Burnaby-raised journalist is new Managing Editor of the Beacon

After more than a year running New West Anchor, Overstory Media Group has chosen Burnaby-raised Ria Renouf to lead the Burnaby Beacon through its next chapter as its new Managing Editor.

“I can’t believe this is happening,” notes Renouf, a Filipina-Canadian Metro Vancouver journalist who has worked in media for more than a decade. “I one day hoped to run a publication in the city I grew up in. I can’t wait to show everyone my love for two cities that have had such an impact on my life, and I’m looking forward to giving back to Burnaby through my efforts, too.”

After proven leadership at New West Anchor (The Anchor)—which she will continue to manage—Overstory believes Renouf will be the perfect fit for The Beacon: she grew up in The Heights, attended Gilmore Community (Elementary) School, and graduated from Alpha Secondary (now Ecole Alpha Secondary) in 2008. At Alpha, she was extensively involved in school life, and was best known for delivering daily school announcements—and getting involved in the Aztec Newsletter. “That was my first newsletter, and it was delivered on a couple of sheets of paper by students who really loved to write. It’s so funny how that’s changed—and come full circle,” she says.

Renouf continued her post-secondary education in Burnaby, graduating from Simon Fraser University with a joint major in sociology and anthropology in 2013. She attended BCIT, graduating with distinction from the broadcasting and online journalism program in 2015. You may have run into her at the legendary Shoppers Drug Mart #218—when it was still operating at Hastings and Gilmore—where she worked as a merchandiser, cashier, supervisor, and make-up artist until it closed.

Renouf earned her journalism stripes at CKNW, Global, and CityNews Vancouver. Her radio, digital, and television experiences have resulted in three journalism awards and a total of seven nominations. Two of her wins are prestigious Edward R. Murrows, one of which she won for her radio anchoring of the US Capitol riots in 2021.

Renouf and The Anchor have become the go-to digital source in New Westminster, in particular for New West council coverage in a non-intimidating, easy-to-understand way.

“What can I say? My idea of a fun Monday night is sitting around and watching council in New West. But I also understand how difficult it can be to keep up with processes and procedures. In Burnaby, I’m looking forward to welcoming another reporter who will be doing much of what I do in New West, because people need to stay in the know,” Renouf explains.

Renouf will assume full leadership of The Beacon as of today.

The Burnaby Beacon is distributed via email to nearly 17,000 engaged locals. The publication covers a range of topics, including news you can use, food, events, and human interest. Make sure you subscribe to stay informed.

The Anchor is distributed to nearly 6,000 subscribers, also via email. Along with regular council coverage, it’s also become a go-to for community spotlight stories—highlighting the incredible people who make up New West.

Overstory Media Group is an independent Canadian media company with a network of more than 10 brands and growing across all digital platforms. The company is a collective of award-winning journalists, creatives, and creators, delivering thoughtful content to hundreds of thousands of people each day. Our storytelling and highly-engaged audience provides our partners fresh ways to tell their stories and connect with communities around the world.

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