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The author is an award-winning youth advocate. He is the co-founder of a number of community initiatives including the Youth Congress, a premier youth-led organization in Kenya.
Abena Soreno is an award-winning radio presenter and broadcast journalist in Ghana.
She is doing a great job using various forms of media, especially radio, to drive meaningful change in Ghana and across Africa.
I spoke with her to ask about her background, her passions and her advocacy work.
Raphael Obonyo: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Abena Soreno: I’m a passionate broadcast journalist and social advocate, with a strong focus on using media platforms to drive meaningful change.
Over the years, I’ve also ventured into other spaces, including founding a charitable non-profit organization, starting my media platform (Now On Africa) and being part of exciting ventures such as Startup Discovery School.
“My work is guided by a desire to amplify underrepresented voices and foster conversations that inspire positive action.”
Obonyo: What are your passions?
Soreno: I’m deeply passionate about media and its potential to create lasting social impact. Advocacy is pivotal to my work, especially in areas like ending period poverty and climate action. Beyond journalism, I’m passionate about innovation and startup ecosystems, particularly those tackling Africa’s most pressing challenges.
Obonyo: How did you first get your start in the world of radio?
Soreno: I got my start in radio out of a natural curiosity for storytelling and a drive to connect with people a year after joining the TV newsroom at the Daily Guide Network. I started by co-hosting the breakfast show, which allowed me to explore my voice and style as a presenter.
Over time, I honed my skills and found a niche in discussing social issues that matter to the youth, which led me to my current role as the host of the “Up and Running Breakfast Show” on Guide Radio 91.5 FM. Four years later, I have been awarded the Radio Female Personality of the Year at the 2023 RTP Awards.
Obonyo: What topics do you specialize in as a radio host?
Soreno: I specialize in current affairs, with a focus on youth-related issues, social justice and advocacy topics such as gender equality, climate action and economic empowerment. I also love engaging in conversations about sports, music and social media trends, making the show a dynamic blend of information and entertainment.
Obonyo: You have been outspoken about the need for urgent, robust action to end period poverty. How are you using radio to champion action to end period poverty?
Soreno: Radio is an incredibly powerful tool for raising awareness, and I’ve made it a priority to spotlight period poverty on my platform. Through interviews with experts, activists and everyday people affected by this issue, I create space for honest conversations about the challenges of accessing menstrual health products. I also ensure that our discussions include solutions, such as initiatives that provide affordable products, raise funds or push for policy changes.
Obonyo: How can radio be used to fight period poverty in Africa?
Soreno: Radio reaches millions of people across Africa and beyond, often in areas where other forms of media may not have the same penetration. It can be a vital tool in educating communities about menstrual health, debunking myths and providing information on where to access resources. Radio can also mobilize collective action by bringing NGOs, government bodies and private sectors together to collaborate on sustainable solutions.
“It’s a platform that gives voice to the voiceless, which is crucial in breaking the stigma around menstruation.”
Obonyo: What can you tell readers around the world about the power of radio?
Soreno: Radio has a unique power to connect with people without even knowing them or vice-versa. It’s intimate, immediate and has the ability to create a sense of community. In places where literacy may be a barrier, radio bridges the gap by providing accessible, real-time information and entertainment.
Beyond its traditional role, radio today is a versatile platform that can be paired with digital tools to reach even more people, making it a timeless and evolving medium for change.
