The journalism profession, just like any other, has its own set of standards where one has to prove themselves to get recognised and attract a following.
The same rings true for Hassan Umar, one of the youngest presenters at the Standard Group who has managed to carve out a niche for himself, much of which he credits to his perseverance and charisma.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, the young professional who confessed to being his own biggest fan stated that he got formally employed at the station even before graduating from University.
Umar started out as an intern at the Standard Media Group in 2016 in the online radio department. Due to his hardworking nature, his internship was extended twice and eventually landed three shows on both the radio and TV departments at the station.
"After my internship ended, I focussed more on my YouTube Channel, Incredible TV where I would produce videos and share with everyone including the bosses at Standard," he explained.
Head of Radio Maisha Tom Jappani was among those who received his videos. The media boss urged Umar to stop sending him the videos but the Daystar alumnus persisted until finally one video caught the boss's eye which landed the eager intern a presenter post.
He was offered to present Maisha Extra on the weekdays from (1 am- 4 am) and when an opportunity arose when the media house decided to start KTN Burudani he was chosen to host a show Klub Maisha, on Saturdays from 8 pm to 11 pm.
Now hosting a show on KTN home called Habari Za News with co-host Shugaboy, Umar tackles news pieces with a comical twist, away from the serious nature of the headlines.
Shuga Boy, who is also a presenter at Radio Maisha recently moved to the morning show dubbed Maisha Asubuhi with Emmanuel Mwashumbe.
{"preview_thumbnail":"/files/styles/video_embed_wysiwyg_preview/public/video_thumbnails/Y04_sh1UgSs.jpg?itok=dQAh-UjL","video_url":"","settings":{"responsive":1,"width":"854","height":"480","autoplay":0},"settings_summary":["Embedded Video (Responsive)."]}
"Within the brief period I've been in media, I can say I have accomplished what would be considered a dream to many journalists out there where I am on both radio and TV," Umar stated.
His advice to all aspiring journalist professionals, "Never give up, do not wait until you complete University so that you can start looking for a job. Work with what you have and build on that."
