Breaking Barriers in Communication: My Journey as a Young Woman in Media
Guest post by Maryflorence Omollo
Maryflorence Omollo is a communication expert with a story of breaking barriers and overcoming challenges in a field still marked by gender inequality. Her journey hasn't been easy, but she hopes it will inspire other young women to pursue their dreams, especially those involved in the Cameras For Girls program. Below is the blog, where she outlines her journey and her ultimate path to success.
Maryflorence Omello, proudly shares her journey.
Starting Out: Ambition Meets Reality
In 2014, I began my undergraduate studies at the University of Nairobi, pursuing journalism and media studies. The excitement of joining the media industry filled me with ambition, but getting there was another story. When it came time for my industrial attachment, I hit a wall. Despite applying to nearly all the media houses in Nairobi, I couldn’t secure an opportunity. Rejection emails and silence became routine, and I started questioning if I’d ever get a chance to prove myself.
Finding a Mentor and a Breakthrough
Then, a turning point arrived. The Female Journalists Mentorship Program, introduced by the US Embassy to the University of Nairobi School of Journalism, offered me hope. Through this program, I was paired with a mentor, the TV Production Manager at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). My mentor became a lifeline, opening doors I had thought were permanently closed. I secured an attachment at KBC and found a community of mentors who guided, supported, and taught me the essentials of journalism: planning, coordination, content creation, social media management, producing and directing TV programs, editing, and more.
Due to my determination, I was retained at KBC even after my attachment ended. While still a student, I took on more responsibilities, assisting in producing TV programs—a significant achievement. I worked at KBC and the sister channel Y254 for three years, contributing to programs like Dadas and Unfinished. But then came 2020 and with it, the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many, I faced unavoidable challenges and had to leave my position.
Reinventing Myself: Facing New Challenges
Fast forward to April 2023, when I received an internship opportunity with the State Department for the ASALs and Regional Development as a Public Communications Intern. I was again challenged to prove myself in a male-dominated space. I learned communication strategies, social media management, website management, videography, photography, editing, and more. However, some male colleagues were reluctant to share their knowledge, often viewing me as a competitor. This didn’t stop me—I turned to online resources and taught myself photography through YouTube tutorials. I pushed myself to learn, taking every opportunity to grow and excel.
I still have dreams to achieve, with the ultimate goal of becoming a communications director at a global organization. I’ve learned that the journey for women in journalism and communication requires resilience, self-reliance, and a relentless spirit.
A Message to Young Women in Cameras For Girls
To all the young women in Cameras For Girls, know there will be challenges, but there is also a path forward. Embrace your curiosity, relentlessly pursue knowledge, and know you can break through barriers with determination.