Soumya Mukerji is a narrative journalist with an illustrious career spanning over 15 years. Soumya’s journey has seen her serve in key editorial roles for globally recognized digital design and art platforms like STIR and Platform Magazine. Her dedication to convergent and counter cultures, global literature, multidisciplinary arts, and design, along with her insights into creative lifestyle, human experience, and social issues, has set her apart as a journalist of exceptional caliber. This article shares insights from her recent conversation with RTF.

A Journey of Discovery

Soumya traces her journey as a narrative journalist back to her formative years, marked by a deep love for language and a keen sensitivity to the evolving world around her. Growing up amidst changing landscapes and cultures due to her family’s life in the defense, Soumya found herself drawn to stories that touched her deeply. It was this innate curiosity and appreciation for the power of storytelling that propelled her towards a career in journalism.

Unveiling Architectural Insights

Reflecting on her recent interview with Alison Killing, the first architect to win the Pulitzer Prize, Soumya shares insights into the challenges and rewards of interviewing architects. She emphasizes the importance of approaching each interview as an opportunity to delve into the deeper narratives behind the architects’ work, beyond their outer achievements. By tuning into the unique perspectives and philosophies of each architect, Soumya aims to craft conversations that resonate with her audience and inspire them to reflect on their own potential and purpose.

Navigating the Media Landscape

Discussing the evolving media landscape, Soumya highlights the opportunities presented by digital transformations and converging media ecosystems. She believes that there has never been a better time for independent, in-depth storytelling, driven by a tech-savvy audience hungry for challenging narratives and new perspectives. Soumya predicts a promising future for magazines and publications, which she sees as dynamic platforms embracing transmedia storytelling techniques and digital business strategies.

Crafting Compelling Content

Soumya offers insights into her approach to curating content, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and resonance. She looks for stories that challenge the status quo, resonate with the evolving culture of our times, and offer a bigger vision beyond the ordinary. By starting with the core essence of a story and eliminating the extraneous, Soumya aims to create narratives that move and inspire her audience.

Finding Fulfillment in Journalism

Reflecting on her journey as a narrative journalist, Soumya finds fulfillment in the process itself rather than the external rewards. She views journalism as a fabric woven from a thousand threads, supported by collective strength and shared purpose. While acknowledging the challenges of the profession, Soumya finds joy in meeting young talent, engaging with creative mavericks, and co-creating meaningful stories that resonate with her audience.

Navigating Editorial Independence

Addressing the delicate balance between editorial independence and advertiser interests, Soumya emphasizes the importance of transparency and ethical collaboration. She believes that advertising partnerships can be mutually beneficial when approached with clear policies and a commitment to editorial discretion. By maintaining integrity and authenticity, editors can navigate the evolving landscape of media and advertising with confidence.

Crafting the Perfect Pitch

Soumya shares her insights into crafting the perfect pitch, advocating for clear, concise communication and authentic storytelling. She believes that a good pitch offers intrigue and resonance, capturing the essence of the proposed story while leaving room for further exploration. Soumya advises aspiring writers and architects to trust their instincts and embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and discovery.

Embracing Life Beyond Work

Outside of her professional endeavors, Soumya finds solace in travel and nature. She enjoys exploring different countries and cultures, as well as immersing herself in the tranquility of forest trails. These experiences, she believes, help her recalibrate and find inspiration in the beauty of the world around her.

Bridging Personal and Professional Life

Soumya views her personal and professional life as intertwined, with each enriching the other in a continuous cycle of learning and growth. She embraces the challenges and rewards of journalism with grace and total faith, trusting in the journey and honoring the true spirit of storytelling.

Advice for Aspiring Magazine Editors

In closing, Soumya offers advice for aspiring magazine editors, urging them to trust their instincts and embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth. She encourages them to love the questions and live their way into the answers, honoring the true spirit of journalism in a world of ever-changing landscapes and narratives.

In conclusion, Soumya Mukerji’s journey as a narrative journalist serves as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. Through her dedication to authenticity, resonance, and ethical collaboration, she continues to inspire and enlighten her audience, one compelling story at a time.