PATIENCE NYANGE: THE ILLUSTRIOUS JOURNEY OF A TRAILBLAZER IN MEDIA
In the world of media and women’s empowerment, Patience Nyange, the Executive Director of the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK), stands as a shining example. During this week’s Monday Motivation session, she uttered these profound words, “Own your choices as a woman, you have a right to choose your path and journey,” reflecting her unwavering commitment to both her career and the cause she champions.
Born in Taita Taveta, Patience’s life story is a testament to passion, resilience, and an unyielding dedication to driving positive change. Her journey commenced at Baraka FM, Mombasa as an intern, a humble start that eventually led to her becoming a news presenter. Her time at Baraka FM bore fruit, as she clinched the award for the best female presenter in the coastal province.
Despite her success in Mombasa, Patience took a leap of faith by resigning and relocating to Nairobi. In the bustling city, she pursued a master’s degree in International Studies and Diplomacy at the University of Nairobi while also volunteering at AMWIK. Her proficiency in Swahili earned her the role of a voiceover artist.
Patience’s unwavering belief in excellence led her to acquire a job at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC)as a journalist. Subsequently, in 2010 she embarked on an extraordinary journey with the Norway Broadcasting Corporation through an exchange program facilitated by AMWIK. This rare opportunity allowed her to explore Norway and various parts of Europe, broadening her horizons to international prospects and networks.
Returning to Kenya in 2012, she achieved another significant milestone by working at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), specifically its charitable arm, Media Action. Two years later, she transitioned from mainstream media to the world of Public Relations.
Her next major achievement was working as a communication advisor to the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Devolution and Planning, Hon. Anne Waiguru. This role provided her with invaluable experience, working closely with high-ranking government officials. Despite many challenges, Patience worked there for two years before taking on a new role at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) as an assistant director and personal assistant to the chairperson, Commissioner Kagwiria Mbogori, her mentor.
As a Chevening Scholar, Patience shared her experiences through blogging during her time at Cardiff University, UK, gaining a dedicated readership in the UK. In 2022, she ventured into politics, running for the gubernatorial seat in Taita Taveta County, challenging the notion that women couldn’t hold such positions in the region.
While Patience’s journey was marked by highs and successes, she also faced lows, including a blackout during a harsh UK winter and moments of grief. Notably, she encountered rejection letters, a reminder that rejection is part of the journey, but it should never signal its end.
Throughout her remarkable journey, Patience’s motivation was not financial gain but the legacy she aimed to leave behind. Her keynote message was a powerful reminder to all, “Always go above and beyond in whatever role bestowed upon us.”
In her parting words, she imparts sage advice to aspiring journalists, “The world will always try to size you up. Define your own goals.” Patience Nyange’s journey serves as an inspiration to us all, a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
By AMWIK Interns Desk
