On October 28, 2021, INMA and Google News Initiative (GNI) awarded their Elevate Scholarship to 50 news media professionals around the world. This series features these impressive media professionals who are shaping our industry.

Stephanie Sison has long been passionate about two things: journalism and fashion. After earning her journalism degree from the University of Phillippines Dilman, she set her sights on working at the country’s top fashion magazine, Preview.ph.

Beginning as an editorial assistant, her lifelong interest in fashion paid off. Just eight months after being promoted to fashion assistant, she took the reins as deputy managing editor.

“I gladly took the managerial role, which pushed me way out of my comfort zone,” she said. But she quickly found her footing and, two years into her role, she has grown the brand to its highest number of pageviews and boosted user acquisition. She’s also helped improve content strategy and beefed up the brand’s video vertical. And she’s not done:

“From here, I plan to grow the Preview brand further into the national arena,” Sison said. “Once I accomplish this, I hope to replicate the success with other brands within the Summit Media network.”

Her rapid ascent has not gone unnoticed — or unappreciated — by those around her:

“It’s been impressive witnessing how Steph has paved her career path thus far, from a promising intern to a full-fledged leader of the team,” said Marjerie Ramos, deputy content-in-chief for women’s titles at Summit Media. “As an editor, she continuously exhibits integrity and excellent journalism skills. As a leader, she is well-respected among her colleagues.”

As an Elevate Scholarship recipient, Sison said she is eager to grow her people management skills, analytical skills, and strategic planning for a future in the digital space. But she also is enthusiastic about playing a role in changing how women are perceived in journalism.

“It has always been my personal goal to transform the mainstream media, or at least Preview.ph, into a positive and empowering space for everyone,” she said. “I hope that my perspective as a woman and a creative from the Philippines can help diversify how we portray women online, where the next generation is birthed into. I want to contribute to making sure that every individual is seen, heard, and represented in mainstream media.”

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