Journalist based in Kenya, Monica Zabibu, has reported that her participation in the Aspen SAFIRI Fellowship helped her build professional relationships with fellow journalists and digital content creators from different backgrounds.

Zabibu, who works with MediaMax Network’s Milele FM and is a member of the Kenya Correspondents Association (KCA), graduated from the 12-month fellowship on October 2, 2026.

She said the programme gave her an opportunity to interact with other media professionals, exchange ideas and learn from their different experiences.

Expanding professional network

According to Zabibu, the relationships formed during the fellowship are among the key benefits she hopes to maintain beyond the programme.

“SAFIRI brought together journalists and digital creators from different backgrounds and experiences, creating opportunities to learn from one another and build relationships that I hope will continue well beyond the fellowship,” she said.

She added that the fellowship had expanded her understanding of journalism and digital storytelling while encouraging her to reflect on the role of journalists in society.

Zabibu said the experience had taught her the importance of listening carefully, treating people fairly and giving attention to voices that are often ignored.

She also said journalists should go beyond reporting challenges and highlight the creativity, resilience and ideas that exist in African communities.

The fellowship brought together media practitioners to learn about journalism, responsible storytelling and leadership.

She expressed gratitude to Aspen Initiative Nairobi, the Kenya Correspondents Association and Free Press Unlimited for supporting the programme.

She said she hoped to continue applying the lessons learnt while maintaining the professional relationships developed during the fellowship.