11th Journey Kicks Off Magically with Pavel Talankin, Co-Director of the Oscar-Winning Documentary Mr. Nobody Against Putin

“Document, document, and document once more.” That was the rallying cry issued to this year’s participants of the Journey: Journalism Bootcamp by Pavel Talankin, co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary *Mr. Nobody Against Putin*. For eleven years, the summer journalism school has connected talented young journalists from around the globe with industry leaders. Over ten days, 21 rising stars will undergo an intensive program focusing on investigative reporting, interviewing techniques, fact-checking, and compelling storytelling.

The opening day featured a screening of *Mr. Nobody Against Putin*, which took home this year’s Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The film was followed by a Q&A with Talankin, who discussed the critical role of investigative journalism, press freedom, and the imperative to record stories and events that might otherwise be forgotten.

“Words, in my not-so-humble opinion, are our most inexhaustible source of magic. Words have the power to inflict pain, but also to heal. I hope every one of you uses your words not to hurt, but to heal,” said Talankin, wrapping up his keynote speech in Prague’s Grébovka Park with a nod to Dumbledore.

In the coming days, participants will take part in a series of workshops, practical exercises, and discussions led by top international reporters and editors from outlets including CNN, The New York Times, Associated Press, Reuters, and RFE/RL.