Getting arrested with the Stansted 15 was my unexpected start in journalism

Having started a week’s work experience at The Independent two years ago, a story landed on my lap. What followed changed my career forever

My career in journalism began with a bit of a bang. Or a whimper, depending on how you view it.

Having started a week’s work experience at The Independent back in March 2017, a story landed on my lap. An acquaintance had put me in touch with an activist who was looking for a journalist savvy with a video camera. I wasn’t told anything of what I would be filming – details were kept to a minimum to avoid any information leaking to the police – but just that it was likely to be national news. Eager to make an impression, I jumped at the chance.

Little was I to know that all I was to get for my troubles was 24 hours in a jail cell in Harlow police station – with no scoop to speak of.