Beneath the Fame - Kelvin Yego(Journalist)

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?

My name is Kevin Yego a final year journalism student at Kenya Methodist University Nairobi campus. I was born and raised in Uasin Gishu county almost the entire part of my life has been in a forest, from rearing livestock to my education moments. I went to a school that was in the heart of the forest and our neighbors were GSU officers who had their camp nearby. The first time I got out was when going for my high school a great school in western parts of Kenya, that is Chavakali boys. So here is a village boy who came to thrive in the city. Came to NAIROBI the first time in 2013 and that was a school trip, in 2020 University gave me another opportunity and things has never been the same

How did you get started in your career?

In 2013, I became fun number one of radio. Radio Maisha, Emmanuel Mwashumbe was then hosting the rhumba attention show which runs from 7pm I would listen to his hype and as love grew into obsession I knew I wanted to be a journalist and specifically a radio presenter. So as I worked my way in books I already had figured what I wanted to be and what I wanted to do and journalist I became.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Every day is the highlight of my career, normally each time I speak with fellow journalism students I would tell them journalism begins from you, it has to be an inborn. However, this particular year has been a blessing to me career wise, this is because I was interning with Africa Uncensored from early February and they gave me an opportunity to do field work as a photojournalist this too during the Azimio protests. Someone would say there is nothing to applaud about this, for a journalist like me I have every reason to be happy, first field work when journalism field is at its peak is the best way to enhance a skill. Another thing is that during this time particularly the second demonstrations I was arrested for the time in my life I am glad it came at a time I was in my career, later we were released but for me that was a whole experience. I remember being attacked at Northlands farms while trying to cover that story of Kenyatta farm as well. Working with Africa Uncensored has been the best part and I know there is still more to come. Finally, there is the podcast recording, this is always in me for the love I have for radio and I can never explain the joy I feel each time I am recording one

What are some of the challenges you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?

First being a comrade is not easy, everyone who has passed this stage can relate. Journalistically the first challenge was before joining, everyone kept discouraging me on doing journalism. I mean everyone wanted me to choose education or nursing and that was a narrative that every other person joining campus would face, even my parents were against the idea of me doing journalism however I did not back out all I needed was there trust in me, with patience I can say I never regret the step the reason is one i do something I have always wanted to do and I am happy. Another major challenge is the luck of equipment; it's becomes a hindrance when we want to get a project started or going forward. To adjust to this, we have to look for places that can hire some of the equipment like the camera, microphone and majorly the locations. Finally, the challenging part is instances whereby specific events are being done and are for a benefit to journalist students it becomes a task to attend due to lack of a press card. To deal with all this it’s just about time and knowing the priorities, it is important be patient and understand that somewhere along the way things always get in line.

Are there any particular projects or roles that have been especially meaningful to you?

Yes, that is JEDCA MEDIA this is a media that was created by my three friends and me. Recently we launched our own website that means digitally we are running on 24/7, this has been a milestone so far. We write stories, we do podcast and we also advertise. The most important part is that if we register this media as a media organization it makes us the youngest media owners in the world.

What is your biggest accomplishment that you're most proud of?

First identifying myself as a journalist, I don’t take this for granted. Second are my podcasts this gives me the energy to keep going on a daily basis, the other feedback from those who listen to me is a huge encouragement on my part. There is JEDCA MEDIA that keeps me on my feet every day and ensuring that I do not just become a journalist but a 360° journalist.

Who or what has been your biggest inspiration?

Emmanuel Mwashumbe - can't forget him career wise. In life it’s my parents when I look back I see them, I wish that their future will be full of smiles knowing they have me. It’s been their effort and I am grateful that I am thriving.

What keeps you motivated in your work?

Myself, I look at what I do and I know it's not yet enough, it's even nowhere close to there, every day is a new start and to me it's like being given a chance I didn't have yesterday in this field so I tell myself it's either I go big or go home.

How do you handle criticism and setbacks?

I never welcome negativity in my life, I try to look everything from a positive aspect. Criticism and setbacks will always be there for me it's an assurance that I am doing the right thing and that I am in the right track.

Everything is valuable, I just create time for all the most important thing is understanding that there is value in every time spent on one thing or another that will always help one strike a balance

What do you like to do in your free time?

Read a book, feature stories and recently a lot of swimming.

Is there a particular hobby or interest that you enjoy outside of your work?

Swimming

What advice would you give to aspiring individuals who want to pursue a career similar to yours?

It's all in you, start now tomorrow is bright

What upcoming projects or ventures are you excited about?

Doing more human interest stories and being accomplished as a journalist who inspire more

Where do you see yourself in the future, both personally and professionally?

Being an accomplished journalist, a great husband an all-time present dad, a valuable son and reliable partner

Favorite book/movie/song?

All fictional books, environment science and tech are my favorite.

Best piece of advice you've ever received?

Everyone has good days and bad days, we were once there, take your time when it will be your turn you will never regret

One thing you can't live without?

Oxygen

Any hidden talents or surprising facts about yourself?

I am a first reader that too fluent and audible

Your Social Media handles and platforms?

Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, linked in, Facebook and Spotify for podcaster @ke_someboyh

Duke Entertainment Desk