Overcoming Obstacles: The Stories of Kenyan Journalists Who Faced Challenges and Found Success

Behind the success stories of many Kenyan journalists lie tales of hardship and struggle. Despite the challenges, these journalists persevered and eventually landed their dream jobs, making significant contributions to the field of journalism in Kenya.

From working odd jobs to support themselves to facing rejection and a lack of opportunities, these journalists overcame obstacles to achieve success. In this article, we will explore the journeys of several Kenyan journalists who faced significant challenges before landing their dream jobs.

1. Victoria Rubadiri

Rubadiri is a news anchor and journalist who has won numerous awards for her reporting, including the 2020 BBC World News Komla Dumor Award.

Before landing her job at Citizen TV, Rubadiri faced significant challenges in her career. She began her career in Malawi, where she worked as a radio presenter and producer.

After moving to Kenya in 2007, she struggled to find work as a journalist and was forced to take on odd jobs to make ends meet. Rubadiri eventually landed a job at Capital FM, where she worked as a news anchor and reporter before moving to Citizen TV, where she has become one of the most respected journalists in Kenya.

2. Alex Chamwada

Chamwada is a veteran journalist who has worked for various media outlets, including KBC and KTN. He is also the founder of Chams Media, a media company that produces documentaries and other media content.

Chamwada began his career as a reporter for KBC, but struggled to find work after leaving the state broadcaster. He eventually landed a job at KTN, where he worked as a news anchor and reporter before starting his own media company.

Chamwada is known for his insightful reporting and his commitment to telling important stories.

3. Jeff Koinange

Koinange is a well-known journalist who has worked for various media outlets in Kenya and internationally, including CNN and K24. He grew up in a family of limited means and had to work hard to pursue his education. After graduating from college, he struggled to find work in the media industry and worked odd jobs before landing his first job as a radio presenter.

4. Julie Gichuru

Gichuru is a former news anchor and journalist who worked for various media outlets in Kenya, including KTN and Citizen TV. She grew up in a humble background and had to work hard to pursue her education. After graduating from college, she struggled to find work in the media industry and worked as a sales representative before landing her first job as a news presenter.

5. Joe Ageyo

Ageyo is a television journalist who has worked for various media outlets in Kenya, including Citizen TV and KTN. He grew up in a family of limited means and had to work hard to pursue his education.

After graduating from college, he struggled to find work in the media industry and worked as a teacher before landing his first job as a journalist.

These journalists, along with many others, demonstrate the challenges that many aspiring journalists face in Kenya.

Despite these challenges, they were able to overcome adversity and achieve success in their careers. Their stories serve as an inspiration to others who may be facing similar challenges in their pursuit of a career in journalism.