Kafayat Abimbola Bakare is a seasoned broadcaster in Nigeria, boasting a decade of experience within the dynamic media industry. Armed with a degree in Mass Communication, specializing in Radio and TV Broadcasting from the prestigious Lagos State University LASU, her journey into the captivating world of radio stems from a deep-rooted love for the medium since her secondary school days.
In a candid interview with Just4WomenAfrica, Kafayat reminisced about her formative years, where she immersed herself in various creative pursuits, including modeling, makeup artistry, singing, and acting. It was during this time that her multifaceted talents converged, leading her to explore the intricacies of radio broadcasting. Her academic years provided her with invaluable hands-on experience at the university radio studio, laying a solid foundation for her future endeavors.
The pivotal moment in Kafayat’s career transpired during her national service tenure, where she was stationed at the esteemed Voice of Nigeria in Abuja. When asked about her preferred department, she expressed a keen interest in the presentation domain, citing it as an ideal training ground to kick-start her professional journey. Despite initial challenges, including a nerve-wracking debut on air, Kafayat’s resilience and unwavering dedication caught the attention of her superiors, propelling her into the vibrant realm of media broadcasting.
Reflecting on the industry landscape, Kafayat shed light on the systemic hurdles faced by women in media roles. From being exploited to encountering unequal opportunities and compensation disparities, the road to success often presents formidable obstacles for female professionals. Despite these adversities, Kafayat’s steadfast belief in meritocracy resonates strongly. She emphasizes that true competence should always outweigh mere tenure, challenging the prevalent notion of gender-based biases in remuneration and advancement.
Drawing from her wealth of experience, Kafayat offers sage advice to aspiring broadcasters, particularly women. She underscores the critical importance of genuine passion and mental fortitude in navigating the demands of the broadcasting sphere. Echoing an industry adage, she stresses the need to leave personal challenges at the doorstep, prioritizing audience engagement and satisfaction above all else. For Kafayat, broadcasting isn’t just a job—it’s a transformative experience that demands dedication, resilience, and a unwavering commitment to excellence.