Inspired by Lois Lane, Driven by Community: Meet Intern Niko Balkaran

Dear Readers,

I am pleased to introduce myself as NancyOnNorwalk’s summer 2025 reporting intern. My name is Niko Balkaran, and I was drawn to the publication for two reasons: hearing about Nancy and Mark Chapman’s incredible journey and passion for news from managing editor, Ashley RK Smith, and the unique community-focused stories that the NoN covers.

Here is a little about me.

I have been interested in journalism since I was five years old, when I discovered a Superman comic book in my home country of Guyana. I was enthralled by the way he helped people and wanted to emulate him. But this proved to be a much more difficult task for me, considering I do not have any superpowers. However, right next to him was his partner, Lois Lane, who helped others through her writing. 

And so, my journey began.  

Currently, I attend the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY in the heart of Times Square, New York. There, I am in the Business and Economics Reporting concentration and will be starting my third and final semester in the fall. I also serve as the treasurer of the school’s chapter of the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) and the South Asian Journalists Association (SAJA). 

While my concentration at Newmark is business and economics, I have a passion for all things news. I enjoy covering a wide range of stories, from arts and culture to council meetings, health, the environment, and events. 

I was fortunate to attend the First Taxing District’s Juneteenth event last Thursday, where I had the opportunity to meet members of the community. It was an incredible experience to have conversations and hear everyone’s stories. 

I am excited to be here and to continue to have the opportunity to tell the stories of Norwalk, from its challenges to the passion and creativity of the people who shape this vibrant and diverse community. 

Thank you!

Best wishes,

Niko