Meet the 2020 WDET StoryMakers Fellows
The inaugural class of Detroit StoryMakers will produce broadcast audio reporting for 101.9 WDET.
We are excited to announce the WDET StoryMakers Fellowship cohort!
Working out of the WDET newsroom, fellows will get hands-on training in community reporting for radio, and will produce a series of stories for WDET. The program runs January to March, 2020.
Sign-up for our regular StoryMakers email and see all the inaugural fellows below.
Meet the fellows
Cary Junior II
“I am a podcast producer and radio journalist. I have a background in research and audio production. In my free time I like to read, get into spirited conversations and release my stress on the dance floor.”
Cary Junior II is a radio journalist, podcast producer and researcher. He leans on his experiences with his peers and community to inspire the types of stores he wants tell. He believes we are in a period of major cultural change and is eager to discuss the stories that help our world process it.
Clifton Kirkman II
“I am Clifton R. Kirkman II, graduate of Specs Howard School of Media Arts and Eastern Michigan University with a B.A. in Electronic Media and Film Studies. When I am not at work, you can find me trying new food options around Metro Detroit, or directing and singing with the choir at New Jerusalem MBC of Inkster.”
Clifton R. Kirkman II is the father of six year old Crystal Raelynn Kirkman and the son of the late Rev. Clifton R. Kirkman Sr. & Seconies Kirkman.
A native Detroiter, he’s a proud graduate of one of U.S. News’ top recognized Michigan high schools, Renaissance. As an emerging Multimedia Journalist, he has had the privilege of being a part of the NBCUniversal University 2019 masterclass, as well as being awarded as one of the 2019 Race and Justice Reporting Initiative Fellow from the Detroit Action Lab at the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights.
Courtney Wise Randolph
“I’m a native Detroiter with a heart for people and their stories. With a background in nonprofit programming, fundraising, and community engagement, I am elated to develop new skills at crafting, collecting, and sharing the stories that connect us one to another.”
Courtney Wise Randolph is a storyteller and friend. In her favorite moments, she’s writing, talking (rather loudly and with passion), crying, (and mostly) laughing. She’s a big fan of purple, soul music, stardust, and a little girl named Nova. When she isn’t working at the nonprofit 826michigan, she’s helping individuals and small businesses tell their stories of impact as Principal Writer at Keen Composition. She’s brand new to radio and podcasting, but is immensely honored and excited at the opportunity to amplify Detroit’s many stories as a WDET StoryMakers Fellow.
Malak Wazne
“I am a filmmaker, photographer, and documentarian working to tear down barriers, one story at a time and I’m focused on empowerment within – and empathy beyond – my community.”
Malak Wazne is an award-winning filmmaker and photographer working to tear down barriers, one story at a time. Documentarian focused on empowerment within – and empathy beyond – my community. Her work has been published in Vogue Arabia Magazine, Buzzfeed, and many other outlets
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