Yvette Twagiramariya, known to many as Yvethi, is not only a name but a powerful force in the world of journalism. Born in Rwanda, raised in Belgium, and now a prominent voice in the United Kingdom, she embodies the resilience, ambition, and unyielding spirit that define a modern African woman thriving on the global stage. As a TV presenter for the prestigious BBC World Service, Yvethi has won numerous awards that honor her exceptional journalism, unwavering dedication, and ability to amplify diverse perspectives through her reporting.
She has also won an award in her previous job as a sales executive for a Pan African channel called Voxafrica. The channel won the best African channel in the UK and her team collected the award as their work helped the channel stand out from the rest of the competitors.
As both a celebrated media professional and a proud single mother, Yvethi’s journey is a remarkable testament to her strength and determination. Balancing an acclaimed career with the demands of motherhood, she remains driven by a passion for storytelling that brings her audiences closer to the realities of today’s world. Through podcasts, radio, and TV interviews, Yvethi consistently challenges stereotypes and breaks new ground, amplifying the voices of influential figures and shedding light on stories that deserve worldwide recognition.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Yvethi’s career is a masterclass in ambition and achievement. Her experiences span multiple continents and cultures, contributing to her unique perspective as a bilingual journalist fluent in English and French. In her role at BBC World Service, Yvethi has established herself as a trusted voice, especially in the African diaspora communities, with coverage that includes world events, social issues, and in-depth celebrity interviews.
In 2018, she interviewed Monica Geingos, the former First Lady of Namibia, about girls’ education in her country. More recently, she spoke with Tyla, the Grammy and MTV EMA award-winning South African singer, about her career debut.
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with Monica Geingos, The former First Lady of Namibia
From the beginning of her career, Yvethi showed an unwavering commitment to journalism, fueled by her desire to tell stories that matter. It wasn’t long before her talent and dedication began to receive recognition, earning her awards that highlighted her as an outstanding journalist. But beyond the accolades, Yvethi’s mission has always been to bridge cultural gaps and create understanding through powerful narratives.
Among her many achievements, Yvethi produced and presented a half-hour documentary for BBC World Service celebrating the global rise of Afrobeats, beginning in London, where she resides. From the MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards red carpet to music studios and clubs, Yvette Twagiramariya interviewed key figures contributing to Afrobeats’ growth on the international stage.
Did you know that Yvethi started her career in media production as an Entertainment news reporter before creating and hosting her own show on Voxafrica which she called “The Guide with Yvethi”?
Navigating Motherhood and Career as a Mother in Europe
For many, balancing the challenges of a high-profile career and single motherhood would be daunting. Yet, Yvethi’s experience as a single mother in Europe has only deepened her resilience and resolve. Her perspective as a mother has added richness to her work, infusing her stories with empathy and relatability that resonate with audiences worldwide. Yvethi’s experience stands as a beacon of encouragement to other women who juggle personal and professional ambitions.
Despite societal expectations and the demands of being a single mother, Yvethi remains dedicated to raising her child with pride and purpose. She advocates for the empowerment of single mothers, inspiring others through her success and her strength to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face.
A sentiment she often expresses through her social media platforms, Instagram, Tikotk and Facebook. https://www.instagram.com/yvethi/
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with her son in Rwanda, December 2023
A Global Network of Influence: High-Profile Interviews and International Projects
Yvethi’s career has seen her rub shoulders with some of the biggest names in the entertainment and music industries, from African legends like Fally Ipupa to global icons such as Tiwa Savage and Diamond Platnumz. With her natural curiosity and thoughtful interviewing style, she brings out the best in each guest, providing audiences with fresh insights into the lives and motivations of these high-profile personalities.
These interviews are not only a testament to Yvethi’s network but also her skill in connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Her ability to draw stories from her guests is an art that has set her apart in the media world, making her a trusted figure for those she interviews and a favorite among her listeners.
Her recent work, particularly in podcasting, continue to explore cultural and social issues while challenging assumptions. Through these initiatives, Yvethi has proven her versatility and commitment to evolving with the times, adapting her storytelling to the fast-paced demands of the digital media landscape.
Her interview with Netflix and Namibian superstar Louis Munana on the meaning of masculinity in a world shaped by social media’s often toxic views on relationships demonstrates her commitment to exploring overlooked yet highly relevant topics for the younger generation.
The Challenges and Triumphs: Her legacy as an African Woman in Media
In a world where African women often face barriers in professional spaces, Yvethi ’s journey as a bilingual journalist has been nothing short of revolutionary. Her ability to report fluently in English and French has enabled her to reach a broader audience and bring African stories to the forefront in two of the world’s most widely spoken languages. Her achievements stand as a reminder that African women are powerful narrators of their own stories.
In the media industry, where only a small percentage of top positions are held by women let alone African women—Yvethi’s success challenges the status and norms in the media field.
According to a recent report of 2023 by Reuters Institute, the percentage shows that women are less or slightly more than 25% who appear in leadership positions in various media sectors around the world.
https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/women-and-leadership-news-media-2023-evidence-12-markets
Yvethi, however, has broken through this barrier, becoming a prominent voice not only for herself but for African women everywhere. Yvethi’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and an unshakable dedication to her craft. She is more than just a journalist; “she is a symbol of empowerment for African women around the world”. Her story serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating that one can achieve greatness by staying true to oneself, embracing one’s roots, and daring to dream big.
Yvethi’s voice is a powerful reminder that the stories of Africa and African women belong on the world stage, and she is determined to keep telling them with authenticity, grace, and strength.
Yvette Twagiramariya and Prince Harry have collaborated on initiatives designed to reduce the stigma around HIV and enhance health awareness. Their joint efforts were aimed at encouraging individuals in the UK to undertake HIV testing, a crucial step in combating fear and dispelling misinformation. By working together, they seek to create an inclusive atmosphere that empowers individuals to take control of their health. This partnership underscores the value of public figures championing equitable healthcare and understanding.
In addition to her work with Prince Harry, Yvette is dedicated to supporting youth in the diaspora. She focuses on building their confidence and guiding them toward achieving their career aspirations. Through various programs, including mentorship and skill-building workshops, she inspires young people to unlock their potential and shape bright futures. Her efforts reflect a strong commitment to community development and nurturing resilience in young leaders worldwide.
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with Prince Harry
To mark its centenary in 2022, the BBC embarked on a project to unleash a nation of storytellers by visiting over 250,000 children and young people at secondary schools across the UK. “I was lucky to be one of the BBC’s faces to spend the last few months on school tours in the UK sharing one message: ALL DREAMS ARE VALID” said Yvethi.
As some of students are coming to an age where they need to make crucial decisions about their future and career, BBC has teamed up with young professionals to come and share their career journeys with students all around the UK. This is something that BBC did once and no longer exist as a project.
Global Vibe News talked to Yvette Twagiramariya, we asked her some of the most curious questions our readers might have and she answered them all. Follow the entire interview as it unfolded:
Global Vibe News:
What does it feel like to have a global audience?
Yvette Twagiramariya:
Having a global audience means I am moving in the right direction, which is inspiring others to pursue their happiness, whatever that means for them. For some people, living their happiness means having a happy family; for others, it’s achieving a dream career; and for some, it’s living the life of an activist, helping those in need by supporting them financially, emotionally, and physically.
For me, the more my audience grows, the more I feel like I’m living my purpose. My purpose is to touch as many people as possible through the stories I produce as a journalist and through my personal story as a resilient, proud Rwandan woman and mother.
Nothing is impossible—the sky is not even the limit. Someone once said, “Aim for the moon. If you miss, you may hit a star” (W. Clement Stone). A quote I strongly believe in.
Global Vibe News:
What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned in journalism?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
The hardest aspect of journalism I learned so far and I am still struggling with is that you shouldn’t make your opinion public. As a journalist, you must show impartiality no matter who you have in front of you. You could be interviewing a person who has committed terrible crimes and at no point you should tell them that what they did hurt you deeply. You must keep your poker face on.
Global Vibe News:
What are your views on the future of digital media?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
I am a helpless lover of digital media. I am very optimistic about the positive impact that the digital media has to offer us, specifically social media. Online platforms help us get to the story quicker than over 10 years ago. We can get hold of people easily and quickly and on top of it… I love the fact social media can help grow businesses in a way we had never seen before. However, this is a message for the younger generation, don’t believe everything you see on social media, a lot of things that are posted online are FAKE. Social media can negatively impact the future of the youth because some individuals use it to make others believe that what they post—such as fake happy relationships, unrealistic body shapes, false business services, or counterfeit products—is real.
You might fall for it and start wishing for those things yourself, but the people behind those accounts selling your dreams are often sad and lonely. Be wise when using digital media platforms, and don’t envy anyone—online or offline.
Global Vibe News:
How do you envision the future of African women in journalism?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
I am very optimistic about us, Black women, in the media industry. Today, we have so many tools at our disposal to shine and make our voices heard. If they don’t allow you on that screen or give you a seat in the newsroom, we now have the power to create our own platforms—like podcasts and more.
Look at Lupita Nyong’o hosting her own podcast show now. You don’t even need to be a journalist to tell compelling stories anymore. What you need is passion and determination.
The future of African women in journalism lies in digital platforms, and when they see the level of success we attract, they’ll come knocking at our doors—with the bag (aka money)!
Global Vibe News:
How do you manage to remain true to your African roots while working in such a global, multicultural environment?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
I have always surrounded myself with people from my community and worked in environments that allow me to embrace my authentic African self. London has a vibrant African community, as does Belgium, where I grew up. Wherever I go, I meet people who share my skin color, speak my language, and often come from the same country as me—and I make an effort to stay connected with them.
I feel fortunate to have worked with BBC Africa in London for the past eight years, which has deepened my connection to the continent. I also travel to Africa frequently, whether for work or to visit family and friends.
In the UK, there are countless African shops, restaurants, and concerts. We can’t say we are alienated just because we’re far from home. If I want to, I can cook Isombe (cassava leaf stew) tomorrow without any difficulty!
Global Vibe News:
How do you feel about the representation of African voices in global media, and what improvements would you like to see?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
I would love to see more African voices represented in global media. It’s time for more people like me to tell our stories—stories from across Africa—on global news platforms. Our narratives are best told by us, with authenticity and depth.
Global Vibe News:
How do you stay connected to your Rwandan roots while living in Europe?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
I enjoy attending events organized by my fellow Rwandans in the UK, from concerts to networking gatherings at the Rwandan Embassy in London. I also love cooking some of our traditional dishes, like Igitoki and Isombe—the latter being my favorite!
I often travel to Brussels, where there’s an even larger Rwandan community, and I especially enjoy Rwandan weddings. However, it seems like fewer women from my generation are getting married these days—I haven’t received many wedding invitations lately!
Global Vibe News:
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
Start now—do what you love today, not tomorrow. Whatever you want to achieve in life, begin with small, baby steps. Your life experiences are your CV, and the more you learn, the better equipped you are to navigate the present. Remember, failure is just one step away from success.
Above all, prioritize your health. Don’t sacrifice your well-being in the pursuit of money. After all, how can you enjoy the fruits of your hard labour if you’re lying in your coffin. Your health is your most valuable asset —protect it.
Global Vibe News:
Tell us at least 5 international celebrities you interviewed and let us know how it feels to interview them?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
First of all, I’ve never been starstruck by anybody, so if that’s the reaction you want you won’t get it. I might say something different if I interview Rihanna someday.
*Yemi Alade: Yemi is my girl. From the first day we met, she started laughing and joking about life situations. With Yemi, I always feel home and every time we meet it’s the same story.
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with Yemi Alade
*Tiwa Savage: She is a cool and down to earth person. She made my job feel easy during the interview because she was joking and smiling a lot. I felt like she is the kind of girl I can go for a coffee with and we could have a good conversation between women.
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with Tiwa Savage
*Tyla: She is very relaxed but very strategic in her answers. Some of the questions she wouldn’t answer because she doesn’t want to compromise her image. It’s a very good discipline to have as such a young age. (clapping for her)
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with Tyla
*Diamond Platnumz: Diamond is just Diamond! I will just leave it there. Good times only! Hahahaha
*Dadju: The ladies love him. I got to understand the kind of person he is beside his music and now I know why ladies love him. He is very well-spoken and confident individual who cares about his country of origin deeply (DRC). It’s good to see and hear it.
*Prince Harry: Technically, I didn’t interview him, but I asked him scripted questions that were part of the campaign we were both working on, on the day UK news organizations came to see the new HIV testing kit we had to showcase. Prince Harry has jokes; his British humour was top tier because it made me less nervous for my performance.
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with Prince Harry
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with Fally IPUPA
Yvette TWAGIRAMARIYA with AKON
Global Vibe News:
Is there a difference in how African celebrities approach interviews compared to international stars?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
Yes, many African celebrities tend to avoid showing their vulnerable side. They often prefer to highlight their successes rather than discussing their setbacks, mental health, or other challenges they face as human beings. However, thanks to the work we do as journalists, we help guide them through this process.
We explain why opening up about certain issues is important—not just for them but for their fans, who can feel more connected to them as individuals rather than just as brands, musicians, or actors. Sharing their personal stories allows their audience to see their humanity, making their journey even more relatable and inspiring.
Global Vibe News:
If you could bring one African celebrity and one international star together in an interview, who would you choose and why?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
It would be Rihanna, Yemi Alade and me asking the questions. I think these 2 women are both very influential. Rihanna and Yemi have had great hits, and I would love to hear both talk about a potential collaboration. Also, I would love Rihanna to talk about how a musician can switch off the mic and live on the money that she solely makes from other business. Also, as a mother, I would love to hear how Rihanna deals with her motherhood duties day in day out.
I’ m sure we live some similar realities as mothers in our 30s. Rihanna is my age-mate.
Global Vibe News:
What impact do you hope to leave on the world as a journalist?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
I hope people remember me as a resilient Black woman from Rwanda and are inspired to live their lives unapologetically. Always put your dreams and peace first. And once you’ve built a life where you feel comfortable and fulfilled, extend a hand to help others achieve their dreams too.
Global Vibe News:
What has motherhood taught you about resilience, especially in a foreign country?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
Your child should always be your number one priority—never put anyone or anything before them, except God. I’m fully aware that my son is watching me closely and learning by observing my actions. This means I have to practice what I preach, and even when I fall short, I want him to see that I’m giving my best effort.
I teach my son to always go for the good things he desires in life. It’s important for him to know that success begins with taking that first step, no matter how small.
Yvette Twagiramariya as the face of a menstruation campaign by Binti Period in the Gambia
Global Vibe News:
How would you like to see African women’s stories represented in international media in the future?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
African women’s stories are best told by African women who have lived those experiences or witnessed them within their communities. There’s a saying on social media, “no face, no case,” meaning that if you captured an image or video without showing the person’s face, it lacks credibility or relevance—someone can easily deny it was them.
The same applies to sharing African women’s stories on a global scale. We need to allow the women who have lived these experiences or seen them firsthand to take the lead. When they tell their stories, it’s authentic and deeply rooted in their realities.
This approach brings greater impact because it resonates on a personal level. Seeing someone who looks like you, speaks your language, or shares your struggles addressing these issues creates a connection that goes beyond words—it inspires understanding, empowerment, and change.
Global Vibe News:
What personal qualities do you think helped you reach this level of success?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
My confidence and go-getter attitude have been key to getting me where I am today. I always approach life with the mindset, “Why not me?” Then I remind myself, “If you don’t try, you’ll live with the regret of not knowing what could have been.”
Additionally, I recognize and deeply appreciate God’s favor in so many areas of my life. His blessings have opened doors and guided my journey, and for that, I am truly grateful.
Global Vibe News:
If you could interview anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Yvetter Twagiramariya:
I look up to Rihanna’s success—a girl from Barbados who had one dream: to become a singer. Today, she is not only one of the most successful artists but also one of the most successful businesswomen on the planet. I also admire her journey into motherhood and the way she embraces her truth. Rihanna is unapologetically herself, and I love that about her. She is a true inspiration, and she doesn’t shy away from showing the world who she really is. I’m an extrovert and share a lot of personality traits with Rihanna. Like her, I’m not about being fake—I value authenticity, and I’m proud to be real, just as she is. I don’t do things to please the crowd or even my family—I do them because they please me first. I’ll admit, I’m a bit rebellious and stubborn, but that’s just part of who I am.
Global Vibe News:
What misconceptions do people have about Africa that you wish you could change?
Yvette Twagiramariya:
AFRICA IS NOT POOR! It’s the exploitation of its resources by others that has led to its struggle. Africa holds about 65% of the world’s remaining uncultivated arable land, an abundance of water, and about 300 days of sunshine each year. Many of the world’s top diamond producers are in Africa, including Botswana, the DRC, and Namibia. The DRC is also the top producer of cobalt globally. And the list can go on—Africa has so much more to offer. We are not poor!
Global Vibe News:
If you could change one thing about the media industry, what would it be?
Yvette Twagiramariya:
I wish I could stop recruiters from hiring people based on their accents and instead focus on whether they speak the language they broadcast or report in perfectly and fluently. Accents should never be a barrier to hiring talent.
I also wish media recruiters would be more open to training individuals with the right skills, rather than always looking for a fully accomplished candidate. Often, they’re unwilling to invest in training someone who has the potential to excel, simply because they don’t want to spend the extra money in training and they don’t have the patience to train the person. However, with the right training, these candidates can do the job effectively and bring valuable skills to the table.
Global Vibe News:
What are some projects you’re currently working on that you are most excited about?
Yvette Twagiramariya:
I am working on ‘myself’, and that’s where the real excitement lies. The better version of me will be more focused and more determined to achieve even greater things. People often underestimate the power of self-development and the fact that we can reinvent ourselves at any time. I’m truly excited for the years to come and all the growth and opportunities ahead!