ARISE News digital journalist Joseph Jegede has been named among 17 African media professionals selected for the International News Media Association’s (INMA) inaugural Africa Emerging Leaders Scholarships.
The programme is designed to identify and empower the next generation of news media leaders under the age of 40, offering them global exposure and professional development opportunities.
Selected from applicants across 16 African countries, the recipients were recognised for their commitment to the media industry and their potential to shape its future.
“This cohort of African news media professionals is truly fuelling the news media industry’s innovation in a rapidly changing environment,” said Earl J. Wilkinson, Executive Director and CEO of INMA. “The future for these emerging leaders in Africa is limitless. We’re proud to welcome them to INMA.”
Scholarship recipients will receive a one-year individual INMA membership, free access to three global virtual master classes, professional networking opportunities, and a certificate of achievement.
Doreen Mbaya, INMA’s Africa Regional Manager, said the programme was crucial for the growth of journalism on the continent. “Providing these kinds of opportunities is so important for the survival of journalism on the continent,” she said. “These emerging leaders exemplify the path forward for news organisations in Africa.”
The Emerging Leaders Scholarship Programme is part of INMA’s Elevate Africa Initiative, which focuses on advancing African media professionals through regional training, mentorship, and leadership development.
Other recipients of the INMA Africa Emerging Leaders Scholarship include:
- Ololade Akinmurele, Deputy Editor, BusinessDay Media Ltd., Nigeria
- Abdelrahman Ellithy, CEO, Nogoom Masrya, Egypt
- Karess Essiane, Journalist and Morning News Anchor, CRTV, Cameroon
- Florence Flomo, Reporter/Producer, Radio Bushrod 98.1FM, Liberia
- Ayoub Guezzoul, Chief Commerce Officer, Jeune Afrique Media Group, France
- Nathan Guma, Data Journalist, The NewsHawks, Zimbabwe
- Salisu Ibrahim, Head of Desk (Hausa), Legit.ng, Nigeria
- Masolo Mabonga, Head of Current Affairs Department, TUKO.co.ke, Kenya
- Jacob Moronge, Social Media Manager, Ruben FM/Moronge Managers, Kenya
- Devereaux Morkel, Content Manager, Independent Media, South Africa
- Jean de Dieu Nahabakomeye, Programmes and Partnerships Director, Iris News, Burundi
- Michael Ogbodu, Broadcast Journalist, Media General Ghana, Ghana
- Daisy Okoti, Research and Impact Editor, Nation Media Group, Kenya
- Jade Rhode, Human Interest Reporter, Briefly News South Africa, South Africa
- Jean-Fraterne Ruyange, Executive Director, Streaming Asylum, Democratic Republic of Congo (based in Uganda)
- Wabwila Musongole, Television Producer (Intern), Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation, Zambia.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
About the Author
