Terryanne Chebet has interviewed tycoons like Richard Branson and won awards both internationally and locally she talks to NALIAKA WAFULA about her work ethic

How did you get to do what you do at CNBC Africa?

With a qualification in broadcast journalism, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation was my first port of call as a trainee TV Producer in 2003. I quickly learned the job and Code 254, a programme targeting the youth, was my first baby. That’s where I gained my first experience. When KBC re-branded in 2004, I landed an anchoring spot on the weekend Lunchtime news. Shortly afterwards, I made it to the Prime Time Business News. In 2007, CNBC Africa set up shop in East Africa and I took up the challenge.

Describe your typical day at work

Each day has its character. One can be an early morning with a one-on-one interview at a press conference, then next could be a trip to a farm in Ruiru and the other an editorial meeting. No two days are the same and when they are, I am in the edit suite packaging my weekly programme — East Africa Business Report — or preparing for my daily spot on the Kenya Markets Wrap for CNBC Africa’s evening live show, Regional Roundup. Here, I talk to Kenyan brokers, investment and research analysts for an up to date report on the Nairobi Stock Exchange and other leading businesses moving the sectors.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy the opportunities to meet the movers and shakers from Africa and beyond, and the challenge that comes with getting them to tell the Africa business success story. The CNBC Africa team always comes up with exciting features to cover.

What is the most important aspect of your job?

The African Businesses Success Story as told by Africans to Africans. Africa is not all about poverty, conflict and HIV/Aids. People are making it happen and their story needs to be told. My job is to identify such stories and package them in the best possible way.

What have been your greatest achievements so far?

I have set up and interviewed leading international, regional and local business/socio-political movers and shakers including Sir Richard Branson of Virgin Atlantic, President Abdulla Gul of Turkey, IMF Chief Dominic Strauss Kahn, US Economist Jeffery Sachs, James Mwangi of Equity Bank, Reginald Mengi, of IPP Tanzania among others. I am a finalist for the Diageo Businesss Reporting Awards for Best TV feature in Africa (2009) as well for Best TV Programme, Kalasha Awards (2009).

Who are your role models and why?

I admire Christiane Amanpour’s confidence coupled with her background knowledge of the situation at hand; CNBC’s Maria Bartiromo’s grasp of economics and Simon Hobbs questioning style. I have always considered television the art of conversation Christiane, Maria and Simon have mastered it.

What would you like to see more in the profession?

Money makes the world go round African media houses have to appreciate the power that lies in telling the African business story. Africa has been described as the last frontier and business news has the potential of turning around the world’s perspective of this continent. Our stock markets give good returns, our infrastructure is growing and business news is what we need to oil these wheels of our economy.

Which do you prefer more, reporting or producing?

Although I’m a trained producer, I am a reporter at heart. I am an all-round business news professional and that makes me enjoy the best of both worlds.

What tips would you give young women hoping to follow in your footsteps?

Keep your eyes on the prize. Work smart and position yourself for success by networking. I have learnt that there are no shortcuts to success. I am still climbing the ladder and I’m not even halfway there. Build and keep your reputation.

　

What do you do to relax after a long day at work?

In my free time, I write poetry, blog and read. I love the outdoors so I jog or take a walk with my daughter. I also like to dine and dance once in a while.