In a media landscape flooded with soundbites and trending headlines, it takes a rare kind of journalist to capture the stories often left unheard. In 2025, one man is proving that principled reporting still has the power to change perspectives—and lives.

With a camera in hand and empathy as his guide, Fred de Sam Lazaro continues to shine a light on global inequities while inspiring the next generation of truth-seekers. As he often says, “Every story is a chance to open a window into someone else’s world.”

For Lazaro, journalism isn’t just a profession—it’s a calling fueled by a deep desire to give voice to those too often silenced.

Lazaro’s journey is marked by relentless dedication, cultural fluency, and an unwavering commitment to responsible storytelling.

Fred de Sam Lazaro Biography: Early Life, Ethnicity & Education

Fred is an Indian-American journalist, documentary filmmaker, and educator known for his in-depth coverage of human rights, public health, and social justice issues. Born in Bangalore, India, he immigrated to the United States in the 1970s and is now a naturalized American citizen of South Asian descent.

Though his exact age is not publicly disclosed, he is believed to be in his mid-60s, shaped by an intercultural upbringing that instilled a deep sensitivity toward marginalized communities.

5 feet 9 inches Fred earned his undergraduate degree from the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota, which later honored him with a doctorate. Also, he graduated from the University of Minnesota’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication—an academic background that helped refine his ethical approach to journalism, blending rigorous research with global empathy.

How Did Fred de Sam Lazaro Started His Career?

Fred’s career started in local media, where he honed his storytelling skills at Minnesota Public Television before joining Twin Cities PBS (TPT) in 1985. His natural narrative gift and on-camera presence quickly gained national attention, leading him to become a regular correspondent for PBS NewsHour.

His work has taken him to over 70 countries. In rural Uganda, he interviewed a midwife who had delivered more than 1,500 babies without access to running water—a story that brought international focus to maternal health challenges in underserved regions. Whether reporting from refugee camps or rural schoolhouses, his lens consistently finds resilience amidst adversity.

That moment stayed with Fred, reminding him of the courage and resilience hidden in places the world rarely sees.

Fred vividly recalls that encounter—the determination of a woman delivering babies under harsh conditions left an indelible mark. Moments like these—where courage shines amid hardship—have fueled his passion to share stories the world might otherwise overlook.

Driven by a desire to give voice to the voiceless, Fred founded the Under-Told Stories Project at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota in the early 2000s. This initiative highlights lives in the developing world, providing a platform for stories rarely seen in mainstream media. As executive director, he mentors students while producing deeply human stories in collaboration with PBS.

Fred de Sam Lazaro’s Career Highlights & Global Reporting Impact

Across four decades, Fred has delivered some of the most compelling and compassionate global reporting on American television. Noteworthy contributions include:

• Documenting Rwanda’s post-genocide reconciliation

• Investigative reporting on sex trafficking in South Asia

• Spotlighting health disparities in the Mississippi Delta

He was a longtime contributor to Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly and frequently participates in ethics panels at major journalism forums.

Like fellow underrepresented media pioneers such as Nicholas Riccio, Fred de Sam Lazaro has built his career on elevating overlooked stories with integrity and empathy.

One landmark film, Hope in the Time of AIDS, was among the first to provide a detailed U.S. audience perspective on Africa’s AIDS crisis. Fred is celebrated not only for his extensive reach but also for the dignity with which he portrays his subjects.

Fred de Sam Lazaro Awards, Honors & Journalism Accolades

Fred’s distinguished career has earned him numerous accolades reflecting the impact and integrity of his work. Among the most prestigious are:

• The Alfred I. duPont-Columbia Award, considered the Pulitzer Prize of broadcast journalism

• A Peabody Award shared with PBS NewsHour colleagues for excellence in storytelling and public service

• Multiple Emmy nominations for international reporting

Despite these honors, Fred often humbly says that the true reward lies in the stories told and lives touched—not the trophies on a shelf

His alma mater, the University of Minnesota, honored him as a Distinguished Alumnus for his contributions to ethical journalism. Several other universities have awarded him honorary doctorates, recognizing the educational value of his storytelling.

Beyond awards, Lazaro shapes journalism’s future by serving on advisory boards for international initiatives, where his insight into ethics, cultural sensitivity, and narrative impact remains influential.

What Is Fred de Sam Lazaro’s Net Worth in 2025?

Fred’s net worth is estimated between $1 million and $3 million, primarily from his roles at PBS and the Under-Told Stories Project, supplemented by speaking engagements and academic collaborations.

Despite his success, he maintains a modest lifestyle and often states, “Impact matters far more than income”—a guiding principle throughout his career.

Is Fred de Sam Lazaro Married?

Fred is married to Kay de Sam Lazaro, an educator and intercultural communication advocate. They met during community outreach work in Minnesota and have been partners in purpose ever since.

They have three adult children, all sharing their parents’ passion for service and storytelling. Though private about his family life, Fred credits their support as vital to his ability to tackle emotionally challenging global issues.

Fred credits his family’s unwavering support as the emotional anchor that allows him to face the world’s toughest stories with strength and compassion.

Why Is Fred de Sam Lazaro Trending in 2025?

Fred’s new PBS NewsHour special, Invisible Frontlines, has earned critical acclaim. The documentary highlights unsung public health heroes—community health workers in low-income countries who often serve as the sole providers of care. Praised for its sensitivity and authenticity, the film has gone viral.

His Under-Told Stories Project also partnered with the Google News Initiative this year, bringing international narratives into U.S. classrooms through curriculum materials, virtual reality content, and educator workshops, extending his mission’s reach.

As misinformation and polarization challenge journalism, Fred’s work stands out as a model of fact-based, ethical reporting—a calming voice amidst the digital noise.

What’s Next for Fred de Sam Lazaro in 2025 and Beyond?

Looking forward, Fred plans to launch a groundbreaking digital series on climate-driven migration, supported by the MacArthur Foundation. This project will feature immersive storytelling tools such as virtual reality tours and interactive maps, focusing on displacement in regions like the Sahel, Pacific Islands, and Bangladesh.

He will also keynote the 2025 Global Investigative Journalism Conference in Berlin, addressing how journalism can foster empathy amid global conflict.

As Fred looks ahead, his focus remains clear: to illuminate untold stories with empathy, inspiring a more informed and compassionate world.

Fred de Sam Lazaro’s Social Media & Online Presence (2025)

Fred maintains an active presence on X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn, sharing field updates, journalism ethics resources, and stories from the Under-Told Stories Project.

As of May 2025, his X account has around 32,000 followers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fred de Sam Lazaro best known for?

Fred de Sam Lazaro is best known for his global reporting on human rights, public health, and underreported stories through PBS NewsHour and the Under-Told Stories Project.

What is the Under-Told Stories Project?

It’s a journalism initiative founded by Fred at the University of St. Thomas that highlights overlooked global issues, especially in developing countries. It blends storytelling with education to train the next generation of ethical journalists.

Has Fred de Sam Lazaro won any major awards?

Yes. He has received the Alfred I. duPont-Columbia Award, a Peabody, and multiple Emmy nominations, among others.

Where was Fred de Sam Lazaro born?

He was born in Bangalore, India, and later immigrated to the United States, where he became a naturalized American citizen.

 What is Fred de Sam Lazaro’s net worth?

As of 2025, his estimated net worth ranges between $1 million and $3 million.

Is Fred de Sam Lazaro married?

Yes. He is married to Kay de Sam Lazaro, an educator and intercultural communication advocate. They have three adult children.