13 Dec Toby Porter, The Voice of South London
Journalists often get, well, a bad press. Whether it is the circulation of untruths, or simply the circulation of too much truth, news can leave people feeling alienated. But for Toby Porter, Chief Reporter of the South London Press, the news is all about giving people a voice.
In Toby’s mind, democracy is king, “Part of my core beliefs is democracy, down to the lowest street level.” In South London people on estates need to feel that they have investment.”
He sees the local press as the best way of building democracy from the ground up, “Locals are the most important institutions in the country.. I believe in local democracy and local newspapers are the best way to champion that press.”
His belief in the importance of proper representation shows too in his sartorial choices. Toby is always well turned out, usually wearing a full suit and seldom sporting a dull colour. He wears his hair spiked and his beard gives him a youthful, approachable look. It is clear that he sees his image as being of import to the paper he represents and which represents his community.
On Fridays (and indeed some other days) Toby and the newspaper open their doors to those seeking work experience, yet another way for Toby to amplify voices. By giving up his time and knowledge, he has realised that he can benefit both the students and the community. “I enjoy it. I hope that people will remember what I say. We need that level of engagement with our community and it brings us lots of copy. It’s a win, win, win.”
For much of the day Toby’s tall figure leans forward towards his computer screen, emails open, ready to be read. All three of the phones on his desk will ring multiple times a day. The call is often somebody following up on a press release, or a voice wanting to be heard. Regardless, Toby takes the time to talk to the caller, using their name like it is the most important word in the world. Every story deserves investigation and Toby or one his reporters follows up as soon as they are able.
Perhaps unexpectedly for a man of his age, South London’s buzzing music scene truly excites Toby – and you can hear this in his voice when he talks about it, “It really inspires me. It’s really, really inspiring – I could go on about it forever”. For music in South London reflects everything that Toby believes in. It gives a voice to those who need one most and a path through life for those who may otherwise find themselves without one.
It’s hard work receiving over 300 emails and several phone calls a day, and every so often Toby will lean back with his hands behind his head and let out an overwhelmed “Oh bloody hell”, another sign that he is all too human.
Regardless of the magnitude of his task, Toby is dedicated to his work, his community and his core beliefs – willing to give up at least five days of his week to make sure that those who would otherwise be unheard have a voice. Toby Porter is just one man, but he is the voice of many.
