My Favorite Things About the Free Spirit Conference

Five thousand miles from home, I stepped into the nation’s capital — unaware of how profoundly the days ahead would change me.

From the first day of the weeklong experience, being chosen to represent Hawai’i at the 2025 Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference was an incredible honor. Traveling far from home made every moment feel larger than life. The city, the panels and the people I met left a lasting impression. I was immediately immersed in a community driven by curiosity and a shared passion for storytelling, an experience that inspired me in ways I never expected.

1. Seeing investigative journalism up close

The conference reshaped how I see journalism. In a panel, David Fahrenthold of The New York Times shared stories from his investigations, explaining how he digs through financial records and public documents to verify claims and keep powerful institutions honest. Hearing how he stays committed to accuracy amid political pressure strengthened my interest in investigative journalism as a profession.

I was also inspired by reporters at The Independent Florida Alligator. Their coverage of university leadership controversies showed how young journalists can uncover conflicts of interest and hold decision-makers accountable, proving that responsible reporting, regardless of age, can drive meaningful change.

2. Lessons from Free Spirit alumni

Meeting Amy Nakamura, a Free Spirit alum who represented Hawai’i in 2016 and is now at The Washington Post, was inspiring. Seeing someone from home succeed nationally showed me what’s possible in journalism and how community-focused reporting can amplify diverse voices. I was also motivated by Taylor McGraw, co-founder of The Bell, whose work amplifies student journalists and underrepresented voices, demonstrating how journalism can make a real impact.

3. The First Amendment reaches everyone

Free Spirits had the rare opportunity to attend Freedom Forum’s Free Expression Awards at The Anthem, where comedians, educators and advocates celebrated free expression. Hearing from honorees W. Kamau Bell and Sharon McMahon showed me that protecting the First Amendment isn’t just a journalist’s job; it’s a responsibility shared by anyone who values transparency and open dialogue.

4. SOBs united: Making lifelong memories

Inspired by Al Neuharth’s “Confessions of an S.O.B.,” we dubbed ourselves “SOBs,” a reminder to pursue meaningful work boldly. The conference wasn’t just panels and note-taking. From singing “Party in the USA” with students from all 50 states and D.C. during bus karaoke, to exploring Capitol Hill with new friends, every moment became memorable. And despite traveling alone, I always felt safe and supported.

5. Community that redefined my purpose

By the end of the week, I understood why the Free Spirit program is so special. It creates a community of young reporters who care about accuracy, fairness and the people behind every story. Being surrounded by that purpose showed me that storytelling is more than a skill; it’s a responsibility.

Through this weeklong experience, I carried not only my own dreams but the perspective of Hawai’i. I discovered Freedom Forum’s Free Spirit experience thrives on diverse perspectives and celebrates the qualities that shape meaningful journalism — qualities that inspire us to seek the truth and have the courage to tell it.

Dominic Niyo is the 2025 Free Spirit Scholar from Hawai’i.