MWAPE CHEWE

Journalist & Multimedia Communication Specialist
Karen, KE.

About

Dynamic and results-driven Journalist and Multimedia Communication Specialist with 5+ years of experience in digital content creation, news production, and strategic communication across TV, radio, and digital platforms. Proven ability to translate complex socio-political issues into compelling narratives, engage diverse audiences, and drive civic participation, reaching over 250,000 people on Facebook and 35,000 listeners on-air. Eager to leverage expertise in media relations, content strategy, and multimedia production to contribute to impactful communication initiatives within a forward-thinking organization.

Work

Association of Zambians Living in Kenya (AZAKE)
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Communication Committee Member

Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya

Summary

Spearheaded media production and content strategy for AZAKE, leading the launch of its first annual magazine and enhancing digital presence.

Highlights

Authored and edited high-quality articles for association publications, significantly contributing to content quality and member engagement.

Produced original multimedia content, including newsletters, website articles, videos, and social media posts, boosting digital outreach and member communication.

Identified and cultivated potential partnerships and collaborations, expanding AZAKE's network and resource base for community initiatives.

Enhanced content readability and impact through meticulous rewriting and editing, ensuring clear and effective communication across all platforms.

Coordinated and executed key logistical and promotional aspects for major events, including the Zimaza annual sports day and music concerts, ensuring successful outcomes.

Mariannhill Missionaries
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Communication, Research and Network Officer

Summary

Led strategic communication, content development, and media relations for Mariannhill Missionaries, enhancing global narrative and stakeholder engagement.

Highlights

Developed and packaged comprehensive communication outputs, amplifying the global narrative and impact of the organization's initiatives across multiple digital platforms.

Produced diverse media and digital content, including written stories, graphics, and video, for web and social media channels, expanding the organization's digital footprint.

Implemented strategic communication plans and events that significantly increased public engagement and strengthened connections with Mariannhill's membership base.

Mentored and supervised direct reports, building team capacity and facilitating professional development for communications officers.

Partnered with senior management to define and prioritize strategic communication objectives, aligning messaging with overarching organizational goals.

Served as primary media liaison and spokesperson, cultivating new and strengthening existing relationships with key media players to enhance organizational visibility and reputation.

Authored and refined a wide range of high-quality written materials, from press releases to success stories, ensuring consistent brand messaging and impact.

Identified and pitched high-value media opportunities, advising senior leaders on effective media engagement and spokesperson strategies to maximize exposure.

Radio Domus
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Journalist | Producer/Digital Content Creator/Directing

Kajiado, Nairobi, Kenya

Summary

Led investigative research and multimedia storytelling for Radio Domus FM, focusing on civic engagement and human rights for youth in Kajiado and Nairobi.

Highlights

Conducted extensive investigative research and in-depth interviews with civil society leaders, government officials, and marginalized youth to gather evidence-based stories for "Voices Unchained."

Produced the "Voices Unchained" program, reaching over 35,000 listeners on-air and 250,000 people on Facebook, significantly promoting civic participation and bridging the gap between youth and decision-makers.

Developed and deployed comprehensive social media kits, graphics, and video content, amplifying program impact and ensuring consistent branding across digital platforms.

Managed strategic partnerships with organizations like Hivos and TrustLaw, safeguarding the station's reputation and ensuring reporting resilience against legal and political pressures.

Facilitated weekly content planning and editorial meetings for a dynamic, remote-capable team, ensuring message alignment with organizational goals and strengthening citizen action.

Advocated for and developed media programs supporting youth startups, SMEs, and production initiatives, fostering economic empowerment and skill development.

Tangaza TV, Crown TV Correspondence
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Journalist/Presenter/Writer

Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya

Summary

Led multimedia production, news presentation, and content creation across TV, radio, and digital platforms, honing skills in media assignments for diverse audiences.

Highlights

Conducted in-depth research and analysis of current events, opinion pieces, and digital media trends to inform timely and relevant news reporting.

Managed end-to-end multimedia production, including operating cameras, managing lighting, and executing sound engineering for studio and field projects.

Composed a variety of engaging stories, including listicles, features, and critical reviews of literary and artistic works, enhancing audience engagement.

Pitched and developed compelling story ideas by evaluating news leads and tips, ensuring a consistent pipeline of relevant content.

Interviewed key individuals for news stories, features, and research, gathering diverse perspectives and insights for broadcast.

Ensured high editorial standards by meticulously proofreading and editing blog posts, maintaining accuracy and clarity prior to publication.

Directed and edited compelling documentaries, news segments, feature stories, and short films, achieving high production quality and impact.

Education

Tangaza University
Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya

Bachelor's

Journalism and Communication Media Studies

St. Bonaventure University
Unknown, Zambia, Zambia

Bachelor's of Art

Philosophy

Awards

AZAKE Mentoring of others Awards

Awarded By

AZAKE (Association of Zambians Living in Kenya)

Recognized for outstanding mentorship and leadership within the AZAKE community, fostering growth and collaboration.

Languages

English
Bemba
Kiswahili

Certificates

Press Card

Issued By

Media Council of Kenya

Skills

Multimedia Production

Canvas, Photography, Adobe Audition, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, In Design, Photoshop, Final Draft for Script, Videography, Script Writing, Camera Operation, Lighting, Sound Engineering.

Communication & Content Creation

Article Writing, Editing, Proofreading, News Presentation, Digital Content Creation, Storytelling, Media Relations, Public Speaking, Copywriting, Brand Messaging.

Strategic & Analytical Skills

Fact Checking, Error Correction, Research, Analytical Capability, Strategic Planning, Crisis Communication, Stakeholder Management, Problem-Solving.

Collaboration & Leadership

Good Communication Skills, Team Contribution, Collaboration, Team Leadership, Cross-functional Team Leadership, Mentorship, Event Planning.

Software & Tools

Microsoft Office, CMS Platforms.

Marketing & Outreach

Marketing Skills, Social Media Marketing, Partnership Development, Community Engagement.

Adaptability

Fast Learner, Dynamic Environment Adaptation.

References

TANGAZA UNIVERSITY - Institute of Social Communication

+254 722 204 724, directorisc@tangaza.ac.ke

Mr. Bonface O. Opany - Radio Domus- Manager Nairobi

+254705240572, opanybonny@gmail.com

Fr. Vincent Nzabandola - Regional Superior, Mariannhill Missionaries

+254743155542, eastafrica.cmm@mariannhil.org