In a star-studded event at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture & History, Stephanie Busari celebrated 25 years of transformative journalism and unveiled a groundbreaking vision for the future of African storytelling. The Emmy, Peabody, and Gracie award-winning journalist, best known for reshaping global perceptions of Africa through her 16-year tenure at CNN, was honoured in a ceremony attended by media icons, policymakers, royalty, and thought leaders.
The evening was a testament to Busari’s profound impact on journalism, mentorship, and narrative-shifting storytelling. Attendees included prominent Nigerians such as Honourable Minister of Health Muhammad Ali Pate, First Lady of Kwara Amb. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, Honourable Abike Dabiri, Pastor Paul and Ifeanyi Adefarasin, Mo Abudu, Channels TV Chairman John Momoh, and several others from the media, political, and cultural spheres.
A highlight of the night was the array of tributes from international and local dignitaries. Former Mauritian President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim praised Busari’s courage and vision, recalling their first meeting in 2017. “Stephanie has become the face of Africa at CNN. People like Stephanie provide the voice that our continent needs,” she said.
From within CNN, anchor Richard Quest celebrated her unique ability to showcase Africa’s vibrancy to a global audience. “You are unique in your ability to do this,” he remarked.
Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Trade and Investment, lauded Busari’s career as a powerful example of narrative-driven change, saying, “Sixteen years at CNN is no joke. Your life has made a difference in this career, and my prayer is that you continue to shine. Your best is yet to come.”
Olori Atuwatse III, representing the Iwere Kingdom, highlighted the cultural importance of Busari’s work. “His Majesty and I celebrate with you and join the rest of the world in acknowledging the excellent gift that you are to the media world and beyond,” she said.
Beyond celebrating her illustrious past, Busari introduced the Stephanie Busari Storytelling Academy, an ambitious initiative aimed at nurturing 100,000 African storytellers over the next decade. With a $100 million funding goal, the Academy will provide training, mentorship, and resources to aspiring journalists, filmmakers, and creators.
“Tonight is a celebration of the journey so far, but it is also a moment to look ahead,” Busari stated. “For 25 years, I’ve told stories that matter. Now, I want to help others do the same. The Academy will equip a new generation of storytellers with the tools to share their truth—unfiltered, undiluted, and unafraid.”
Tonye Cole, who will chair the Academy, emphasized its role in empowering emerging talents to present Africa’s narratives with authenticity.
Busari also debuted SBB Media, a consultancy offering media training, strategic communications, documentary production, and public speaking coaching. Through this platform, she aims to amplify African voices globally. “Who tells the story matters,” Busari explained. “Through SBB Media, we will partner with visionaries and activists to ensure their messages resonate far beyond their borders.”
The event also saw the launch of her personal website, StephanieBusari.com, which will serve as a hub for her projects, consultations, and storytelling initiatives.
High-profile figures like Mo Abudu, John Momoh, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, and Debola Williams commended Busari’s contributions to media and her plans for the future. “Stephanie has been a light in the media world,” said Mo Abudu. “She is giving countless others the opportunity to refine their craft and find global audiences.”
Corporate partners such as Chivas Regal and media outlets like Channels TV and 54 News expressed their commitment to supporting Busari’s initiatives, ensuring the next generation of storytellers has access to platforms and networks.
As the celebration concluded, Busari shared her hopes for the future of African storytelling. “We have much work to do—rewriting outdated narratives, highlighting talent and innovation, and investing in the next wave of creators,” she said. “Tonight, we honour the past, but starting tomorrow, we build a future of limitless storytelling, where Africa’s many stories are told with pride, accuracy, and enduring impact.”
With the Stephanie Busari Storytelling Academy and SBB Media poised to reshape the media landscape, Busari’s vision for elevating African narratives marks the beginning of a transformative era in global storytelling.
