How Journalist Juan Esteban Silva's Childhood Inspiration Took Him from Colombia to Washington

As a child growing up in Colombia, Juan Esteban Silva was inspired by the journalists he grew up watching on television and listening to on the radio. These days, he works and collaborates them as a foreign correspondent in Washington, D.C.., thousands of miles from home but no less satisfied with who he is and the path he’s taken.

Juan Esteban Silva

Now a journalist with W Radio Colombia, Silva covers the halls of power in Washington, regularly reporting the news out of the White House, Congress, the Department of State, and more. He previously worked for the editorial group Grupo Semana as an investigative journalist but made his mark in the field doing similar work for Caracol Radio and Blu Radio, part of Caracol Televisión, two of Colombia’s oldest and most trusted news sources.

In the following interview, he speaks about his inspirations and what he’s learned along the way since the day he coaxed his father into purchasing a copy of the New York Times while on a visit to the United States. Above all, he expresses gratitude for the privilege of being able to forge his career here, where the words he writes and says have an even more palpable impact on his country of origin.

What aspects of your home country do Americans typically overlook or misunderstand?  

Colombia is a country facing a very intense and fast-paced reality, often characterized by a rushed and bustling news cycle everyday. 

But… Colombia has too many virtues that are deserving of attention. Within our borders lies societal and cultural treasures waiting to be unveiled. I grew up looking at my father drinking coffee with the newspaper full of headlines about drug cartels and rampant violence, a chapter of our history we are steadfastly endeavoring to rewrite towards peace efforts. It’s changing. Peace, once deemed a distant dream, I hope will be a reality soon.

How do people in your home country perceive the United States and Americans?  

Juan Esteban Silva

The United States has such a great influence in politics, cinema, music, economy and more. Not only in Colombia, but around the world.

Many Colombians associate Americans with economic prosperity and success, and the U.S. is also perceived as a hub of technological innovation and development, with cutting-edge industries and advancements. That’s something that I think will never change.

How would you describe your impressions and observations of the United States? 

I remember at the age of 10, I visited the U.S. for the first time, creating a lasting memory on the 4th of July in 1998. As my family and I waited at a Florida airport for a flight to Colombia, I surprised my father by asking him to give me a dollar to purchase a 4th of July edition of the New York Times instead of candies. More than 20 years later, here I am covering stories as a journalist in the U.S. I thank God for that. 

Being a reporter stationed in Washington, D.C. has been an eye-opening experience filled with insights and observations about the United States. The dynamic nature of the city, where political decisions are made, has given me a firsthand look into the heart of American governance. The diversity of perspectives and the richness of debates that unfold here have illuminated the complexity of U.S. politics and society.

Walking through the corridors of power, attending press briefings, walking the streets, and discovering stories have deepened my understanding of American democracy in action.

Why were you specifically chosen to work as a foreign correspondent in the United States instead of another country?  

My journalistic path had occasionally led me to Washington, D.C. and the vibrant streets of New York City. However, a big change arrived when the opportunity arose to become a resident correspondent, giving me a chance to see the inner workings of the White House, Congress, and to immerse myself in the heart of D.C.'s pulsating narrative. It’s very interesting… I enjoy what I do. I grew up listening to Julio Sanchez Cristo, the most important radio host in my country. Now I work for his morning show, and that makes me feel grateful and proud.

Among the stories you have covered in the United States, which do you consider the most significant and why?  

Starting out as a reporter in Colombia, I delved into the Odebrecht case—a sprawling investigation spanning 12 countries and revealing the underbelly of corruption intertwined with political campaigns and government finances. Now I've carried this narrative across borders. Exploring this side of the story from the United States view has been a fascinating journey, offering new perspectives on the intricate connections between power, money, and politics. But not only Odebrecht: now I cover with a new perspective other news I covered in Colombia. That’s very interesting.

What challenges did you face when starting your work as a foreign correspondent in the United States?  

Being a foreign correspondent in the United States goes beyond just commenting on morning headlines on air. It's about building trust around you, managing information responsibly, a process that takes time and patience. Reading daily is a must, not only about what happens in the U.S. but overseas. And I owe much of who I am as a journalist to Vicky Davila, Néstor Morales, Ricardo Ospina, Dario Arizmendi, and Julio Sánchez Cristo – they've had a profound impact. I grew up listening and watching them all on the main media channels and God gave me the chance to work for them and learn from them. That’s a privilege.

How has your experience working in the United States shaped and influenced your career as a foreign correspondent?

Well, the exposure to the dynamics of American politics, society, and culture has enriched my perspective in ways I could never have anticipated. Immersing myself in the heart of Washington, D.C., and reporting on the White House and Congress made me understand there’s so much more to learn every day.

What are some key insights or observations you gained about American society and its political landscape during your time reporting in the country?

Juan Esteban Silva

My time reporting in the United States has given me many valuable insights into American society and its political scene. One thing that really stands out is the incredible diversity here. People from different backgrounds and beliefs coexist, sometimes leading to disagreements, but also showcasing a commitment to freedom of expression. When you walk on the streets of Washington D.C. you can see many colours and diversity.

The connection between the media and politics is also fascinating. The fast-paced news cycle and the impact of social media play a big role in shaping public opinions. It's a reminder of how important it is for people to stay informed.

Did you find any significant variations in media practices or journalistic norms between your home country and the United States?

Some forms change, but journalism at its core is the same. I think one element that I highlight is the importance of moving beyond  statements and just official information. The most interesting stories are often in the ignored corners of the house.

How do you balance your role as an impartial journalist with the potential impact your reporting may have on diplomatic relations between your home country and the United States?

Since I arrived, I understood the huge impact of what I say in the United States; it makes a double echo in Colombia. Responsibility when reporting has been the key to telling positive stories as well. We are not just journalists, we are the voice. My commitment to delivering accurate news remains paramount. I rigorously fact-check, provide context, and seek multiple viewpoints to ensure responsible reporting.

While I uphold the value of a free press, I'm mindful of the potential consequences. Striking this balance means carefully weighing the public's right to know against the broader impact.

What advice would you give to aspiring foreign correspondents looking to work in the United States or other foreign countries?

This is all about passion for journalism, for stories, for people. The best advice would be to do everything with intensity, with fire, with the curiosity that leads us to find stories and faces where others only see headlines. Move deeper and further. And always keep the north and the focus on sight. If you run after two hares, you will catch neither. A journalist is the result of the music he listens to, the movies he watches, and the books he reads.