How to Pitch Stories that Land an Assignment

01/29/2026, 5:30pm – 8:00pm

Breaking into today’s media landscape takes more than a good idea — it requires a strong angle, cultural insight, and good understanding of what editors actually want.

Hosted by the Asian American Journalists Association and the Deadline Club, this panel brings together editors across beats to demystify the pitching process for early-career journalists.

Panelists Vivian Toy from The New York Times, Althea Chang-Cook from Consumer Reports, and Manisha Krishnan from WIRED will share how they evaluate pitches, common mistakes that hold stories back, and how cultural depth can strengthen reporting rather than dilute it.

The evening will conclude with an open networking session for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and spark future collaborations.

PANELISTS

•   Vivian Toy (The New York Times)
•   Althea Chang-Cook (Consumer Reports)
•   Manisha Krishnan (WIRED)
•   Moderator: Tina Wang (AAJA New York President)

AT A GLANCE

WHEN: Thursday, January 29, 5:30-8:00 p.m. (please arrive by 5:50 p.m.)

WHERE: Weber Shandwick New York, 909 3rd Ave., New York, NY 10022

TICKETS: The event is free. Please register with this link.

NOTE: This event is open to all journalists. Refreshments and snacks will be provided.

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