Former Citizen TV news anchor Yvonne Okwara has secured a new job at Shuga Global, barely a day after announcing her departure from journalism following a career spanning 20 years.
Okwara has been appointed Head of Investments and Partnerships at the organisation, where she will oversee strategic relationships, investment opportunities and resource mobilisation to support programmes targeting young people.
Shuga Global announced her appointment on Wednesday, October 28, describing her as an experienced communications professional whose expertise extends beyond television journalism to corporate communications, fundraising and government relations.
“Shuga Global understands that our communities need opportunities for expanded reach beyond grant-dependency. This is why we are beyond excited to introduce our new Head of Investments and Partnerships, Yvonne Okwara,” the organisation announced.
Her appointment marks a significant career shift from the newsroom to development and strategic investment, placing her at the centre of efforts to secure funding and establish partnerships to support the organisation's programmes.
In her new role, Okwara is expected to draw on her experience in business, policy and social impact to attract investors, build strategic alliances and identify alternative sources of funding.
The appointment comes as Shuga Global undertakes a rebranding exercise and seeks to expand its international presence while reducing its dependence on traditional grant funding.
“As Shuga Global rebrands and expands its worldwide reach, Yvonne will leverage her expertise in business, policy, and social impact to build strategic relationships, unlock funding, and mobilize resources,” the organisation stated.
Shuga Global also highlighted Okwara's contribution to changes in Kenya's media landscape and her involvement in development partnerships that have benefited communities in different regions.
The organisation's latest move is aimed at strengthening its financial sustainability as it continues pursuing its mission of empowering young people.
Okwara's exit from journalism
The announcement came just a day after Okwara publicly confirmed that she was leaving journalism, bringing to a close a two-decade career in broadcast media.
In her farewell message on Tuesday, October 27, the former Citizen TV anchor reflected on her professional journey and thanked viewers for supporting her throughout her career.
“To our viewers, you have watched my career blossom from infancy to this point twenty years later. Thank you for your support,” Okwara stated.
She also expressed gratitude to colleagues who supported her career, including Citizen TV Managing Editor Linus Kaikai, whom she credited for his support.
During her years at Citizen TV, Okwara became one of Kenya's recognisable television journalists, earning a reputation for her authoritative news presentation, political interviews and discussions on national affairs.
Her incisive questioning and coverage of major national issues helped establish her as a prominent voice in Kenya's broadcast journalism industry.
Her departure raised questions about her next professional move, with the Shuga Global appointment providing an immediate glimpse into the next chapter of her career.
Rather than continuing in mainstream television, Okwara will now focus on building partnerships, mobilising resources and supporting initiatives designed to create opportunities for young people.
For Shuga Global, her appointment comes at a time when organisations are seeking more sustainable funding models and broader partnerships to support their programmes.
Okwara's move from journalism to investments and partnerships marks a new phase in her career, shifting her focus from reporting on public affairs to helping mobilise resources for development initiatives.
