Job shadowing experience that shaped my perspective on HR & diversity
By Tea Kuzic
Over the past two months, I had the opportunity to take part in a professional mobility program that led me to Slovenia, Germany, and Ireland. Each country offered a unique experience that deepened my understanding of human resources, learning and development, and diversity within the media.
My journey began in Slovenia, where I spent time at RTV Slovenia in Ljubljana and RTV Capodistria. I had the chance to see how their HR Department and Training Centre organize internal trainings, talent development, and performance evaluation. I was especially inspired by their structured approach to employee learning and motivation, something I immediately wanted to adapt within my own organization. Discussions with bilingual editorial teams also showed me how multilingualism and minority inclusion play an important role in public media.
In Germany, I visited Deutsche Welle in Bonn and gained valuable insight into how HR and internal communication work together to strengthen organizational culture. I observed how learning and development programs are designed, how employee progress is tracked through digital tools, and how HR collaborates with marketing to promote corporate values. Seeing such a strong connection between professional growth and creativity in the workplace was truly motivating.
My last stop was in Dublin, Ireland, where I explored how public media institutions approach diversity and inclusion. Meetings with the Head of Diversity and Inclusion helped me understand how equality focused strategies are developed and implemented in practice. I also attended the IFTA Screen: Dynamic Diverse 2025 event, which brought together professionals dedicated to promoting gender equality, diversity, and fair representation in media.
Each of these experiences gave me new ideas and practical knowledge. I returned with a stronger motivation to help build an inclusive and supportive work environment. The time I spent in Slovenia, Germany, and Ireland not only expanded my professional horizons but also reminded me why I am passionate about creating opportunities for growth, collaboration, and positive change within my organization.
Funded by the European Union, the Innovation. Media. Minds Program: Support to Public Service Journalism in the Western Balkans, is managed by the Goethe-Institut on behalf of the European Commission and in collaboration with its implementing partner DW Akademie. The contents of this story are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.