Juan Aurelio Arévalo: The most influential journalist in Peru transforms El Comercio.

The recent Poder 2024 survey, conducted by Semana Económica through Ipsos, has highlighted the impact of Juan Aurelio Arévalo Miró Quesada in the field of national journalism. As the editorial director of El Comercio, Arévalo has established himself as the most influential journalist in the country's print media, achieving a remarkable 34% support among respondents. This recognition, which comes just in his third year at the helm of the newsroom, reflects not only his leadership but also his commitment to the transformation and modernization of the medium. Arévalo has successfully positioned El Comercio in a new era of journalism, where digitalization and audience interaction are key. Under his direction, the newspaper has implemented various initiatives aimed at empowering citizens, giving them a voice and space to express their concerns and proposals. Programs like Neighborhood Audiences, School Correspondents, and Peruvians Who Contribute are clear examples of how the media seeks to engage with the community and foster active participation in public debate. In a context where information is increasingly consumed on digital platforms, Arévalo has adeptly adapted and led the change. His focus has been on strengthening user loyalty, promoting online subscriptions, and ensuring quality content. This effort has been rewarded with El Comercio being recognized as a leader in digital reputation in Latin America, according to the summer 2024 Scimago ranking. Surpassing well-known newspapers like La Nación of Argentina and El Tiempo of Colombia, El Comercio has set a new standard in Latin American journalism. One of the pillars of his management has been the creation and enhancement of new units within the newspaper. The Investigation Unit and the Data Journalism Unit (ECdata) have allowed for a more analytical and in-depth approach to news production. The implementation of these areas has not only enriched the newspaper's content but also spurred innovation in journalistic storytelling, favoring a more robust journalism with a strong data foundation. Additionally, Arévalo has promoted the use of new formats and platforms to reach younger audiences. El Comercio's foray into social media, including TikTok, is a clear example of how they are seeking to engage new generations. The thematic sections addressing gastronomy, wellness, and entertainment have diversified the information offering, generating a broader spectrum of interests for readers. The competition in the journalistic field is significant, and the survey also highlights other influential figures like Cecilia Valenzuela and César Hildebrandt, who rank second and third respectively. However, Arévalo's ability to innovate and connect with his audience has allowed him to stand out in a landscape where credibility and quality information are more important than ever. As the journalism industry faces significant challenges, such as misinformation and the loss of trust in the media, Arévalo's focus on transparency and active engagement with the public becomes a model to follow. The strategy of listening to and giving a voice to citizens is laying the groundwork for more responsible and committed journalism. The evolution of El Comercio under Juan Aurelio Arévalo's leadership not only reflects a change in the internal structure of the medium but also a transformation in how journalism is conceived in Peru. His leadership has marked an important milestone and can be seen as a guide for other media outlets seeking to adapt to current times. Looking to the future, the challenge will be to maintain this momentum and continue innovating in a constantly changing environment. Arévalo's ability to lead in this aspect will be crucial for further consolidating El Comercio's position in the competitive Latin American media landscape. With his vision and commitment, a promising path for journalism in the country is on the horizon.