Beneath the fame – Dishon Amanya (Photographer/Journalist)

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?

I am an award winning photojournalist who is driven by passion in Journalism especially the Swahili news reporting, am a jerk of all trade in my career life since can do everything that revolved around journalism be it broadcast, print media, photography videography just to mention a few.

How did you get started in your career?

My career journey has been one of its kind that has shown those who admire my progress to always stick to their passion , I started my journey in Laikipia University where I pursue BA in Kiswahili and Communication, despite my family forcing me to Pursue Education. The journey began in 2019 during my attachment at KBC Radio Taifa where I met veteran Journalists and presenters who some became my role models, the likes of Georges Waka, Bony Musambi, Cynthia Anyango, Mwinyi kazungu who inspired me to be who I am today. Before completing my attachment at KBC I was privileged to be part of a team from Laikipia University that represented the school in an investigative competition Top Story Season 2 organized by Africa On Air TV, this was my golden opportunity to shine as a young journo by then at NTV where the program was airing. From KBC, I volunteer at a radio Sahara a station in Kisumu county where I worked as a field reporter and radio presenter, things fell a part where the radio was closed and we were forced to look elsewhere where we can continue sharpening our journalistic skills. It took some weeks where I got another chance to work with Radio Samaritan, A gospel Station in Vihiga County, I was a producer, Presenter and News Caster, here worked for some time after almost 2 years I quitted and went for a new challenge in a TV Station. Maisha Television in Bungoma County was my first platform to appear on air as a Swahili news anchor, Editor and a reporter, what I saw there is a story that is worth sharing when you meet me. As I do always after learning and achieving new skills I look for a new challenge, had to resign Maisha Tv and joined some other Young fellow who were also doing something related to my career, at County Guardian News i took part to be the first person to launch an online radio station and it picked but after some time had to leave the place for another assigment at Kenya News Agency. Worked with KNA on 1 year contract where I was writing news stories on their website, this is where my passion for photography began, because print stories were accompanied by pictures. Thereafter, Joined Look Up Tv as a Reporter from Bungoma County, where I have grown until I began doing my own production under Smiley Production.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Winning awards is my best time in my career so far have won 3 awards, Best Eco-warrior award and 1st Runners- Up in Visual story Teller and the Photographer of the Year.

What are some of the challenges you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?

Financial constraints was my major challenge during my career life, travelling expenses as a starter in journalism was stressful since by then was unemployed had to use my own cost to get what I want. Unemployment was also a problem many people though once you appear on air you have money, getting employed as a journalist requires someone to be a brand. Negative attitudes from people pushing you to quit your career . I overcame all these by staying focused and believing in myself.

Are there any particular projects or roles that have been especially meaningful to you?

There are so many projects that are more important in my career journey have worked with many organizations both Internationally and Locally including Documentary for SAVE THE CHILDREN, Zakat Foundation Water Project, Forum for African Women Educationalist (FAWEK), Emerging Leaders Foundation (ELF)

Who or what has been your biggest inspiration?

My biggest inspiration is anyone who is successful in whatever he/she is doing.

What keeps you motivated in your work?

Achieving my goals

How do you handle criticism and setbacks?

I assess whether the criticism is constructive or not. I focus on the constructive aspects and learn from them.

How do you balance your personal life with your career?

Before work early in the morning, I do regular exercise, At my free time would take a nap, Make time for hobbies and activities that help you relax and recharge.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Gaming, Hiking, Gym, Networking, Watching Movies

Is there a particular hobby or interest that you enjoy outside of your work?

Football

What advice would you give to aspiring individuals who want to pursue a career similar to yours?

Journalism is not a walk in the park, it takes time and with passion you will also be there.

What upcoming projects or ventures are you excited about?

Taking Smiley Production to greater heights

Where do you see yourself in the future, both personally and professionally?

Professionally, am the next big thing in this career, Personally Just want to live a happy life with my family.

Favorite book/movie/song?

Afro-Pop, Rhumba

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Let your future not to be in the past.

One thing you can’t live without?

Phone

Any hidden talents or surprising facts about yourself?

Dancing

Your Social Media handles and platforms?

Facebook- Dishon Smiley Instagram- dishonsmiley X- DishonsmileyKe TikTok – Dishon Smiley Linkedin – Dishon Amanya