Master of Journalism student receives TMU’s highest honour
In the dynamic realm of journalism, where each story holds the potential to shape perspectives and ignite change, Master of Journalism graduate Mahdis Habibinia is passionate about bridging divides and bringing the most pressing stories to light. Habibinia’s pursuit of excellence became an unwavering guide in her journey. From interning at The Globe and Mail to being hired as a staff reporter for the Toronto Star, her strong work ethic and impressive list of accomplishments has also awarded her the coveted Gold Medal Award, TMU’s highest honours.
Habibinia's journey began during her undergraduate years at York University, with aspirations pointing toward law and the dream of becoming a Supreme Court judge. Balancing LSAT preparations with her role as a student reporter and later editor-in-chief at York’s community newspaper, Habibinia found herself drawn to journalism because of its potential to inspire change. Receiving a rejection letter from law school became the unexpected gateway for her to pursue a Master of Journalism at The Creative School.
Shining a light on misinformation
For Habibinia, she realized that journalism could be far more than a career; it was a conduit to tell human interest stories, amplify unheard voices, and bring attention to injustices. In her final Major Research Project (MRP), Habibinia delved into the intricate landscape of culture and entertainment-based platforms. Her research focused on unravelling how these platforms, in blending news with entertainment, often contributed to disinformation and misinformation.
Platforms like 6ixBuzz, once an entertainment-centric brand, underwent a transformation that risked compromising the integrity of the information they shared. Habibinia's research project unearthed the potential harm these platforms might unknowingly inflict on their audience.
"In a time where Canada is not immune to the tsunami of institutional distrust at play south of the border, these platforms could be doing more harm than they realize to its very own industry," stated Habibinia. "Their rise to fame with their current editorial models could actually be doing a disservice to its audience."
A track record of success
While pursuing her Master of Journalism, Habibinia has been recognized with the Gordon Sinclair Graduate Award for her impressive academic performance. She was also a member of TMU's academic integrity council and a proactive student representative on the Journalism School Council, where she advocated for her peers. To those close to her, they know that mediocrity is never an option for her.
"I rarely fall short of passion – in my profession, my personal life and even in my personal relationships," remarked Habibinia. "I care about my work, and, more importantly than that, I care about never remaining idle."
What's more, her academic internship at The Globe and Mail, followed by roles at the Toronto Star's radio room and The Green Line’s show on CityNews, showcased her commitment to hands-on journalism.
"The Toronto Star's radio room takes in students, and so I was working there part-time while producing The Green Line's show, where I pitched, chased, interviewed and scripted a segment focused on innovations, initiatives, and solutions coming out of local neighbourhoods addressing broader systemic or local issues," remarked Habibinia.
Recognizing excellence: the Gold Medal Award
The prestigious Gold Medal, awarded to only one student per faculty, is a testament to Habibinia's unwavering commitment and dedication. For her, it's not just an acknowledgment; it's a validation of the countless hours she's put in to get to where she is now. She recognizes that there's still a long way to go, but the Gold Medal serves as a reminder that hard work combined with passion pays off.
To students aspiring to excel, Habibinia insists that success becomes inevitable by focusing on your goals and finding mechanisms to silence criticism. According to her, aiming for the stars is not just commendable; it's one of the few ways to truly realize one's dreams.
"Find your true north and block out any other noise," said Habibinia. "When you aim for the stars, or excellence, you will get some hate for it once you achieve it (be it out of envy from peers or just opportunity from those unhappy with themselves). But if you can just learn to block out that noise – only see your true north and follow it – I promise nothing else will matter once you start to see the fruits of your labour."
Interested in learning more about Mahdis' career in journalism? Read her most recent stories from the Toronto Star (external link) and her entire portfolio (external link) .
The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University
The Creative School is a dynamic faculty that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto.