Jumai Shaba has a long list of television credits, but perhaps one of her greatest accomplishments to date is her work with Discovery +234. After years in the making, international training, and many months of silence, Jumai finally speaks to Seyi Olanihun on why Discovery chose to work with her when they came to Nigeria.
Discovery+234 is a lifestyle and entertainment show hosted by celebrities, Jumai, Gideon and Mannie. The show is tailored uniquely on a need to spread awareness on fair access to education for the girl child. The platform offered Jumai the opportunity to connect with the audiences (men and women of all ages), and share this crucial message across the country.
On the set of Discovery +234, it is Jumai Shaba, who brings the feminine flair to the show.
With only one female presenter, it meant less time was spent on make-up and styling and, Jumai was able to spend more time getting acquainted with her co-presenters- Gideon and Mannie. “Both Gideon and Mannie were protective of me, but they also taught me a lot,” she says fondly of her co-presenters on Discovery+234.
Jumai is a strong believer in fate. She is convinced that her role (on Discovery +234) chose her and she explains why. Jumai is a representational Nigerian who has lived in Kano, Abuja, Minna, Ijebu Ode and speaks both Hausa and Yoruba fluently. She brings a national character on set Discovery+234 whilst being grounded and relatable to young girls and women in the South and North of Nigeria. Also, her ability to relate with people from all walks of life in diverse situations is another consideration she believes helped to secure the role.
When asked what made Discovery +234 different from anything else she’s done, she said, “Discovery+234 is different because of its originality. The actual content is one aspect of the show that makes the journey very unique and dear to my heart. The show features riveting stories of real people in all corners of the country yet also has guest appearances of some of the biggest celebrities in music and film in Nigeria.”
No expense was spared by Discovery. Before going on set to film the show, Jumai and the other Discovery+234 presenters were flown off to Discovery Headquarters in Washington DC for training on everything from media etiquette, interviewing tips, specific training on sound, broadcast tips, camera friendly fashion and more. Beyond the invaluable technical training they received, Jumai also learnt, “..the true meaning of team work. I also learnt humility and not to take anything for granted. Meeting notable industry figures like David Zaslav (Discovery CEO), Paula Zahn, Al Roker all accomplished individuals who had no airs, further reinforced these lessons throughout the training period.”
The training prepared the crew to put forward a stellar show that the whole family will enjoy. Discovery+234 promises to be innovative and filled with exciting moments, laughter, tears, documentaries and lots of stories that will inspire and challenge viewers.
In spite of the glitz and glamour on the show, Jumai was always focused on the essence of the entire show which is, ‘The importance of female child education is the information the show seeks to deliver to every woman, no matter her stage in life. Simply put, education is a great tool to help in developing her future.’
The saying, “If you educate a man you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman you educate a family” is credited to Ghanaian, Dr. James Emmanuel Kwegyir-Aggrey (1875-1927)
“This to me is a very powerful proverb as women are natural nurturers/teachers and will always pass their knowledge down and it is important to know that education and work dignifies a woman.”
“The Discovery experience has been life-changing for me,” says Jumai. “Learning about the educational system in Africa and in northern Nigeria to be precise has opened my eyes to the needs of the girl child. Through Discovery+234 I am hoping for a positive change in the system in the not too distant future.”
Being a member of the +234 team was a journey of self exploration and discovery, where 18 hours of shooting did not dampen her anticipation to return the next day and face more of the same grueling routine. Furthermore, learning that happiness on set means the entire team is on the same page has made her a wiser team member. “Professionally, I am more confident in my role as a TV host and as a Youth Life Coach and, the ability to connect with viewers as a story translator. My family and friends are all so proud of me.”
For Jumai the greatest challenge has been the waiting period and not being able to share details or speak about her work on the show. “I am super excited and cannot wait for everyone to see what we have put together! I also hope that the message helps spread awareness and that many lives will be saved as well.”
Discovery+234 will begin airing in November, 2015.
SOURCE: Thisday Live
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