Kwame Adinkra, a celebrated journalist and prominent morning show host at Pure FM, delivered a compelling message to aspiring journalists at the OTEC School of Journalism and Communication Studies. During his address at the school’s 2025/2026 SRC Week celebration in Kumasi, he emphasized the paramount importance of seizing opportunities and eschewing excuses in the fiercely competitive media landscape. He argued that success in journalism hinges on a proactive approach, where individuals actively seek and embrace opportunities rather than allowing self-imposed limitations to dictate their trajectory. This proactive mindset, he contended, is a cornerstone of professional growth and a key differentiator between those who thrive and those who stagnate in the industry.
Adinkra’s message resonated with the theme of preparing students for the practical realities of the media profession. He painted a vivid picture of a demanding industry where excuses are not tolerated and opportunities must be grasped with both hands. He underscored that a “can-do” attitude, coupled with a relentless pursuit of excellence, is essential for navigating the challenges and capitalizing on the rewards that journalism offers. He urged students to view every assignment, every task, and every interaction as a chance to learn, grow, and demonstrate their capabilities. This proactive approach, he argued, would not only accelerate their professional development but also build their reputation as reliable and resourceful individuals.
Expanding on the theme of opportunity, Adinkra stressed the importance of viewing every task, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, as a stepping stone to greater achievements. He argued that even mundane assignments can be transformed into valuable learning experiences if approached with the right mindset. By consistently delivering high-quality work, even on the most routine tasks, aspiring journalists can demonstrate their commitment, build their skills, and earn the trust of their colleagues and superiors. This, in turn, opens doors to more challenging and rewarding opportunities, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and advancement.
Addressing the inevitable setbacks that come with any profession, Adinkra reassured the students that making mistakes is an integral part of the learning process. He encouraged them to embrace failures as opportunities for growth, emphasizing that it’s not the mistake itself but the response to it that truly matters. He advocated for a growth mindset, where errors are viewed not as indicators of inadequacy but as valuable feedback that can be used to refine skills and improve performance. This resilience in the face of challenges, he argued, is a crucial attribute for success in the demanding world of journalism.
Furthermore, Adinkra emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving media landscape. He stressed that the skills and knowledge required for success in journalism are not static; they are constantly being redefined by technological advancements, shifting audience preferences, and emerging storytelling formats. To remain relevant and competitive, journalists must be willing to embrace lifelong learning, constantly seeking new knowledge and skills to adapt to the changing demands of the profession. This includes staying abreast of the latest trends in digital media, data journalism, and multimedia storytelling, as well as honing their critical thinking, communication, and ethical decision-making abilities.
Adinkra’s address left a profound impact on the aspiring journalists in attendance. His message of seizing opportunities, embracing challenges, and cultivating a growth mindset resonated deeply with the students, inspiring them to approach their future careers with renewed confidence and determination. His insights, drawn from years of experience in the media industry, provided a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of the profession and achieving success in a highly competitive environment. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of proactive learning, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the dynamic world of journalism.
