Mike DeForest – WKMG

Report on Emmy Award-Winning Investigative Reporter Mike DeForest

Professional Background and Early Inspiration

Mike DeForest, an Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter, has been a prominent figure in Central Florida news coverage for over two decades. His journey into broadcasting began at the age of five when his grandfather introduced him to the field by handing him a microphone and a tape recorder. This early exposure sparked a lifelong passion for journalism and storytelling.

Education and Mentorship

Mike pursued broadcast journalism at the University of Southern California, where he was mentored by leading professionals in television news. His initial major assignment involved covering the high-profile OJ Simpson case. Concurrently, he gained experience by guiding tourists at Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise, demonstrating versatility and communication skills.

Career Progression

1. KAAL-TV, Austin, Minnesota: Mike began his career here, covering local events such as the annual Spam Jam festival, highlighting community engagement and cultural events.
2. WRCB-TV, Chattanooga, Tennessee: His tenure included reporting on regional news while developing personal ties to the area.
3. News 6, Central Florida: Joining during the 2000 presidential election recount, Mike has since reported on significant events including hurricanes, space shuttle launches, and high-profile trials.

Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Throughout his career, Mike DeForest’s reporting has contributed to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, notably:

• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: By covering local events and community stories, Mike promotes awareness and engagement within Central Florida, fostering resilient and inclusive communities.
• SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: His investigative journalism on legal cases and political events supports transparency, accountability, and justice.
• SDG 13 – Climate Action: Reporting on hurricanes and environmental events raises public awareness about climate-related challenges and disaster preparedness.

Personal Life and Community Engagement

Mike resides in West Orange County with his wife, April, and their two sons. His connection to the community is reflected in his dedication to telling the stories of Central Florida’s diverse population, contributing to social cohesion and cultural understanding.

Contact and Social Media

• Email: Available upon request
• Facebook: Accessible via News 6 platform
• Twitter: Accessible via News 6 platform

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The article primarily focuses on the career and personal background of investigative reporter Mike DeForest. While it does not explicitly discuss sustainable development issues, some Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be indirectly connected based on the themes of journalism, information dissemination, and community engagement.

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – The article highlights investigative journalism, which plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and justice.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education – Mike’s education in broadcast journalism and mentorship reflects the importance of quality education and lifelong learning.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The focus on Central Florida’s community and local events connects to building inclusive and vibrant communities.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. SDG 16 – Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.
   • Mike’s role as an investigative reporter contributes to public access to information.
2. SDG 4 – Target 4.3: Ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university.
   • Mike’s broadcast journalism education at the University of Southern California is an example of tertiary education contributing to professional development.
3. SDG 11 – Target 11.7: Provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces, particularly for vulnerable populations.
   • The article’s mention of community events and local culture in Central Florida relates to fostering inclusive communities.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. For SDG 16.10:
   • Indicator 16.10.1 – Number of verified cases of killing, kidnapping, enforced disappearance, arbitrary detention and torture of journalists, associated media personnel, trade unionists and human rights advocates in the previous 12 months.
     
     While not directly mentioned, the investigative journalism work implies the importance of journalist safety and freedom.
2. For SDG 4.3:
   • Indicator 4.3.1 – Participation rate of youth and adults in formal and non-formal education and training in the previous 12 months.
     
     The article references Mike’s formal education and mentorship, implying the value of education participation.
3. For SDG 11.7:
   • Indicator 11.7.1 – Average share of the built-up area of cities that is open space for public use for all, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
     
     The article’s focus on community events and local culture suggests the importance of accessible public spaces.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: clickorlando.com