After sixteen years of inspiring excellence on the airwaves, Humul Khrusum Tahiru, one of A1 Radio’s most celebrated broadcasters, says she is bowing out of the Upper East Regional GJA Awards stage to make room for other women to shine.
The veteran journalist, who was named Female Journalist of the Year 2024 at the just-ended awards, said her journey had come full circle — from a young intern learning to hold the microphone to a trailblazer lighting the path for others.
“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 campus news network, and that passion needed to be nurtured.”
Humul recounted how her journey began with the help of Sophia Akumi of GBC Ura Radio, whose encouragement and advocacy opened the doors for her to join A1 Radio. “She held my hands, lobbied, and made sure I got admitted to join team A1 Radio. She gave me an opportunity to chase my dreams. I am forever indebted to her,” she said with emotion.
What began as a youthful desire to be on radio, she said, evolved into a calling to serve her community. “What started as a mere desire to be on radio would later become the medium of giving to a family, community, and a region an amazing woman — giving back to the community that made her,” she reflected.
Looking back, Humul expressed pride in the legacy she leaves behind. “When I look back, I smile. I smile because I get a lot of, ‘You inspire me,’ ‘Can you mentor me?’ ‘How are you able to do all you do?’ Clearly, my life inspires a person or two, and that gladdens my heart.”
Her work ethic, she said, was shaped by the lessons of 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. My dad’s words are always with me, right in my head,” she said, adding that those words continue to drive her to excel.
“I can say with confidence 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. “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.”
Declaring her exit from competing at the regional GJA Awards, Humul said her goal had always been to pave the way for more women to participate and excel. “My job is done with 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.”
In a heartfelt message, she expressed gratitude to her late father, her mother, siblings, colleagues, and especially A1 Radio’s General Manager, Ebo Bruce Quansah, for his support. “Ebo Bruce Quansah, you have been a huge support system. I can’t thank you enough. Time will definitely tell. A1 Radio is my favorite place — it is home, it is a huge part of who I am today,” she said.
Humul also thanked her colleagues and fans who have cheered her on throughout her career. “Everyone at A1 has played a huge role in my life, and I say thank you. May Allah bless you all. There are so many people out here rooting for me to succeed in diverse spaces — I see your applause and appreciate it,” she said.
With her trademark humility and faith, she closed her reflection with gratitude: “Alhamdulilah today, Alhamdulilah tomorrow, and forever.”
Humul Khrusum Tahiru’s exit marks the end of an era for A1 Radio and the beginning of a new chapter in her mission to nurture the next generation of female broadcasters — proof that her legacy of resilience, excellence, and mentorship will continue to echo through the airwaves of the Upper East Region.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga
