“You do not need new skills to make money; you need to properly audit, package and monetise the expertise you already possess.”
This was the key message delivered by the Founder, the Hustle Space, Emediong Eduongo, to media professionals in Eket Senatorial District as they explored new pathways to financial sustainability in the digital age.
Eduongo made the assertion while speaking as a resource person at a one-day seminar organised by the Association of Eket Senatorial District Media Professionals, themed “Turning Media Skills into Profitable Income Generating Business,” held at Eden Hotels and Suites, Eket, Akwa Ibom State on Wednesday.
She challenged journalists and media practitioners to take stock of their existing competencies, including writing, editing, storytelling, research and content creation, noting that many already possess marketable skills but lack proper positioning and monetisation strategies.
According to her, deliberate skills auditing helps practitioners identify strengths, niche areas and opportunities for income generation through digital platforms, consultancy, tech writing, blogging and content services.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Association, Dr. Edet Okpo, said the seminar was designed to reposition media practice from a purely social service to a sustainable business enterprise in line with global media trends.
“The media has evolved, and professionals must now intentionally structure their craft for income while maintaining ethical standards,” Okpo said, urging participants to embrace innovation, creativity and digital tools.
He commended Senator Ekong Sampson for his representation of the district, citing interventions in ICT training, grants, employment and infrastructure development, as well as the support of Deputy Governor Akon Eyakenyi and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Okpo also condemned attempts to undermine development efforts through what he described as “gutter journalism,” reaffirming the Association’s commitment to professionalism, transparency and responsible advocacy.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Essien Ndueso, said the forum was aimed at helping media professionals leverage tech writing and blogging as tools for financial independence in the digital economy.
Another facilitator, Dr. Peter Etukudo, described tech writing and blogging as low-cost but powerful digital assets that, with consistency and niche focus, can generate steady, location-independent income.
Goodwill messages from former NUJ Vice Chairman, Zone F, Dr. Sunday Antai, and Board of Trustees member, Comrade Florence Unoetuk, applauded the Association for strategically equipping its members to remain relevant and economically empowered in the evolving media landscape.