Erica Ayisi is an accomplished international freelance journalist dedicated to uncovering human-interest stories from around the world. Her work shines a light on unique narratives often overlooked by mainstream media, particularly those within the African diaspora and other communities of color. Her insightful reporting has appeared in major publications, including NBCNEWS.com, Mongabay, Rhode Island PBS Weekly, The Root, ESSENCE, Lonely Planet, Afroelle Magazine, and xoNecole, among others.
A Diverse Reporting Portfolio
Erica’s journalistic reach spans an impressive array of topics and regions, capturing complex stories that celebrate culture, identity, and resilience. Some highlights include:
- Profiling Bose Ogulu – the ‘momager’ to Afrobeat sensation Burna Boy.
- Exploring Surfing Communities in Ghana – diving into the budding surf culture along Ghana’s coast.
- Examining Black Atheism in London – a rare glimpse into an often-underrepresented community.
- Unpacking Colorism in Jamaican Politics – addressing how skin tone affects political dynamics.
- Ballet Dancing in Nigeria – highlighting the rise of ballet in a country where it’s gaining popularity.
- Legacy of Civil Rights Activist Recy Taylor – a powerful story on her impact and legacy.
- The Business of Chocolate Across Africa – investigating the ethics and economics of African chocolate production.
- Documentary on Whaling Merchant Paul Cuffee – exploring the legacy of this historic African-American entrepreneur.
Erica’s diverse portfolio reflects her commitment to showcasing stories of heritage, culture, and identity with depth and authenticity.
Bringing Journalism to the Classroom
In addition to her journalism career, Erica has an extensive background as an educator. She’s taught media literacy, television production, and English Language Arts at both the middle and high school levels in the United States. Erica’s work in education highlights her dedication to helping young people understand media’s role in society and empowering them to tell their own stories.
Award-Winning Investigative Work
Erica has been recognized for her dedication to impactful journalism through multiple awards and fellowships. She is a two-time Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting Grantee, with two significant investigative projects:
- “Swallowed by Sea” – an exploration of climate change’s impact on Ghana’s coastal communities.
- “If This Hair Could Talk” – a detailed examination of ethical sourcing in the human hair trade, focusing on Cambodia and the U.S.
Her passion for capturing critical issues earned her accolades, including a Distinguished Alumni & Friends of the Worcester Public Schools Achievement Award, the Ceremonial Key to the City of Worcester, Massachusetts, the 2021 Ethel Payne African Reporting Fellowship, and the Salute to Excellence Award for International Reporting from the National Association of Black Journalists. Erica was also selected as a 2024 Diversity Fellow for the Society of Environmental Journalists Annual Conference.
Educational Background and Entrepreneurial Ventures
A graduate of the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), Erica holds both a master’s and bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts. She has further expanded her passion for cultural storytelling by founding Akosua’s Closet, an online boutique featuring African-sourced goods that celebrate the beauty and craftsmanship of the continent.
Championing Global Stories
Through her work, Erica Ayisi is not only an ambassador of compelling storytelling but also an advocate for the voices of diverse communities worldwide. Her commitment to revealing unique stories continues to inspire audiences and amplify voices that deserve to be heard.
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