“Born with a burning passion for journalism but also for her steadfast commitment to breaking down stereotypes and promoting understanding between cultures and religions.” That’s not me.
“She had faced prejudice and discrimination, but she refused to let that deter her from pursuing her dreams. Instead, she saw it as an opportunity to use her platform to change perceptions and foster empathy.” That’s also not me.
“Inspired by the perilous escape from their dark past-torn homeland to the challenges they faced in adapting to a new culture. Through her storytelling, she managed to convey not only their hardships but also their resilience, hope, and the shared human experience that transcended borders and faith.” That could lowkey be me but NO.
Never imagined myself in the limelight
Now that’s ME! It all started when I was an intern at the New Times, I was fond of writing and took it as a way of self-expression. I did that for about six months then, (RBA) Rwanda Broadcasting Agency was creating a youthful channel called KC2. Upon reading some of my articles, they contacted me for an interview. I had no clue about TV and that aside, never in a million years would I have ever thought about being in front of people because believe it or not I am very shy. If I could have it my way, I wouldn’t be in front of people!
My journey started pretty unexpectedly, but then eventually; I found my footing around the area. The good thing about it all is that it has been a gradual growth process. As the years went on, I became more comfortable and more experienced in the job, I moved on to the big screens and became a news anchor on RTV.
The MCeeing and Moderation part of my career came through people seeing me on TV and how I can articulate my words. My first MCeeing gig was in the prestigious Miss Rwanda pageant. It was a nerve-wracking affair!
It was my first time being in front of a huge crowd of people trying so hard to fight the “I am going to mess this up” gloomy loud thoughts in my head. To my surprise, I received great feedback. So far, that’s one of my favorite parts of my job-being able to engage in meaningful conversations.
How do I manage to not stumble on my words?
A lot of practice! I’m not one to rehearse in front of mirrors. God No! because I never even watch what I do but I do make sure that I have a proper understanding of what I’m going to do. Notes are very crucial we’re not machines let alone magicians.
Watching me from a news or talk show presenter perspective, one would think that I’ve adopted a professional and polished style. Which often includes well-tailored suits or
dresses, classic colors (such as black, navy, and gray), and conservative accessories but take it from me, my style is a mixture of both professional and streetwear.
I’m one to wear a blazer, a crop top, and boyfriend jeans. I am a sneakers and flat girl. As for makeup as a TV presenter, regardless of me knowing that it’s an important aspect of our overall appearance as it helps enhance our onscreen presence and ensures we look our best under the studio lights. My colleague, whom we started with at the morning café used to do her own makeup and do mine as well.
I later brought my makeup products but let me tell you, they’d just sit at home and collect dust until I decided to be a girly girl for once. I started with neutral eyeshadows, subtle eyeliner, and mascara, I’d define the eyebrows, using eyeliner to enhance the lash line and apply mascara to lengthen and volumize the lashes. I loved the feeling of owning it. Doing my makeup because I wanted to not because I had to, made me look confident and approachable. It made me feel like I could convey my message effectively.
As for my healthy self-care routine, I recently started going to the gym and I just realized that it’s a whole complete self-reliever. Another thing that helps me stay sane and maintain my life balance is taking care of myself in terms of doing my nails, making sure my hair is done, gettin’ them lashes done, making sure that I do some shopping if I have time, and making time for hangouts with my friends -making sure that my inner self is happy.
My biggest influence would probably be my parents. My Dad is the one who pushed me to go into this career, he’s always been a big person in the media industry, I grew up watching him on TV and the Radio, and he’s good with his writing so he’s my inspiration career-wise. My mom, on the other hand, has always been my biggest inspiration in terms of humility and being very graceful. She’s such a peaceful human being and soul.
To wrap this up, I want to tell my followers that I am a very normal person, what I’ve achieved is very attainable by anyone else, it just depends on your passion for something, how much you want that thing, your dedication to your art, to your crafts and working hard! Stand out and the market will be yours. The only way to go is up! We elevatin’ internationally. Scribble that down!
My name is Martina Abera Kabagambe. Abera translates to The Holy One in English, Whereas Kabagambe is my father’s name which according to one interpretation from Uganda, the name Kabagambe is of Bantu origin and means “Let them say/Talk”.
Fun fact: the first-ever Kabagambe in earthly incarnation emerged around the enigmatic territory of Bulgaria, circa1025. As an inquisitive and inventive person, Kabagambe liked to get to the very bottom of things and to rummage in books. Talent for drama, natural born actor. Kabagambe lesson – to learn discretion and reason and then teach others to do that happier, when Kabagambe would help those who lack reasoning.
