In today’s connected world, information moves faster than ever before. I’ve seen how stories that once took hours or even days to reach the public are now shared in real time. This speed isn’t just because of traditional reporters—it’s also because of everyday people who take out their phones, capture what’s happening, and share it online. That’s the power of citizen journalism, and it’s changing how I follow and understand news.

The Problem That Started It All

Before smartphones and social media, most of us depended entirely on television, newspapers, or radio for updates. While those sources were reliable, they often took time to gather, verify, and publish information. That meant by the time a story reached me, it was already filtered, edited, and sometimes outdated.

The challenge was clear: there were important moments happening that deserved attention right away, but the system wasn’t built for instant sharing. I realized that without the voices of everyday people on the ground, many small but important stories would never be told in time.

How Citizen Journalism Steps In

Citizen journalism solves this by giving individuals the tools to share news instantly. With a phone in hand and access to the internet, anyone can upload photos, videos, or live streams within seconds. I’ve seen it happen during community events, local emergencies, and even simple day-to-day happenings.

Some of the ways citizen journalism has changed modern news include:

• Speed of reporting – Stories can be shared almost as they happen.
  
  

• Diverse perspectives – News isn’t limited to one viewpoint or location.
  
  

• Community involvement – People feel more connected when they can share and engage with information directly.
  
  

• Access to underreported stories – Events that might not make national headlines still get documented and seen.
  
  

I remember checking my feed one evening and coming across a community-led livestream. It wasn’t from a news outlet, but from a neighbor, showing exactly what was happening in real time. It reminded me of how my choice in media feels similar to other lifestyle choices I make—like when I choose custard monster flavors because I know exactly what I’m getting and can experience it firsthand without delay.

Why It Works So Well

Part of what makes citizen journalism powerful is its ability to be immediate and authentic. When I watch a video from someone standing right where the event is taking place, I feel connected in a way that traditional coverage sometimes can’t match.

It also encourages a sense of participation. When I share something, I’m not just a viewer—I’m part of the conversation. That’s why I follow a simple approach when I come across an event worth documenting:

• Capture – Take clear, relevant footage or photos.
  
  

• Context – Add important details so others understand what they’re seeing.
  
  

• Share responsibly – Post on platforms where it can reach the right audience.
  
  

• Engage – Answer questions or share updates if the situation changes.
  
  

These steps ensure that the content I post is useful, accurate, and adds value to the larger conversation.

Where It Fits Into My Daily Life

Citizen journalism isn’t just about breaking news—it also plays a role in everyday community life. Local updates, charity events, and even personal interest stories often get shared through individuals rather than formal outlets.

When I walk into my local Vape shop, for example, I sometimes see community boards or small flyers about local happenings. It’s the offline version of what citizen journalists do online: keeping people informed, connected, and aware of what’s going on right around them.

Looking Ahead

As technology continues to evolve, I think citizen journalism will only grow in importance. Platforms will likely make it even easier for people to share updates instantly, and audiences will keep seeking those real-time, unfiltered perspectives.

That doesn’t mean traditional journalism will disappear—it means both forms can work together. Professional reporters can provide depth and verification, while citizen journalists can bring immediacy and personal context.

For me, it’s about having more ways to stay informed and more voices contributing to the conversation. Just like when I choose Custard Monster for a familiar and trusted experience, I value knowing that my news sources—whether professional or citizen-led—are delivering something real, direct, and worth my attention.

The Ongoing Impact of Everyday Voices

The role of citizen journalism in modern news isn’t just about convenience—it’s about participation, connection, and trust. By having the ability to share our own perspectives, we all contribute to a richer, more immediate view of the world.

I’ll keep following this shift closely, not only as a consumer of information but as someone who knows that in the right moment, I can also be part of the story. And that’s something worth appreciating in today’s fast-moving world.