Journalist Meghan Walker took a two-year break from radio and online news in Seattle to go start her own newspaper...in Kenya.
Born in Kenya, she still has many family members to visit there. On one such visit, when exploring the coast of Kilifi, she noticed a lack of local media sources and felt inspired to take this challenge on herself. In the first half of this interview, Meghan explains the challenges and rewards of starting a locally run, corruption-free, news source for the people of Kilifi.
After seven months of getting the business up and running successfully, Meghan was able to step away, leaving it all in the hands of the locals who had taken on the responsibility with pride and devotion. After another six months working for a printed newspaper in Nanyuki, her next adventure was quite a step away from journalism. She worked for a safari camp in the Maasai Mara! In this second half of the interview, Meghan answers my questions about going on safaris. She also explains transportation, safety, and common misconceptions about Kenya, as well as what yoga looks like in Nairobi.
Meghan's itinerary for a perfect three week trip to Kenya:
- 1 week in the Maasai Mara getting close with the animals
- 1 week in Laikipia enjoying the mountains
- 1 week at the coast relaxing at a resort in Mombasa or Lamu
Links:
Meghan's online community newspaper: Habari Kilifi
Richard Branson's fancy safari camp that Meghan worked at: Mahali Mzuri
Other safari options: Game Watchers