Anita Li

Media consultant and journalism instructor, The Other Wave

Journalism, Media, Digital media, Canadian media, Journalism innovation, Justice Equity Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI), Innovation, Ethics, Community, Community-driven journalism, Media business models, Journalism entrepreneurship, Audience engagement, Misinformation and disinformation, Media and democracy

Media

Emerging Business Models for News

In today’s shifting journalism landscape, where traditional revenue streams falter amidst fragmented digital platforms and declining ad revenues, news outlets – particularly new and entrepreneurial ones – are seeking innovative models that prioritise access to news and informed communities.

Our panel featured industry upstarts who are creatively rethinking how to deliver value to audiences and build healthy, diversified mission-driven businesses, and explored how these trailblazers are building active communities and reshaping the future of news through novel revenue models.

The virtual discussion took place on February 27 and featured Anita Li, founder and editor in chief of The Green Line, Graham Watson-Ringo, Vice President of Success and Growth at News Revenue Hub, which plays a crucial role in funding quality journalism, and Dru Oja Jay, Publisher of The Breach. Brett Chang, founder and CEO of The Peak moderated.

The Promise and Perils of Digital

On May 20, 2023, the Provocation Ideas Festival organized a panel about how digital technology is shaping public engagement, journalism and our democracy. Executive Director Sabreena Delhon moderated the discussion which featured Anita Li (The Green Line), Jeffrey Dvorkin (Massey College) and Jesse Brown (Canadaland). A recording of the conversation was produced by Canadaland.

Anita Li: Ignite Talk Newsgeist 2023

At Google's Newgeist 2023 unconference for newsroom leaders across North America, Anita Li shares how community-driven journalism is doing what it ought to: encouraging civic engagement.

Measuring impact to foster transformation in funding - 2023 Lenfest News Philanthropy Summit

From societal effects to activities and outputs related to grant-supported projects, impact can take many forms. Newsrooms and journalism support organizations must know how to define and assess their impact in order to demonstrate the scope of their work to stakeholders. In this session, Solutions Journalism Network and Impact Architects bring together newsrooms to share some of their behind-the-scenes efforts to streamline impact tracking as well as share lessons learned from collaborations with funders to demonstrate how research and evaluation can contribute to transformation in journalism funding. Featuring panellists Lindsay Green-Barber of Impact Architects , Anita Li of The Green Line, Mariko Chang of Honolulu Civil Beat and Alec Saelens of Solutions Journalism Network.

The Walrus Talks at Home: News & Platforms - Innovation, impact, and access in a digital world

The Walrus Talks at Home: News & Platforms discussed innovation, impact, and access in a digital world. The event took place September 23, 2021, and it featured: Emilee Gilpin (Managing Editor, IndigiNews); Brian Myles (Editor, Le Devoir); Anita Li (Journalism Instructor, Media Consultant, and Publisher and Founder of The Green Line); Emma Gilchrist (Co-Founder, Editor-in-Chief, and Executive Director, The Narwhal); and was moderated by Jessica Johnson (Editor-in-Chief, The Walrus).

Anita Li: Why Journalism Should be a Public Service

Anita Li is a Journalism Instructor, Media Consultant, and Publisher and Founder of The Green Line. She spoke at The Walrus Talks at Home: News & Platforms on September 23, 2021. Watch her full talk here.

Asian Canadians share their experiences with racism

After the Atlanta shootings, there’s been a growing movement for East Asians to speak up and stop racism in their communities. A conversation on CBC's The National with Anita Li, the Editor in Chief of The Other Wave, and Edmonton public school trustee Nathan Ip.

A Millennial Journalist's Perspective on the Future of Journalism

Anita Li featured in Atkinson Foundation video: We invited millennial journalist Angelyn Francis to create this video "op-ed" to add her voice to the public conversation on the future of journalism -- and to encourage others to do the same. Follow #futureofjournalists to listen in.

Digital News Disruption

Digital news was supposed to save the struggling newspaper industry. But companies like BuzzFeed and Vice, who were considered industry leaders, are now laying off thousands of staff. Will Canada's media bailout help or hinder the Canadian news landscape? To help assess that and other challenges facing the future of digital journalism, The Agenda welcomes: Canadaland’s Jesse Brown, Postmedia CEO Andrew MacLeod, Anita Li of The Discourse along with professor Colette Brin, a visiting scholar at the Ryerson School of Journalism.

Women in Journalism Panel at Carleton University

Read for more: https://carleton.ca/sjc/journalism/about/women-in-journalism/

Why gender and colonialism matter in journalism startups

This panel will examine how technology is privileged in discussions about journalism startups despite evidence that structural power relations such as gender, race and colonialism matter as much or more in understanding the impact and future possibilities of the “crisis” in journalism. This panel tries to make sense of how unexamined power relations and the exclusions of peoples, relations, “neglected knowledge,” and “alternative conceptualizations” of the future have limited the possibilities for what journalism startups can and should do in the early 21st century (Felt 2017, 253). Specifically, we contend that the industry’s construction of innovation and technology as the main saviors of journalism have systematically excluded ways of knowing that destabilize hegemonic power relations and present questions for professional identities and well-worn epistemologies in the field of journalism. Alongside these exclusions, digital technologies have been reified to the extent that their role as ‘modernizing’ forces of journalism are relatively unquestioned despite scholarship from feminist, postcolonial and science and technology studies that suggests the need for a much more critical approach to the postcolonial logic legitimated by the “new technologic … man in the street” (Spivak, 1999). As such, this panel will be oriented around the question: “Who participates in imagining and shaping the future” of journalism through conversations with founders and researchers of journalism startups (Felt 2017, 253). Con: Candis Callison (University of British Columbia), Anita Li (director of communities Discourse Media), Minelle Mahtani (University of Toronto), Nikki Usher (George Washington University), Mary Lynn Young (University of British Columbia).

Read for more: https://www.journalismfestival.com/programme/2018/why-gender-and-colonialism-matter-in-journalism-startups

The Power of Digital Journalism | Anita Li | TEDxDistilleryDistrictWomen

Anita Li navigates the evolving landscape of digital journalism by brainstorming creative ways to cover news online.

Anita's TEDx talk has been taught in universities around the world, reshared by reputable industry publications like Editor & Publisher, and written about in dozens of blogs and social media posts. It was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx

Anita Li – Young Canadian digital journalist

Anita Li is a Canadian journalist who has worked on both sides of the divide between traditional and digital news. After brief stints at The Globe and Mail and the Toronto Star, she headed to Fusion Media in New York City. In this video, she shares her optimistic view of the future of journalism in an age of disruption.

This community-driven news outlet is aiming to redefine Toronto

Breakfast Television, April 14, 2023Television

URL: https://www.breakfasttelevision.ca/videos/this-community-driven-news-outlet-is-aiming-to-redefine-toronto/

Tammie Sutherland is joined by Anita Li, founder and editor and chief of The Green Line, who talks about how the hyperlocal, independent news outlet is highlighting underserved communities in Toronto.

Journalism Entrepreneurship: How to Start Your Own Media Company

Youth Time Inter­na­tional Move­ment, August 16, 2022Television

URL: https://youtu.be/OT7U0rhor1Q

Anita Li is a Canadian journalist, media entrepreneur, journalism consultant, educator, and entrepreneur specializing in audience engagement, media business models, innovation, DEI, and ethics. In our latest webinar, Anita shares the reality of being a media entrepreneur, having launched her own media outlet The Green Line, and gives advice for all young journalists wishing to do the same.

Running for The Exits: Why Are So Many Leaving the Business?

RTDNA Canada 2022 National Conference & Awards Gala, June 11, 2022Television

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1tQgYgLSYg

In some parts of the country “The Great Resignation” has hit newsrooms hard. Strategies for attracting and keeping journalists on the beat, featuring moderator Beatrice Politi and panellists Anita Li, Media Consultant and Founder of The Green Line and Marissa Nelson, VP Consulting of Local Media for Magid.

[FEATURED] Building Better Digital News for Blind and Other Disabled Users

ONA Insights, October 15, 2021Television

URL: https://insights.journalists.org/sessions/featured-session-2/

Kicking off a day of conversations about accessibility in the digital space, Insights Day 2 will open with a look at the priorities and inequities that prevent meaningful textual descriptions of images and data representations, and the steps we can and must take to open our work to everyone. Chancey Fleet talks to Anita Li about the inequities that make news inaccessible to blind and disabled audiences.

COVID-19: Should news paywalls block access to critical health info?

Global News, October 8, 2021Television

URL: https://globalnews.ca/video/8253306/covid-19-should-news-paywalls-block-access-to-critical-health-info

Some argue free access to the latest news is a public right. Others say journalism needs your cash to survive. Noor Ibrahim explores the paywall ‘dilemma.’ Featuring an interview with Anita Li.

Investigative journalism using community engagement

2021 Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) Conference, June 15, 2021Television

URL: https://ire21.pathable.co/meetings/virtual/ziuXAf8nhf6yfDo4r

Tactics and strategies for how journalists can include underrepresented communities in the investigative-reporting process in ways that are empowering and collaborative — not exploitative and exclusionary — and that will produce stronger stories. We'll also explore broader topics like how to do engagement on a small budget or if you're a small newsroom, as well as getting buy-in for engagement projects.

Journalism's Myth of Objectivity: Accountability, Embodiment and Neutrality

Blackwood Gallery, October 28, 2020Television

URL: https://www.blackwoodgallery.ca/program/situated-journalism-accountability-embodiment-and-neutrality

In this panel, critical journalists from across Indigenous, American and Canadian media reflect on the construction of objectivity that underpins their profession and informs journalistic codes of ethics. Working from within and without media outlets that challenge the perceived neutrality of reporting, panelists discuss how they foster situated, embodied, and accountable journalism. Featuring Anita Li of The Other Wave, Rick Harp of MEDIA INDIGENA, Carol Linnitt of The Narwhal, Lewis Raven Wallace of Press On and Karyn Pugliese of Ryerson University.

Asian-Canadian Representation in the Media

Toronto Public Library, May 20, 2021Television

URL: https://www.crowdcast.io/e/tplmedia2

This panel focuses on all the different ways Asian-Canadian communities are covered in the media at large, including in the context of recent anti-Asian sentiment, and how that's evolving. Panellists Anita Li of The Other Wave, Kenny Yum of CBC News, Aparita Bhandari of Khabardaar Podcast and Justine Abigail Yu of Living Hyphen also explore the nuances of how Asian-Canadian media-makers across generations and cultures approach coverage of their communities, using a diverse array of platforms and formats.

Virtual Public Diplomacy Monitoring Forum: How the US Election Is Explained to the World

USC Center on Communication Leadership and Policy, December 15, 2020Television

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l3GiCmav-4

Global conversation on how the US election is being explained to the world. This event began with the opening remarks by Hon. Ashok Mirpuri, Singapore's Ambassador to the United States of America, followed by panelists from around the world (in alphabetical order): Jeff Ballou, News Editor for the Americas at Al Jazeera Media Network; Jacqueline Charles, Caribbean/Haiti Correspondent for The Miami Herald; Vasily Gatov, Russian media researcher and author; Anton Harber, co-founder of South Africa's anti-apartheid Weekly Mail newspaper and journalism professor at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg; Insun Kang, Deputy Managing Editor of The Chosun Ilbo and former Washington bureau chief of Chosun Media; and Anita Li, journalism instructor at Ryerson University, the City University of New York and Centennial College. This meeting was presented by the USC Annenberg Center on Communication Leadership and Policy, Geoffrey Cowan, Director and Adam Powell III, Director of Washington Programs.

Press Club: Objectivity in Canadian media, in the wake of Black Lives Matter

Massey College, November 10, 2020Television

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kziuVbFD-gY

The recent BLM movement has intensified the debate in Canada and elsewhere around how the media can better reflect the diversity of the communities it purports to serve. This question necessarily asks not just how news coverage is shaped, but also considers who is doing the shaping. Intertwined with this is an even more challenging but unavoidable question that takes aim at a core tenet of journalism: objectivity.

Are journalists being partisan if they say Black Lives Matter? Is it preferable or not for newsrooms to send an Indigenous journalist to cover a protest for Indigenous rights? Can reporters legitimately refuse to cover people who have unsavory views? Under what circumstances can journalists shed the need to adhere to “both sides-ism?” Is it possible to be both activist and professional, or are those roles incompatible?

Featuring panellists Anita Li, Rachel Giese, Adrian Harewood, Jeffrey Dvorkin and Duncan McCue.

Canada’s journalism industry is lacking diversity. Here’s what needs to be done to change that.

CTV's Your Morning, July 17, 2020Television

URL: https://www.theloop.ca/watch/news/canada/canada-s-journalism-industry-is-lacking-diversity-here-s-what-needs-to-be-done-to-change-that/6172096756001/1672379636610048693%20/your-morning/

Anita Li from the Canadian Journalists of Colour explains why journalism is so behind the times, and what more can be done.

How to collaborate with underrepresented communities in your journalism

2020 Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) Conference, September 24, 2020Television

URL: https://ire20.pathable.co/meetings/virtual/Rb7nCcZiaLXiJNY3H

In this session, panellists share tactics and strategies for how journalists can include underrepresented communities in the investigative-reporting process in ways that are empowering and collaborative — not exploitative and exclusionary — and that will produce stronger stories. Moderated by Anita Li.

How to Engage with Reddit in the Time of COVID-19

ONA Insights, June 25, 2020Television

URL: https://insights.journalists.org/sessions/how-to-engage-with-reddit-in-the-time-of-covid/

In a time of urgent and overlapping healthcare, policing and employment crises, Reddit’s “endless content” is both an unparalleled story-sourcing resource and an infamous informational haystack. Join this conversation with Reddit’s Gabriel Sands and moderated by Anita Li to gain insights into unearthing new voices to broaden your coverage, improve your journalism and meet your audience where they are.

Documentary trailer: 'History of Journalism: From Reporter to Fake News'

Centre national du cinéma et de l'image animée (CNC) and French journalist Bruno Masi, April 27, 2020Television

URL: https://www.facebook.com/neeeda/videos/10107574457832862/

Directed by Paris-based journalist and writer Bruno Masi, the documentary is a compelling look at the evolution of the role of media in society. It also features interviews with journalism experts from around the world, including Anita Li, Alice Antheaume, Renate Schroeder, Alan Rusbridger, Jeff Jarvis, Victor Pickard and more.

Race and the Election Campaign

CBC News, October 19, 2019Television

URL: https://twitter.com/aartipole/status/1185700195918462977

What role has race played in this year's election campaign? Have race issues, and the way they've been handled, swayed your vote?

Trump tells Democratic women of colour to leave U.S. in 'racist' tweets

CBC, July 18, 2019Television

URL: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JMfKtpTwr52IzTTOAOiNJi6qG6O94cLI/view

Anita Li on panel: U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday assailed a group of Democratic congresswomen of colour as foreign-born troublemakers.

Panel discusses news coverage of Jussie Smollett

CBC, February 24, 2019Television

URL: https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/1447447619852

Anita Li of Discourse, Ernest Owens Philadelphia Magazine speak with CBC's Aarti Pole about how the media reported on the Jussie Smollett events as they unfolded

'Going back to the basics': How one local publication is changing its strategy as Meta starts to block news in Canada

CBC Radio's Metro Morning, August 3, 2023Radio/Podcast

URL: https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-39-metro-morning/clip/16002085-going-back-basics-how-one-local-publication-changing

Featuring Anita Li, the founder and editor in chief of The Green Line.

Staying Alive: Understanding News Deserts with Anita Li

J-Source, April 28, 2023Radio/Podcast

URL: https://j-source.ca/staying-alive-understanding-news-deserts/

Newsroom convergence means Canada has seen a rise in news deserts and ghost newsrooms. Media consultant Anita Li explores the consequences, effects and innovative solutions on geographic and cultural communities across the country.

Know (and grow) your audience ft. Anita Li and Rebekah Monson

LION Publishers presents: News Guest hosted by Candice Fortman, August 2, 2022Radio/Podcast

URL: https://www.lionpublishers.com/news-guest-anita-li-rebekah-monson/

One of the hardest parts of running an independent news business is building an audience from scratch, especially if you’re trying to do it on a shoestring budget. In this episode of News Guest, host Candice Fortman of Outlier Media is joined by two guests, Anita Li and Rebekah Monson, who have worked deep in the weeds of audience strategy to talk about how researching and understanding the communities you want to serve can help you grow your audience – faster.

153: They Call Us Turning Red

They Call Us Bruce, March 31, 2022Radio/Podcast

URL: https://theycallusbruce.libsyn.com/153-they-call-us-turning-red

Jeff and Phil welcome Shirley Li (The Atlantic) and Anita Li (The Green Line) to talk about Meilin Lee and Disney/Pixar's animated feature TURNING RED. They discuss the incredible specificity of this Chinese Canadian story, what makes a film "relatable" and why it's so meaningful to let your teen girl characters go "AWOOGA!"

The exploration of how young Canadians approach their work life compared to their old colleagues

Charles Adler Tonight, May 19, 2021Radio/Podcast

URL: https://omny.fm/shows/charles-adler-tonight/the-exploration-of-how-young-canadians-approach-th

Addressing young Canadians and the future of work. Featuring guest Anita Li, author of a new Global News column called 'Outside the 9 to 5.'

New ideas and innovations in journalism

Delivering Journalism - Carleton University's School of Journalism, January 24, 2021Radio/Podcast

URL: https://soundcloud.com/capital-news-online/delivering-journalism-ep-2-new-ideas-innovations-in-journalism

On this week's episode of the Delivering Journalism podcast, we'll continue exploring business models, with a focus on some of the latest ideas and innovations in journalism. Special guest Anita Li, a media consultant and journalism instructor, has lots to say about the future of journalism…and why she thinks now is an exciting time for journalists.

Facebook Fangoria

Canadaland, November 12, 2020Radio/Podcast

URL: https://www.canadaland.com/podcast/285-facebook-fangoria/

Beware of the FANG! And how to cover Chinese infiltration — or anti-Chinese infiltration? Anita Li co-hosts this episode of Canadaland's "Short Cuts."

Creating Value With Memberships

ONA Insights 2018, May 11, 2018Radio/Podcast

URL: https://insights.journalists.org/sessions/memberships/

Memberships offer a unique value proposition: rather than a straight pay-for-content play, they seek to create an online community people pay to join, with the understanding that a membership supports quality content in the process. Three experts, including Anita Li, share best practices — and fresh ideas — in their efforts to grow their membership programs.

'You can't change what you don't acknowledge'

CBC Radio One’s The Early Edition with Stephen Quinn, June 17, 2020Radio/Podcast

URL: https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-91-the-early-edition/clip/15782653-you-cant-change-what-you-dont-acknowledge

Canadian Journalists of Colour co-founder Anita Li, Ubyssey culture editor Danni Olusanya and Aboriginal People's Television Network producer Steve Sxwithul'txw speak with Stephen Quinn about what media organizations need to do to end systemic racism in their coverage.

Is the Canadian media systemically racist?

CBC Radio One's The Weekend Morning Show (Manitoba) with Nadia Kidwai, June 14, 2020Radio/Podcast

URL: https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-367-the-weekend-morning-show-manitoba/clip/15782056-is-the-canadian-media-systemically-racist?onboarding=false

How the murder of George Floyd affected Black journalists here in Canada. Featuring an interview with Anita Li, co-founder of Canadian Journalists of Colour.

Theories on #InThisSkin, Comedic Intolerance and Diversity in Newsrooms

New Theory Radio (News Talk Sauga 960 AM), February 18, 2020Radio/Podcast

URL: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-53-theories-on-inthisskin-comedic-intolerance/id1444682120?i=1000465939820

We close the show with some theories around Diversity in Newsrooms. Anita Li (Canadian Journalists Of Colour) and Nadia Stewart (Canadian Association of Black Journalists) stop by to talk about a white paper both organizations collaborated on pertaining to diversity and exclusion within Canadian media.

Putting Calls for Racial Diversity in Canadian Media into Action

Pull Quotes: The Ryerson Review of Journalism Podcast, February 13, 2020Radio/Podcast

URL: https://rrj.ca/pullquotes-podcast-8/

Fast-forward to 2020 and Canadian journalists of colour are still fighting for racial equality in media dominated by largely white upper management and editorial teams, in stark contrast to a diverse readership. The lack of racial diversity in Canadian newsrooms and media coverage prompted the Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ) and Canadian Journalists of Colour (CJOC) to publish the Canadian Media Diversity: Calls to Action on January 28. Featuring guest interviews with CJOC's Anita Li and CABJ'S Nadia Stewart.

Increasing diversity in Canada's media organizations — a plan of action

Rabble.ca, February 27, 2020Radio/Podcast

URL: https://rabble.ca/podcasts/shows/rabble-radio/2020/02/increasing-diversity-canadas-media-organizations-plan-action

Increasing diversity in the newsrooms of the nation is a topic which has been talked about and strategized around for several decades. But has all that talk resulted in action which has increased the number of people of colour and Black journalists in Canada's news media? Our two guests on rabble radio today say there is still a long way to go. Anita Li of Canadian Journalists of Colour; and Nadia Stewart of the Canadian Association of Black Journalists say our newsrooms aren't there yet.

Canada Is Working Exactly As Intended

Canadaland, March 4, 2020Radio/Podcast

URL: https://www.canadalandshow.com/podcast/252-canada-is-working-exactly-as-intended/

A front-page story tells us that Canada is broken. Is it, or is this exactly how the country was designed to work? And, as a senior editor leaves the CBC, our national broadcaster pivots to audience. Anita Li co-hosts this episode of Canadaland's "Short Cuts."

'Missing voices and missing perspectives': Trudeau blackface scandal renews calls for newsroom diversity

CBC's The Current, September 20, 2019Radio/Podcast

URL: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/thecurrent/the-current-for-september-20-2019-1.5291245/missing-voices-and-missing-perspectives-trudeau-blackface-scandal-renews-calls-for-newsroom-diversity-1.5292338

Many say Canadian newsrooms must tackle race head-on — and employ more diverse reporters. Anita Li appears on a panel.

SiriusXM's "Progress Presents": Millennial Issues

SiriusXM, March 10, 2017Radio/Podcast

URL: https://soundcloud.com/anita-li-916902937/siriusxms-progress-presents-millennial-issues-march-10-2017

One hour of a three-hour-long episode of "Progress Presents," featuring guests Anita Li and Alexandros Orphanides.

work x work ON AIR: Unheard Voices

work x work, February 12, 2017Radio/Podcast

URL: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unheard-voices/id1239617753?i=1000391616428

For this hour, editor Anita Li of The Other Wave and previously of Fusion leads a discussion on the role storytellers of color can play in today’s social and political climate. Featuring HuffPo Black Voices Senior Editor Lilly Workneh, filmmaker and writer Dean Marcial, and the multi-talented creative producer Sahra V. Nguyen, this conversation shines a light on the ways we approach covering underrepresented communities, the sometimes difficult journey to find your calling, and how to help marginalized stories get told. Prior to Fusion, Anita worked as news director at Complex Media, weekend editor at Mashable, on-air reporter at CTV Ottawa, research assistant for The New Yorker's Beijing bureau, and reporter/photographer at The Toronto Star.​

Why Canadian media need to talk more about race

CBC, November 18, 2016Radio/Podcast

URL: https://www.cbc.ca/news/why-canadian-media-need-to-talk-more-about-race-1.3858505

Journalist Anita Li says media in Canada need to talk more about race. Now living in New York City, Li says while the discussion around race isn't perfect in the U.S., she argues there's a lesson to be learned in the frankness with which it is done.

Youth Works: How three RSA Fellows are fighting global inequalities standing in the way of young people

RSA Journal, May 30, 2022Print

URL: https://www.thersa.org/globalassets/_foundation/new-site-blocks-and-images/journal/rsa-journal-issue-2-2022.pdf

This issue’s Global profiles the projects of three young RSA Fellows all focused on improving the quality of life for young people by rectifying inequality of access, of representation and of information. Or, put another way, each seeks to rectify the inequality of hope. Featuring Sharmi Surianarain, FRSA, Chief Impact Officer at the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator; Johanssen Obanda, FRSA, the Executive Director of Jabulani Youths for Transformation (JAY4T) and Anita Li, FRSA, founder of The Green Line, a Toronto-based online news source with a unique core editorial model.

How Journalism School Failed Me

Ryerson Review of Journalism, June 24, 2021Print

URL: https://rrj.ca/how-journalism-school-failed-me/

J-schools are inadequately preparing us for the future of journalism—here’s why. Featuring an interview with Anita Li.

The Green Line: Redefining How Young Torontonians Interact With News

The Eyeopener, August 24, 2021Print

URL: https://theeyeopener.com/2021/08/the-green-line-redefining-how-toronto-youth-interact-with-news/

A new Toronto-based digital publication is aiming to change the way Torontonians are centred in modern news reporting. Through multimedia reporting, The Green Line serves the Toronto community with solutions to issues that impact them the most and encourage them to take action.

When it comes to diversity, newsrooms must show real leadership to build trust

The Globe and Mail, January 28, 2021Print

URL: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-when-it-comes-to-diversity-newsrooms-must-show-real-leadership-to/

Canadian Journalists of Colour (CJOC) co-founder Anita Li and Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ) executive director Nadia Stewart wrote an op-ed to mark the one-year anniversary of their organizations' joint Calls to Action to strengthen newsroom diversity across Canada.

Why Canada’s media industry is in more danger than you think — and what we can do to save it

The Toronto Star, November 9, 2020Print

URL: https://www.thestar.com/business/2020/11/09/why-canadas-media-industry-is-in-more-danger-than-you-think-and-what-we-can-do-to-save-it.html

Includes interview with Anita Li about revenue sustainability in Canadian media.

New Roads

Ryerson Review of Journalism, July 23, 2020Print

URL: https://rrj.ca/new-roads/

Article featuring interview with Anita Li and the work of her organization, Canadian Journalists of Colour (CJOC): "The growing influence of community organizations and individuals who are working hard to boost inclusion in a still all-too-white profession."

Appel à une plus grande diversité dans les médias canadiens

Pieuvre.ca, January 28, 2020Print

URL: http://www.pieuvre.ca/2020/01/28/societe-medias-journalisme-diversite-canada/

Les salles de nouvelles du pays ne représentent pas correctement la diversité canadienne: voilà le constat mis de l’avant mardi par l’Association canadienne des journalistes noirs (CABJ) et le regroupement Canadian Journalists of Colour (CJOC), dans une lettre où ils appellent à agir rapidement pour corriger ce problème de représentation.

A post-election glimmer of hope for cultural pluralism?

Policy Options, October 25, 2019Print

URL: https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/october-2019/a-post-election-glimmer-of-hope-for-cultural-pluralism/

Op-ed: Canadian voters largely resisted destructive populist narratives during the campaign, but will the country do the necessary work to dismantle racism?

Searching for Solutions

Ryerson Review of Journalism, May 29, 2019Print

URL: https://issuu.com/rrjca/docs/rrj-2019-complete_issue

Article featuring interview with Anita Li: "A new way to report on social issues."

Racial and Cultural Diversity in News Media

Media Smarts, January 1, 2022Online

URL: https://mediasmarts.ca/digital-media-literacy/media-issues/diversity-media/racial-cultural-diversity-news-media

Section under Digital Media Literacy, featuring Anita Li: "Objectivity and accuracy are among the most important journalistic values. Consistently, however, Canadian news media has under-represented and stereotyped racialized groups."

‘Nothing about us without us,’ Asian journalists say in light of diversity survey

Humber News, December 15, 2023Online

URL: https://humbernews.ca/2023/12/nothing-about-us-without-us-asian-journalists-say-in-light-of-diversity-survey/

Mentions Anita Li and the ‘How-to Guide for Navigating Canadian Newsrooms as a BIPOC Journalist’ she created with Journalists for Human Rights.

Why a diversified revenue portfolio is the best sustainability insurance for media organizations

Reynolds Journalism Institute, September 26, 2023Online

URL: https://rjionline.org/news/why-a-diversified-revenue-portfolio-is-the-best-sustainability-insurance-for-media-organizations/

Anita Zielina is an RJI Columnist whose column analyzes the changing landscape of media business models and showcases practical approaches to drive sustainability through revenue innovation. This columns includes a profile of Anita Li and The Green Line's revenue diversification strategy.

Two new Visiting Journalists join Journalism at The Creative School

Toronto Metropolitan University's School of Journalism, September 25, 2023Online

URL: https://www.torontomu.ca/journalism/news-events/2023/09/two-new-visiting-journalists-join-journalism-at-the-creative-sch/

Two working journalists are bringing their expertise to students and faculty as they join the School of Journalism as ‘visiting journalists.' Featuring an interview with Toronto Metropolitan University Journalism Innovator-in-Residence Anita Li.

Rethinking Journalism in the Age of News Fatigue

J-Source, September 15, 2023Online

URL: https://j-source.ca/rethinking-journalism-in-the-age-of-news-fatigue/

News avoidance is at an all-time high, and there has been no shortage of negative content. Here’s how journalists and content creators are trying to help audiences fight media burnout. Featuring an interview about The Green Line with Anita Li.

New how-to guide supports young BIPOC journalists navigating industry

Toronto Metropolitan University (School of Journalism), May 8, 2023Online

URL: https://www.torontomu.ca/journalism/news-events/2023/05/new-how-to-guide-supports-young-bipoc-journalists-navigating-industry/

Anita Li, a journalist and former j-school instructor, created the How-to Guide for Navigating Canadian Newsrooms as a BIPOC Journalist, with facilitator and community-builder, Erin Kang, and illustrator, Harmeet Rehal, as well as other consultants.

'We cannot positively impact the world with ideas alone’

Journalism.co.uk, December 7, 2022Online

URL: https://www.journalism.co.uk/news/-we-cannot-positively-impact-the-world-with-ideas-alone-/s2/a989283/

Asian-Canadian journalist Anita Li talks about racism and diversity in the media and how she is trying to be part of the change.

New Mexico Local News Accelerator Expands to Serve 21 Newsrooms

New Mexico Local News Fund, May 9, 2022Online

URL: https://medium.com/new-mexico-local-news-fund/new-mexico-local-news-accelerator-expands-to-serve-21-newsrooms-d3a29bd61d98

Our revamped revenue program will help publishers improve in advertising, memberships, fundraising and audience development. Anita Li will be the coach for audience development.

Do you really know what your audience wants?

Qurio, May 27, 2022Online

URL: https://www.getqurio.com/blog/do-you-really-know-what-your-audience-wants/

Four publications, including The Green Line, showed Dataharvest 2022 how they do it. The title of this blog post was the title of a session Qurio co-founder Tassos Morfis led during this year's Dataharvest European Investigative Journalism Conference.

Journalism instructor launches The Green Line

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)'s School of Journalism newsletter, May 23, 2022Online

URL: https://www.torontomu.ca/journalism/news-events/2022/05/journalism-instructor-launches-the-green-line/

The Green Line, a community-oriented news outlet that dedicates itself to helping young and other underserved communities navigate life in the city, officially launched on April 1, 2022. Features interview with founder Anita Li.

Journalists address snubbed attributions, call for ethical industry-wide collaboration

CJRU, October 20, 2021Online

URL: https://www.cjru.ca/news/journalists-address-snubbed-attributions-call-for-ethical-industry-wide-collaboration/

Featuring an interview with Ryerson (X) University instructor Anita Li.

The New Future of Journalism (It's Not What You Think)

Liisbeth, March 27, 2022Online

URL: https://liisbeth.com/the-new-future-of-journalism/

Meet three indie media mavericks who are challenging the patriarchal definition of journalism in Canada. Featuring a profile of The Green Line founder Anita Li.

New media ventures continue to pop up in Canada — and they’re helping fill gaps

The Canadian Press, March 14, 2022Online

URL: https://www.thestar.com/business/2022/03/14/new-media-ventures-continue-to-pop-up-in-canada-and-theyre-helping-fill-gaps.html

Anita Li is gearing up to launch her own media outlet in just a few weeks. The Green Line is an independent news venture that aims to engage the community through interactive journalism.

On The Record announces partnership with The Green Line

On The Record, March 4, 2022Online

URL: https://ontherecordnews.ca/on-the-record-announces-partnership-with-the-green-line/

Recently created online news publication will tell stories from Toronto’s under-represented communities, promote ‘solutions journalism.’ Featuring interview with The Green Line founder Anita Li.

Why investigative journalism is a goldmine for star-studded TV

CBC News, February 12, 2022Online

URL: https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/inventing-anna-jessica-pressler-journalism-1.6348304

Hollywood is looking to journalists for their next big hit, as a recent slew of TV miniseries have been adapted from investigative magazine articles and deep-dive podcasts. The movies have taken inspiration from reporters for decades — but what's novel about the next phase of this trend? Includes interview with Anita Li.

Almost half of newsrooms entirely white: CAJ survey

The Hill Times, December 6, 2021Online

URL: https://www.hilltimes.com/2021/12/06/almost-half-of-newsrooms-entirely-white-caj-survey/332251

Nearly 80 per cent of outlets reported having no visible minorities or Indigenous journalists in one of the top three leadership roles in their newsroom, according to the Canadian Association of Journalists' newsroom diversity survey. Article featuring interview with Anita Li as expert source.

Transdisciplinary storytelling at RTA Media and Journalism

Ryerson University, August 17, 2021Online

URL: https://www.ryerson.ca/the-creative-school/news-events/news/2021/08/transdisciplinary-storytelling-at-rta-media-and-journalism/

Digital storytelling reaches new heights when video games and virtual reality come into play. Article featuring interviews with Ryerson University's School of Journalism instructor Anita Li and RTA School of Media professor Kris Alexander.

Why self-employment is a great post-COVID-19 career path for Canadians

Global News , June 23, 2021Online

URL: https://globalnews.ca/news/7970588/self-employment-canada-advantages/

'Outside the 9 to 5' column by Anita Li: Self-employment means “independence, freedom and being my own boss” — the reason that one-third of Canada's self-employed workers decide to strike out on their own.

Remote work isn’t a trend. It’s a fundamental shift in Canada’s work culture.

Global News , June 9, 2021Online

URL: https://globalnews.ca/news/7932593/remote-work-fundamental-shift-canada-work-culture/

'Outside the 9 to 5' column by Anita Li: If remote work allows Canadians to protect their mental health, the planet and save money, do we really need to consider arguments against it?

Young Canadians and the future of work: There’s a method to our madness

Global News , May 19, 2021Online

URL: https://globalnews.ca/news/7868465/outside-9-to-5-entitled-millennial/

'Outside the 9 to 5' column by Anita Li: The simplistic binary of Entitled Millennial vs. OK Boomer is on the way out, and there’s so much nuance in the evolution of work that deserves to be unpacked.

Anti-Asian Racism Is More than a Trending Topic

The Walrus, July 6, 2021Online

URL: https://thewalrus.ca/anti-asian-racism-is-more-than-a-trending-topic/

Analysis: When it comes to combating racism, marginalized groups shouldn’t have to compete for attention.

Investigative journalism using community engagement

2021 Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) Conference, June 8, 2021Online

URL: https://ire21.pathable.co/meetings/virtual/ziuXAf8nhf6yfDo4r

This session will share tactics and strategies for how journalists can include underrepresented communities in the investigative-reporting process in ways that are empowering and collaborative — not exploitative and exclusionary — and that will produce stronger stories. We'll also explore broader topics like how to do engagement on a small budget or if you're a small newsroom, as well as getting buy-in for engagement projects. Featuring The Other Wave's Anita Li, Southern California Public Radio's Ashley Alvarado, The City's Terry Parris Jr. and freelance investigative journalist Anjali Tsui.

Digital Startups Are Breathing Life Into Canadian Journalism

Canadaland, May 12, 2021Online

URL: https://www.canadaland.com/digital-start-ups-saving-journalism/

Analysis featuring interview with Anita Li as expert source.

U.S. election from the perspective of non-American journalists

Journal-isms, November 27, 2020Online

URL: http://www.journal-isms.com/2020/11/myopic-dopey-ill-informed-coverage/

At "U.S. election from the perspective of non-American journalists," the Journal-isms Roundtable on Nov. 15, 2020, panellists Luis Alonso Lugo, who covers Washington for univision.com; Jacqueline Charles, Caribbean correspondent for The Miami Herald; Anita Li, co-founder of Canadian Journalists of Colour; and Macollvie J. Neel, managing editor of Haitian Times in New York.

Since 1999, the roundtable has been hosted by Richard Prince, a former Washington Post journalist who writes about diversity issues in news.

How journalists can ensure equitable information access in their communities

Online News Association , February 2, 2021Online

URL: https://journalists.org/2021/02/02/how-journalists-can-ensure-equitable-information-access-in-their-communities/

Led by Free Press’ Vanessa Maria Graber and Online News Association Board member Anita Li, more than a dozen committed engagement journalists from around the world met regularly for three months, from November 2020, to crowdsource, vet, compile and organize relevant resources. The #ONAinfoequity database is a one-stop shop featuring articles, videos and audio that are tagged with identity-based and geographic labels for ease of search and sorting.

Identifying the Barriers to Racial Equality in Canada

Policy Options, February 15, 2021Online

URL: https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/february-2021/identifying-the-barriers-to-racial-equality-in-canada/

Systemic racism is pervasive in Canada. Data confirming the barriers to equity that Black, Indigenous and other people of colour face have been shared time and time again. But a variety of sectors have been slow to initiate or complete recommended policy measures.

Our neighbour, the United States, is in a profound period of reckoning with its own history of racial inequality. While it’s tempting to compare the two countries, Canadians deserve nuanced, informed, country-specific conversations about race. Anita Li, a media consultant, journalism instructor and advocate for equity in Canadian media, is the guest editor for this feature series of articles, which takes a close look at the obstacles to dismantling systemic racism in Canada.

Journalism students network with media entrepreneurs at Future of Journalism Initiative event

Carleton University's School of Journalism and Communication, February 12, 2021Online

URL: https://carleton.ca/sjc/2021/journalism-students-network-with-media-entrepreneurs-at-future-of-journalism-initiative-event/

An article about "Media Makers & Entrepreneurial Journalists — An Interactive Conversation," which featured panellists Nana aba Duncan, Anita Li, Christopher Curtis and Emma Gilchrist. The event was organized by the Future of Journalism Initiative (FJI) at Carleton University's School of Journalism.

CABJ and CJOC on Calls to Action, One Year Later

J-Source, February 5, 2021Online

URL: https://j-source.ca/article/cabj-and-cjoc-on-calls-to-action-one-year-later/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ) executive director Nadia Stewart and Canadian Journalists of Colour (CJOC) co-founder Anita Li discuss the path to anti-racism in Canadian journalism, what's changed and what the future holds.

What Is Your Plan B?

Ryerson Review of Journalism, August 27, 2020Online

URL: https://rrj.ca/what-is-your-plan-b/

As gigs become increasingly scarce, emerging and experienced journalists are carving out new pathways. Featuring quotes from Anita Li.

Media Experts on how the World Views the U.S. Elections

Public Diplomacy Council, December 16, 2020Online

URL: https://www.publicdiplomacycouncil.org/2020/12/16/media-experts-on-how-the-world-views-the-u-s-elections/

The USC Annenberg Center on Communication Leadership and Policy sponsored a “global conversation on how the US election is being explained to the world” on December 15 — the day after the United States’ Electoral College voted Joseph Biden as President-elect. Hosted by Adam Clayton Powell III, executive director of the USC Election Security Initiative, the panel featured: The Hon. Ashok Mirpuri, Singapore’s ambassador to Washington; Jeff Ballou, news editor for the Americas at Al Jazeera Media Network; Jacqueline Charles, Caribbean/Haiti correspondent for The Miami Herald; Vasily Gatov, Russian media researcher and author; Anton Harber, co-founder of South Africa’s anti-apartheid Weekly Mail newspaper; Insun Kang, deputy managing editor of The Chosun Ilbo; and Anita Li, journalism instructor at Centennial College in Toronto and the City University of New York.

Breaking News: Canadian Media Fails to Represent

SFU Public Square by Simon Fraser University, July 15, 2020Online

URL: http://www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/blog/2020/breaking-news-canadian-media-fails-to-represent-a-multimedia-recap.html

In this time of global crisis and increased attention on anti-Black racism, the lack of racial diversity in Canadian news media has become more apparent than ever before. Diverse newsrooms are needed to accurately represent Canadians and their experiences. Consequently, on July 2, we hosted a conversation about representation in Canadian media as part of our Distant, Not Disengaged event series, featuring panellist Anita Li.

Diversity and Solidarity in Media

Journalists for Human Rights, July 23, 2020Online

URL: https://jhrevents.ca/live/diversity-&-solidarity

A discussion on what meaningful diversity in Canadian media looks like and the solidarity movement that's leading the way. Moderated by Karyn Pugliese, with panellists Adrian Harewood, Anita Li and Brandi Morin.

This Canada Day, the country must reflect on its history to write its future

Maclean's, June 29, 2020Online

URL: https://www.macleans.ca/opinion/this-canada-day-the-country-must-reflect-on-its-history-to-write-its-future/

Op-ed: Canada must return to its core values—sustainability, multiculturalism and human rights—which have not been upheld in recent decades.

Call to Action on Newsroom Diversity

Unifor Local 2000, February 11, 2020Online

URL: https://www.unifor2000.ca/call-to-action-on-newsroom-diversity/

News release announcing that Unifor Local 2000's executive members unanimously voted to support the call to action, published by the Canadian Association of Black Journalists and Canadian Journalists of Colour.

Media union backs call for newsroom diversity

CWA Canada: The Media Union, March 2, 2020Online

URL: https://cwacanada.ca/2020/03/02/media-union-backs-call-for-newsroom-diversity/

News release from CWA Canada endorsing a call to action on newsroom diversity by the Canadian Association of Black Journalists and Canadian Journalists of Colour.

What readers miss out on when newsrooms aren’t diverse

Broadview magazine, February 6, 2020Online

URL: https://broadview.org/canada-newsroom-diversity/

Article featuring interview with Anita Li: "The stories we're told are shaped by those with clout. What about the voices we're not hearing from?"

Canadian Media Diversity: Calls to Action

J-Source, January 28, 2020Online

URL: https://j-source.ca/article/canadian-media-diversity-calls-to-action/

CABJ and CJOC on how to improve media representation and inclusion, now. These calls to action were written by Anita Li of the Canadian Journalists of Colour (CJOC) and Nadia Stewart of the Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ).

Prince Harry and Meghan would find friendlier media in Canada but impossible to escape scrutiny

Reuters, January 10, 2020Online

URL: https://ca.reuters.com/article/topNews/idCAKBN1ZA00U

Article about how Canadian media would cover the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, featuring interview with Anita Li as a media expert/analyst.

The Overwhelming Maleness of 'Silicon Valley'

Canadian media lacks nuance, depth on racial issues

Policy Options, September 10, 2019Online

URL: https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/september-2019/canadian-media-lacks-nuance-depth-on-racial-issues/

Op-ed: The Canadian media is complacent about discussing our evolving cultural identity. We shouldn’t avoid tackling issues of race during the election.

The Discourse claims to be a leader in diversity. Here’s how we’re really doing.

Poynter, June 4, 2019Online

URL: https://www.poynter.org/business-work/2019/the-discourse-claims-to-be-a-leader-in-diversity-heres-how-were-really-doing/

Op-ed: "These days, wherever you look, companies across industries are rolling out their diversity and inclusion (D&I) efforts with lots of fanfare. D&I has become such a trend that 'diversity' in 2019 is a buzzword that’s nearly lost all meaning."

How representative are Canadian newsrooms, actually?

J-Source, November 19, 2018Online

URL: https://j-source.ca/article/how-representative-are-canadian-newsrooms-actually/

Article featuring interview with Anita Li: "Racialized journalists are trying to create change in a predominantly white industry, but say support needs to come from the top."

A guide to building deeper relationships with the communities you cover

Poynter, December 20, 2017Online

URL: https://www.poynter.org/tech-tools/2017/a-guide-to-building-deeper-relationships-with-the-communities-you-cover/

Explainer by Anita Li and Sam Ford: "When newsrooms think of communities as their 'audience,' we often imagine their existence only in relation to the products and services we offer. Of course, journalists know that the people who read, watch and listen to our stories don’t only exist in this vacuum. However, when we talk about the people who engage with our work every day as 'traffic,' 'followers,' 'commenters,' 'subscribers' and 'members,' it’s easy to lose sight of who they actually are, and think about the metrics rather than actual people."

Canada as a global leader in journalism

Policy Options, February 7, 2017Online

URL: https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/february-2017/canada-as-a-global-leader-in-journalism/

Op-ed: With the news media under attack in the US, Canada has an opportunity to lead with quality, cutting-edge journalism.

How We Talk About Race

The Walrus, November 4, 2016Online

URL: https://thewalrus.ca/how-we-talk-about-race/

Op-ed: US media aren't afraid to confront sensitive issues. Why is Canada so far behind?

How-to Guide for Navigating Canadian Newsrooms as a BIPOC Journalist
by Anita Li, Erin Kang
Journalists for Human Rights
March 1, 2023

This guidebook was created as part of Journalists for Human Rights’ ​​Enhanced Access to Opportunity for BIPOC Youth in Canadian Media program. Our goal is to empower BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) youth who experience barriers to accessing opportunities in Canadian journalism so they can have long, successful and sustainable careers in the industry. Although our guide isn’t exhaustive, it’s a helpful collection of advice from people who’ve walked in your shoes.

ATTENTION ↹ ACTION JOURNEY: Creating community-driven journalism that encourages civic engagement
by Anita Li
Reynolds Journalism Institute
August 1, 2023

This guidebook will walk journalists through The Green Line‘s original theory-of-change models, its Attention and Action Journey. Much like how these curious rabbits are trying to problem-solve their way towards the ultimate prize — carrots — we hope you'll apply these frameworks in a way that helps your audience members figure out solutions to their problems.

Our ongoing goal is to help your news publication increase loyalty and engagement among audience members, as well as motivate your audience to take action on issues that matter to their communities.

CFCFC Media Lab Fifth Wave 2020-2023: Canada's First Inersectional Feminist Business Accelerator
by Canadian Film Centre
Canadian Film Centre
March 28, 2023

Welcome to the CFC Fifth Wave Flipbook, a one-stop shop to learn all about this unique, first-of-its-kind program and the exceptional participants that comprise its inspiring community. We invite you to browse the pages and take note of these up-and-comers making waves in digital media. Learn about the companies and projects that these forward-thinking women have underway and consider reaching out to do business and collaborate.

Community-Centered Journalism: Engaging People, Exploring Solutions, and Building Trust
by Andrea Wenzel
University of Illinois Press
August 31, 2020
9780252043307

Andrea Wenzel models new practices of community-centered journalism that build trust across boundaries of politics, race, and class, and prioritize solutions while engaging the full range of local stakeholders. Informed by case studies from rural, suburban, and urban settings, Wenzel's blueprint reshapes journalism norms and creates vigorous storytelling networks between all parts of a community. Envisioning a portable, rather than scalable, process, Wenzel proposes a community-centered journalism that, once implemented, will strengthen lines of local communication, reinvigorate civic participation, and forge a trusting partnership between media and the people they cover. Featuring expert insights from Anita Li.

Funding Journalism: A Guide for Canadian Philanthropy

by Ana Sofía Hibon, April Lindgren, Sara Krynitzki

Published by Inspirit Foundation, Toronto Metropolitan University's Local News Research Project, Philanthropic Foundations Canada

November 1, 2023

The Green Line's work is referenced under the section titled, "Funding Models to Consider."

URL: https://inspiritfoundation.org/funding-journalism-a-guide-for-canadian-philanthropy/

Pause and Rethink: The 2021 Canada Media Fund Trend Report

by Anita Li et al.

Published by Canada Media Fund

February 1, 2021

Anita Li contributed to Chapter 1 of CMF's 2021 report, "Disrupted viewing: audiences today," specifically writing these two subchapters: "Navigating the disconnect" and "Is moviegoing facing an existential crisis?"

URL: https://cmf-fmc.ca/now-next/research-reports/pause-and-rethink/

Beyond Facts: Increasing Trust In Journalism Through Community Engagement and Transparency

by Mazi Javidiani

Published by OCAD University

April 1, 2018

Interview with Anita Li featured: "The shift in media ecology has disrupted the journalism ecosystem, exposing many of the challenges it faces today. In the economy of scale, local news faces great financial adversity. The concentration of power, the alarming influence of powerful individuals over journalism, lack of transparency, and the lack of diversity have all contributed to alienating the public, ultimately resulting in a loss of trust. This research identified two key leverage point that would help journalism build trust with communities: Engagement and Accountability. Through effective engagement, journalism can tap in to the collective wisdom, approaching issues from a more humble stance that would allow for a diversity of voices to be reflected, ultimately resulting in solution oriented stories that resonate with the realities of different communities. Transparency allows for a track record that can demonstrate the sensitivity of the journalist towards the community, while also acknowledging the possibility of wrong doing."

URL: http://openresearch.ocadu.ca/id/eprint/2294/1/Javidiani_Mazi_2018_MDes_SFI_MRP.pdf

The Shattered Mirror: News, Democracy and Trust In The Digital Age

by Public Policy Forum et al

Published by Public Policy Forum

January 1, 2017

Profile of Anita Li featured: "The Public Policy Forum has some bold suggestions for how independent, trustworthy news can survive in the digital age."

URL: https://shatteredmirror.ca/wp-content/uploads/theShatteredMirror.pdf

Biography

Anita Li is a journalist, news entrepreneur, media consultant and educator. Currently, she is the founder, CEO and editor-in-chief of The Green Line, an award-winning community-driven and solutions-focused news outlet in Toronto.

Anita is the Journalism Innovator-in-Residence at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). She previously taught media executives and news entrepreneurs at the City University of New York's Craig Newmark Graduate School of journalism.

Anita has over two decades of experience as a multi-platform journalist in three markets: Toronto, New York City and Ottawa. She started her career as a reporter and editor at Canadian legacy outlets, including The Toronto Star, The Globe and Mail, CBC and CTV. She then worked in strategic, management-level roles at American digital media publications, such as Complex, Fusion and Mashable. Anita was also director of communities at The Discourse. As a writer and reporter, she’s been published in New York Magazine, Poynter, The Walrus and other publications across North America.

Anita is an expert in community-driven journalism, audience engagement, news entrepreneurship, emerging media business models, newsroom diversity, media ethics and journalism innovation; she's spoken on these topics in press interviews and at conferences worldwide. Anita has also consulted or coached a range of journalism outlets and institutions, including CBC, American Press Institute, Journalists for Human Rights, Pink Triangle Press, Carleton University, Indiegraf, Meta Journalism Project's Sustainability Accelerator and more.

Anita is a member of the board of directors for LION (Local Independent Online News) Publishers and formerly for the Online News Association, as well as an alum of the inaugural Poynter-NABJ Leadership Academy for Diversity in Digital Media. She also co-founded Canadian Journalists of Colour, a rapidly growing network of racialized media-makers in Canada. To keep up with Anita, subscribe to The Other Wave, her innovation newsletter about challenging the status quo in journalism.

Recognition/Reconnaissance

RTDNA Canada's Central Region Award winner for Overall Excellence in Digital | Professional

In recognition of “Living with COVID-19 in Toronto.”
https://thegreenline.to/issue/living-with-covid-mandate-toronto/

RTDNA Canada's Central Region Award winner for Feature News, Video (Large Market) | Professional

In recognition of “Harwood event venue provides oasis for local artists.”
https://www.google.com/amp/s/toronto.citynews.ca/2022/12/02/harwood-event-venue-provides-oasis-for-local-artists/amp/

RTDNA Canada's Central Region Award finalist for Enterprise Journalism | Professional

"Weed as Work: How Labour and Capital Move in the Cannabis Industry."
https://thegreenline.to/issue/weed-work-labour-capital-cannabis-industry/#part_two_feature

RTDNA Canada's Central Region Award finalist for Best TV Newscast | Professional

In partnership with CityNews Toronto, which co-produces "Your Community" with The Green Line, a biweekly show that airs on City's newscast.

Digital Publishing Awards' Best News Coverage (Community Publication) - Honourable Mention | Professional

In recognition of “In Newtonbrook, a fight for modular housing for the unhoused is heating up."
https://www.instagram.com/p/CjDniXSO5qO/

RTDNA Canada's Best Canadian Local News Award winner for Overall Excellence in Digital | Professional

In recognition of “Living with COVID-19 in Toronto.”
https://thegreenline.to/issue/living-with-covid-mandate-toronto/

LION Publishers' Product of the Year Award winner (Small Revenue Tier) | Professional

In recognition of The Green Line's Action Journey model.
https://thegreenline.to/issues/

Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism's Aspiring Innovator of the Year Award | Professional

https://www.cilar.ca/aspiring-innovators-award-2022-f

Online Journalism Awards Finalist for 2018 Feature, Small Newsroom | Professional

For more about our nominated series, The Discourse's #FirstNationsHousing, read this: https://awards.journalists.org/entries/first-nations-housing/

Poynter-NABJ Leadership Academy for Diversity in Digital Media | Professional

Member, 2016 class for Poynter-NABJ Leadership Academy for Diversity in Digital Media
https://www.poynter.org/leadership-academy-for-diversity-in-digital-media/

Additional Titles and Affiliations

BANFF Spark Accelerator for Women in the Business of Media

Participant/Fellow
https://www.baystreet.ca/viewarticle.aspx?id=691928

CFC Media Lab's Fifth Wave Connect

Member
http://cfccreates.com/programs/148-fifth-wave-initiative

Royal Society of Arts

Fellow and RSA Connector in Toronto
https://www.thersa.org/fellowship/connectors/americas

Canadian Journalism Foundation and Facebook Journalism Project Digital News Innovation Award

Jury Member
https://cjf-fjc.ca/awards/cjf-fjp-digital-news-innovation-jury

Toronto Metropolitan University journalism program

Journalism Innovation in Residence and Instructor
https://www.torontomu.ca/journalism/news-events/2023/09/two-new-visiting-journalists-join-journalism-at-the-creative-sch/
https://www.torontomu.ca/journalism/news-events/2022/05/journalism-instructor-launches-the-green-line/

Durham College journalism program

Instructor
https://durhamcollege.ca/programs/journalism-mass-media

Centennial College journalism program

Instructor
https://www.centennialcollege.ca/programs-courses/full-time/journalism/

Online Journalism Awards

Judge, Online Journalism Awards 2019
https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2019/08/13/1901410/0/en/2019-Online-Journalism-Awards-finalists-announced.html

Digital Publishing Awards

- Judge, 2021 Digital Publishing Awards
https://digitalpublishingawards.ca/2021-jury/
- Judge, 2018 Digital Publishing Awards
https://digitalpublishingawards.ca/2018/04/05/the-2018-digital-publishing-awards-jury/

Online News Association

Member, Board of Directors

Liisbeth

Member, Advisory Board
https://www.liisbeth.com/about/advisory-board/

Centennial College

Member, Journalism Program Advisory Committee
https://www.centennialcollege.ca/industry/program-advisory-committee/

Canadian Association of Journalists

Member, Ethics Committee
https://j-source.ca/article/about-the-caj-ethics-committee/

Past Talks

Journalism and Conflict: How Scholars Do Applied Research With Newsrooms During Political and Cultural Crises

73rd Annual International Communication Association Conference (https://www.icahdq.org/mpage/ICA23-Program)

Toronto, ON, May 29, 2023

Group Roadmaps: Navigating Challenges to Expand Voice and Audience

API Local News Summit 2023: Opinion, Civic Discourse and Sustainability (https://www.americanpressinstitute.org/publications/api-updates/join-us-to-reimagine-local-opinion-journalism/)

Austin, Texas, April 13, 2023

'But what's the right thing to do?' - Updating CAJ's Ethics Guidelines

The Canadian Association of Journalists Annual Conference 2023

Vancouver, BC, April 15, 2023

Keynote Panel

2022 Pollution Probe Conference & Gala (https://www.pollutionprobe.org/gala/)

Toronto, ON, November 22, 2023

Selective news avoidance: Sustaining a publication during a time of overwhelm

Independent News Sustainability Summit 2022 (https://inss2022.sched.com/event/1AfWv/selective-news-avoidance-sustaining-a-publication-during-a-time-of-overwhelm)

Austin, Texas, October 27, 2022

Measuring trust: How to build and track impact in divided communities

Independent News Sustainability Summit 2022 (https://inss2022.sched.com/event/1AfWg/measuring-trust-how-to-build-and-track-impact-in-divided-communities)

Austin, Texas, October 27, 2022

Democracy Divided: Facing Current Challenges

CIVIX Democracy Bootcamp 2022 (https://politalks.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Democracy-Bootcamp-2022-Program.pdf)

Toronto, ON, November 24, 2022

The Future of Journalism

NASH84: Evolve (https://twitter.com/nashconference/status/1498057162576310299)

Virtual, February 27, 2022

Compensation for News Media

2022 IIC Canada Annual Conference (https://www.iic-canada.ca/en/annual-conference/2022-conference-program/)

Ottawa, ON, May 17, 2022

RSA Canada Changemaker Series: Building Community Trust

The Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/rsa-canada-changemaker-series-building-community-trust-tickets-229446228847)

Virtual, January 27, 2022

Do you really know what your audience wants?

Dataharvest 2022: The European Investigative Journalism Conference (https://dataharvest22.sched.com/event/10rZo/do-you-really-know-what-your-audience-wants)

Mechelen, Belgium, May 21, 2022

Inclusion and Diversity: Real Stories, Real People

RadioActive '22: Canadian Music Week conference (https://cmw.net/radio/panels/inclusion-and-diversity-real-stories-real-people/)

Toronto, ON, June 8, 2022

How local news can empower civic engagement and the fight against misinformation

International Journalism Festival 2022 (https://www.journalismfestival.com/programme/2022/how-local-news-can-empower-civic-engagement-and-the-fight-against-misinformation)

Perugia, Italy, April 8, 2022

How North American newsrooms are operationalizing diversity, equity, and inclusion

International Journalism Festival 2022 (https://www.journalismfestival.com/programme/2022/how-north-american-newsrooms-are-operationalizing-diversity-equity-and-inclusion)

Perugia, Italy, April 7, 2022

Democracy under threat? Polarization and public policy in Canada

Institute for Research on Public Policy's 50th anniversary event series, "What should be on Canada’s policy radar? " (https://policyoptions.irpp.org/events/event/?id=16202)

Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, University of Toronto, March 30, 2022

The Future of News

Canada2020 (https://canada2020.ca/events/future-news/)

Virtual, February 23, 2022

Table Talks: Ensuring Information Access Equity in Our Communities

ONA21: The Online News Association's 22nd annual conference (https://ona21.journalists.org/sessions/table-talks-information-access/)

Virtual, June 23, 2021

The Future of Entertainment: Creating Content that Resonates

Academy Of Canadian Cinema and Television (https://www.academy.ca/programming/events-all/the-future-of-entertainment-creating-content-that-resonates/)

Toronto, ON, May 10, 2021

The Media and Racism: An Online Round-Table

Centre for Race and Culture (https://cfrac.com/events/the-media-and-racism-an-online-round-table/)

Edmonton, AB, August 18, 2020

Community Engagement Tour at The Discourse-Scarborough

Assocation for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) 102nd annual conference (http://aejmc.org/events/toronto19/theme/)

Toronto, ON, August 8, 2019

Why gender and colonialism matter in journalism startups

International Journalism Festival 2018 (https://www.journalismfestival.com/programme/2018/why-gender-and-colonialism-matter-in-journalism-startups)

Perugia, Italy, April 13, 2018

Now and in the future: Promoting greater diversity in media and higher education

Worldviews on Media and Higher Education 2019 Conference (https://worldviewsconference.com/2019-conference/sessions/)

Toronto, ON, June 14, 2019

Innovations in journalism and newsrooms

Worldviews on Media and Higher Education 2019 Conference (https://worldviewsconference.com/2019-conference/sessions/)

Toronto, ON, June 14, 2019

How to cover underserved communities (co-presented with Katherine Ellis of the American Press Institute)

Solutions Journalism Summit 2018 (https://solutionsjournalismsummit.org/)

Sundance, UT, November 9, 2018

Getting it Right: Community-driven and solutions journalism at The Discourse

2018 ORCUP Regional Conference (https://www.evensi.ca/orcup-regional-conference-victoria-college/270296216)

Toronto, ON, October 5, 2018

Whose news? Building a media industry that truly serves Canadians

RightsCon Toronto 2018 (https://rightscon2018.sched.com/event/EHnz/whose-news-building-a-media-industry-that-truly-serves-canadians)

Toronto, ON, May 16, 2018

Getting Around 360 Video

NASH 80: Connect (https://nash802018.sched.com/event/D74e/getting-around-360-video)

Toronto, ON, January 6, 2018

Towards a New Exciting Era in Journalism: Transparency, Empathy, Inclusion and Genuine Public Engagement

Nordjyske Medier's "Future of Publicism" journalism conference

Aalborg, Denmark, September 19, 2017

Time to Get Real about Virtual Reality Journalism

National Association of Black Journalists convention 2017 (https://www.nabjconvention.com/2017/profile.cfm?profile_name=session&master_key=C2C143C2-894C-E711-80CC-001517B05C0F&page_key=63BDD2E9-7199-4AF5-9A22-54F3EB9DDFC3&xtemplate&userLGNKEY=0)

New Orleans, LA, August 10, 2017

How the rise of 360/VR content is influencing a new form of storytelling for journalists

2017 RTDNA Canada National Conference (http://www.rtdnacanada.com/2017-program/)

Toronto, ON, May 26, 2017

Who Gets Connected? A Panel on Inclusion & Tech

Toronto for Everyone: Community Hub (http://torontoforeveryone.com/community-hub)

Toronto, ON, February 25, 2017

Expertise

  • Audience engagement
  • Media business models
  • Journalism
  • Media
  • Digital media
  • Canadian media
  • Innovations in journalism
  • Diversity, equity and inclusion
  • Innovation
  • Ethics
  • Community
  • Community-driven journalism

Education/Éducation

  • Carleton University
    Journalism
    Master of Journalism, 2011
  • University of Toronto, Trinity College
    International Relations, Asia-Pacific Studies, English
    Honours Bachelor of Arts, 2009