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Sophia Etuhube is not your typical journalist, she’s an award-winning storyteller, coach, mentor, speaker, and entrepreneur whose work is driven by her passion for people. With a focus on using human interest stories to inspire, uplift, and empower communities, Sophia has become a beacon of hope and an influential figure for immigrants and newcomers to Canada.

Currently a reporter and editor at CBC/Radio-Canada, Sophia crafts compelling narratives highlighting the diverse experiences of individuals living in New Brunswick and beyond. Her ability to bring untold stories to light and connect with people from all walks of life makes her an invaluable voice in Canadian media. Whether covering topics of resilience, cultural integration, or personal triumphs, Sophia’s storytelling style captures the heart of her audience and sparks meaningful conversations.

Beyond Journalism: A Leader in Settlement Services

Sophia’s commitment to supporting others extends beyond her journalism career. She is also the CEO of Sofftlanding Canada, a settlement agency dedicated to helping newcomers navigate the complexities of settling into a new country. Through Sofftlanding, Sophia and her team provide essential services, resources, and guidance to immigrants across Canada, easing their transition and setting them up for long-term success. She has been a guide and mentor for many newcomers, helping them find their footing and thrive in their new environment.

Building a Media Legacy in Nigeria

Before she made her mark in Canada, Sophia was already a prominent figure in the Nigerian media industry. As co-owner, senior producer, and content writer at JAAS Pictures Media, a video production company in Lagos, she produced an array of high-quality content that captured the vibrant stories of Nigerians. Her work at JAAS Pictures helped shape the visual storytelling landscape, highlighting everyday people’s struggles and successes.

Before running her own media company, Sophia held various roles in leading Nigerian television networks such as Galaxy Television, HipTv, Royal Roots Television, PopCentral, and Folio Nigeria. Her expertise ranged from content development and scripting to directing and producing. She even took on a managerial role at the prestigious Miss Nigeria pageant, showcasing her versatility and leadership in the industry.

A Passion for Human Interest Documentaries

Sophia’s interest in human interest stories deepened over time, leading her to explore documentary video production. She travelled to several communities in Nigeria, bringing to the forefront the inspiring stories of resilience and determination from ordinary citizens. Her documentaries have been celebrated for their depth, authenticity, and powerful messaging, leaving a lasting impact on viewers and stakeholders alike.

An Impressive Academic Background

Sophia’s professional journey is underpinned by a solid academic foundation. She holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from Crandall University in Canada, which complements her Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. This blend of organizational and linguistic studies has equipped her with the analytical and communication skills to effectively engage diverse audiences and influence positive change.

Embracing a New Chapter in Canada

Sophia moved to Canada in December 2021 with her husband and two children, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. They have since made Fredericton, New Brunswick, their home, embracing the community and contributing in meaningful ways. Sophia’s personal experience as an immigrant has fueled her passion for supporting others in similar situations. She understands firsthand the challenges of settling into a new country and is determined to make the journey smoother for others.

A Vision for a Better World

What drives Sophia is her unwavering belief in the power of people working together to create a better world. Whether through her work at CBC/Radio-Canada, Sofftlanding Canada, or her various volunteer roles, she is committed to making a difference. Sophia actively supports both immigrant and non-immigrant initiatives, offering her skills and expertise to projects that aim to build stronger, more inclusive communities.

In every role she takes on, Sophia Etuhube is a storyteller at heart—using her voice to champion the underrepresented, uplift the vulnerable, and inspire the next generation of leaders. As she continues to make her mark in Canada, one thing is certain: her story is just beginning, and her impact will be felt for many years to come.

Toun Okewale Sonaiya, a name synonymous with empowerment and change, has emerged as a powerful advocate in a world where women’s voices are often underrepresented. As the Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Women Radio 91.7 FM, Nigeria’s only radio station dedicated to women and their families, Toun has committed her career to the noble cause of amplifying women’s voices and championing their concerns.

Toun’s journey to becoming a prominent figure in the fields of journalism and women’s empowerment is nothing short of remarkable. Her unwavering dedication to advancing gender equity and putting an end to violence against women and girls has rightfully earned her a place as one of the most influential women in journalism in Africa.

A Trailblazer in Women’s Media

Toun’s brainchild, Women Radio 91.7 FM, stands as a testament to her commitment to providing a platform for women’s stories, concerns, and achievements. This unique radio station has become a beacon of hope, empowering women to speak up, share their experiences, and connect with one another.

Recognized for Her Impact

Toun Okewale Sonaiya’s influence reaches far beyond the airwaves. Her tireless efforts and dedication to nation-building have not gone unnoticed. She was inducted into the Nigerian Women Hall of Fame, a well-deserved honor for her significant contributions to her country.

Advocacy for Change

Toun is not just a broadcaster; she is a relentless advocate for change. Her advocacy extends to advocating for more women decision-makers in both government and the private sector. She understands the importance of women’s representation in positions of power and leadership.

Additionally, Toun is a staunch supporter of economic empowerment for women. She recognizes the pivotal role that financial independence plays in women’s lives, empowering them to achieve their dreams and contribute to their communities.

A Vision for a Better Future

Toun Okewale Sonaiya’s work is a testament to her unwavering belief in the power of women to drive positive change in society. Through her advocacy, she envisions a future where women’s voices are heard, their contributions are celebrated, and gender equity is not just a dream but a reality.

As we celebrate Toun’s incredible journey and the impact she has had on the lives of countless women, we are reminded that change is possible when individuals with a passion for progress take action. Toun’s story is an inspiration to all who believe in the power of women to transform the world.

Toun Okewale Sonaiya is not just a broadcaster; she is a force of nature, a visionary, and a champion of women’s rights. Her story is a testament to what can be achieved when one person dares to stand up and make a difference.

In her footsteps, may we all find the strength and determination to advocate for the change we wish to see in the world. Toun’s work is a reminder that our voices matter, and together, we can create a brighter, more equitable future for all.

32-year old Nigerian journalist, Tope Delano has just shared a very touching story of how she’s been raped twice, survived post partum depression and how she’s lost almost everyone she loves.

According to her, ‘I was molested between ages of 7 and 11, raped twice, battled depression almost half her life, dealt with post-partum depression, lost 4 persons in a space of 1yr 5 month’.

 

Follow her story below…

 

Award-winning Hollywood actress, Meryl Streep in an open letter on journalism, praised journalists across the world for their bravery, while calling on everyone to protect, defend and thank them.

“I applaud and revere our female journalists,” she noted in the letter commissioned by PORTER Magazine for its winter issue.

She mentioned Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia who was killed by a bomb planted in a car for reporting on the Panama Papers.

She also praised Mexican journalist Patricia Mayorga and CNN correspondent Arwa Damon.

The letter read in part:

We need to protect, defend and thank the current crop of journalists around the world because they, their scruples and their principles are the front-line defense of free and informed people.

Journalists today, investigative journalists, and especially female journalists, are vulnerable and come under a special scrutiny online.

They must vouch for their stories, put their names on them, and as a result they attract the cowardly, the bullies, the brotherhood of bots and their easily aroused armies of haters.

We need the brave ones out front picking through the field ahead of us for land mines so we don’t step on one, or elect one.

Bravery is terrifying and actual, bravado is a parade. We see enough examples of Braggadocio and Bravado strutting around on the public stage…but true bravery is Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, blown up in her car for reporting on the Panama Papers….I applaud and revere our female journalists – I love them, and their equally undaunted brothers. We need them now more than ever….

The full letter will be available in PORTER’s next issue which can be gotten HERE.

Photo Credit: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

 

 

Credit: Bella Naija