Transformation from journalism to communication:
Binyam’s inspiring odyssey
Documented by Ezra Ejigu and AddisAlem Mulat
Biniyam Wubishet was born in 1974, in Addis Ababa.He loved his Saturdays when he was young because of the only entertaining media during that time – the Ethiopian radio. The radio programs promoted art, reading and he was glued to the realms of books. These literary odysseys became his cherished sanctuary, prompting him to willingly bear the weight of expenses and debts in pursuit of storytelling. He was influenced by writers particularly journalists, that shapes society and aspires to be one of them. His passion for literature led him to join AddisAbaba University and study Ethiopian language and literature and did his bachelor’s degree. In 1992, he embraced his calling as a journalist and joined The Ethiopian Herald, a national newspaper shaping the narrative of the nation through his dedicated reporting for six years. Binyam further pursued a Master’s degree in Journalism and Communication at Addis Ababa University. Throughout his journalistic career, he passionately engaged with individuals from all walks of life, from humble farmers to influential leaders, from celebrities to ordinary citizens. His works panned diverse topics, producing over 500 news stories and articles that shed light on pressing issues and shared the voices of the Ethiopian people. As a journalist, he understood the power of simplicity and the significance of basic hygiene practices. He advocated for proper hand washing, swift access to healthcare, and the urgent need to combat HIV/AIDS.Recognizing the detrimental impact of inadequate education on the lives of countless Ethiopians, his heart tends to address these societal challenges. And he believes he needs to do more than reporting. Transitioning from journalism, he embarked on a new chapter of his career at Johns Hopkins University, renowned for its groundbreaking research in public health.
Here, he applied communication and became a script writer for serialized dramas, aiming to bring about behavioral changes and positively impact society. Binyam led the production of “Life 101″comic book for Addis Ababa University; “Black Tigers,” for the Ethiopian defense forces; and “Shooting Stars.” for the Federal Police. In addition to a Coordinating these comic book productions, he also wrote storylines of more than 60 episodes, infusing them with entertainment and targeting specific audiences. The dramas aimed to raise awareness about HIV prevention, emphasizing the importance of protecting oneself and adopting a healthy life style, including adherence to anti-HIV medication. He further works as communication person for different international organizations and the WorldHealth Organization (WHO), marrying the principles of communication with art. He has also produced and led more than 300 youth focused behavioral change radio productions on various topics.He also led various crises communications including covid-19 outbreaks and others. He further uses print, audio and digital platforms to advance his communication works. Health, climate resilience water safety plan, gender-based violence, nutrition, Malaria prevention, economic empowerment, mental health, relationship are some of the topics dealt with his communication works. Biniyam is happily married with three children.
