MEET Dr. WILLIETTE JAMES: A TRAILBLAZER IN JOURNALISM , GENDER ADVOCACY AND LEADERSHIP

Dr. Williette Princess Ransolina Oluwakemi James is more than just a journalist and lecturer—she is a force of nature, shaping the media and gender advocacy landscape in Sierra Leone for over two decades. Her story is one of perseverance, intellect, and an unyielding commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Breaking Barriers in Journalism

With 24 years of experience in journalism, Dr. James has worked across various media platforms, breaking barriers as she went. From her early training at Sky High Magazine in Walthamstow, London, to her role as News and Current Affairs Manager at ABC Television Africa, she has redefined the space for women in the media industry.

Her work at Salone Times Newspaper, NewsWatch Magazine, and as Executive Producer of the Voice of Children UNICEF Project highlights her versatility and dedication. In a male-dominated industry, she not only found her voice but used it to amplify those of the unheard. As she often says, “Journalism is not just about reporting the news; it is about shaping narratives that transform societies.”

Championing Gender Advocacy

Since 2010, Dr. James has seamlessly interwoven gender advocacy with journalism. Her award-winning investigative pieces, Secret Pains of a Village Mother 1 and 2, exposed the realities of rural women in Sierra Leone, earning her the prestigious Best Gender Reporting award twice. This recognition wasn’t just a professional milestone—it was a testament to her commitment to giving voice to the marginalized.

She continues to drive gender conversations beyond media spaces, serving on the Gender Advisory Board of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and as a member of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) Gender Council. Her advocacy is rooted in the belief that “Empowering women in media is not just about representation; it’s about rewriting the script on equity and access.”

Academic Excellence and Leadership

Dr. James’ academic journey is as impressive as her professional one. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with First-Class Honours in Mass Communication, a Master of Arts in Gender Studies, an MPhil in Mass Communication, and a PhD in Communication and Media Studies from Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone. Currently, she is pursuing an MPhil in Theology, proof of her lifelong commitment to knowledge.

Her academic influence extends to leadership. As the first female journalist in Sierra Leone with a PhD in Communication and Media Studies, she has paved the way for future generations. She has served as the Assistant Dean at the Faculty of Communication, Media, and Information Studies at FBC, where she mentors aspiring journalists and researchers.

Dr. James is also a trailblazer in institutional leadership. She is the first female President of the Academic Staff Association of Fourah Bay College, the first President of the University of Sierra Leone’s Academic Staff Association (covering FBC, IPAM, and COMAHS), and the first President of the Union of Academic Staff Associations in Sierra Leone (UASA). These firsts underscore her exceptional ability to challenge norms and inspire systemic change.

Building Future Female Leaders

A strong believer in mentorship and female leadership, Dr. James founded the Women Leaders Initiative (WLI), a platform designed to empower female university students to take on leadership roles. She recognizes that “True progress is measured by how many doors you open for others.”

Through WLI, she has cultivated a new generation of women ready to lead, proving that advocacy must go beyond rhetoric—it must create tangible opportunities for growth and advancement.

A Legacy of Impact

Dr. Williette James’ impact transcends journalism, academia, and gender advocacy. As Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) and Communications Manager at NP (SL) Limited, she continues to shape Sierra Leone’s media and corporate communication landscapes.

Her landmark 2018 publication, The EBK Effect, earned her the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists’ Award for Best Political Story, making her the first woman to win in that category. It was a powerful reminder that women in media are not just storytellers; they are history-makers.

Balancing Career and Family

Beyond her professional accolades, Dr. James is a wife to Brian James and a mother of three boys. Her ability to balance a demanding career with family life is quite impressive, especially in a world that often forces women to choose between ambition and family, she exemplifies that success can be holistic.

A Role Model for the Next Generation

Dr. Williette James is more than just a pioneer—she is a symbol of what is possible when talent meets purpose. Whether through investigative journalism, academic mentorship, or gender advocacy, she has dedicated her life to shaping a better, more inclusive society. As she continues to break new ground, her journey serves as an inspiration to all who dare to challenge the status quo.

Her legacy is best summed up in her own words: “The best way to make an impact is to leave the door open for others to walk through.” And indeed, she has done just that.