Where and what did you study at university/college?
I studied at The Multimedia University of Kenya... and yes, notice I started with “The.” I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism.
Favourite/worst unit while on campus?
My favourite unit was philosophy. It was a fascinating class, particularly learning how the media can shape public opinion simply by how it chooses to report a story.
As for my worst unit, I had a few! But one that stands out was the one where we had to create a website. I can’t even remember the name of the unit. I recall walking into the first lesson, wondering what was happening. This was in my fourth year, yet we had never been in an IT class before, apart from learning basic computer skills like MS Word and Excel. That was a tough one.
Best/worst lecturer?
My best lecturers were Ms Muhatia and Laban Freiser. Ms Muhatia taught me TV and radio announcing, while Laban taught me TV production. They pushed us hard, but that solid foundation has been invaluable in my career.
My worst? A lecturer who taught Media Law. I won’t mention names, but it felt like Guantanamo Bay. I have never been there, but from what I have read, I can imagine the experience!
How was campus life in general?
Campus life was fun. It was a new environment filled with diverse people and personalities. At that age, you just want to fit in. I tried all sorts of things, some were fun, some I wouldn’t repeat! It was a place away from home, no supervision; you are on your own, and you think you own the world (laughs).
How did you make money while on campus?
I started making money in my third year by doing voice-overs.
How was dating on campus?
This one makes me laugh. I actually never dated. I now realise they were just “situationships,” which were fine for that time.
What do you think of campus relationships?
I prefer to call them campus friendships. They are important for social growth, but only if you are building each other up. If you are not advising each other on how to make money and succeed, then there is no point.
Where did you hang out on weekends?
I mostly hung out at the campus clubhouse. It had a great swimming pool. I also spent a lot of time watching science documentaries at home.
What did you do in your free time?
I watched a lot of movies and shows. Back then, we would wait eagerly for new episodes of Game of Thrones and download BET shows from torrents, those were the days! I also never missed a musical or acting audition.
Classmates you will never forget?
Interesting question! Akuku Danger, Jacktone, Hiram, Jowie, Kate, Lydia, Kemmy, Mucheru, and Malel. We were together from our first class in first year to the very last one on campus.
Advice to young and upcoming journalists considering the changes in the industry?
The media industry is constantly evolving. We used to hear about digital transformation, and now we are living in it. Use the platforms that your peers engage with and make them work for the content you want to share.
What are some of the mistakes you see young and upcoming journalists making?
Many young journalists struggle with ethics, accuracy, and objectivity. Some common mistakes include lack of verification and accuracy, poor sourcing and bias. There is also plagiarism, poor interviewing techniques such as asking leading questions or failing to extract meaningful insights from sources.
Where do you see yourself in the next few years career-wise?
I see myself in the international media space, focusing on international relations and connecting with global media pioneers. I want to understand how different cultures consume media. Eventually, I hope to own my own media practice. I also plan to keep studying and growing in the field every day.
Any final advice to young people out there?
Start your own thing. Don’t try to copy someone else. Be yourself. That uniqueness you have? That’s your brand.