In a night of glitz and celebration, Stephanie Busari, the Emmy, Peabody, and Gracie award-winning journalist, marked 25 years of impactful storytelling with the launch of her global storytelling academy.

The event, held at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture & History in Lagos, brought together a distinguished audience of global media leaders, policymakers, and cultural icons.

The gathering celebrated Busari’s illustrious career, including 16 years of groundbreaking work at CNN, where she reshaped global perspectives on Africa. The evening featured heartfelt testimonials and accolades from influential figures who described her as a trailblazer, mentor, and an agent of positive change.

Among the high-profile attendees were Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Muhammad Ali Pate; First Lady of Kwara State, Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq; media moguls Mo Abudu and John Momoh; and global personalities like former Mauritian President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim. Gurib-Fakim, in a video tribute, described Busari as “the face of Africa at CNN” and praised her courage and determination in amplifying African voices on the global stage.

CNN anchor Richard Quest commended Busari for her unique ability to bring Africa’s vibrancy to international audiences, while Nigerian Minister of Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, described her career as “a testament to the power of narrative in shaping economic and cultural landscapes.”

Royalty also weighed in, with Olori Atuwatse III of the Iwere Kingdom hailing Busari’s professionalism and passion. “You are an amazing gift to the media world,” she said, joining others in celebrating Busari’s contributions.

While the evening honored her past achievements, Busari looked firmly to the future with the unveiling of the Stephanie Busari Storytelling Academy. The initiative aims to train 100,000 African storytellers over the next decade, supported by a $100 million fund. Guided by Chairman Tonye Cole, the academy will offer mentorship, training, and resources to help African creators tell authentic and nuanced stories.

“For 25 years, I’ve told stories that matter. Now, I want to help others do the same,” Busari said. “If we are to shift global perceptions and unlock Africa’s full potential, we must invest in those shaping how the world sees us.”

The event also marked the launch of Busari’s media consultancy, SBB Media, and her personal website, StephanieBusari.com. Through SBB Media, Busari plans to partner with visionaries and organizations to elevate African voices in global dialogues. The consultancy will provide services such as documentary filmmaking, media training, and strategic communications.

“Who tells the story matters,” Busari said. “Through SBB Media, we aim to shift mindsets and policies by ensuring African voices resonate globally.”

The event highlighted strong corporate backing, with brands like Chivas Regal and media platforms including Channels TV pledging support for Busari’s initiatives. These partnerships will provide budding storytellers with platforms to share their narratives and access to a robust international network.

As the evening concluded, Busari reflected on her journey and the road ahead. “We honor the past, but tomorrow, we build a future of limitless storytelling,” she said. “Africa’s many stories deserve to be told with pride, accuracy, and enduring impact.”

The celebration not only marked a milestone in Busari’s career but also set the stage for a new chapter in African storytelling—one that promises to amplify the continent’s voices and reshape global narratives.