Humul Khrusum Tahiru, Head of the Gender Desk at A1 Radio, has been named the Female Journalist of the Year for the second consecutive time at the Upper East Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards, cementing her reputation as one of the region’s most influential voices in broadcasting.
Reflecting on her journey, Tahiru described her rise in radio as a story of passion, mentorship, and perseverance. “Sixteen years ago, I said my first word on radio,” she recalled. “In September 2009, I joined the newly established A1 Radio as an attachee to learn on the job. A passion was ignited in teacher training college through the campus news network. That passion needed to be nurtured.”
Tahiru credited veteran broadcaster Sophia Akumi of GBC’s URA Radio for giving her the first major opportunity that set her on her career path. “She held my hands, lobbied, and made sure I got admitted to join team A1 Radio,” she said. “She gave me an opportunity to chase my dreams. I am forever indebted to her.”
What began as a simple desire to speak on air, Tahiru said, has evolved into a lifelong commitment to community service through journalism. “What started as a mere desire to be on radio will later become the medium of giving to a family, community, and a region an amazing woman,” she said. “Giving back to the community that made me.”
Tahiru’s career at A1 Radio has been marked by versatility. “With confidence, I can say I have hosted almost every show on A1 Radio — from sports, politics, entertainment, name it — and I gave a good account of myself anytime, any day,” she said with pride. “They say, ‘Jack of all trades, master of none.’ In my case, I am a senior apprentice of all, and we all know what they do — they are your sure bet in the absence of the master.”
Her success, she said, is rooted in the values instilled in her from childhood. “I saw how my mom worked hard to pay fees. My dad reminded me to count myself in, no matter the number of times I was counted out in any space,” she said. “My dad’s words are always with me, right in my head.”
Despite winning twice in a row, Tahiru said she is stepping back from future nominations to make room for other women in the field. “My job is done with the GJA Awards in the region. All I wanted to do was to set the stage and encourage other women to participate,” she said. “Next year, you wouldn’t see my name on the list, but I can assure you I will work behind the scenes with Women in Broadcasting to give you more women contenders.”
She expressed gratitude to her family, colleagues, and mentors for their unwavering support. “Thank you to my late dad for his prayers and blessings. My mom is the pillar that holds me, and to my amazing sisters and brothers — I love you,” she said. “Ebo Bruce Quansah, you have been a huge support system. I can’t thank you enough.”
“A1 Radio is my favorite place. It is home; it is a huge part of who I am today,” Tahiru added. “Everyone at A1 has played a huge role in my life and I say thank you. May Allah bless you all.”
As she continues to inspire young women across the Upper East Region, Tahiru said she remains grateful for every step of her journey. “When I look back, I smile,” she said. “I smile because I get a lot of ‘You inspire me,’ and ‘Can you mentor me?’ Clearly, my life inspires a person or two, and that gladdens my heart. Alhamdulilah today, Alhamdulilah tomorrow, and forever.”
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga
