In Kenya’s vibrant media sphere, digital disruption drives constant change. To navigate the dynamic media landscape, TUKO.co.ke hosted the TUKO Educate Masterclass at two esteemed institutions: USIU—United States International University and the Multimedia University of Kenya.
Jacob Otieno, the Managing Editor, and Chris Oyier, the Social Media Manager at TUKO.co.ke, led the sessions. These were not just simple lectures but about real talk, sharing wisdom on navigating the media industry’s ever-shifting sands from personal experiences.
Jacob Otieno, a seasoned voice in Kenyan media, vividly portrayed the digital revolution sweeping through the industry. His message was clear: “If you want to stand out, start before you’re ready.”
Jacob stressed the importance of showcasing one’s work and continuously learning new skills. With the emergence of new content formats, such as reels and short articles, he urged students to embrace versatility to stay ahead of the curve.
“In today’s media landscape, adaptability is non-negotiable. You’ve got to be willing to evolve with the times, constantly honing your craft and exploring new avenues for storytelling. While journalism can be saturated as a career, the opportunities in digital media are endless.”
Chris Oyier, the social media guru of TUKO.co.ke, shared his secrets for conquering social media as a digital media brand that engages millions of Kenyans daily.
According to Chris, it’s all about practice. He emphasised the need for consistent learning and staying ahead of the curve.
Chris also touched on the importance of using technology and AI to enhance individual skills while maintaining ethical journalism.
“Building a social media brand isn’t just about being popular; it’s about being responsible. Embrace technology, but always remember the ethical principles that underpin journalism. Journalists are expected to maintain the highest journalistic standards even on social media because a single mistake, such as posting unverified information, could lead to tough legal action.”
During the panel discussion, industry veterans Marvin Chege and David Indeje shared their journeys and offered sage advice to eager students.
Marvin, who started his own media house, ViralTea.co.ke, stressed the importance of taking charge of your destiny. He urged students to create content rather than wait for the perfect job.
According to Marvin, the real movers and shakers in the industry are the ones who take the initiative and create their paths.
“Don’t wait for opportunities to come knocking; create your own. The future belongs to those willing to roll their sleeves and make things happen. You don’t have to be employed; you can also create opportunities for other journalists to be employed.”
David Indeje rounded out the discussion with practical tips for aspiring journalists. He encouraged students to get involved with media associations and familiarise themselves with media laws.
David also highlighted the importance of internships and accreditation, urging students to take advantage of every opportunity to hone their skills and build their portfolios.
“Success in the media industry isn’t just about talent; it’s about aligning yourself with the correct media associations that will offer you a competitive advantage and expose you to the right opportunities you need to grow.”
The TUKO Educate Masterclass aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today’s competitive media landscape.
