Komugisha Olivia is a journalist by profession, a News reporter at NTV Uganda, moderator, communications consultant and a voice-over artist.
She won the 2017 Media Challenge award for Best Technology News Reporter while in her second year at the university which paved the way to her breakthrough. She was enrolled for the media challenge fellowship which offered her a chance to explore and be trained in different avenues.
“One day, the then News Manager of NTV called Mr Abas Mpidi, the CEO of Media Challenge, in search of young people to train at NTV.
Mpidi recommended me, so I joined as a trainee, later as an intern and eventually got employed. It has been two and half years since I joined the profession and I am grateful.” says Olivia.
Inspiration
Journalism is something I have loved to do since childhood. Watching people anchor News on TV has always inspired me even when I didn’t know what it takes for them to be on TV.
The fact that I was offering Journalism at the University, also motivated me to go out and achieve my goal.
I believe in the power of storytelling. I believe in telling stories that impact people and society and when the impact is visible, then it motivates me the more.
First job
I was a communications officer at an events company that used to organize all kinds of events but especially the cooperate ones. It was amazing.
Success secrets
Having confidence has helped me move places because I am never intimidated by anything.
My good communication skills have also been of great help in my career. I remember moving from place to place telling people about myself, and what I can do and people often told me that I have good communication skills and confidence to face anything.
I have done a lot of networking. Since I am confident with good communication skills, I meet so many people that recommend me in case any opportunity arises.
Vital skills in your job
Communication skills are very important; remember you need to talk to people every day.
Audio editing, Video editing and videography skills are also important in journalism, especially when working with a TV station.
Writing skills are very important. There’s no way you can dodge writing as long as you are in the Journalism field. Everything is about writing.
The ability to work under minimum supervision is important because people won’t be always there to supervise you, so you need to make sure that you put out quality work.
Challenges
The security of journalists is not good yet. Seeing security operatives harass Journalists in most cases is heartbreaking.
Mentorship
I have many mentors like Josephine Kalungi, Abasi Mpindi, Allan Kasuja and my workmates.
There are many people who have contributed one way or the other in my career. They want to see me become better, perfect my art and are always pushing me to strive even when I am a little disappointed.
It is important to talk to the right people to encourage you one more time and trust me that one more time can be life-changing.
Long term career goals
I would love to see myself elevate and shoot higher in Journalism.
Advice to aspiring journalists
Patience is everything you need in life because things don’t just happen overnight. Be patient as you perfect your skills and craft, and then go out there and seek opportunities.
By Twinomujuni Catherine.
