Interview by Atef Abu Hajar Certain voices leave an indelible mark on memory, transcending the broadcast moment long after the microphone is turned off. Rakan Qaddah stands as one of those iconic voices—a familiar figure to Jordanian audiences for decades, defined by his distinct vocal tone, calm presence, and an approach intrinsically tied to a golden era of Jordanian media. Starting at Radio Jordan, Qaddah moved across several radio and television stations before establishing himself as a prominent face on Jordan TV. There, he anchored news bulletins and hosted a diverse array of programs before transitioning to satellite channels to continue his media career. In this interview, we do not merely trace an anchor's biography; we open pages from a period when journalism relied on the power of the word, vocal discipline, and thorough preparation. We listen to the veteran host as he reflects on his origins, memories, and the media landscape as he knew it—and as he perceives it today. 1. You began your career at Radio Jordan, with the Holy Quran Radio serving as a major milestone in your early journey. What did that experience add to your professional and personal development? Rakan Qaddah: Radio Jordan was a true institution. Anyone entering it at that time was stepping into a prestigious organization filled with prominent names and deep journalistic expertise. The radio was not just a workplace; it was a school where one learned how to respect the word, respect the listener, and thoroughly prepare content before approaching the microphone. Working at the Holy Quran Radio added another dimension. Dealing with the Holy Quran and religious programming requires extreme linguistic precision, refined delivery, accurate information, and, above all, profound respect for the material presented to the public. I firmly believe that early beginnings shape a journalist's career. While one continues to learn over time, that first school remains embedded in one's character and methodology throughout life. You carry forward much from your origins—preparation techniques, respect for time, rigorous fact-checking, and deep consideration for the listener are all principles I absorbed during that phase, which have stayed with me across my entire career. Radio has remained a foundational part of my professional identity. I have always believed that radio grants a broadcaster a unique ability to connect with people using only words and voice, without the visual aid of the screen. 2. You later transitioned to Jordan TV, becoming a signature voice accompanying Jordanian television during the 1980s and 1990s. How would you describe that era, which many refer to as the golden age of Jordanian media? Rakan Qaddah: It was a distinct period by all standards. Jordan TV was a major media pillar, professional competition among colleagues was exceptionally high, and there was immense respect for the craft, the screen, and the viewer. While I dislike claiming that the past was superior in every single aspect, there is no doubt that the nature of media work back then afforded journalists more time to prepare, verify, and learn from experienced mentors. We worked alongside legendary figures, each a school in their own right. Presenters, directors, producers, camera operators, and technicians operated as a cohesive team, with every individual fully aware of their responsibilities. Crucially, broadcasters in that era understood that appearing on screen carried significant responsibility, knowing that the viewer sitting at home trusted what they saw and heard. That is why that era remains etched in public memory—not solely because of the programs, but due to the spirit of teamwork, institutional dedication, and the colleagues who built that legacy. 3. You presented a wide range of programs—such as TV Magazine, Evening Break, Eid Break, Friday Meeting, and Tourism Journey—alongside anchoring news bulletins. Which of these experiences left the greatest impact on your career, and why? Rakan Qaddah: I presented and produced a vast array of content, and every program left a mark on me. It is difficult to single out one program as the most important, as I view everything I presented as a valuable contribution to the media archive, public memory, and the history of Jordan TV. A diverse portfolio is what builds a presenter's expertise. News bulletins taught me precision, discipline, and rapid information processing, whereas talk shows and variety programs taught me how to engage with guests and viewers through a different dynamic. I particularly recall programs that took us across Jordan, such as the travel shows, which held a special place for us. We were not merely presenting tourism facts; we were introducing people to their country, its history, its heritage, and its natural beauty. Journalist Nabil Ammari once wrote about 'Rakan Qaddah and the Good Old Days,' reflecting on several programs I presented—including TV Magazine and Tourism Tour—which focused on Jordan's identity, heritage, and landmarks. The true beauty of those experiences lay in their ability to reach people simply and authentically, without pretense. 4. Your presence with the audience became associated with a calm demeanor, a warm smile, and a distinct voice. How did you cultivate this long-standing relationship with viewers and listeners? Rakan Qaddah: I never attempted to craft an artificial persona on camera that differed from my true self. I treated people the way I liked to be treated. A broadcaster enters people's homes, which is a immense responsibility. Therefore, I was always mindful to maintain a calm tone, speak clearly, and never treat the viewer as a passive recipient. Trust is not built overnight. You might capture public attention once or twice with your presence, but maintaining a relationship with an audience over decades requires sincerity, consistency, and respect for the viewer's intellect. The audience is intelligent; they easily distinguish between a journalist merely performing a job and one who views the public as part of their extended family. 5. Despite the technological advancements in media tools, you still rely on pen and paper during your preparation. What does this method represent to you, and do you believe today's journalists should retain such practices? Rakan Qaddah: For me, pen and paper are not mere tools; they are an integral part of the thought process, preparation, and intellectual enrichment. When you handwrite a question, re-read it, and jot down notes, you enter an interview fully aware of what you want to extract from your guest. I am not suggesting that modern journalists should abandon technology and revert exclusively to pen and paper. Technology is vital, and I fully support leveraging it. However, technology must serve the profession, not replace it—or replace the journalist's mind. The issue lies not in smartphones, computers, or social media platforms, but rather when a journalist relies on them blindly without verifying facts, reading thoroughly, questioning, or identifying the source of information. I have previously raised this issue, criticizing the spread of unsourced news and the entry of unqualified individuals into the media field. I always emphasize the necessity of having specialists and experienced professionals leading the craft to protect the media hierarchy as a vital state institution. 6. You are known for meticulous preparation and repeatedly reviewing your questions. In your view, what makes a journalistic question successful and capable of eliciting a genuine response from a guest? Rakan Qaddah: A good question stems from thorough knowledge of both the topic and the guest. You cannot enter an interview without knowing your guest's background, work, or previous statements. When you research and read extensively, you can formulate a meaningful question rather than a generic one that the guest can answer with a canned response. Sometimes, a short question is far more powerful than a lengthy one. What matters is clarity and knowing precisely what answer you seek to elicit. Furthermore, we must give guests adequate space to respond. A presenter's role is not to speak more than the guest, but to guide them toward the core objective. A skilled journalist listens attentively to the response, rather than merely waiting for the guest to finish so they can read the next question. 7. After decades of television work, you continued broadcasting through satellite channels—such as Noormina TV—and subsequently returned to radio. What drives a media professional to keep giving after so many years? Rakan Qaddah: To me, journalism is neither a job that ends when working hours expire, nor is it a daily routine. It is a vocation driven by continuous learning, skill renewal, and information sharing. If you genuinely love this profession, it is hard to walk away. You may leave an institution, or the nature of the work may evolve, but the word remains, and you will always have something meaningful to say. I believe a true journalist stays close to the people and their issues—whether behind a microphone, in front of a camera, or through writing. 8. You witnessed the transition from traditional radio and television to satellite networks, digital platforms, and social media. How do you view this transformation, and what has it brought to the media? Rakan Qaddah: The transformation is massive, granting people unprecedented access to information and a platform to express their views. However, it has simultaneously presented media with a major challenge: publishing speed has sometimes taken precedence over news accuracy. In the past, news underwent multiple stages of editing and verification before reaching the public. Today, anyone can draft a news item and publish it in seconds to reach thousands. These digital tools have clearly contributed to the decline of print journalism. I remain strongly opposed to the spread of rumors and unverified news that lacks reliable sources. Therefore, while I support technology, I advocate for journalists who know how to use it responsibly, verifying information before disseminating it to the public. 9. Reflecting on your long career, how do you define a journalist's responsibility toward society and the nation? Does the media message still hold the same duty and trust you learned in your early years? Rakan Qaddah: Media is a responsibility before it is a profession. A journalist has the power to build or to destroy, and must therefore understand the weight of the words they utter. I am firmly against defamation, character assassination, and smearing individuals. At the same time, I strongly support exposing mistakes and corruption—provided it is done through factual truth, verified information, and reliable sources, rather than personal attacks or exaggeration. I expressed this stance clearly in a previous interview, stating that exposing corruption does not mean resorting to character assassination or distorting facts. Ultimately, this profession is a trust, and if a journalist loses the public's trust, they lose their most valuable asset. 10. In closing, what message do you offer to the new generation of journalists? What advice do you wish someone had given you when you first started? Rakan Qaddah: I tell them: read extensively, learn from everyone you work with, and do not rush toward fame. Journalism is not merely about appearing on screen, nor is it defined by follower counts or views. It is knowledge, culture, language, ethics, and responsibility. My advice to young journalists is to respect the craft, respect their guests, respect the audience, and verify every piece of information before publishing. I also say: never stop learning. Even after all these years, I am still learning, reading, observing, and drawing from the experiences of others. As for the advice I wish I had received at the start of my journey, it would be to practice patience. Building a genuine, respected professional reputation in this field takes a lifetime. Fame can arrive quickly, but a respected professional legacy requires a lifetime to build. My final hope for every new journalist is that they safeguard the word. The word is our true capital; if we respect it, the public will respect us, and the profession will honor our work.
Interview by Atef Abu Hajar Certain voices leave an indelible mark on memory, transcending the broadcast moment long after the microphone is turned off. Rakan Qaddah stands as one of those iconic voices—a familiar figure to Jordanian audiences for decades, defined by his distinct vocal tone, calm presence, and an approach intrinsically tied to a golden era of Jordanian media. Starting at Radio Jordan, Qaddah moved across several radio and television stations before establishing himself as a prominent face on Jordan TV. There, he anchored news bulletins and hosted a diverse array of programs before transitioning to satellite channels to continue his media career. In this interview, we do not merely trace an anchor's biography; we open pages from a period when journalism relied on the power of the word, vocal discipline, and thorough preparation. We listen to the veteran host as he reflects on his origins, memories, and the media landscape as he knew it—and as he perceives it today. 1. You began your career at Radio Jordan, with the Holy Quran Radio serving as a major milestone in your early journey. What did that experience add to your professional and personal development? Rakan Qaddah: Radio Jordan was a true institution. Anyone entering it at that time was stepping into a prestigious organization filled with prominent names and deep journalistic expertise. The radio was not just a workplace; it was a school where one learned how to respect the word, respect the listener, and thoroughly prepare content before approaching the microphone. Working at the Holy Quran Radio added another dimension. Dealing with the Holy Quran and religious programming requires extreme linguistic precision, refined delivery, accurate information, and, above all, profound respect for the material presented to the public. I firmly believe that early beginnings shape a journalist's career. While one continues to learn over time, that first school remains embedded in one's character and methodology throughout life. You carry forward much from your origins—preparation techniques, respect for time, rigorous fact-checking, and deep consideration for the listener are all principles I absorbed during that phase, which have stayed with me across my entire career. Radio has remained a foundational part of my professional identity. I have always believed that radio grants a broadcaster a unique ability to connect with people using only words and voice, without the visual aid of the screen. 2. You later transitioned to Jordan TV, becoming a signature voice accompanying Jordanian television during the 1980s and 1990s. How would you describe that era, which many refer to as the golden age of Jordanian media? Rakan Qaddah: It was a distinct period by all standards. Jordan TV was a major media pillar, professional competition among colleagues was exceptionally high, and there was immense respect for the craft, the screen, and the viewer. While I dislike claiming that the past was superior in every single aspect, there is no doubt that the nature of media work back then afforded journalists more time to prepare, verify, and learn from experienced mentors. We worked alongside legendary figures, each a school in their own right. Presenters, directors, producers, camera operators, and technicians operated as a cohesive team, with every individual fully aware of their responsibilities. Crucially, broadcasters in that era understood that appearing on screen carried significant responsibility, knowing that the viewer sitting at home trusted what they saw and heard. That is why that era remains etched in public memory—not solely because of the programs, but due to the spirit of teamwork, institutional dedication, and the colleagues who built that legacy. 3. You presented a wide range of programs—such as TV Magazine, Evening Break, Eid Break, Friday Meeting, and Tourism Journey—alongside anchoring news bulletins. Which of these experiences left the greatest impact on your career, and why? Rakan Qaddah: I presented and produced a vast array of content, and every program left a mark on me. It is difficult to single out one program as the most important, as I view everything I presented as a valuable contribution to the media archive, public memory, and the history of Jordan TV. A diverse portfolio is what builds a presenter's expertise. News bulletins taught me precision, discipline, and rapid information processing, whereas talk shows and variety programs taught me how to engage with guests and viewers through a different dynamic. I particularly recall programs that took us across Jordan, such as the travel shows, which held a special place for us. We were not merely presenting tourism facts; we were introducing people to their country, its history, its heritage, and its natural beauty. Journalist Nabil Ammari once wrote about 'Rakan Qaddah and the Good Old Days,' reflecting on several programs I presented—including TV Magazine and Tourism Tour—which focused on Jordan's identity, heritage, and landmarks. The true beauty of those experiences lay in their ability to reach people simply and authentically, without pretense. 4. Your presence with the audience became associated with a calm demeanor, a warm smile, and a distinct voice. How did you cultivate this long-standing relationship with viewers and listeners? Rakan Qaddah: I never attempted to craft an artificial persona on camera that differed from my true self. I treated people the way I liked to be treated. A broadcaster enters people's homes, which is a immense responsibility. Therefore, I was always mindful to maintain a calm tone, speak clearly, and never treat the viewer as a passive recipient. Trust is not built overnight. You might capture public attention once or twice with your presence, but maintaining a relationship with an audience over decades requires sincerity, consistency, and respect for the viewer's intellect. The audience is intelligent; they easily distinguish between a journalist merely performing a job and one who views the public as part of their extended family. 5. Despite the technological advancements in media tools, you still rely on pen and paper during your preparation. What does this method represent to you, and do you believe today's journalists should retain such practices? Rakan Qaddah: For me, pen and paper are not mere tools; they are an integral part of the thought process, preparation, and intellectual enrichment. When you handwrite a question, re-read it, and jot down notes, you enter an interview fully aware of what you want to extract from your guest. I am not suggesting that modern journalists should abandon technology and revert exclusively to pen and paper. Technology is vital, and I fully support leveraging it. However, technology must serve the profession, not replace it—or replace the journalist's mind. The issue lies not in smartphones, computers, or social media platforms, but rather when a journalist relies on them blindly without verifying facts, reading thoroughly, questioning, or identifying the source of information. I have previously raised this issue, criticizing the spread of unsourced news and the entry of unqualified individuals into the media field. I always emphasize the necessity of having specialists and experienced professionals leading the craft to protect the media hierarchy as a vital state institution. 6. You are known for meticulous preparation and repeatedly reviewing your questions. In your view, what makes a journalistic question successful and capable of eliciting a genuine response from a guest? Rakan Qaddah: A good question stems from thorough knowledge of both the topic and the guest. You cannot enter an interview without knowing your guest's background, work, or previous statements. When you research and read extensively, you can formulate a meaningful question rather than a generic one that the guest can answer with a canned response. Sometimes, a short question is far more powerful than a lengthy one. What matters is clarity and knowing precisely what answer you seek to elicit. Furthermore, we must give guests adequate space to respond. A presenter's role is not to speak more than the guest, but to guide them toward the core objective. A skilled journalist listens attentively to the response, rather than merely waiting for the guest to finish so they can read the next question. 7. After decades of television work, you continued broadcasting through satellite channels—such as Noormina TV—and subsequently returned to radio. What drives a media professional to keep giving after so many years? Rakan Qaddah: To me, journalism is neither a job that ends when working hours expire, nor is it a daily routine. It is a vocation driven by continuous learning, skill renewal, and information sharing. If you genuinely love this profession, it is hard to walk away. You may leave an institution, or the nature of the work may evolve, but the word remains, and you will always have something meaningful to say. I believe a true journalist stays close to the people and their issues—whether behind a microphone, in front of a camera, or through writing. 8. You witnessed the transition from traditional radio and television to satellite networks, digital platforms, and social media. How do you view this transformation, and what has it brought to the media? Rakan Qaddah: The transformation is massive, granting people unprecedented access to information and a platform to express their views. However, it has simultaneously presented media with a major challenge: publishing speed has sometimes taken precedence over news accuracy. In the past, news underwent multiple stages of editing and verification before reaching the public. Today, anyone can draft a news item and publish it in seconds to reach thousands. These digital tools have clearly contributed to the decline of print journalism. I remain strongly opposed to the spread of rumors and unverified news that lacks reliable sources. Therefore, while I support technology, I advocate for journalists who know how to use it responsibly, verifying information before disseminating it to the public. 9. Reflecting on your long career, how do you define a journalist's responsibility toward society and the nation? Does the media message still hold the same duty and trust you learned in your early years? Rakan Qaddah: Media is a responsibility before it is a profession. A journalist has the power to build or to destroy, and must therefore understand the weight of the words they utter. I am firmly against defamation, character assassination, and smearing individuals. At the same time, I strongly support exposing mistakes and corruption—provided it is done through factual truth, verified information, and reliable sources, rather than personal attacks or exaggeration. I expressed this stance clearly in a previous interview, stating that exposing corruption does not mean resorting to character assassination or distorting facts. Ultimately, this profession is a trust, and if a journalist loses the public's trust, they lose their most valuable asset. 10. In closing, what message do you offer to the new generation of journalists? What advice do you wish someone had given you when you first started? Rakan Qaddah: I tell them: read extensively, learn from everyone you work with, and do not rush toward fame. Journalism is not merely about appearing on screen, nor is it defined by follower counts or views. It is knowledge, culture, language, ethics, and responsibility. My advice to young journalists is to respect the craft, respect their guests, respect the audience, and verify every piece of information before publishing. I also say: never stop learning. Even after all these years, I am still learning, reading, observing, and drawing from the experiences of others. As for the advice I wish I had received at the start of my journey, it would be to practice patience. Building a genuine, respected professional reputation in this field takes a lifetime. Fame can arrive quickly, but a respected professional legacy requires a lifetime to build. My final hope for every new journalist is that they safeguard the word. The word is our true capital; if we respect it, the public will respect us, and the profession will honor our work.
Interview by Atef Abu Hajar Certain voices leave an indelible mark on memory, transcending the broadcast moment long after the microphone is turned off. Rakan Qaddah stands as one of those iconic voices—a familiar figure to Jordanian audiences for decades, defined by his distinct vocal tone, calm presence, and an approach intrinsically tied to a golden era of Jordanian media. Starting at Radio Jordan, Qaddah moved across several radio and television stations before establishing himself as a prominent face on Jordan TV. There, he anchored news bulletins and hosted a diverse array of programs before transitioning to satellite channels to continue his media career. In this interview, we do not merely trace an anchor's biography; we open pages from a period when journalism relied on the power of the word, vocal discipline, and thorough preparation. We listen to the veteran host as he reflects on his origins, memories, and the media landscape as he knew it—and as he perceives it today. 1. You began your career at Radio Jordan, with the Holy Quran Radio serving as a major milestone in your early journey. What did that experience add to your professional and personal development? Rakan Qaddah: Radio Jordan was a true institution. Anyone entering it at that time was stepping into a prestigious organization filled with prominent names and deep journalistic expertise. The radio was not just a workplace; it was a school where one learned how to respect the word, respect the listener, and thoroughly prepare content before approaching the microphone. Working at the Holy Quran Radio added another dimension. Dealing with the Holy Quran and religious programming requires extreme linguistic precision, refined delivery, accurate information, and, above all, profound respect for the material presented to the public. I firmly believe that early beginnings shape a journalist's career. While one continues to learn over time, that first school remains embedded in one's character and methodology throughout life. You carry forward much from your origins—preparation techniques, respect for time, rigorous fact-checking, and deep consideration for the listener are all principles I absorbed during that phase, which have stayed with me across my entire career. Radio has remained a foundational part of my professional identity. I have always believed that radio grants a broadcaster a unique ability to connect with people using only words and voice, without the visual aid of the screen. 2. You later transitioned to Jordan TV, becoming a signature voice accompanying Jordanian television during the 1980s and 1990s. How would you describe that era, which many refer to as the golden age of Jordanian media? Rakan Qaddah: It was a distinct period by all standards. Jordan TV was a major media pillar, professional competition among colleagues was exceptionally high, and there was immense respect for the craft, the screen, and the viewer. While I dislike claiming that the past was superior in every single aspect, there is no doubt that the nature of media work back then afforded journalists more time to prepare, verify, and learn from experienced mentors. We worked alongside legendary figures, each a school in their own right. Presenters, directors, producers, camera operators, and technicians operated as a cohesive team, with every individual fully aware of their responsibilities. Crucially, broadcasters in that era understood that appearing on screen carried significant responsibility, knowing that the viewer sitting at home trusted what they saw and heard. That is why that era remains etched in public memory—not solely because of the programs, but due to the spirit of teamwork, institutional dedication, and the colleagues who built that legacy. 3. You presented a wide range of programs—such as TV Magazine, Evening Break, Eid Break, Friday Meeting, and Tourism Journey—alongside anchoring news bulletins. Which of these experiences left the greatest impact on your career, and why? Rakan Qaddah: I presented and produced a vast array of content, and every program left a mark on me. It is difficult to single out one program as the most important, as I view everything I presented as a valuable contribution to the media archive, public memory, and the history of Jordan TV. A diverse portfolio is what builds a presenter's expertise. News bulletins taught me precision, discipline, and rapid information processing, whereas talk shows and variety programs taught me how to engage with guests and viewers through a different dynamic. I particularly recall programs that took us across Jordan, such as the travel shows, which held a special place for us. We were not merely presenting tourism facts; we were introducing people to their country, its history, its heritage, and its natural beauty. Journalist Nabil Ammari once wrote about 'Rakan Qaddah and the Good Old Days,' reflecting on several programs I presented—including TV Magazine and Tourism Tour—which focused on Jordan's identity, heritage, and landmarks. The true beauty of those experiences lay in their ability to reach people simply and authentically, without pretense. 4. Your presence with the audience became associated with a calm demeanor, a warm smile, and a distinct voice. How did you cultivate this long-standing relationship with viewers and listeners? Rakan Qaddah: I never attempted to craft an artificial persona on camera that differed from my true self. I treated people the way I liked to be treated. A broadcaster enters people's homes, which is a immense responsibility. Therefore, I was always mindful to maintain a calm tone, speak clearly, and never treat the viewer as a passive recipient. Trust is not built overnight. You might capture public attention once or twice with your presence, but maintaining a relationship with an audience over decades requires sincerity, consistency, and respect for the viewer's intellect. The audience is intelligent; they easily distinguish between a journalist merely performing a job and one who views the public as part of their extended family. 5. Despite the technological advancements in media tools, you still rely on pen and paper during your preparation. What does this method represent to you, and do you believe today's journalists should retain such practices? Rakan Qaddah: For me, pen and paper are not mere tools; they are an integral part of the thought process, preparation, and intellectual enrichment. When you handwrite a question, re-read it, and jot down notes, you enter an interview fully aware of what you want to extract from your guest. I am not suggesting that modern journalists should abandon technology and revert exclusively to pen and paper. Technology is vital, and I fully support leveraging it. However, technology must serve the profession, not replace it—or replace the journalist's mind. The issue lies not in smartphones, computers, or social media platforms, but rather when a journalist relies on them blindly without verifying facts, reading thoroughly, questioning, or identifying the source of information. I have previously raised this issue, criticizing the spread of unsourced news and the entry of unqualified individuals into the media field. I always emphasize the necessity of having specialists and experienced professionals leading the craft to protect the media hierarchy as a vital state institution. 6. You are known for meticulous preparation and repeatedly reviewing your questions. In your view, what makes a journalistic question successful and capable of eliciting a genuine response from a guest? Rakan Qaddah: A good question stems from thorough knowledge of both the topic and the guest. You cannot enter an interview without knowing your guest's background, work, or previous statements. When you research and read extensively, you can formulate a meaningful question rather than a generic one that the guest can answer with a canned response. Sometimes, a short question is far more powerful than a lengthy one. What matters is clarity and knowing precisely what answer you seek to elicit. Furthermore, we must give guests adequate space to respond. A presenter's role is not to speak more than the guest, but to guide them toward the core objective. A skilled journalist listens attentively to the response, rather than merely waiting for the guest to finish so they can read the next question. 7. After decades of television work, you continued broadcasting through satellite channels—such as Noormina TV—and subsequently returned to radio. What drives a media professional to keep giving after so many years? Rakan Qaddah: To me, journalism is neither a job that ends when working hours expire, nor is it a daily routine. It is a vocation driven by continuous learning, skill renewal, and information sharing. If you genuinely love this profession, it is hard to walk away. You may leave an institution, or the nature of the work may evolve, but the word remains, and you will always have something meaningful to say. I believe a true journalist stays close to the people and their issues—whether behind a microphone, in front of a camera, or through writing. 8. You witnessed the transition from traditional radio and television to satellite networks, digital platforms, and social media. How do you view this transformation, and what has it brought to the media? Rakan Qaddah: The transformation is massive, granting people unprecedented access to information and a platform to express their views. However, it has simultaneously presented media with a major challenge: publishing speed has sometimes taken precedence over news accuracy. In the past, news underwent multiple stages of editing and verification before reaching the public. Today, anyone can draft a news item and publish it in seconds to reach thousands. These digital tools have clearly contributed to the decline of print journalism. I remain strongly opposed to the spread of rumors and unverified news that lacks reliable sources. Therefore, while I support technology, I advocate for journalists who know how to use it responsibly, verifying information before disseminating it to the public. 9. Reflecting on your long career, how do you define a journalist's responsibility toward society and the nation? Does the media message still hold the same duty and trust you learned in your early years? Rakan Qaddah: Media is a responsibility before it is a profession. A journalist has the power to build or to destroy, and must therefore understand the weight of the words they utter. I am firmly against defamation, character assassination, and smearing individuals. At the same time, I strongly support exposing mistakes and corruption—provided it is done through factual truth, verified information, and reliable sources, rather than personal attacks or exaggeration. I expressed this stance clearly in a previous interview, stating that exposing corruption does not mean resorting to character assassination or distorting facts. Ultimately, this profession is a trust, and if a journalist loses the public's trust, they lose their most valuable asset. 10. In closing, what message do you offer to the new generation of journalists? What advice do you wish someone had given you when you first started? Rakan Qaddah: I tell them: read extensively, learn from everyone you work with, and do not rush toward fame. Journalism is not merely about appearing on screen, nor is it defined by follower counts or views. It is knowledge, culture, language, ethics, and responsibility. My advice to young journalists is to respect the craft, respect their guests, respect the audience, and verify every piece of information before publishing. I also say: never stop learning. Even after all these years, I am still learning, reading, observing, and drawing from the experiences of others. As for the advice I wish I had received at the start of my journey, it would be to practice patience. Building a genuine, respected professional reputation in this field takes a lifetime. Fame can arrive quickly, but a respected professional legacy requires a lifetime to build. My final hope for every new journalist is that they safeguard the word. The word is our true capital; if we respect it, the public will respect us, and the profession will honor our work.
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Rakan Qaddah: Memory of a Jordanian Voice and a Decades-Long Media Legacy
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