Depok-The Multimedia Broadcasting study program in the Vocational Education Program at the Universitas Indonesia (UI) once again presents an inspiring activity through Vocast Talks, a series of seminars or public lectures held by students. Carrying the theme “Storytelling in Personal Branding,” the activity, organized by the student group Wanderink Media, featured Reza Baluwel, Co-Founder of Broscast Podcast and professional news anchor and MC, as a resource person.
The Head of the Multimedia Broadcasting Study Program, Peny Meliaty Hutabarat, S.Sos., M.S.M., in her remarks, emphasized that understanding storytelling is an important asset for broadcasting students in the digital content era. This year’s Vocast Talks is also integrated with the Multiplatform Media Production course. “Storytelling is both a storytelling technique and the ability to authentically construct messages, values, and self-image. This ability is the foundation for every communications practitioner. We want students to experience its practical value directly through activities like Vocast Talks,” said Peny.
(Photo: Awarding of appreciation certificate by the Head of the Multimedia Broadcasting Study Program, Peny Meliaty Hutabarat, S.Sos., M.S.M.)
In his presentation, Reza opened his presentation with a moving statement. “You are the story you tell. The world of communication isn’t just about who’s smart, but about how you convey it,” Reza said.
In the age of social media, anyone can create content, but what sets it apart is the authentic content and value behind it. Some important reasons why building a personal brand early on include gaining control over your life’s narrative, creating a consistent and credible impression, and authentically reflecting your values, voice, and uniqueness.
Reza also introduced the four main pillars of personal branding: Values (something you strive for), Skills (differentiating skills), Voice (how you tell a story or convey a narrative), and Consistency (maintaining consistency across all platforms). Next, Reza shared a powerful and easy-to-understand storytelling formula, starting with the hook, conflict, transformation, and message. This formula helps someone convey an emotional, powerful, and memorable message.
Equally important, Reza shared his professional experience as a news anchor and content creator. Reza emphasized the importance of connecting with sources to create relevant and emotional stories. “The most touching stories usually emerge when we truly understand the person. That connection helps us tell authentic and impactful stories,” Reza explained.
(Photo: Group photo with the audience after the Vocast Talks event with Reza Baluwel ended)
One of the students, Gabriella Epifania Putri Bintang Januari, who was also the project leader for the activity, said that Reza’s presentation was highly relevant to students’ needs in the digital communication era. “I’ve come to understand more clearly that personal branding isn’t about image, but rather how we build an honest story about ourselves,” she concluded.
Through Vocast Talks, UI Vocational demonstrates its commitment to providing practice-based learning that is relevant to modern media developments.
