By Hajaratu Kalokoh
Sierra Leonean journalist, Asmaa James, has been named among the 100 most influential women in the world. The BBC’s exclusive list is compiled every year to shine a light on the outstanding work of different women across the world and how that has influenced their communities.
A broadcast journalist with 17 years of experience in the media, Mrs James won it for her activism against sexual harassment of women and girls. She is the lead presenter of a famous breakfast current affairs programme ‘Good Morning Salone’ on Radio Democracy, 98.1, a station she manages.
“This means a lot to me. To be recognized globally for what you do is just amazing. It means people are watching you and I am truly honoured,’ Mrs James told Politico.
She said the recognition has inspired her to continue doing more.
“I have a platform which is the media, very powerful platform. I am going to use it to effect change for women and girls,” she said.
Over the last one year, James has been known for her role in the Black Tuesday Movement which is organized by her foundation, the Asmaa James Foundation, in collaboration with several other campaign groups.
Her work is geared towards raising awareness on rape and other sexual offences against women and girls. She has also used her platform as a journalist to ignite a debate on reproductive health among girls.
The BBC’s 100 Most Influential Women was established in 2013.
The list is made up of leaders, everyday heroes and even less known women.
James is not the only Sierra Leonean woman who has made it to the list. In 2015, former President of women’s equality group - 50/50, Nimata Majeks Walker was named in the list.
BBC launched the initiative purposely to discourse the under-representation of women in the media.
© 2019 Politico Online
