Award winning journalist Stephanie Busari launches Her Story: Taking Root, Sparking Change

Some people spend a lifetime searching for their purpose, but for Stephanie Busari, that moment of clarity came at just 11 years old in a classroom in the United Kingdom. It was there, under the guidance of an inspiring teacher, that she first discovered the power of storytelling. That lesson ignited a lifelong passion for journalism, a passion that would drive her to uncover the truth, amplify unheard voices, and challenge global narratives about Africa.

Today, Busari is an Emmy, Gracie, and Peabody award-winning journalist and a powerful force in African storytelling. With 25 years of experience in global media, including 16 impactful years at CNN International, she pioneered the network’s first digital and multiplatform bureau globally, significantly expanding CNN’s reach and impact across the African continent.

Her journalism has shaped global narratives on critical issues. Busari’s two-time Emmy-nominated investigation into the Lekki tollgate shooting and her exclusive 2016 proof-of-life interview with the Chibok schoolgirls were pivotal, resulting in negotiations that led to the release of over 100 abducted girls. Her work earned her a Hollywood Gracie Award and recognition as an Outstanding Woman in Media.

During the pandemic, she created the highly successful CNN show COVID Heroes and Newsmakers, reaching millions worldwide. Now, as the founder of SBB Media, she empowers organizations and leaders to amplify their impact through strategic communication, public relations, and authentic storytelling.

A passionate advocate for amplifying African voices, Busari led CNN Africa’s digital editorial and operational strategy, mentoring and nurturing the next generation of African storytellers. Fluent in English, French, and Yoruba, she engages effortlessly with diverse stakeholders on prestigious global platforms, including the United Nations, AfDB, Afrexim Bank, UNESCO, and TED, while interviewing world leaders and changemakers.

Her influence extends beyond journalism. Recognized by the United Nations as one of the 100 Most Influential People of African Descent in 2017, she has been consistently named one of Africa’s 25 Most Powerful Female Journalists from 2020 to 2024. In 2020, she was selected as a Maurice Greenberg World Fellow at Yale University, a prestigious honor that further solidifies her reputation as a global thought leader.

Her TED talks have garnered over 2 million views, establishing her as a sought-after speaker, host, and high-level panel moderator. She is also the founder of TEDxBrixton and divides her time between Lagos and London.

In this exclusive interview, with founding editor Lehlé Baldé, Busari takes us back to that pivotal moment in her childhood that set her on this path, reflects on her toughest assignments, and shares her vision for the future of media on the continent. From breaking news to personal breakthroughs, Busari’s story is a testament to the power of journalism as a force for justice, change, and empowerment.

Lehlé Baldé: I’d like to start by commending you for your remarkable career in journalism, from breaking major stories to leading CNN Africa’s digital strategy. What inspired you to pursue journalism?

Stephanie Busari: Thank you again for having me. I’m a big fan of the BusinessDay Weekender, so being interviewed is a great pleasure. I’ve always known that I wanted to be a journalist since I was 12 or 13, and I was encouraged by my English teacher. She saw that I had a skill for writing, and she was very encouraging. She wrote a note in my notebook saying, “Journalism, perhaps.” From that moment, it was like a light bulb went off in my mind. I started pursuing a career in journalism at the age of 12 or 13. I was driven and determined to be successful, and here we are, 25 years later, as a journalist. I’m so grateful for a phenomenal career that has, by God’s grace, been impactful.

Lehlé Baldé: What an incredible story. Are you still in touch with your English teacher?

Stephanie Busari: Funny you should say that because when I celebrated my 25th anniversary in journalism in December 2024, I thought about her and wondered where she was because she played such an instrumental role in my journey. I looked her up on LinkedIn and sent her a message saying, “I hope you remember me.” She responded the very next day, saying, “Wow, of course I remember you.” It was such a delightful exchange. Next time I’m in London, I’ll meet up with her, and I’ll let you know how the reunion goes.

Lehlé Baldé: We must always acknowledge those first mentors. Parents ideally should be your first mentors, but teachers also play an incredible role in shaping young people and their future careers.

Stephanie Busari: Absolutely.

Lehlé Baldé: You played a crucial role in verifying the Chibok girls’ kidnapping story, which had a profound global impact. As a journalist, what was that experience like for you, and how did it shape your approach to reporting?

Stephanie Busari: My story as a journalist cannot be written without the Chibok girls’ story. It’s a defining moment. Every journalist has a defining moment, and this was mine. In 2014, when they were kidnapped, I was living in London, and it was just a shocking event. We knew we had to cover this story. I came to Nigeria in April 2014, and it was complete chaos. The government at the time didn’t seem to have a handle on the situation or appear to care much about what we were observing. We were being briefed that “this is a political thing, enemies of Jonathan did this.”

We thought “Well, that may be true, but you can’t ignore the fact that nearly 300 schoolgirls were kidnapped and missing.” These girls were taken from school in the middle of the night, carried in huge trucks across the Sambisa Forest for hours, traveling hundreds of kilometers without anyone stopping them. What kind of world do we live in where this happens?
The international pressure and focus we brought to that story pushed people to take action. Unfortunately, nothing was done, and the girls remained missing for another two years.

When I moved back to Nigeria, I picked up that story again. Through contacts, I learned there was a video showing the girls were still alive. It was a proof-of-life video filmed by Boko Haram, showing the girls lined up, stating their names and where they had been taken from. Some people said it was fake, but I verified the story by speaking to the girls and their families.
A lot of parents died of heartbreak because of this tragedy, and it was never truly acknowledged. This video, which I obtained, kicked off negotiations that eventually led to the release of more than 100 of the girls. I’m grateful I was part of that journey and could bring some relief to the families, but tragically, over 80 or 90 of the girls are still missing. We’ll never know the true number or what happened to them.

Last year marked 10 years since the Chibok kidnapping, and I went to Chibok to speak to the mothers and families who are still waiting for their daughters to come home. It’s heartbreaking. We need to value life more in this part of the world.

So, that’s in a nutshell what happened with that story. Every time I try to walk away from it, it’s like, no, this is your story to own. The Chibok girls didn’t want to be forgotten. From a spiritual perspective, God used me to tell their story. I felt like I was the only one who kept going back, keeping in touch with the parents, and telling their stories.

Lehlé Baldé: Did the story resonate with you on a deeper, more personal level because you have a daughter yourself?

Stephanie Busari: Of course, it did. How could it not? I also attended boarding school in Nigeria from the age of 10 to 12, before I left the country for England. So, for the grace of God, it could have been me or any of my family members. I felt strongly that I had to advocate for them.

Lehlé Baldé: Journalism can be a tough field. Have you faced any challenges in your career, and how have you overcome them?

Stephanie Busari: Journalism is one of those careers that suits women quite well. Many of my bosses at CNN were women, but it can still be a tough field. Journalism is broad, you have news journalism, which can involve hard news and disaster reporting, and then you have magazine journalism. News reporting is especially tough and often male-dominated. It requires you to develop a hard shell because you’re constantly confronting tragedies and disasters.

For example, when the building collapsed in Ikoyi in November 2021, I rushed there and discovered that my cousin, who was like a brother to me, was in that building. How much tougher can it get? You’re dealing with the worst of human behavior and the worst tragedies. You have to be resilient and tough.

At CNN, they gave us access to therapists and counselors, especially after particularly tough stories. We’re the ones running into burning buildings when everyone else is running out. You need support because it’s emotionally challenging.

But journalism has so many rewards. You’re documenting history for posterity. The work you do now will be remembered in history books for generations to come, and I’m glad my work will be part of that.

Lehlé Baldé: I’m truly sorry for your loss. In a role as demanding as yours, how do you prioritize your well-being and self-care?

Stephanie Busari: Family, family, family. I’m a super family-oriented person. I love spending time with my loved ones, cooking, and just being indoors because my work takes me out often. I also enjoy swimming. Sometimes, doing nothing is my favorite thing to do. I just relax, sit at home, and watch TV. Spending time with people who care about me is the best self-care I can recommend.

Lehlé Baldé: You’ve played a significant role in digital journalism, leading CNN’s Africa Digital presence for years. How do you see African media evolving in the digital age, and what opportunities or challenges stand out to you?

Stephanie Busari: I feel that traditional publishers have not fully embraced the opportunities that exist with digital platforms. The people who are leveraging these platforms are content creators and creatives. Media outlets must embrace digital-first strategies, but there’s still a heavy fascination with TV. In my view, news organizations must be platform-agnostic and create content that works across various formats. Digital storytelling is the future, and we need to evolve with it.

Lehlé Baldé: What role do you think AI and digital tools will play in shaping the future of African media?

Stephanie Busari: AI is already transforming journalism. Some newsrooms are using AI to generate content quickly and analyze massive amounts of information. It’s incredibly useful for journalists because AI can summarize reports and pull relevant data from thousands of pages in minutes. I also use AI to craft headlines when I have an idea. It’s a great tool, and if used correctly, it can make our jobs much easier.

Lehlé Baldé: You mentioned that you mentor young journalists and advocate for diversity in media. What advice do you give to young Africans who want to enter the media industry?

Stephanie Busari: I always tell them not to wait for permission to create. Now, with all the tools at your disposal, if you want to be a broadcaster, start a YouTube channel. Record yourself, present the news, and show potential employers your passion. You don’t need traditional media organizations to give you a platform. Start your blog, podcast, or newsletter. If you’re passionate and determined, someone will eventually notice.

Lehlé Baldé: You’ve been recognized globally for your work, You won an Emmy amongst many other awards. Congratulations. What achievements are you most proud of?

Stephanie Busari: The Chibok story is up there. I’m proud of the impact I had in shaping CNN’s digital strategy, growing CNN Africa’s presence by 70-80%, and launching the first digital-first bureau in Lagos. I’m also proud of hiring the first interns for CNN in Africa and training many who now hold top jobs in media. I’ve put my heart and soul into this work, and I believe in Africa’s potential.

Lehlé Baldé: What’s next for you in your career? Do you have any exciting projects or initiatives?

Stephanie Busari: I’ve launched my own communications consultancy, providing high-level advice to governments, individuals, and multinationals. I’m passionate about helping people communicate their vision and narrative effectively. I’ve also launched a storytelling academy to empower the next generation of journalists and storytellers.

For women, I’ve created a platform called Her Story to amplify women’s voices. We’re putting out a book called Her Story, Taking Root, and Sparking Change, featuring 40 amazing women from around the world, centering African women’s voices. The book will be launched on March 25th in Lagos as part of International Women’s Month.

Lehlé Baldé: If you weren’t a journalist, what career path would you have taken?

Stephanie Busari: For a long time, I wanted to be a lawyer. I love to argue and debate my points. But after my teacher encouraged me, I decided journalism was my path. However, I’m also fascinated by human behavior and psychology. I may pursue a master’s in psychology one day.

Lehlé Baldé: If you had a magic wand and could affect anything on Earth, what would it be?

Stephanie Busari: If I could, I’d eradicate hate. There’s too much hate in the world, and it’s leading to less compassion. People misunderstand one another intentionally. We need to restore the love that God has for us. Compassion is the answer, and that’s what I’d wish for, an injection of love in the world.