Multimedia journalist
VPM, Richmond, Va.
Age: 27
In three words: “Enterprising, committed, passionate”
What colleagues say: What sets Keyris apart from other journalists is her profound commitment to representing and amplifying voices that are often marginalized in local news coverage. Her work takes her to Latino communities across the state, where her careful reporting illuminates the most pressing issues facing citizens and the humanity of her subjects. In addition to her exceptional journalism, Keyris demonstrates versatility and creativity as a digital content creator. She has developed and contributed original short-form arts and culture content, including engaging cooking tutorials celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and a captivating tour of Hispanic-owned businesses in central Virginia.
Outside of work, Keyris is a shining role model for young journalists and a willing ambassador for public media. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, she is a sought-after guest speaker and collaborator on campus. In the past year, she generously provided portfolio advice to students, led discussions on diversity in media and delivered a keynote address at a graduation ceremony honoring Hispanic/Latino and Caribbean students.
What Keyris says
Decision to work in public media: I came to public media with the desire and drive to connect with the community on a deeper level through reporting. When I joined VPM News in 2021, VPM News Focal Point, a weekly half-hour news magazine, was launching. Coming from a commercial background focused on digital-first media, I found a unique opportunity to dive into more in-depth, people-focused reporting.
Key accomplishments: The bilingual stories I’m able to tell about Latinos in Virginia. I’ve traversed the state, forming connections with Latinos and telling stories that would have gone unreported given language barriers. I’ve produced in-depth reports on migrant farmworkers, the Latino community on the Eastern Shore and a series on the state of mobile home parks. My stories have been nominated for regional Emmys and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists 2024 Ñ Awards. Another key accomplishment was a VPM News Focal Point special that featured a compilation of my bilingual reporting. I wrote and anchored the show.
Inspired by: My culture and community. I was born and raised in Virginia, and I’ve been lucky to have a career in journalism here. I understand the community and the challenges Virginians face. My duty is to listen and report with authenticity and care.
Advice for young public media professionals: Stay true to yourself and never stop learning! Explore the multiplatform outlets at your public media station — TV, radio, digital, podcasting and web.
Advice for public media leaders: Continue investing in high-quality local journalism video content — it is vital for maintaining trust and credibility, informing the public and leveraging the storytelling power of video. It can also be used to highlight underreported stories and has the potential to reach broader, more diverse audiences.
Funniest thing that’s happened on the job: VPM’s address is 23 Sesame Street! People always chuckle at this and tell me stories on how PBS Kids shows made an impact on their childhood.