The value of money is in how you use it

25 January 2015 - 02:00 By Loni Prinsloo
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Sophie Ikenye, a presenter of ‘Focus on Africa’ on BBC World News, talks to Loni Prinsloo about investing in young people

Why did you pursue your current career?

I have always liked to know things before anyone else, ask the questions that others aren't asking, so that I can share the news first. Yes, that sounds nosy, but I'm the curious kind, I like asking questions and asking them hard. I'm passionate about giving a voice to people and stories that may not otherwise be told. I can't think of a better platform on which to do that than BBC World News.

What did your career teach you about money matters?

It's important to know the condition of your flock (read money or investments). It's never too late to start investing.

What career challenges have you faced to date?

One of the toughest parts of my journey has always been keeping up to speed with the constantly changing dynamics of news dissemination. The digital devices being used can pose quite a challenge for me sometimes. It's important for me as a journalist to stay ahead of the curve and give our audiences relevant content wherever they want it.

Do you have any advice for young people interested in a career in the media industry?

Yes. Don't be afraid of the hours you might be required to put into a story. It pays off. And don't be afraid to ask questions.

What was your first job and pay package? How did you manage?

I got my first job while still in college, for a media house in Kenya.

I worked mornings and evenings and attended class during the day. My pay was about 21000 KSH (about R2654) a month, which is about $21 a week. It helped me pay my college fees.

What has been your best career choice to date?

Joining the BBC has been it. Having the privilege to tell the African story on an international platform is very satisfying.

If you hit the "jackpot" today, what would you spend it on?

I have always dreamt of building a small community centre for young people in my village back home in Kenya, and I'd also invest in property shares.

What are some your money weaknesses?

I spend a lot on other people.

Do you have any career role-models?

The late Komla Dumor was my greatest role model. He was bold.

Did your childhood teach you anything about money?

Yes. Money does make things easier and can buy happiness, but only to a point. It's how we use it that matters.

Have you ever been hard-up?

Oh yes!

What has been your best money advice?

Know your money. Invest upward in things that give you something in return. Save for your children. The money will come in handy.

What do you view as some of your better investments in life?

A few young people who I am paying or have paid school fees for.

What are some of your future career and money plans?

I'd like to travel a lot more across the world and meet other Africans who have invested in areas that have changed people's lives. In my local language (Kikuyu) there's a saying that goes "People are wealth".

Where do you believe future economic growth for Africa will come from?

I think we'll see agriculture driven by information technology among the youth. Although I should say that different countries have many different factors that drive growth. The huge youth numbers, if well invested in, can turn economies around.

Sophie Ikenye presents Focus on Africa at 7.30pm, Monday to Friday, on BBC World News

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