Documented by Ezra Ejigu and AddisAlem Mulat
Samrawit Girma: A journalist committed to preserving truth and empowering voices.
Samrawit Girma, an extraordinary journalist born in East Welega, Nekemte, Ethiopia, in 1980 (E.C), has devoted her career to upholding truth and empowering marginalized individuals. From a young age, her passion for journalism, untiring commitment to honesty, and desire to amplify the voices of underserved communities were apparent. She embarked on her educational journey at a primary school where she excelled, graduating with distinction. Her exceptional performance in the 8th-grade regional examination propelled her to the next level, further fueling her thirst for knowledge. Throughout her time at Derge High School, she continued to excel academically until the 10th standard. She took National exam in tenth grade according to the policy of the Ethiopian, Ministry of Education. Then she went to Nekemte Teacher Training College.
During her college years, she actively engaged in a mini media club, showcasing her remarkable talents and stanch dedication to journalism. Her enthusiastic contributions were widely recognized, leading to her receiving a certificate of participation and appreciation for her outstanding involvement.
The impactful journalists she heard and saw left an indelible impression on her young mind, fueling her dreams of becoming a journalist herself. Despite being assigned to work in a distant location after graduating from Nekemte Teachers College, Samrawit made the bold decision, supported by her family, to relocate to Addis Ababa, the capital city, in pursuit of her childhood dream. This pivotal move opened doors to new opportunities and set her on a path to make a significant impact in the field of journalism.
She successfully completed the 10th-grade national examination and gained admission to Nekemte Teachers College, dedicating three years to her studies and obtaining a diploma.
Subsequently, she seized an opportunity to study journalism at Addis Ababa University, embarking on a four-year journey in the Faculty of Journalism and Communication. Upon completion, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Television. Throughout her studies, she also taught at Fasil School in the Shegole area, balancing her academic pursuits with teaching responsibilities. In 2001, she began her cherished career as a reporter for Bariisaa, a newspaper dedicated to Afan Oromo and affiliated with the Ethiopian Press Agency. Despite her lack of experience in print journalism, she competed fiercely for the position and impressed her superiors with her dedication and talent. She acknowledged the need to invest significant time and effort into her work at Bariisaa but remained committed to the newspaper, determined to contribute to its preservation and historical significance.
For the past 16 years, Samrawit Girma has played a crucial role at the esteemed Bariisaa newspaper, establishing herself as a highly regarded professional in the field through her exceptional work and consistent publications
Her commitment to safeguarding the newspaper went beyond addressing unfair treatment; she actively sought to enhance its appeal and readership, particularly in the realm of culture. Collaborating with language and literature scholars, she crafted articles that garnered substantial readership and media attention. With her colleagues, she distributed printed copies to various organizations, expanding its influence and reach.
Throughout her illustrious career, Samrawit has extensively covered significant national events, ranging from elections and African Union conferences to Irreecha celebrations and religious ceremonies. She has had the privilege of conducting interviews with notable figures, including high-ranking government officials, religious leaders, and renowned personalities. Her extensive portfolio showcases her versatility and unwavering dedication to delivering accurate and impactful journalism. Notably, she even had the opportunity to interview Nobel Peace Prize laureate Abiy Ahmed, further cementing her reputation as a respected journalist. Samrawit’s outstanding contributions have garnered her numerous accolades and recognition.
Samrawit also graduated from Addis Ababa University in 2016, with a Master’s degree in Journalism and Communication. During this time, she gave birth to her third child, completed her dissertation, and received praise for attending the graduation ceremony holding her newborn baby. She also wrote and published a book in Afan Oromo Ulma.
