Ms. Busari's distinguished career began in the UK as a graduate trainee at The Daily Mirror. Her subsequent work at the BBC further developed her reporting expertise. Her 2008 transition to CNN International solidified her position as a leading journalist. Over 16 years, her dedication to reporting underrepresented African stories has garnered numerous awards, including an Emmy Award, a Peabody Award, a Gracie Award, and multiple Emmy nominations.
Her reporting on the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls stands as a pivotal achievement, as her persistent efforts brought international attention to their plight and contributed to their eventual rescue. Ms. Busari has interviewed numerous world leaders, cultural icons, and influential figures, consistently shaping global narratives surrounding Africa.
A Night of Reflection and Vision
The Lagos event assembled a distinguished group of leaders from various sectors, including media and culture, to recognize Busari's accomplishments. Attendees of note included Jumoke Oduwole, Mo Abudu, John Momoh, and Olori Atuwatse II, who commended Busari's contributions to journalism and cultural preservation.
A key event of the evening was a moving video tribute from Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Mauritius' first female President. She commended Busari's courage and impact:
“Stephanie has become the face of Africa at CNN. People like her provide the voice our continent needs. “
The Stephanie Busari Storytelling Academy and Fund has been officially launched by Stephanie Busari, who is determined to make a significant impact. Her initiative aims to train 100,000 storytellers and generate over 1,000 powerful stories within the next ten years, focusing on empowering African voices and transforming traditional narratives.
In a notable development, Tonye Patrick Cole, a distinguished entrepreneur and Co-founder of Sahara Group, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Academy’s Advisory Board. His strategic insights will play a crucial role in steering the initiative towards success.
Expanding Horizons: SBB Media and Global Platforms
In addition to the Academy, Mr. Busari established SBB Media, a consultancy firm specializing in promoting African narratives through:
- Documentary Filmmaking
- Media Training and Coaching
- Global Public Speaking Engagements
Busari has also launched a professional website, StephanieBusari.com, to provide a resource for aspiring journalists and showcase her published work.
Voices of Support
Global and local leaders commended Ms. Busari's contributions and affirmed their support for her vision:
- Richard Quest (CNN Anchor): “You are unique inbringing Africa’s vibrancy to global audiences.”
- Jumoke Oduwole (Minister of Trade and Investment): “This isn’t just journalism; it’s impact. our best is yet to come.”
- Olori Atuwatse lIl: “You are an excellent gift to the media world and to humanity.”
A Call to Action: Building Africa’s Storytelling Future
The event concluded with a request for collaborative partnerships and support from individuals, corporations, and organizations. Key sponsors, including Chivas Regal, Channels TV, and Arisse News, affirmed their commitment to promoting the Academy's strategic objectives.
As Busari shared her closing thoughts:
“Tonight, we honour the past. Tomorrow, we build the future, Africa’s stories deserve to be told with pride, precision, and power. This is just the Beginning.”
Stephanie Busari's 25-year milestone signifies not only her accomplishments but also serves as inspiration for future storytellers, empowering them to craft the narrative of a continent on the cusp of significant progress.