine publishing works. My main responsibilities included researching for National Geographic Traveller (UK), writing topical news stories for the front of the magazine and helping prepare for the annual Food Festival. Participating in this was a highlight; my role on Sunday was to oversee the main stage, where the chefs including Nisha Katona, Ravneet Gill and Theo Randall conducted their live demonstrations. The event had an amazing atmosphere and a variety of cuisine which I managed to try some of. It was also fantastic to attend networking events with leading travel media professionals and continue to cultivate relationships across the industry. 

Back in the office, I had exciting workshops with National Geographic Traveller (UK) and Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK) commissioning editors about how stories are selected and prepared for publication. These were very useful and enabled me to put forward more accurate ideas and write streamlined pitches. It was great to contribute to editing pieces and provide my suggestions on what could be improved! In the future, I’d like to be an editor, so this aspect of the internship created a strong sense of what the role entails. I was also keen to learn about the digital products that APL produces, so sitting in on meetings discussing the best-performing articles and what needs improvement was insightful.  

Another highlight of my experience was having the opportunity to write a few pieces for National Geographic Traveller (UK). As a journalist and frequent reader of the magazine, I found the opportunity to contribute my ideas exciting — and slightly nerve-wracking! Fortunately, the team were consistently receptive, providing detailed feedback on all my work. Seeing the pages in print was a big achievement! 

Overall, Step Up has equipped me with the skills to create a career in travel media. I’ve been creatively challenged but also supported, guided and inspired. It’s encouraged me to harness my voice, background and experiences in my work. I hope that the scheme can continue to help early career travel media professionals flourish, and I’m thrilled at the prospect of working with APL in the future.” 

APL Media thoroughly enjoyed having Kira as part of the team and wishes her all the best as she continues her journey with FINN Partners. 

To learn more about Kira’s journey at APL Media, click here

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