AYV News, January 12, 2026
Renowned BBC Correspondent and respected Sierra Leonean journalist, Umaru Fofana, has held an inspiring engagement session with young journalists at the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire in Freetown.
The interactive session, held at AYV’s headquarters, was part of ongoing efforts by the media institution to build the capacity of its newsroom and nurture a new generation of ethical, fearless, and impactful journalists.
With decades of experience in local and international journalism, Umaru Fofana shared deep insights on the principles of truth-telling, impartiality, and public service through the media. He encouraged AYV journalists to remain committed to professional standards, especially in the face of growing misinformation, political polarisation, and the temptations of sensationalism.
Fofana said, “Journalism is not about who shouts the loudest or who goes viral,” he said. “It’s about telling the truth, serving the people, and holding power to account — without fear or favour.”
His visit sparked meaningful dialogue among the AYV team, who engaged him on a range of issues — from newsroom ethics and media safety to press freedom and investigative reporting. He also shared personal stories from his career, including his experiences covering conflict, elections, and international events.
AYV Director of News and Current Affairs, David Remi Wilson, welcomed Fofana’s visit and described it as timely and motivating. “At AYV, we’re not just building a media house; we’re building a culture of excellence. Having someone like Umaru speak directly to our team helps to reinforce that mission,” he said.
The session ended with a renewed sense of purpose among the AYV journalists, many of whom described the encounter as a career-defining moment.
Umaru Fofana’s engagement forms part of AYV’s broader strategy to invest in journalistic talent, strengthen newsroom ethics, and shape a media landscape grounded in credibility and public interest.
