Rob:  Since our first trip to Mali, a lot has happened.  A government crack down on free speech did put some of the journalists we first met in jail, but only briefly.  On a positive note, thanks to a state department grant, a group of Mali journalists were able to travel to Oklahoma and work with us.  With more, here’s our Brian Bendele.
Brian:  Let’s be honest, if you were from Mali Africa, would you choose Oklahoma as your first tourist destination?  Probably not, but fortunately for us here at Oklahoma HORIZON, we had the unique opportunity to become tour guides for a group of journalists from Mali; and to our surprise, we exceeded their expectations.
Kodji:  One of the first things that impressed me, since I have been here in Oklahoma, is the way the American people welcome us.
Brian:  Which is reassuring to hear, because when Kodji Siby came to Oklahoma to study our journalism techniques, we held nothing back.  They had the opportunity not just to cover the stories, but also take part in them.  And while we tried to have a lot of fun, other lessons were learned.
Kodji:  We had the impression that they were such big workers that they don’t have time to care of people, but I am impressed that in fact, really, since our arrival they have been there always ready to help people.
Brian:  So not only did they learn about Oklahoma, but also how we conduct ourselves as reporters and what topics are important to the state.
Kodji:  It was an exchange, whatever we didn’t understand we were allowed to ask questions we like; and really, it was as I said, an exchange.
Brian:  An exchange that also transcended across media from TV to radio; as disc jockey, Aathe Diama hopes to make the change from DJ to TV reporter.
Agathe:  In radio I have some qualities, maybe I can use them on TV, because I see my future in communication.
Brian:  A future that only appears bright for both the Malians that came to visit us and the country they will report back to.
Rob:  Well to learn more about Oklahoma’s Mali connection, head to our website at OkHorizon.com where I have an online exclusive conversation with two reporters who just returned.