Writing is more than just putting words on paper—it’s about capturing stories, amplifying voices, and making an impact. For over two decades, Nanju Francisco has embraced this challenge, carving out a remarkable career in journalism. As the Editor-in-Chief of Pinoy Aksyon News Bahrain, she has not only earned accolades but also broken barriers, proving that perseverance and passion can shape a meaningful legacy in media.
Nanju’s path in media began with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the prestigious Far Eastern University (FEU) in the Philippines. She built her foundation in the industry through various roles, working as a radio announcer, journalist, and photojournalist before taking her career beyond Philippine shores.
In 2008, she moved to Bahrain in pursuit of greater opportunities. “I wanted to support my family and give them a better life,” she shares with The Global Filipino Magazine. Beyond financial motivations, she was eager to expand her professional network and gain international exposure. “Stepping outside my comfort zone has allowed me to grow, learn new techniques, and enhance my professional skills.”
Breaking barriers in media
Nanju’s career is filled with pioneering achievements. She made history as the first and only Filipina journalist to cover Istana Nurul Iman, the grand palace of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in Brunei Darussalam, while working as a correspondent for News Express from 2001 to 2003. Her reputation as a trailblazer continued when she became the first and only Filipina newscaster for Bahrain TV from 2011 to 2012.
Her impactful work has earned her numerous awards, including the Best in Print Journalism Award for her column “Tanglaw sa Gitnang Silangan” in the Abante Middle East Edition, given at the Migration Advocacy Award (MAM) 2012. In June 2014, the Philippine Embassy in Bahrain honored her with the Embassy Partner Best in Media Award for her dedication to covering issues affecting Filipino workers in the country.
A storied career in journalism
Over the years, Nanju has held various high-profile roles in the media industry across multiple countries. She served as a Senior Sub-Editor at the Daily Tribune Bahrain, Editor-in-Chief for Diyaryo Pinoy Bahrain Edition, and a columnist for Gulfy.com covering stories in the GCC and USA.
Her writing prowess was further recognized in 2022 when the Philippine Embassy in Manama commissioned her as a content writer for their coffee table book, Strong Ties, Greater Strides, commemorating the 44th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Bahrain. This publication was distributed globally, solidifying her reputation as a key figure in Filipino journalism abroad.
Currently, Nanju leads Pinoy Aksyon News Bahrain, an accredited online Filipino newspaper recognized by the Ministry of Information of Bahrain. Her influence continues to grow, winning GDNLife’s People’s Choice Award 2023-2024 for her article The Last Goodbye in March 2024. Additionally, she was a top nominee for the Woman of the Year Awards 2024 under the Women in Media Category for Woman This Month Magazine.
Passion for the craft
Nanju’s love for journalism is deeply rooted in her belief that storytelling has the power to create change. “I chose this field because I have always been passionate about communication,” she explains. “Journalism is not just about reporting facts—it’s about creating a dialogue that leads to positive change.”
The most rewarding aspect of her job is the impact her work has on the community. “Whether it’s celebrating achievements, highlighting important issues, or addressing the struggles of Filipinos abroad, I find fulfillment in knowing that our stories resonate with our readers.”
The challenges of working abroad
Despite her success, working overseas came with its fair share of struggles. “Loneliness was one of the biggest challenges,” she admits. Being away from her family and friends often made her feel isolated. She also faced difficulties when dealing with illness in a foreign country, which was further exacerbated by unfamiliar healthcare systems.
Additionally, she encountered betrayal from trusted individuals and unclaimed payments for her work, which tested her resilience. “These experiences taught me the importance of adaptability and self-advocacy,” she shares. Through perseverance and a strong support system, she overcame these obstacles and continued excelling in her career.
Despite these challenges, Nanju sees immense value in working abroad. “Living in a different country exposes you to diverse cultures, viewpoints, and societal issues,” she notes. “This has broadened my perspective and enriched my storytelling.”
Her international experience has also led to professional growth, allowing her to develop skills in multilingual communication, cultural sensitivity, and innovative reporting methods. Moreover, she has built a vast global network of media professionals, which has opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
On a personal level, working abroad has instilled independence, resilience, and adaptability. “Navigating unfamiliar environments has boosted my confidence and problem-solving skills. It’s a transformative experience that has shaped both my career and my life.”
Future plans and aspirations
Looking ahead, Nanju envisions a future where she continues to make a difference in journalism and beyond. She plans to keep writing for newspapers, ensuring that important stories continue to be told.
She also dreams of writing a book about her journey as an OFW, providing insights and guidance for fellow Filipinos aspiring to work abroad. “I want to share my experiences and offer advice that could help others navigate their own paths.”
Another passion project of hers is teaching underprivileged students and fellow Filipinos back home. “Education is a powerful tool for change, and I want to give back by helping others learn and grow.” Additionally, she hopes to start a charitable organization focused on poverty alleviation, aiming to create sustainable programs that uplift struggling communities.
After 24 years of working overseas, Nanju shares valuable advice with fellow OFWs: Have faith in God and in yourself, as belief in a higher power and self-confidence can help navigate tough times. Stay strong in the face of adversity, knowing that resilience and determination are key to overcoming challenges. Remaining loyal to your spouse and loved ones is essential, as distance can test relationships, but faithfulness strengthens family bonds. Humility goes a long way—respecting others and staying grounded will open more doors than arrogance ever will. Lastly, financial security should be a priority; saving money ensures a stable and sustainable future.
