Feature Stories

Broadcast Journalism · Level 6  ·  6 Chapters

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What Feature Stories covers

In this unit, you will be able to craft compelling feature stories by skillfully identifying and researching engaging topics, conducting insightful interviews, and gathering rich data both online and on location. You'll learn to select the right style and language that resonate with your audience and organizational goals, while mastering professional techniques to bring stories to life with depth and authenticity. By the end, you'll confidently create feature articles that inform, inspire, and connect with readers in meaningful ways.

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Careers after Feature Stories

Feature stories are powerful tools that bring real-life experiences, ideas, and issues to life for audiences across Kenya. Mastering how to create compelling feature stories opens doors to vibrant careers in media, communication, and beyond, where you can influence public opinion, promote social change, and celebrate Kenyan culture and innovation.

  • In Kenya’s bustling media houses like Nation Media Group, Standard Group, or Radio Africa Group, skilled feature writers craft stories that engage millions, earning stable employment and opportunities for career growth.
  • The vibrant jua kali sector and agribusiness industries, such as KTDA, rely on storytelling to highlight success stories, challenges, and innovations, creating demand for storytellers who can capture authentic voices and narratives.
  • County governments and organizations like KenGen use feature stories to communicate development projects and community impacts, offering roles in public relations and communications.
  • The thriving matatu industry and hospitality sector also benefit from feature writers who can humanize stories of daily life, culture, and tourism, opening pathways for freelance or entrepreneurial storytelling ventures.
  • As a skilled feature storyteller, you can also become a freelance journalist or content creator, working with digital platforms, NGOs, and corporate entities to produce engaging content that drives awareness and action, enabling you to earn independently.

By mastering feature storytelling, you’re not just learning to write—you’re preparing to be a voice that informs, inspires, and connects Kenyans from all walks of life. Your future as a storyteller is bright and full of possibility!

Chapters

What Feature Stories covers: 34 main topics in 6 chapters

1. Determine feature story ideas

  1. 1.1 Meaning of features
  2. 1.2 Nature of feature stories
  3. 1.3 Characteristics of features
  4. 1.4 Sources of feature stories
  5. 1.5 Qualities of a good feature writer
  6. 1.6 Functions of features

2. Determine feature article style

  1. 2.1 Types of feature stories
  2. 2.2 Process of writing different features
  3. 2.3 Language of features
  4. 2.4 Special features
  5. 2.5 Broadcast features
  6. 2.6 Newspaper features
  7. 2.7 Editorial opinions
  8. 2.8 Opinion columns
  9. 2.9 Reviews

3. Research feature stories

  1. 3.1 Factors to consider when researching for features
  2. 3.2 Safety measures when conducting features research
  3. 3.3 Gathering information for features
  4. 3.4 Documenting data and information gathered
  5. 3.5 Topic selection

4. Interview for feature stories

  1. 4.1 Relevance of interview
  2. 4.2 Types of feature interview
  3. 4.3 Location
  4. 4.4 Preparation for the interview
  5. 4.5 Structuring interview questions

5. Write feature story

  1. 5.1 Structure of features
  2. 5.2 Styles for the intro
  3. 5.3 Guidelines for feature leads
  4. 5.4 Feature body and conclusion
  5. 5.5 Functions of a features sub-editor

6. Market feature story

  1. 6.1 Creating teasers, blurbs and standfirsts
  2. 6.2 Broadcast feature promotion clips
  3. 6.3 Print feature promotion ads
  4. 6.4 Talk shows

Revise this unit

3 more for this unit

Beyond the syllabus

Other units in Module III