Yussuf Ibrahim, a former KTN News Anchor, well-known for his prowess on air, is among Kenyan journalists who quit the newsroom to run their own companies.
Taking to his social media on December 1, the former newsman who also had stint at K24, and Citizen TV reminisced when he decided to quit his job in the newsroom.
According to the now Communication Specialist, the huge decision impacted his life greatly thus the desire to help young journalists to make wise life decisions.
“It’s a new month, December 1st. This day marks a significant milestone for me. This is exactly the day I decided to literally walk away from the Newsroom and took a chance by pursuing a different path,” he noted.
In a special way, he advised young and upcoming journalists on how to make career decisions.
“Reflecting on these five years, here are my five 5️ not very perfect take aways! that I would like to share with young and upcoming journalists or even established ones that are still in the profession,” he added.
Yussuf Ibrahim 5 Lessons
1.Don’t resign yet! if you don’t have a solid Plan B
According to the former TV guy, one should never be a hurry to resign, especially if you do not have adequate experience and skills to sell your name.
“I know the media landscape has changed, but don’t take chances early in your career because your current experience will pave way for your next step. The transition is not always easy so prepare well!” he noted.
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2. Build your experience and skills
Furthermore, he argued that newsroom background opens doors everywhere for people with relevant experience and skills since they have the ability to work anywhere as they are known to be tough.
“Gain at least 10 years plus experience, before you make the next move. It always comes in handy. While at it, know how to work effectively with people,” he added.
3. Build Networks and diversify your income
The current Communication Specialist noted that networking and having several sources of income was necessary for survival in the industry.
“Depending on your current contract, explore additional opportunities like hosting events as MC or Moderators etc. If you are in print, collaborate with others by documenting stories,” he noted.
According to him, the extra activities would help journalists to prepare for the next journey in the “Jua Kali” sector.
4. Have financial discipline
The ex-TV reporter asked journalists to live within their means and not to bow to societal pressure because they were famous.
“Don’t let TV fame get in your head, it varnishes quickly! You will be shocked that being popular doesn’t mean financial stability. Most importantly don’t live beyond your means because of societal pressure. Take small steps at a time,” he added.
5. Invest in yourself- Especially Education.
Also, he challenged budding media practitioners to invest in education.
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“If you have a degree, aim for master’s degree asap. If you have a Diploma alone, then you will drown out here, there are clients that pay according to your education level!” he noted.
His Company
Notably, he founded Ubra Communications Research and Development (UCRD), a communication consultancy firm based in Nairobi after quitting the Standard Group.
UCRD offers training to different clients on crisis and strategic communication.
Despite the firm being fairly new in the market, Ibrahim has landed lucrative deals with various international organizations, including the moneyed United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
In 2019, the anchorman announced his departure from KTN News having joined the media organization in April 2017.
