Juan Aurelio Arévalo is recognized as the most influential journalist in Peru.

Juan Aurelio Arévalo Miró Quesada, the editorial director of El Comercio, has been recognized as the most influential journalist in the national print media, according to the recent Poder 2024 survey presented by Semana Económica and conducted by Ipsos. This recognition marks a milestone in his career, as it is the first time Arévalo has taken the top spot since he assumed the position at the end of 2020. With a decisive 34% of the votes, his leadership has been crucial in transforming and modernizing the country's oldest newspaper. In an increasingly competitive media landscape, Arévalo's influence has been evident in his ability to implement a digital transformation within the editorial team of El Comercio. This process has not only allowed the newspaper to adapt to the new informational demands of its audience, but it has also earned high-profile awards in the journalistic field, such as those granted by INMA and GDA in 2024. These distinctions reflect not only the quality of the content produced but also the innovation in distribution and outreach strategies. Under Arévalo's leadership, programs aimed at empowering citizens and giving voice to their concerns have been relaunched. Initiatives such as Neighborhood Audiences, School Correspondents, and Peruvians Who Contribute, among others, are designed to bring the newspaper closer to its audience, fostering an open and constructive dialogue. These actions have the fundamental purpose of ensuring that the concerns and proposals of the population are visible in the pages of the newspaper, thereby strengthening its role as a medium that serves the community. Similarly, reader loyalty has been prioritized. El Comercio's commitment to subscription models has demonstrated a clear focus on building a base of loyal users who consume content regularly. This effort has paid off, as the medium has climbed positions in the digital realm, leading the Scimago ranking of digital reputation in Latin America, a feat that underscores its commitment to quality and innovation. The creation of new units within the newspaper, such as the Investigative Unit and the Data Journalism Unit (ECdata), has provided valuable tools for addressing complex issues and offering in-depth analyses. The incorporation of new narratives has allowed for experimentation with formats and approaches that better capture the public's attention. This strategy not only enriches the informational content but also facilitates a more dynamic interaction between the medium and its readers. The launch of new sections, such as New Formats and themes like Benefit and Well-being, demonstrates El Comercio's willingness to adapt to the changing tastes and preferences of its audience. The expansion into platforms like TikTok reflects a desire to reach a younger and more diverse audience, exploring different ways to tell stories that resonate across generations. This innovative approach has been key to maintaining the newspaper's relevance in a constantly evolving media environment. The Semana Económica survey also highlights the positions of other prominent journalists, such as Cecilia Valenzuela and César Hildebrandt, who rank second and third, respectively. The competition in the journalistic field is fierce, and Arévalo's ability to stand out in this context underscores his commitment to the profession and his vision for the future of journalism in the country. Juan Aurelio Arévalo's legacy goes beyond his ranking in influence. His focus on innovation and citizen participation has set a precedent in the national press, promoting a journalism model that seeks not only to inform but also to engage and empower the population. In a world where misinformation and polarization are pressing concerns, his work stands as a beacon of hope and a call for more responsible and committed journalism. Thus, Arévalo's figure solidifies not only as a leader within his medium but also as a reference point in the national journalistic landscape. His influence is felt in every initiative that seeks to connect the newspaper with its audience and in every story told from a perspective that prioritizes the common good. In times when the role of journalism is constantly being redefined, the path that El Comercio has charted under his leadership serves as a model to follow in the pursuit of journalism that serves society and contributes to its development.