UCL alumna wins Peabody Award for Scam Inc.

Alizée Jean-Baptiste, who studied on the programme in 2017–18, is a producer on the acclaimed series from The Economist, which investigates the global rise of online fraud and the lives shaped by it. 

The Peabody Awards celebrate storytelling that informs, connects and inspires. Scam Inc. has been recognised for its clear and compelling exploration of a fast-growing global issue.

Online fraud is now estimated to generate around $500 billion a year. For many years, the systems behind these scams have remained largely hidden. Scam Inc. focuses attention on this challenge and brings new visibility to the networks and experiences that underpin it.

Hosted by journalist Sue-Lin Wong and created with Sam Colbert, the series explores the mechanics of so-called “pig butchering” scams. These are long-term fraud operations in which individuals are persuaded to share increasing amounts of money. The podcast takes a thoughtful and balanced approach, highlighting not only the experiences of those affected by scams, but also the realities facing people coerced into carrying them out, many of whom are themselves vulnerable.

Through a series of personal accounts, Scam Inc. builds a fuller picture of a global issue that touches communities and economies around the world. The series brings forward voices that are often unheard and adds depth to international conversations about online safety, regulation and responsibility.

The Peabody judges recognised Scam Inc. for raising understanding of a complex and urgent issue and for using the podcast format to connect listeners with stories from across the world in an immediate and human way.

Reflecting on her win, Alizée said:

Winning a Peabody is a dream come true, and one I’ve been working towards for the past decade. The Peabody Awards celebrate stories that matter, and it was at UCL that I began to discover my own voice and the kinds of stories that matter to me.

Joining the MA in Ethnographic and Documentary Film was a crucial step in that journey. It gave me the confidence to pursue what I wanted and to trust my instincts as a storyteller. The audio storytelling module was my first experience making a podcast, and the support, trust and guidance of my tutors helped me develop skills and ambitions that have shaped my career ever since."

Alizée’s success reflects the values of UCL’s MA in Ethnographic and Documentary Film, where students develop the skills to explore global challenges through careful research and creative practice. Her work on Scam Inc. shows how documentary storytelling can deepen understanding, connect perspectives and support positive change.