In this special episode recorded live at the AWiM24 Conference in Dakar, Senegal,  Dr Yemisi had the honour of speaking with four phenomenal women who have spent decades shaping African journalism: Dr. Lilian Okonkwo-Ogabu, Angela Agoawike, Ekong Uduak, and Ireti Bakare-Yusuf.

These are women who have walked through fire, navigating tough newsrooms, evolving technologies, political pressures, and shifting audience expectations. And still, they remain passionate, purposeful, and powerful.

You’ll hear them reflect on the lessons they wish they’d learned earlier, how they stay relevant in a constantly changing media landscape, and what advice they have for young journalists trying to make their mark, especially in challenging environments.

Whether you’re just starting out or a few years in, this is the wisdom you didn’t know you needed. 

Share your reflections with us on social media using the hashtag #HerMediaDiary.

If you haven’t already, subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to leave a review..  To find out more about this podcast, visit www.hermediadiary.com.

Career Tips From Veteran Women Journalists

Dr Joyce Kirabo is a lecturer and trainer with over 13 years of experience in mentoring, coaching, teaching and delivering training programs. She holds a PhD in business Administration from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. In a world where stories of resilience and determination often go unheard, the journey of Dr. Joyce stands out as a beacon of hope. Growing up as a refugee in Uganda, Dr. Joyce faced immense challenges that could have easily derailed her dreams. However, her unwavering commitment to education became her lifeline, guiding her through the darkest of times.

Dr. Joyce's early life was marked by the trauma of the Rwandan genocide, a period that left deep scars on her community and family. As she navigated her childhood, she witnessed the struggles of her parents, who worked tirelessly to provide for their family despite their own lack of education. This backdrop instilled in her a profound understanding of the value of education, especially for women who often faced additional societal barriers.

Determined to rise above her circumstances, Dr. Joyce excelled academically, earning multiple diplomas and degrees against all odds.

Today, Dr. Joyce is not only a lecturer and trainer but also a role model for young women aspiring to make their mark in the media industry.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn more about the podcast via www.hermediadiary.com

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

 * Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]
 * Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]
 * International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]
 * African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]
 * Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]
 * International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]
 * Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]
 * Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]
 * The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]
 * AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

Her Media Diary Episode 42: “Winning Against All Odds” with Dr Joyce Kirabo

Rebecca Mutiso is the Manager of Accreditation and Compliance at the Media Council of Kenya.

Rebecca's story begins in Nairobi, where she grew up in a vibrant household with her siblings and cousins. Despite facing poverty, her parents instilled in her the importance of education and self-advocacy. From a young age, Rebecca was known for her outspoken nature. This early foundation shaped her ambitions to either become a lawyer or a journalist—two fields where she believed she could make a difference.

Ultimately, Rebecca chose journalism, a decision that has led her to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and media. With over 17 years of experience in the industry, she has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of technology in storytelling. Rebecca emphasizes the need for female journalists to embrace AI, not only to stay relevant but to utilize it responsibly and ethically.

One of the most poignant points Rebecca raises is the digital gender divide that persists in society. Many women are discouraged from pursuing careers in technology, which often leads to a lack of representation in fields like AI. She works for the Media Council of Kenya, an organisation actively involved in creating guidelines for the responsible use of AI in media organizations, ensuring that women journalists have the skills to navigate this evolving landscape.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn about African Women in Media at https://africanwomeninmedia.com [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

 * Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]
 * Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]
 * International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]
 * African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]
 * Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]
 * International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]
 * Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]
 * Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]
 * The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]
 * AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

Her Media Diary Episode 41: “Can AI Intervene for Women” with Rebecca Mutiso

Hinda Mohamoud is the Chief Editor of Bilan Media, Somalia's first all-women media team.

Hinda leads a team dedicated to covering social issues often overlooked by traditional media in Somalia, such as climate change, people living with albinism and HIV/AIDS, and period education for young girls.

Hinda's story begins in a conservative environment where women are often sidelined. Growing up, she was passionate about journalism, often listening to the radio and writing about her daily experiences. Hinda's determination led her to Mogadishu, where she eventually joined Bilan Media, an organization that has become a beacon of hope for women in Somali journalism.

Hinda shares the challenges faced by female journalists in Somalia, including societal norms that discourage women's leadership. Yet, she remains optimistic about the future, believing that the existence of Bilan Media shows the community that women can lead and succeed in journalism.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn about Her Media Diary at https://hermediadiary.com/

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

 * Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]
 * Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]
 * International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]
 * African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]
 * Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]
 * International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]
 * Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]
 * Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]
 * The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]
 * AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

Her Media Diary Episode 40: The Power of Assertiveness” with Hinda Mohamoud

Nolwazi Tusini, an award-winning broadcast journalist, queer feminist, social justice activist and Program Director, Amplify South Africa. Nolwazi shares her experiences with loss, particularly the impact of losing her mother at a young age. This profound loss not only shaped her personal journey but also influenced her career path, pushing her towards journalism as a means to advocate for change.

Nolwazi talks about the challenges currently facing the media industry, particularly in light of technological advancements like AI. She emphasizes the need to keep a close eye on the policy making around AI and for Africa to be serious about the policy making and not allow AI companies to do with the continent what big tech had done.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn about African Women in Media at https://africanwomeninmedia.com [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

· Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]

· Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]

· International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]

· African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

· Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]

· International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]

· Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]

· Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]

· The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]

· AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

 Her Media Diary Episode 39: “Shaping AI for the Future of Journalism” with Nolwazi Tusini

Ruth Butaumocho is an award-winning Zimbabwean journalist, gender, and development trainer with over 25 years of media experience.

She is also the Managing Editor of The Herald Newspaper in Zimbabwe.
As a journalist, Ruth has dedicated over a decade to gender reporting, using her platform to highlight the issues faced by women in Zimbabwe. Her personal experiences with domestic violence have fueled her passion for advocating for gender equality and empowering women through her writing.

Ruth's insights serve as a reminder of the resilience and determination required to navigate this ever-changing landscape. Her journey is not just about personal success; it's about paving the way for future generations of journalists, especially women, to thrive in an industry that often presents barriers.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn about African Women in Media at https://africanwomeninmedia.com [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

· Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]

· Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]

· International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]

· African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

· Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]

· International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]

· Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]

· Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]

· The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]

· AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

Her Media Diary Episode 38: “AI Integration in Newsroom Operations” with Ruth Butaumocho

Omnia Shawkat & Raghdan Orsud are two remarkable women who have co-founded media organizations (Andariya and Beam Reports) dedicated to serving the Sudanese community. Their journey is not only inspiring but also highlights the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in a male-dominated industry.
As female co-founders, Omnia and Ragdan reflect on the unique challenges they encounter in the media sector. They share their experiences of navigating a male-dominated environment and the importance of networking and supporting other women in the field. Their dedication to empowering future generations of female journalists and media creators is evident in their initiatives aimed at bridging the experience gap.

Omnia and Ragdan's journeys are testaments to resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of truth in the media. Their work not only aims to inform but also to inspire and uplift their community. Their conversation also touches on the broader implications of their work, particularly in the context of Sudan's ongoing political and social struggles.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn about African Women in Media at https://africanwomeninmedia.com [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

· Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]

· Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]

· International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]

· African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

· Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]

· International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]

· Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]

· Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]

· The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]

· AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

Her Media Diary Episode 37: “Sustainability in a Traumatized, Resource-starved Landscape” with Omnia Shawkat & Raghdan Orsud

Amie Joof is a journalist, activist, and women’s rights advocate, with over 35 years of experience.

Madame Joof discusses her passion for journalism, her commitment to gender equality, and the importance of mentorship in empowering the next generation of women leaders. She also shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of advocating for women's rights in the media landscape.

She stresses the need for early intervention in addressing gender issues. She also calls for greater engagement with educators at the preschool level to instill values of equality and respect from a young age. By addressing these issues early on, we can create a more equitable society for future generations.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn about African Women in Media at https://africanwomeninmedia.com [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

· Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]

· Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]

· International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]

· African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

· Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]

· International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]

· Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]

· Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]

· The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]

· AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

Her Media Diary Episode 36: “Gender Equality Advocacy from the Grassroots” with Amie Joof

Gloria Edukere is a talented writer, advocacy specialist and corporate communications expert from Nigeria. She found her passion for writing at a young age, often retreating under the dining table to craft her stories. This early love for writing laid the foundation for her successful career in corporate communication.

Gloria discusses her career path, sharing how she transitioned from writing poetry to becoming a sought-after content writer and communications specialist. She emphasises the importance of networking and seizing opportunities as they arise.
In addition to discussing her personal journey, She talks about the role of AI in modern communication. She views AI as a valuable tool that enhances productivity and efficiency but stresses the importance of maintaining the human touch in all work.

This episode is a must-listen for aspiring writers, communications professionals, and anyone interested in gender equality and the future of corporate communication.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn about African Women in Media at https://africanwomeninmedia.com [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

· Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]

· Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]

· International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]

· African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

· Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]

· International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]

· Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]

· Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]

· The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]

AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

Her Media Diary Episode 35: “Leveraging AI in Corporate Communications” with Gloria Edukere

Melkamsew Selomon is a journalist with over 15 years of experience and also a Board Member of the Ethiopian Media Women Association (EMWA).

Melkam shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Addis Ababa to becoming a prominent journalist and advocate for gender equality in media. She discusses her early life challenges, her pursuit of education, and her transition into journalism.

Melkam's path to journalism was not a straightforward one. Despite excelling academically, she faced personal challenges, including an early pregnancy that temporarily derailed her educational aspirations. However, her determination and the support of her family enabled her to persevere, eventually leading her to the University of Addis Ababa, where she got her bachelor’s degree in foreign language literature and Master’s degree in communication and journalism.

Subscribe to Her Media Diary now on your favourite podcasting platform https://linktr.ee/hermediadiary

Learn about African Women in Media at https://africanwomeninmedia.com [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

List of Organisations/Resources to Support Women in Media

· Rise Women in Broadcast [https://risewib.com/about]

· Journalist’s Toolbox: [https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/]

· International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) [https://www.iwmf.org/our-programs/fund-for-women-journalists-professional-development-case-studies/]

· African Women in Media (AWiM) [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/]

· SourceHer [https://sourceher.com/]

· Public Media Women in Leadership [https://publicmediawomeninleadership.org/]

· International Journalists’ Network (IJNet) [https://ijnet.org/en]

· Kigali Declaration on the Elimination of Gender Violence [https://africanwomeninmedia.com/declaration/]

· Women’s Media Center (WMC) [https://womensmediacenter.com/]

· Media Career Development Network [https://mediacareerng.org/]

· The World Journalism Education Council (WJEC) [https://wjec.net/about/]

· AWiM Learning [https://awimlearning.com/]

Her Media Diary Episode 34: “Need for Gender Policies in Newsrooms” with Melkamsew Selomon

AWiM's Show

Dr Yemisi Akinbobola dives into the lived experiences of successful African women in media. Her personal interview style takes you on the life journey of these leading women. You will be inspired, laugh, but most of all you will be empowered knowing that you too can make it in the media industry.

AWiM

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