Children’s Spotlight of the Week: Hilde Lysiak – Breaking Barriers in Journalism
In a world where the voices of the young are often overshadowed, Hilde Lysiak has risen as a trailblazer, shattering age and gender stereotypes in journalism. At just 17 years old, Hilde has already made her mark as a journalist, publisher, author, and advocate for press freedom. Her journey, which began in the small town of Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s passion.
A Young Reporter with Big Dreams
Hilde Lysiak’s love for journalism blossomed early. At the age of 7, she founded her own newspaper, The Orange Street News, where she reported on local community stories. What started as a passion project soon evolved into a platform that showcased her journalistic integrity and desire to uncover the truth. While many children her age were playing with toys, Hilde was investigating neighborhood events, gathering facts, and writing stories that captured her community’s attention.
In 2016, at just 9 years old, Hilde made headlines herself by breaking the news of a homicide in her town. She was the first reporter to cover the story, publishing the news before any other outlet. This moment catapulted Hilde into the national spotlight, but not without controversy. Many questioned whether a young girl should be reporting on crime, with some critics saying, “9-year-old girls should be playing with dolls, not trying to be reporters.”
Standing Strong Against Criticism
The backlash Hilde faced for her groundbreaking reporting did not deter her. Instead, she boldly defended her work, standing by the principles of journalism and the public’s right to know the truth. Her response to the criticism highlighted her maturity beyond her years and her commitment to the field she loves. Hilde’s story became a powerful symbol of youth empowerment in journalism, challenging societal expectations and proving that age and gender should never limit one’s potential.
Her courage and perseverance earned her widespread recognition. She became the youngest member of the Society of Professional Journalists and, in 2019, received the prestigious Junior Zenger Award for Press Freedom, an honor given to journalists who champion press freedom and the public’s right to information.
From Newsroom to TV Screens
Hilde’s extraordinary journey caught the attention of major media outlets, leading to a book deal with Scholastic and the development of a TV series inspired by her life. In April 2020, Home Before Dark premiered on Apple TV+, with actress Brooklynn Prince portraying a fictionalized version of Hilde. The series brought her story to a global audience, showcasing how her determination as a young journalist defied the odds and broke through barriers.
A Passion for Press Freedom
In 2020, Hilde Lysiak took a step back from her reporting career to reflect on her experiences in her memoir, Hilde on the Record: Memoir of a Kid Crime Reporter. The book offers a candid look at the personal challenges she faced as a young reporter in the public eye, from navigating the national spotlight to dealing with the pressures that came with her success.
Hilde’s story has become a rallying cry for young people everywhere, especially girls, who are often told that their ambitions are too big for their age or gender. She has shown the world that passion, commitment, and a fearless spirit can overcome any obstacle. Even though she is no longer reporting full-time, her impact continues to inspire the next generation of journalists and young leaders.
A Visionary Voice for Change
Today, at 17, Hilde Lysiak is an advocate for press freedom and continues to challenge norms around age and gender in the media industry. Her work serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of their background or age, can create meaningful change. Through her unwavering dedication to journalism and storytelling, Hilde has empowered other young people to raise their voices and pursue their dreams unapologetically.
Her message is clear: “You’re never too young to make a difference. Follow your passion, and don’t let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do.”
As we celebrate Hilde Lysiak in this week’s spotlight, we honor her courage, tenacity, and commitment to truth. She is a shining example of what can be achieved when we believe in ourselves and challenge the limitations society places on us. For young girls and boys across the world, Hilde is a reminder that the future belongs to those who dare to dream—and act—boldly.
