CMJ Alumni Day – 25th September 2024 (Re-cap)

The School of Communication and Multimedia Journalism at Riara University hosted its alumni, who were delighted to witness the progress made by the institution. The alumni were featured on a panel that showcased the diverse career paths available to graduates, including Bobby Owuor, a content creator; Samuel Mbegei, a mainstream TV producer; Tiffany Wambui and Faith Kinyajui from a corporate agency; and Basil Koech, who works in development communication. This panel highlighted the wide range of opportunities within the field of communication and media.The event attracted a large number of current students, which was particularly noteworthy given that attendance was not tied to any academic incentives. Their engagement through thoughtful questions demonstrated that they gained valuable insights from the discussions. The afternoon session allowed for informal interactions, fostering meaningful exchanges between students and alumni.Ms. Cynthia Mwangi, head of radio at Royal Media Services, served as the keynote speaker. She led an engaging session, offering practical advice on how to navigate the media industry and secure opportunities within it. Her presence during the afternoon session provided a platform for one-on-one mentoring, which was well-received by both students and alumni.

Key Outcomes:

A comprehensive database of alumni and their current employers was created, providing valuable networking opportunities for both alumni and students.
The event strengthened relationships with Royal Media Services, thanks to Ms. Mwangi’s participation. Additionally, Dr. Lando’s opening remarks highlighted inter-school collaboration, and the presence of other faculty members boosted morale within the school.
Alumni expressed their willingness to return as guest lecturers, a plan that will be implemented next semester with invitations extended to three alumni from various sectors.
Insights gathered during the event will be incorporated into the curriculum, ensuring it remains relevant and reflective of industry needs.