Hey there! I’m Rachael Hesno, an NCTJ qualified freelance journalist, features writer and researcher.

I most recently worked at news and events publisher Prolific North, initially joining in 2021 as a journalist before rising through the ranks to become deputy editor in 2023, where I covered the latest tech, digital, media and creative news across the North of England. I developed a specialism in writing long-form industry deep dive features, where I shined a spotlight on anything from toxic agency workplaces, female founder issues, to delving into Liverpool’s thriving games sector.

I have interviewed hundreds of founders, industry leaders and regional figures over the years. More recently, I led a number of features and investigations into the future of Northern tech and spearheaded a number of editorial-led initiatives, such as Tech Companies to Watch and Indie Agencies to Watch.

Prior to my time at Prolific North, I dabbled in freelance journalism writing about anything from men’s fashion to the rising stars across the North’s music scene. I’ve had stints working in regional newsrooms, magazines, press agencies and interned at The Week UK with a focus on world news… so I’m well versed in writing about lots of different issues and topics!

I currently have a few freelance projects on the go but I’m always open to writing about tech or music. If you’re interested in working together or collaborating, please email me via hesnoink@gmail.com