031 Ian Wafula: Grabbing opportunity with both hands

Ian Wafula is a senior journalist for the BBC in Kenya and the founder of Heal the Web.  Unlike other people, Ian did not wonder about the career that was meant for him he knew from a young age that he had a passion for recording and telling stories since high school. Ian led the school’s magazine so the transition to studying Journalism at Daystar College in Nairobi, was a natural one. It was during an internship that he realised the purpose of his skill was to investigate and tell the truth in his journalism. An event where he happened to be at work at the right time led him to risk his life in order to get a very important  event to the people. After that he continued to build his reputation until he was an established investigative journalist working for the BBC and now studying his Masters as a Chevening Scholar. 

By telling us his enthralling journey Ian was able to impart the following lessons: 

1) Make the most out of your work by making an impact. Ian emphasised that part of what drives him is the consequence of telling the story. It’s not about fame or just capturing attention, it's about making a difference. 

2) In order to access opportunities, be present. One of the significant moments in Ian’s life was a result of being at the right place at the right time. He highlighted the importance of being fully present in order to also harness an opportunity effectively. It’s not enough to just be there. One has to be self-aware and have an appreciation of their environment.

3) Your talents and your gifts will guide your career. This is something that we hear often, “find something you are passionate about and you will never work a day in your life.” Ian is a testament to this in how journalism chose him from high school. The money has become secondary to his passion. Something that many people can’t attest to in their work.

4) Leave the world a little better with your words and the things that you post. This is one of Ian’s motives in founding “Heal the Web”. An interface that promotes positive use of the internet and requires individuals to reflect before they post on the internet. A reflection that many need to undergo before inflicting virtual harm on others.  

5) Resilience creates opportunities. Ian states that the best way to deal with rejection is not to back down. Through his story, Ian reflects on how when he resolves to attain a goal he keeps going for it and with every rejection, he ensures his approach improved for the next time. His advice to others is to keep applying for that job or degree In spite of the number of “No’s” one receives, one should never give up.

In a nutshell, this podcast was a conversation filled with positivity and optimism about a fulfilling career of a young person living by his principles and values.