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Assistant Vice President for Communications, Andrea Jones, 404-413-1351
 

@GSU_News: Behind the Scenes

Contact:
Andrea Jones, 404-413-1351
University Relations

Both Almeera Jiwa and Joseph Shepherd – the dynamic student duo hosting a new GSU news show – grew up outside of Atlanta and thousands of miles apart. But Jiwa, who hails from Canada, and Shepherd, whose hometown is Memphis, say they both chose Georgia State to be in the heart of the city.  

They now keep their fellow students informed about events and happenings on campus with a fast-paced news show called @GSU_News hosted on GSU’s social media channels.

The weekly show, produced in conjunction with University Relations, features Jiwa and Shepherd at different locations around GSU. Both shine in front of the camera.

Jiwa, a third year transfer student majoring in journalism, said she knew from an early age that she was destined to be an artist. She earned the nickname “the actress” from her family, and went on to earn a degree in acting and directing from Studio 58 at Langara College, a theater conservatory in Vancouver, B.C.  After landing a job as a special event coordinator planning large-scale events in Vancouver, she knew she wanted to learn the business side of showbiz. At GSU, Jiwa says she’s getting practical experience in writing, directing and producing while still being behind the camera.

“I love that I can learn about a new city and culture through all the diverse programming GSU students and faculty put together,” Jiwa said.   “It's inspiring to see so many students getting involved and I feel I can do my part and support them through @GSU_News.”

Shepherd, too, said the acting bug bit early, after a theatre class in high school. He and Jiwa worked together on Georgia State’s student television station, GSTV, producing and hosting an entertainment show called “The Scoop” with fellow students. He said he dreams of being the next Ryan Seacrest or “Saturday Night Live” cast member. For now, he’s happy to keep honing his skills as the co-host of @GSU_News.

“It’s very valuable to reach out with @GSU_News,” Shepherd said.  “Sometimes I’ll hear about an event and be like, ‘Man! I wish I knew that was yesterday. I would have gone.’ We need a social world at GSU to help inform students of things.”

A few fun facts about hosts Jiwa and Shepherd:

  • Shepherd’s favorite decade is the 1950’s. “My whole place is decorated in 50s memorabilia. Everyone seemed more happy and fun then.”
  • Jiwa was an artist coordinator for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, attending nearly all the events.
  • Shepherd loves to do character imitations.  “I love to rap… I can rap a sweet beat.”
  • Jiwa’s first paid acting role was as a guest star on Nickelodeon for a show called “Romeo!”

 

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