Erskine and Charef: Meet dynamic duo behind Mjadala Africa debate

Mjadala Afrika African Union Leadership Debate Moderator Ms. Fatima Charef. [Courtesy, Standard]

Apart from Ghana and Algeria, it may have been the first time for many across the African continent to ‘meet’ the two moderators of the African Union (AU) Mjadala Afrika leadership debate on Friday.

The way in which they executed the job with finesse and flair captured the attention of many Africans, who watched the two-hour debate broadcast across 55 AU member states via satellite links.

The two moderators were Canadian-based Ghanian Anita Erskine, an English speaker and Executive Director of Erskine Global Communications, and Algerian journalist Fatima Charef, a French speaker.

They led the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson candidates – former Kenya Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, and former Madagascar Foreign Affairs Minister Richard Randriamandrato – in outlining their vision for the continent. The trio is contesting the AUC elections in February next year.

Erskine, a TV and Radio host and award winning journalist, was born in Jerusalem, Israel. She went to school in Ghana and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Cultural Studies from Trent University in Canada.

Her X account tagline proudly states: “Telling stories from Africa to North America and every continent around and in between!” .

She is recognised as a highly esteemed media and communications entrepreneur, with over two decades experience in strategic communications management and television content development and management. As the host of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH), she is celebrated for her dedication to shaping Africa’s narrative and promoting sustainable development.

According to her website, Erskine’s renowned skill in live event hosting stems from her unique blend of experience as a broadcast journalist, communications specialist, and her passion for advancing global economic sustainability narratives.

When selected as a moderator for the Mjadala Afrika leadership debate, she shared on Instagram: “I am deeply honoured to co-moderate the Mjadala Afrika leadership debate, a transformative platform where Africa’s leaders engage directly with citizens. I am thrilled to co-moderate alongside the brilliant Fatima Charef. Together, we’ll bring Africa’s leadership closer to you.” Owing to her storytelling prowess, she is said to have hosted over 500 events globally with flair and precision.

Her website, which also provides an option to reach out to her, enumerates some of the organizations she has worked for.

“The day I realized that I’m so human, that I’m so only flesh and blood, is the day I also admitted that help and asking for help is golden. The ability to say I don’t know, I don’t have and I can’t, is not a weakness, it is actually a source of power. You fall, and when you fall you allow yourself to fall but when you fall and pick yourself up… you show them, listen, this is a scar, I fell but I picked myself up and I’m going to try again,” she said.

Awards

Earlier this month, she was recognised at the Guba Awards, which celebrate the achievements of African individuals and organisations in the diaspora and Ghana.

“It was a surprise! A moment of humility. Being named ‘Iconic Voice in Media and Advocacy’ by the Guba Awards and the Mayor of London is an honour. Thank you for believing in me and placing me in spaces where I can inspire others. The journey continues,” she said on December 6.

On the other hand, Charef, who moderated the debate in French, has limited online information about her career but is a well known radio and TV host, as well as an events host.

In September, for example, she hosted an event celebrating her country’s athletes for their performance at the 2024 Olympic Games.

“Such an honor to have hosted this great ceremony that paid tribute to our athletes, who participated and won bronze and gold medals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” she posted on Instagram, which also shows her extensive travel experience.

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