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Check FAQAbout Zack
I'm a journalist and filmmaker with more than 15 years of experience producing award-winning stories in more than 30 countries, including Syria, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Pakistan, the West Bank, Kashmir, and Iraq, as well as rebel-held territory in Sri Lanka and Burma. I've reported for Al Jazeera English, Newsweek, VICE, RYOT, NPR, BBC, CBS, AP, the Wall Street Journal, Seattle Times, and other international publications in video, radio, photo, and print formats. Most recently, I spent a year working as a civilian videographer for the U.S. special forces command in Afghanistan. At rural, remote bases, I captured video of U.S. special forces and Afghan security forces. I also work as an adjunct professor at New York University and New York Film Academy teaching public relations and broadcast journalism. I've got a master of fine arts degree in documentary studies, a master of arts degree in international relations, another master’s in public relations and a bachelor's in journalism.
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Portfolio
NPR’s First Internship – Military Veterans in Journalism
Military Veterans in Journalism partnered with NPR to offer a paid remote internship to a military veteran, selecting Marine Corps veteran Dustin Jones. Jones, who has a background in journalism and documentary production, is working on stories about California wildfires and former incarcerated individuals aspiring to become firefighters. The internship, facilitated by MVJ, aims to enhance diversity in journalism and provide veterans with career opportunities. NPR's internship program, managed by Kristin Van Meerbeke, resumed in a remote format due to COVID-19, offering valuable experience and networking opportunities.
How to Help Veterans Overcome Addiction
The BlueCrest Recovery Center offers resources, treatment, and tools to help veterans and their families overcome addiction. Statistics highlight the prevalence of substance abuse, mental health issues, and suicide among veterans, emphasizing the need for support and treatment. The article encourages those affected to seek help and provides additional resources for building a sober support network.
MVJ and Video Consortium Collaboration – Military Veterans in Journalism
Military Veterans in Journalism (MVJ) is collaborating with Video Consortium to feature the best work of MVJ members in photojournalism and video journalism for Veterans Day. The event aims to showcase nonfiction films and photography, covering topics like disaster relief efforts and Black Lives Matter protests. Submissions are open until October 30th, and selected works will be featured in a virtual Q&A session. The initiative promotes the skills and hard work of veterans in the journalism field.
Central African Republic: UN Report On Vetting of Police and Gendarmes
The UN report focuses on the vetting process of police and gendarmes in the Central African Republic, detailing the procedures and criteria used to ensure the integrity and reliability of law enforcement personnel. The report highlights the importance of this vetting process in maintaining security and public trust in the region.
Donald Trump whisked off stage at rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots
Donald Trump was quickly escorted off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots were heard. He ducked behind the podium as his protective detail rushed to secure the stage amidst screams from the crowd.
Fellowship Program – Meet Our Fellows 2021
Military Veterans in Journalism is hosting seven paid fellowships for 2021, supported by the Knight Foundation, Craig Newmark Philanthropies, and the Wyncote Foundation. The fellows, all military veterans, have been placed in various newsrooms including Coffee or Die Magazine, CNN, Philadelphia Magazine, Military Times, The Nevada Independent, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Each fellow expresses gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to advance their careers in journalism, highlighting the valuable experience and skills they are gaining through the program.
MVJ’s Top Veterans in Journalism
Military Veterans in Journalism is calling for nominations to recognize outstanding veterans in the media industry. The initiative aims to highlight the achievements and contributions of veterans in journalism. Submissions will be evaluated based on originality, production value, newsworthiness, and journalistic quality by a panel of judges. Only work by veterans of the armed forces is eligible, and all forms of media are accepted. Nominations close on December 20, 2020.
Military Veterans in Journalism Fellowship Program
Two military veterans will receive nine-month fellowships in nonprofit newsrooms after earning master's degrees in journalism from the City University of New York, funded by Craig Newmark Philanthropies. The Newmark Veterans in Journalism Fellowship Program, a collaboration between Military Veterans in Journalism, the Institute for Nonprofit News, and the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY, aims to recruit veterans for journalism programs and place them in nonprofit newsrooms. Applications open in Fall 2021, with the program starting in Fall 2022.
Military Veterans in Journalism: #FreeEvan
The co-founder of Military Veterans in Journalism expresses outrage over the detention of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich by Russia on espionage charges, viewing it as an attack on democracy and press freedom. The author relates to the fear and uncertainty of detention from personal experience and emphasizes the importance of solidarity with journalists like Gershkovich and Austin Tice, who is detained in Syria. The organization joins calls for their release and urges the Biden administration to pressure Russia. The author reaffirms the commitment to press freedom and the fight against fear instilled by dictators.
NPR selects military vet as part of its 2021 internship cohort
Jeff Dean, a military veteran and journalist, has been selected to join NPR's 2021 fall internship cohort. Dean, who served as a medevac crew chief and holds journalism degrees from the University of Oregon, has experience covering news in West Africa and for major news agencies in Ohio and Kentucky. He will work with NPR's Business Desk and digital platforms teams. Military Veterans in Journalism, along with NPR's Chief Diversity Officer, emphasize the importance of including military veterans' perspectives in media.
NBC Partnership: Internship Program – Military Veterans in Journalism
Military Veterans in Journalism has partnered with NBC Universal to facilitate the entry of more military veterans into American newsrooms through a competitive paid internship program for Spring 2021. Interested applicants must be members of Military Veterans in Journalism and are required to apply to NBC Universal's internship program and fill out a form for their application to be flagged. The deadline for application is October 1.
Washington Post Internship – Military Veterans in Journalism
Military Veterans in Journalism has partnered with the Washington Post to offer a paid internship for military veterans as part of the Washington Post's 2021 Summer Internship program. The program includes various roles such as reporters, visual journalists, and producers, with a previous salary of $750 per week. The internship serves as an early career step for veterans in media, and applications are accepted online through Military Veterans in Journalism with a deadline of September 30, 2020.
America’s newsrooms must hire more veterans
A $250,000 investment from the Knight Foundation to Military Veterans in Journalism (MVJ) aims to support military veterans through journalism fellowships, workshops, and resource sharing. Despite veterans comprising 7% of the U.S. population, they are underrepresented in newsrooms, making up only 2% of journalists. MVJ, founded by Zack Baddorf, seeks to diversify newsrooms by hiring and promoting veterans, offering fellowships, career guidance, and skills development programs. The Knight Foundation's support will help MVJ expand its initiatives, emphasizing the importance of veteran voices in strengthening democracy.
CUNY’s Jeff Jarvis shares insights into the new models of journalism
Jeff Jarvis, a professor at CUNY Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, shared insights on the evolving models of journalism during a virtual convention hosted by Military Veterans in Journalism. He emphasized that journalism should be viewed as a service rather than a product, advocating for a focus on underserved communities. Jarvis highlighted the importance of understanding community needs and fostering public conversations. He pointed to organizations like Chalkbeat and the Institute for Nonprofit News as examples of innovation in the field. Jarvis also discussed various revenue models, including membership and skill-based advertising, as potential ways to fund journalism. He expressed optimism about the future of journalism, driven by the skills and engagement of new graduates.
Nonprofit newsrooms put focus on mission, impact
The Nonprofit News Panel at the Military Veterans in Journalism convention emphasized the critical role of nonprofit news in fostering community ties, conveying truth, and providing a voice to the overlooked. Leaders from the Institute for Nonprofit News, The Fuller Project, and The War Horse discussed the unique mission-driven nature of nonprofit journalism, its impact on communities, and the importance of truth and accountability. The panel highlighted the value of nonprofit news in telling stories that might otherwise be forgotten and its power to influence positive change.
MVJ Executive Director: The Success of Our First Convention is Our Unity
Military Veterans in Journalism (MVJ) held its first annual convention, attended by about 350 people, including notable figures from CNN, CUNY, and INN. The event, supported by various news outlets, non-profits, and educational institutions, highlighted the organization's mission to integrate more veterans into journalism. MVJ Executive Director Zack Baddorf expressed gratitude for the community's support and shared his experiences from the George W. Bush Presidential Center’s Veteran Leadership Program. The convention underscored the unity and collaborative spirit within the veteran journalism community, setting a positive tone for future endeavors.
Military Veterans in Journalism officially launches
Military Veterans in Journalism, a professional association, has officially launched to support veterans in the media industry. The organization aims to increase newsroom diversity by advocating for the hiring of veterans and providing mentorship programs to help them transition into journalism careers. The launch event will be held at Alligator Lounge in Brooklyn, New York. The association is led by President Russell Midori and Executive Director Zack Baddorf.
Trapped in a Town Under Siege: Syrian Children Are Eating Leaves to Survive
The article details the dire humanitarian crisis in the besieged town of Moadamia, Syria, where children and residents are suffering from severe malnutrition and starvation due to the blockade imposed by Syrian President Bashar al Assad's forces. The town, once home to 70,000 people, now has only 12,000 residents who survive on minimal food sources like leaves and berries. The article highlights the tragic death of one-year-old Rana Obaid and other victims, the lack of medical supplies, and the continuous shelling by regime forces. Despite international calls for humanitarian aid and ceasefire, the situation remains critical with limited progress. The UN and other humanitarian organizations face significant challenges in delivering aid due to security constraints and lack of cooperation from the Syrian government.
Army National Guard Officer and Freelancer Gets Published Thanks to MVJ Mentorship Program
Military Veterans in Journalism's mentorship program is highlighted through the experiences of Army National Guard Officer Davis Winkie and his mentor, award-winning journalist Erin Siegal McIntyre. The program pairs newly-transitioned veterans with experienced media professionals, fostering professional growth and networking. Winkie, who has published in several national news outlets, credits the program for his success. McIntyre praises Winkie's work ethic and skills, emphasizing the mutual benefits of mentorship. The article underscores the importance of mentorship in journalism and encourages veterans to utilize MVJ's resources.
To help properly inform, infuse modern journalism with more military veterans
The article underscores the intertwined relationship between a free press, news consumption habits, and democracy, using the case of George Santos to illustrate the importance of local journalism. It advocates for improved news literacy among citizens and highlights the underrepresentation of military veterans in journalism, suggesting that their inclusion could enhance media trust and representation. The piece calls for a collective effort to seek credible news sources and emphasizes the critical role of a free press in holding elected officials accountable.
Military Veterans in Journalism to discuss veterans in media at NPC, Nov. 11
A panel of military veteran journalists, including Bob Woodward, Ron Nixon, Allison Erickson, and Zack Baddorf, will discuss the role of veterans in the news media on Veterans Day at the National Press Club. The event, sponsored by Military Veterans in Journalism, will be moderated by Club President Jen Judson.
Changing Advice – Military Veterans in Journalism
Seasoned journalists and military veterans shared career advice at the Military Veterans in Journalism’s inaugural convention. The panel, led by Justine Davie, featured J.P. Lawrence of Stars and Stripes, Clara Navarro who is transitioning to National Public Radio, and Davis Winkie of the Army Times. They emphasized the importance of networking, leveraging groups for support, and the value of practical experience through writing and internships.
CNN’s Jake Tapper kicks off inaugural #MVJ2021 convention – Military Veterans in Journalism
Military Veterans in Journalism's first annual convention began with a keynote speech by CNN's Jake Tapper, emphasizing the unique skills veterans bring to newsrooms. Tapper, along with other speakers like Brianna Keilar and Paul Szoldra, highlighted the importance of veterans in journalism and the need for their stories to be heard. The event featured a mix of current and aspiring journalists and included a career fair and breakout sessions focused on investigative and niche reporting.
American University professor teaches investigative skills at #MVJ2021
Award-winning reporter and American University professor Chris Halsne shared investigative journalism techniques with veterans and servicemembers during the Military Veterans in Journalism's inaugural convention. Halsne emphasized the importance of public records in investigative reporting and provided practical advice on handling Freedom of Information Act requests and dealing with public information officers. The event also featured industry insights from notable journalists like Jake Tapper and Brianna Marie Keilar from CNN.
Free tickets are available for the #MVJ2021 Convention – Military Veterans in Journalism
The inaugural Military Veterans in Journalism convention will take place on October 21 and 22, offering free tickets due to a sponsorship from JMA Solutions. The event will feature keynote speaker Jake Tapper, career fairs, and panels with notable journalists like LaShara Bunting and Jeff Jarvis. Initially priced at $40, the convention aims to promote newsroom diversity and provide networking opportunities for veterans and media professionals.
Google demos free new digital journalism resources at #MVJ2021
Journalists at the MVJ 2021 Convention learned about the latest digital resources from the Google News Initiative, presented by Mary Nahorniak of the Google News Lab. The session covered specialized search engines like Google Scholar, Dataset Search, Public Data, The Common Knowledge Project, and Fact Check Explore, emphasizing their utility in story development and research. Nahorniak also demonstrated tools like Pinpoint for document analysis and Google Earth Timelapse for visual data representation. All tools are free and aimed at supporting journalists in their work.
America’s Afghan Allies: How to Help Those Left Behind
The article discusses the moral imperative felt by American military veterans to assist Afghan allies left behind after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. It highlights the dire situation of approximately 265,000 Afghans vulnerable to Taliban retribution and calls for a comprehensive U.S. government strategy to expedite visa processing, improve communication, partner with neighboring countries, and facilitate private citizen involvement. The text criticizes the U.S. government's handling of the evacuation and urges immediate action to save lives and uphold human rights.
Two military vets to be awarded 9-month fellowships in nonprofit newsrooms
Two military veterans will receive nine-month fellowships in nonprofit newsrooms after graduating from the City University of New York, supported by a grant from Craig Newmark Philanthropies. The Newmark Veterans in Journalism Fellowship Program, a collaboration between Military Veterans in Journalism, the Institute for Nonprofit News, and the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY, aims to address the under-representation of veterans in journalism. The program will recruit veterans for CUNY's journalism master's programs, with graduates joining INN member newsrooms to diversify perspectives and enhance coverage of military and veterans affairs.
Adapt and Overcome: Video Journalism Workshop Kicks Off in Spring of 2021
Military Veterans in Journalism (MVJ) is launching a video journalism workshop in spring 2021, supported by grants from foundations like The Walton Family Foundation. The workshop, initially planned as an in-person event, will now be conducted online due to the pandemic. It aims to equip 10 military veterans with video journalism skills, culminating in a film fest with a prize of a FUJIFILM X-T4 camera kit. The workshop features renowned instructors from Columbia University and will be promoted on social media. MVJ encourages community support through membership, mentoring, volunteering, or donations.
Spring 2021 MVJ Video Journalism Workshop at Ole Miss
Military Veterans in Journalism will host an online video journalism workshop in spring 2021 for 10 military veterans, sponsored by the Walton Family Foundation. The workshop, in partnership with the University of Mississippi’s School of Journalism and New Media and supported by FUJIFILM, will be led by Duy Linh Tu, Associate Professor at Columbia University. The course will cover storytelling, camera handling, post-production, and combining audio-visual elements, with guest speakers throughout the week.
We need more veterans serving in America’s newsrooms — and you can help
Military Veterans in Journalism (MVJ) has received $250,000 from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to support the placement of more veterans in newsrooms. The funds will be used to hire staff, offer fellowships, and create career guidance programs, including radio production skills development. The author, a veteran and journalist, emphasizes the importance of veteran perspectives in media for democracy and calls for more action from media leaders and philanthropic organizations to hire veterans and diversify newsrooms.
We Need More Veterans in America’s Newsrooms
The article argues for the inclusion of more military veterans in American newsrooms, highlighting the unique skills and perspectives they bring. Despite the extensive involvement of the U.S. in various conflicts, veterans are underrepresented in media. The author and other veterans share their experiences, emphasizing the benefits of military training in journalism. The piece calls for media organizations to reevaluate their hiring practices and support initiatives like Military Veterans in Journalism to facilitate veterans' entry into the industry.
We Need More Veterans in America’s Newsrooms
The article argues for the inclusion of more military veterans in American newsrooms, highlighting the unique skills and perspectives they bring. Despite the significant number of veterans in the U.S., they are underrepresented in media organizations. The author and other veterans share their experiences and challenges in breaking into journalism, emphasizing the benefits of their military training in handling crises and maintaining objectivity. The piece calls for media organizations to reevaluate their hiring practices and support initiatives like Military Veterans in Journalism to facilitate veterans' entry into the industry.
Male Survivors of Sexual Violence Suffer in Silence Due to Stigma
In the Central African Republic, male survivors of sexual violence, like 45-year-old Theodore, suffer in silence due to stigma and lack of support. Captured and abused by armed groups, these men face significant challenges in accessing medical and psychosocial care. The conflict in the region has led to widespread sexual violence by various militias, with little justice or government control. Organizations like All Survivors Project and Doctors Without Borders are calling for more attention and support for male survivors, highlighting the need for better humanitarian responses and prevention measures.
Male survivors of sexual violence stay silent in CAR
Sexual violence in the Central African Republic (CAR) is widespread, affecting thousands, including men and boys. Emmanuel, a survivor, recounts his harrowing experience of repeated sexual assault by the Central African Patriotic Movement. The conflict in CAR, ongoing since 2013, has led to significant human rights violations. Despite the high incidence of sexual violence, male survivors face intense stigma and lack adequate support. Humanitarian efforts are limited, but some organizations are beginning to address the needs of male survivors. Recent judicial developments, including the Special Criminal Court and the International Criminal Court, offer some hope for accountability and justice.
UN releases Central African Republic war crimes suspects
The UN mission in the Central African Republic released two rebel fighters accused of shooting a UN peacekeeper in 2015 to appease the electoral process, despite the act being a war crime. The incident highlights ongoing issues with the UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, and its failure to hold armed groups accountable. The Union pour la Paix en Centrafrique (UPC) denies the allegations, while Human Rights Watch criticizes the lack of repercussions for the rebels. The fate of the injured peacekeeper remains unclear, and no charges have been made against the released suspects.
UN releases Central African Republic war crimes suspects
The UN mission in the Central African Republic released two rebel fighters accused of shooting a UN peacekeeper in 2015, a decision made to appease the electoral process despite the act being a war crime. The Union pour la Paix en Centrafrique (UPC) denied the attack, but internal UN communications revealed concerns about impunity and the need for accountability. Human Rights Watch criticized the release, highlighting ongoing war crimes by the UPC. The incident underscores challenges in maintaining peace and justice in the region, with the UN facing criticism for its handling of the situation.
Election Is Seen as a Sign of Oppression
Paul Kagame's re-election as Rwanda's president with nearly 99 percent of the vote is seen by opponents and rights advocates as indicative of an oppressive political environment. The absence of a viable opposition and the silencing of dissenting views are highlighted. Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda received less than half a percent of the vote, despite expectations of a stronger showing. Human rights organizations and opposition parties report intimidation and harassment, with incidents of violence and financial targeting. The election raises concerns about the perpetuation of 'forever presidents' in Africa.
Ordered to Catch a Warlord, Ugandan Troops Are Accused of Hunting Girls
The United States and Ugandan military have ended their search for Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army, after eight years in the Central African Republic. Despite Kony evading capture, Ugandan troops are now facing numerous allegations of sexual abuse, including rape and exploitation of young girls. The United Nations and human rights groups have documented these abuses, with over 30 women and girls reporting rape or sexual harassment by Ugandan soldiers, and 44 instances of pregnancies caused by them. Emmanuel Daba, a local victims’ advocate, highlights the widespread nature of these abuses.
Uganda Ends Its Hunt for Joseph Kony
Uganda has begun withdrawing its 1,500 soldiers from the Central African Republic, ending the hunt for warlord Joseph Kony and his Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). The United States military will also conclude its mission to capture or kill Kony, whose forces have significantly dwindled. Over nearly three decades, Kony and his fighters killed over 100,000 people and displaced more than two million. The LRA abducted over 20,000 children for use as soldiers, servants, or sex slaves.
Hunt for Joseph Kony, No Longer Seen as a Threat, May Shrink
The Pentagon is considering scaling back its mission to capture or kill Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army, as he is no longer seen as a regional threat. The L.R.A., known for its use of child soldiers and violent acts, has significantly weakened. The Trump administration has questioned the necessity of the mission, reflecting a shift towards building African defense institutions. A decision on the mission's renewal is expected in April.
Haiti elections.
Syria Is Obama's Rwanda
The article recounts the harrowing experiences of Qusai Zakarya during the Syrian Civil War, particularly focusing on the chemical weapons attack in Moadamiya and the subsequent siege by Assad's forces. It criticizes President Barack Obama for failing to take decisive action against the Assad regime despite the 'red line' on chemical weapons use. The narrative highlights the suffering of Syrian civilians, the international community's inaction, and the ongoing struggle for survival and freedom. Qusai's activism and efforts to raise awareness in the US are also detailed, emphasizing the need for greater international intervention.
Syria Is Obama's Rwanda
On August 21, 2013, a chemical weapons attack in Moadamiya, Syria, exposed over 550 people to sarin gas, resulting in numerous casualties. Qusai Zakarya, a survivor, recounted the harrowing experience and the subsequent siege by Syrian government forces that included starvation tactics. Despite international outrage and threats of military action by President Barack Obama, the U.S. ultimately refrained from intervention. Qusai became a spokesperson for his town, advocating for international support and criticizing Obama's inaction. The article details Qusai's escape to the U.S. and his efforts to raise awareness about the Syrian conflict, while the situation in Moadamiya and other besieged areas remains dire.
We Spoke with the Euromaidan Activist Who Was Forced to Flee Crimea
Viktor Neganov, head of the Euromaidan movement in Sevastopol, Ukraine, faced violent opposition from pro-Russian forces and was forced to flee to Kiev after his life was threatened. Despite the risks, he returned to Sevastopol briefly, hiding from pro-Russian militias. Neganov discusses the challenges faced by activists, the influence of Russian propaganda, and the complex political dynamics in Crimea. He highlights the support for Ukrainian sovereignty among some Crimeans and criticizes the Russian military and local institutions for their aggressive tactics and support for Russian annexation.
Yanukovych: ‘I’m the Real President’
Former Ukrainian president Victor Yanukovych, now in Russia, claims he is still the legitimate president amidst the political turmoil in Ukraine. The EuroMaidan protests in Kiev, sparked by Yanukovych's decision to accept a loan from Russia instead of a trade deal with the EU, have led to violent clashes and significant unrest. Russian troops have taken control of key locations in Crimea, and there are rising tensions between pro-EU and pro-Russian groups. The article highlights the divided opinions in Sevastopol, with some residents supporting closer ties with Russia and others advocating for systemic change and an end to corruption.
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