Kenyan media personality Terryanne Chebet has shared the inspiring story of how a few encouraging words from Rashid Ronald helped shape her journey into broadcasting. The experienced journalist revealed that Rashid was the first person to tell her that she had the voice and potential to work in radio, a moment that changed the direction of her life. Terryanne reflected on her early years, explaining that she did not initially have full confidence in her own abilities when she was starting out. Her story highlights the importance of mentorship and how one person’s belief can open doors for someone who is still discovering their own talents. Through her heartfelt tribute, she recognized the people who supported her growth and helped her build a successful career in Kenya’s media industry.
Terryanne recalled being a 19-year-old fresh out of high school in Kitale with dreams of studying at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC). However, she missed out on admission to the institution and did not immediately begin the broadcasting journey she had hoped for. Instead, she found herself attending acting classes focused on set books that were being held at KIMC. It was during this unexpected experience that she received an opportunity to record voiceovers for a student radio drama. That moment became a turning point because it allowed her to discover a talent she had not recognized in herself.
The media personality shared that she had not always been confident about her voice or her ability to become a broadcaster. She explained that at the time, she was still trying to understand herself and find her place after growing up in a small town. The unexpected chance to work on a radio project introduced her to a new possibility and helped her see a future in broadcasting. Terryanne revealed that Rashid Ronald played a major role in helping her recognize that potential. His encouragement gave her the confidence to consider radio as a serious career path and motivated her to pursue opportunities in the industry.
According to Terryanne, Rashid Ronald was the first person to openly tell her that she could succeed in radio. She remembered his words encouraging her by saying she had a good voice for broadcasting. The statement stayed with her because it came at a time when she did not yet believe in herself fully. Terryanne explained that she did not become a broadcaster because she had complete confidence from the beginning, but because someone else saw her potential and voiced it clearly. She described Rashid’s support as a powerful reminder of how important it is to encourage others when they are still discovering their abilities.
Terryanne’s reflection also came as she worked on a documentary voiceover, which brought back memories of the early moments that shaped her career. The experience reminded her of the people who supported her and created opportunities during different stages of her professional journey. She used the opportunity to honor Rashid Ronald, the late Tony Msalame and veteran journalist David Makali for their contributions to her growth. Each mentor played a different role in helping her develop confidence and establish herself in the competitive media industry. Her tribute showed appreciation for the guidance and encouragement she received throughout her career.
The late Tony Msalame, widely known for his work in Kenyan radio and entertainment, was among the individuals Terryanne credited for supporting her journey. She also recognized veteran journalist David Makali for his influence and contribution to her professional development. Terryanne explained that these individuals helped shape who she became by offering guidance, opportunities and belief in her abilities. Her acknowledgment reflects the impact that experienced professionals can have on emerging talent. She emphasized that success is often built through the support and encouragement received from others along the way.
Terryanne Chebet’s story highlights the value of mentorship in creative and media industries. Many aspiring broadcasters and journalists often need opportunities to demonstrate their skills before they can gain confidence and recognition. A simple act of encouragement from someone experienced can help them take the next step toward achieving their goals. Terryanne’s journey shows that talent can sometimes remain undiscovered until someone creates an opportunity for it to shine. Her experience serves as motivation for young people pursuing careers in broadcasting and other competitive fields.
The media industry requires more than technical skills because confidence, communication and personal expression are also important qualities. Terryanne’s early experience demonstrates how important it is for young professionals to receive support as they develop their abilities. Her career journey from an uncertain teenager in Kitale to a respected media personality shows the impact of persistence and guidance. She has since built a reputation as one of Kenya’s prominent broadcasters, using her platform to share stories and connect with audiences. The people who believed in her early on played an important role in helping her reach that level of success.
Terryanne Chebet’s tribute to Rashid Ronald, Tony Msalame and David Makali is a reminder that many successful careers are shaped by moments of encouragement and support. Her revelation about Rashid being the first person to recognize her radio potential shows how powerful a single opportunity or kind word can be. Although she initially missed admission to KIMC, an unexpected voiceover opportunity became the beginning of a remarkable broadcasting journey. Her story celebrates the mentors who saw her potential before she fully recognized it herself. By sharing her experience, Terryanne has encouraged others to value mentorship, believe in emerging talent and remember the people who help make success possible.
