Zena Issa

Photo of Zena Issa
She/Her
I'm a criminal justice reporter who is determined and detail-oriented, with a natural knack for storytelling. I'm investigative but also human-focused, making sure the people in my stories feel seen.
Member since 2025

Location

  • Ann Arbor, MI

Portfolio

Languages

Arabic
  • Producing
  • Recording
  • Reporting
  • Voice
  • Writing

About Zena

Zena Issa is Michigan Public’s Criminal Justice reporter, joining the team after previously working as a newsroom intern and Stateside production assistant. She has contributed to award-winning projects like Voter Voices and What the Vote. A fluent Arabic speaker and experienced multimedia journalist, she has reported for WLNS-TV, WDIV-TV, and WBAL-TV, and brings strong social media storytelling skills to her new role. She's also a graduate of the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. (Go Blue!)

Zena's Portfolio

What the Vote?: Gen Z and the Uncommitted Movement

For almost 2 years, the violence and destruction in Gaza has dominated the headlines. The Uncommitted Movement began as a desperate plea from pro-Palestinian voters seeking to have their voices heard. Not only did they force elected officials to listen, but they made history. What the Vote? looked at how they did it and what happens now.

Inmates at Michigan’s Only Women’s Prison Sue State Over Black Mold Exposure

Prisoners at Michigan’s only women’s prison are suing the state, claiming they’ve been forced to live with toxic black mold for years. After six years of legal back and forth, a district judge is letting the case move forward.

Experience

Skills

  • Social Media
  • Scrubbing and Audio Editing
  • Research
  • Reporting
  • Producing
  • Interviewing
  • Field Recording
  • Field Producing
  • Voiceover

Previous Work

  • Multimedia Journalist at WLNS (April 13th, 2025)