Layan AbLayan Abu Tarboush serves as the neighborhood reporter for Thomasville, joining WTXL in May 2024.
She was born and raised in Amman, Jordan, but is originally Palestinian, with Arabic being her first language. Journalism wasn’t always her career choice, as she comes from a family of business owners. During her time in college, she realized she had a unique perspective and a talent for storytelling, and coming from a place where so much change is needed, she saw journalism as a way to make a difference in her community. She switched majors and fell in love with journalism.
She studied in Miami, earning a Bachelor of Science in Digital Communications and Multimedia Production with a Minor in International Relations from Florida International University. During her last two years in college, she created a package every week, covering everything from major political events to environmental stories.
She also freelanced for the Miami Herald, where she produced their first-ever news package and won a Hearst Journalism Award for reporting on extreme heat in Miami.
One of her most memorable moments was reporting in the Everglades, surrounded by insects, which is an adventure she says she won't forget.
She also had the chance to cover the announcement that Miami would be a host city for the World Cup, standing right alongside the mayor and other key figures in the city.
Layan says what she loves most about being the Thomasville neighborhood reporter is meeting people, listening to their stories, and gaining a deeper understanding of this area and its culture.
When she's not chasing stories, you’ll find her exploring Thomasville at Cherokee Lake Park and the downtown area. She's also a big foodie, always on the lookout for the next great meal.
She'd love to hear from you! Whether it’s a neighborhood concern, an issue that needs attention, or something exciting happening in the community, contact her at Layan.Tarboush@WTXL.tv.
