FAITH KIAI

“You are not there by mistake. So, never apologise for doing a good job.”

Meet Faith Kiai, a seasoned sports journalist with more than ten years’ experience in print and broadcast media. She has grown her career across commentary and radio presenting, using her platform to champion women’s sport and push for equal representation in the industry.

“Playing sports in school left a lasting impact on me and showed me what was possible. That experience inspired me to study journalism with a focus on sport.

My parents have always ensured my siblings and I enjoyed sport. They encouraged me to appreciate sport and look up up to some very good sports women.”

“Women are under so much pressure on many fronts in sports media.”

“There’s constant judgment, even when they make completely natural life choices like deciding to start a family. The media needs to do a better job of highlighting athletes’ journeys to the top, because behind every moment of success lies a story that’s rarely easy. Women are athletes so most of the focus should be on what they do on the court or pitch and less on their personal lives.

In Uganda, Peruth Chemutai, who became the first female gold medalist from the country, made a huge impact after the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Her achievement was unexpected by many, but to this day it continues to inspire young girls who want to emulate her.”

FAITH’S MESSAGE

“I would like to highlight the sacrifice and effort that goes into staying the course. Women need to know there is value in our ideas as journalists. Women are underrepresented in sports generally, so seeing female journalists could give some of the younger athletes an opportunity to stay the course and become whatever they want to be.”

“You are not there by mistake. Never apologise for doing a good job. often, we fall into the trap of second guessing the decisions we make because people's feelings are hurt.”