When we launched Santa Monica Next in 2013, we had a simple idea: create a news site that focused not just on what happened today, but on how today’s decisions shape the future. To do that, we recruited young journalists, most notably Gary Kavanagh, Lindsey Miller, and Jason Islas.
Today, I’m proud to announce that Next is returning to its roots. You won’t see dramatic changes overnight, but our new goal is to become a true launching pad for young journalists. Our target is ambitious: by the 2028 elections, all of our election coverage will be written by journalists 25 and under. By 2030, I plan to hand the editor’s role to a younger journalist and return to pitching stories like any other writer who wants to cover Santa Monica.
We know this won’t happen because of a single grant or donation. It will happen because we put in the work. We’ve already begun laying the foundation, including a partnership with a local youth organization (announcement coming soon) that will have Santa Monica high school students interview City Council candidates this fall. We’re also developing a program that will allow SMMUSD students to help lead and expand our coverage of local schools later this year.
If you believe Santa Monica should have a home for youth journalism, we’d love your help. You can support this effort with a donation. If you have ideas, questions, or simply want to get involved, I’m always happy to talk. Reach me at damien@santamonicanext.org.
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