Renata Carlos Daou joins CT Mirror as its next Data Reporter

Renata Carlos Daou has joined the staff of CT Mirror as a Data Reporter, bringing a blend of skills to the reporting team and a strong background in data analysis and programming.

Before joining CT Mirror, Daou interned at the Malala Fund and has reported stories from Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Brazil. She holds a master’s degree in Data Journalism from Columbia University, with a focus on investigative work, and graduated cum laude from Pennsylvania State University with dual bachelor’s degrees in International Politics and Broadcast Journalism. She speaks English, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian and is currently learning French.

Daou is a Scripps-Howard fund recipient, was awarded the 2022-2023 NAHJ Ruben Salazar Scholarship Award, and is the author of the book Friendship, Memories, and Make-Believes (2019) and co-author of a short story titled All of Us Are Heroes (2021).

Q&A with Renata Carlos Daou

CT Mirror: What is data journalism and what inspired you to specialize in this type of reporting?

Daou: Data journalism is all about looking at numbers and using data to find patterns and trends that help tell more complete and accurate stories. I was inspired to specialize in this field when I realized that traditional reporting, while powerful, can sometimes miss the bigger picture. For example, when I was reporting on immigration in Scotland, I found that personal stories, while compelling, didn’t capture the broader trends of immigration. Watching Alison Killing’s TED Talk on how she used data to expose detention camps in Xinjiang, China, really drove home the point that data can reveal truths that are hard to see. My work at Columbia University has further convinced me that data is a crucial tool for uncovering and telling important stories.

CT Mirror: How do you make complex, data driven stories understandable for readers?

Daou : To make complex, data-driven stories easy to understand, I focus on clear storytelling and using visuals that simplify the information. It’s all about breaking down the data into relatable and engaging pieces. For example, in a project on food safety violations in NYC schools, I used statistical models, but I made sure the final story was presented in a way that anyone could understand. I believe in balancing the technical side with explanations and visuals, so readers don’t get lost in the numbers but still get the full impact of the story.

CT Mirror: With your background in investigative work, what types of data stories are you most eager to explore in Connecticut?

Daou: In Connecticut, I’m looking forward to covering stories that focus on systemic issues in areas like education, immigration, and the environment. My past work has shown me how crucial data is for understanding the root causes of complex problems. Here, I plan to explore how disparities in resources and services impact different communities, using data to bring these issues to light and create accountability.

CT Mirror: What about Connecticut are you looking forward to (eating, visiting, doing, etc.)?

Daou: Connecticut is perfect for that classic fall and winter feeling, which I am excited about. I am a big fan of Gilmore Girls, and I’m looking forward to visiting towns like Washington, which inspired the show’s setting. I’m also looking forward to hiking at some great spots like Sleeping Giant State Park and relaxing by the lakes. I can’t wait to experience all that Connecticut has to offer.

CT Mirror: In an era where information is abundant but often conflicting, what role can data journalism play in uncovering the truth and building trust?

Daou: In today’s world, where there’s so much conflicting information, data journalism is key to finding the truth and building trust. By looking at data, we can cut through excessive information and give readers clear, reliable stories. When I covered the experiences of immigration in Belfast, I didn’t just rely on personal anecdotes. I used data to highlight the broader social and political challenges they face. This kind of reporting helps build trust because it’s grounded in hard evidence, offering readers a clear and accurate picture in a time when reliable information is more important than ever.

If you’d like to help welcome Daou to the team, suggest your favorite hiking trail, or simply connect with Renata, you can do so by emailing her at rdaou@ctmirror.org.