Renowned media personality Janet Mbugua has recounted how she got her big break in the media at 19 years of age and the lessons she learnt, which continue to shape her journey of self-discovery and rise in the industry.
The media star took a walk down memory lane to mark World Radio Day, sharing a photo taken in 2003 when she was 19 years old and had just landed her first job in radio, accompanying it with a statement that captured her experience.
Mbugua recounted that she confidently knocked on doors, aggressively seeking opportunities, and it was not long before her efforts paid off with an opportunity that unlocked more doors.
“First, don’t laugh! This was 2003, and I was 19… yeah, anyway! I had the guts to knock on doors and somehow found myself working at the very station I grew up listening to. Capital FM,” she stated on her social media accounts on Friday, February 13, 2026.
‘Praying nothing embarrassing goes on air’
The initial days saw her pray that nothing embarrassing went on air while mastering her trade in the studio.
“Suddenly, I was in a tiny studio, pretending I knew which buttons to press and praying nothing embarrassing went on air. Sometimes it still did! Radio became my real training ground,” she added.
Working at the station built her confidence, sharpened her skills and opened her eyes to what the industry had to offer and the real impact of being on air.
Humble beginnings and growth
It is from these humble beginnings that she rose to be a notable media personality with an illustrious career that has seen her work with leading media houses in the country.
“It built my confidence, sharpened my thinking, and showed me how powerful simple conversations can be when you know someone out there is listening. It also opened the door to the media journey I’m still on today ,” she added.
She concluded her statement with a message of appreciation, admitting that looking at the photos brings back beautiful memories of a phase that shaped her journey and established her love for radio.
“Looking at these photos feels like catching up with an old friend. Grateful for where it all began, and for the magic of radio that still keeps us company every day