Participatory culture refers to a social and media environment in which individuals are not merely passive consumers of information but active contributors, collaborators, and creators of content. In traditional mass media systems, audiences mainly received messages produced by professional journalists and media institutions. With the emergence of digital media technologies such as social networking platforms, blogs, video-sharing websites, and online forums, the boundaries between producers and audiences have blurred. People now engage directly in creating, sharing, discussing, and reshaping media content, leading to a more democratic flow of information and communication. Participatory culture is characterized by low barriers to artistic expression and civic engagement, strong support for sharing creations, informal mentorship among users, and a belief that individual contributions matter within the broader digital community. In the context of journalism and digital media, participatory culture plays a significant role in transforming how news is produced and distributed. Audiences are no longer limited to reading newspapers or watching television broadcasts; instead, they comment on news stories, share eyewitness accounts, upload photos and videos, and even fact-check professional reporting. This shift has expanded the definition of journalism to include citizen journalism, collaborative storytelling, and user-generated content. Platforms such as Twitter (now X), Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube allow ordinary individuals to publish information instantly, contributing to real-time reporting during major events such as natural disasters, protests, or political developments. For instance, during emergencies like earthquakes or floods, local residents often share live updates and visuals before traditional media organizations reach the scene. Digital media encourages public participation by offering accessible tools for content creation. Smartphones equipped