Alex Chamwada’s journey to establishing one of Kenya’s top television shows, “Daring Abroad,” is a story of resilience and vision. Despite being a renowned journalist, Chamwada faced significant obstacles before his groundbreaking show gained recognition.
The idea for “Daring Abroad,” which focuses on the achievements of Kenyans living abroad, was initially dismissed by a former boss who questioned its relevance.
Chamwada, who graduated with a degree in journalism from Moi University and worked primarily in political and local news, often included diaspora stories during his international assignments.
However, it wasn’t until he left Royal Media Services in 2014 and decided to fully pursue his vision that “Daring Abroad” came to fruition. The show made its debut on KTN in April 2015, offering a fresh perspective by highlighting the successes of Kenyans overseas and the diverse opportunities available to them.
The first episode was met with enthusiasm, marking the show as a pioneer in its field. This success prompted Chamwada to expand his media ventures, launching “The Chamwada Report” focused on human interest stories within Kenya.
His innovative approach not only increased appreciation for the Kenyan diaspora but also led to the creation of a state department dedicated to diaspora affairs.
Chamwada’s show, which later moved to NTV in 2020, has covered hundreds of inspiring stories of Kenyans abroad, demonstrating that there are opportunities beyond Kenya’s borders. Reflecting on his journey, Chamwada credits his former boss’s skepticism for fueling his determination.
“A negative response can lead to positive outcomes. Believe in yourself, and turn your vision into reality,” Chamwada says, underscoring his belief in perseverance and self-belief.
By Nairobileo