Amrit Kaur Manku BA(Hons)

Multimedia Writer | Journalist

Greater Reading Area

About

Storytelling is at the heart of everything I do. As a multi-media journalist, I craft narratives that highlight social freedom. Passionate about uncovering and sharing transformative stories that inspire, empower, and heal, the influence of calisthenics has been more than just a sport, but a holistic tool for wellness, mental health, social impact, healing, and change for the youth in this digital age. My work spans writing, presenting, content production, and digital storytelling - from news articles and interviews to social media, photography, and video editing. Through an independent blog website, 'That Cali Journo', I document athlete journeys and highlight the resilience behind the sport, pioneering a unique voice in calisthenics journalism. Behind the pen, lens, and mic, my mission is to tell stories that matter, connect communities, and create lasting impact. Holding a 2:1 honours degree in English Language and Linguistics from the University of Southampton, I have built a strong foundation in writing and communication. My journey into journalism was initially shaped by my student work as News Editor and Local Journalist for Hampshire. These experiences strengthened my ability to craft compelling narratives that connect with audiences. Recognised for my creative writing early in my career, I was awarded Deloitte’s Imagination Award in 2017, reflecting my commitment to impactful storytelling. Beyond journalism, I have explored multimedia storytelling, intertwining photography with writing. I aim to influence future minds stepping into media, as a lifestyle educator, to inspire a new discipline of creative education. My freelance photography career has led me to collaborate with renowned artists, including BBC Introducing Artist of the Year Olivia Dean and BRIT Award Winner Dermot Kennedy. Through my multifaceted approach to visual storytelling, I leverage technical expertise in digital media, professional equipment, and a proactive mindset to craft compelling narratives. I have expanded into social media copywriting, b2b and b2c, blending strategic communication with storytelling to engage digital audiences. I am also completing my NCTJ journalism qualification to deepen my industry knowledge while actively growing my writing career. At my core, I am a storyteller dedicated to uncovering powerful narratives with a creative approach to news and media. I believe in using my work as a means of empowerment, inspiration, and social impact that continuously exploring new ways to push the boundaries of modern journalism and visual storytelling.

Experience

  • Freelance Journalist at National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ)
    Feb 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 6 mos

    Completing my NCTJ, journalism qualification.

  • Student Mentor at Parker Enterprise Company Ltd
    Oct 2025 - Dec 2025 · 3 mos

  • Multimedia Journalist at University Calisthenics Association
    Jun 2023 - Nov 2025 · 2 yrs 6 mos

    Working with the marketing team to produce written content for UCA’s digital platforms. Collecting UCA’s news to compile news highlights and updates though our monthly newsletters and releasing them via EDI channels. I have used algorithm analysis to help promote calisthenics as a growing sport in the UK through relevant SEO practice to help grow their social media presence. I have also volunteered with the anti-knife crime charity, Steel Warriors, and worked closely with Christian d'Ippolito, head of marketing and communications, to help market the charity's community-driven events through digital content creation, using my videography and photography techniques. Predominately, actively recording, photographing, such as interviewing a well-known athlete and world record breaker, Adam Morsel, at the Guinness World Record handstand day event attempt in August 2023, being a substantial highlight.

  • Photographer & Journalist at Steel Warriors
    Aug 2023 - Aug 2025 · 2 yrs 1 mo

  • Copywriter at Twenty One Twelve Marketing
    May 2024 - Jul 2024 · 3 mos

    A part of the copywriting team, working closely to write advertising copy for company’s social channels, such as LinkedIn, for a variety of clients, including accountancy firms and an ESG firm.