08/12/2023
You will be missed ❤❤
Dear Esteemed Audience
Last week, I decided to inform my immediate manager and eventually the SBS (ALC) management of my intended voluntary departure from SBS Audio (SBS Radio), effective at the close of this year, 2023. This decision did not come lightly, given my deep-rooted love of the organisation, connections with the staff, management, and the cherished community I have had the privilege to serve. After completing a decade with this exceptional organisation, choosing to move on was undeniably challenging.
During a recent end-of-year celebration with my colleagues, I experienced a moment of deep reflection and gratitude. It dawned on me that this would be my final party with them. My departure may surprise many of you, especially those who have been loyal listeners of our broadcasts for the past decade. Rest assured that SBS Dinka is still being aired on the same days and platforms, ensuring that viewers can continue to enjoy their favourite shows. While I, Ajak, have resigned from my role, there are dedicated individuals ready to take on this mantle. I resigned voluntarily to explore other opportunities.
I want to assure everyone that my journey in journalism and media is far from over; I will find new avenues to contribute to our community and advance my career. For ten remarkable years, SBS has been not just a workplace but a pivotal institution for growth, training, and mentorship. I take immense pride in continuing as an ambassador for this illustrious organisation. SBS is a pillar of Australian multiculturalism, playing an unparalleled role in welcoming and enlightening migrants who make Australia their home.
My final program as Executive Producer and Broadcaster for SBS will air on December 29, 2023. Please continue to engage with SBS Dinka. SBS Dinka represents a unique platform, especially for many elders across Australia, providing a sense of belonging through news segments in their native language. The commitment to delivering news in Dinka and creating segments that inform, educate, and entertain will persist, highlighting the distinctiveness of Australia's multicultural landscape. Australia has uniquely honoured the Dinka-speaking community, setting it apart from other nations like the USA, Canada, and Europe. I am confident that our audience will extend their support and kindness to those who will continue the program.
Reflecting on my journey since July 2013, when I embarked on a life-changing path as a broadcast journalist for SBS Dinka Radio, it has been both exhilarating and enriching. At the time, I was the first Dinka speaker to broadcast for SBS Radio, covering controversial political stories and navigating through a community where concepts of impartial, fair, and balanced reporting are evolving. I played a crucial role in shaping people's perceptions and understanding of some issues. However, this job took a toll on my family and me, especially from the audiences, who had their interpretation. I was fortunate to have a good understanding of the stories and people I was informing. I stood my ground to ensure that the flow of information was not interrupted and that nobody took pleasure in intimidating me to compromise the accuracy and honesty of the information I or my colleagues delivered
The opportunity to broadcast in Dinka, a language virtually unheard of in Australia three decades ago, is significant evidence of the support from SBS management and the Australian government, fostering a sense of belonging within the community. Over ten years, SBS Dinka has significantly impacted the lives of many individuals in Australia, South Sudan and refugee camps. The show has featured stories of people who have faced various challenges. As a result, schools and individuals stepped up to support or sponsor young people whose stories were told. There are sick people whose stories aired, and the generous SBS audience paid their medical bills. This unique aspect of the radio show has left an unforgettable mark.
Before joining SBS, my passion for journalism, activism, and photography had always driven me to value the power of information. This passion remains undiminished, and I look forward to exploring new horizons.
In closing, I sincerely thank the management, colleagues, family, friends, and our audience for their unwavering support over the years. I also appreciate our critics, who have been instrumental in our continuous improvement.
My last program will be on December 29, and I wish you all a wonderful Christmas. During my farewell in office, I will take a moment to specifically thank our exceptional management, the dedicated staff of SBS, my colleagues in the African team, and the stringers who have worked under my leadership, including those I am honoured to call friends: Akuar Dut, Hellen Nyandeng, Deng Goch, Peter Ajak, Atem Manyuon, Kotnyin Bul, among others. As for social media interpreters, be aware that ten years is a long time, and I want to find the best ways to continue to help in media or another field that would serve humanity.
Follow the SBS Dinka page, visit our website at www.sbs.com.au/dinka, and download the SBS Audio app on your mobile device.
Ajak Deng Chiengkou
Executive Producer SBS Dinka
