I know that's a broad question, so allow me to clarify my situation, as well as specify my question.
I am a recent English Language graduate and have decided that I am going to pursue the journalism route instead of teaching. I am in my late 20's. As of now, I cannot afford to do a masters but would be willing to enrol on next year's programmes as I may be eligible for bursaries. In the meantime, I plan on working, preferably in a media-related job where I can hone my skills (technological/writing etc). Even if I do not land a media-related job, I plan on expanding my portfolio, in preparation for a masters/future role. I have written several articles for the student paper and have a personal blog, but nothing extensive.
As of now, I write every day (mainly journalling). The kind of journalism I want to get into is broadcast journalism, but more importantly, I want to communicate ideas and experiences that are associated with people going through unfavourable times. I want to write primarily about experiences and events associated with social work, barriers to good health, and politics. I would also like to commentate on social issues. I have been told that I have an excellent capacity for verbal speech so I want to monetise and make the most out of this talent. I am bilingual and currently learning another language.
To distil my earlier question into more specific components:
What activities should I be doing everyday in order to strengthen my portfolio?
As someone with no experience of using a camera, what is a good budget camera?
Is it worth creating a Youtube channel?
What kind of jobs should I be applying for?
Should I pursue voluntary roles?
Is it okay to accept a non-related journalism job while I expand my portfolio? The idea is that I will be learning a lot about the causes I care for in potential jobs, so at least I would be benefiting from knowledge. Just not practically.
And finally, I feel as if the skills in journalism are vast and I could easily be wasting my time by honing skills that aren't relevant/