The journey from humble beginnings to remarkable success is often marked by determination, resilience, and an unwavering passion for one’s chosen path.
Torome Tirike, a renowned radio and TV sports journalist, embodies these qualities as he transitioned from earning a meager Ksh500 monthly to enjoying a six-figure salary.
With an illustrious career in sports journalism, he has become a prominent figure in the industry, captivating audiences with his football commentary skills and hosting sports shows on various media platforms.
Tirike’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of dedication and the pursuit of one’s dreams. His passion for sports journalism was ignited by the legendary KBC sports presenter, Jack Oyo Sylvester.
Tirike was deeply inspired by Sylvester’s unadulterated Swahili sports news presentation and live match commentary. Drawn to the captivating world of sports journalism, he set his sights on becoming a Swahili sports presenter himself.
The path to success was not without its challenges, but Tirike’s determination was unwavering.
His journey began as an intern at KBC, where he showcased his skills and work ethic, impressing the management and ultimately earning a job offer.
However, his early days at KBC were characterized by modesty, as he earned a meager gross salary of Ksh500 per month while simultaneously pursuing studies at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC).
Starting as a sports reporter, he gradually honed his skills and transitioned into football commentaries, building his reputation in the field.
With dedication and time, Tirike’s journey took him to new heights. His salary increased to Ksh2,000 and later to Ksh10,000, with a portion earmarked for his rent expenses.
His commitment to excellence led him to be “poached” by Royal Media Services’ Radio Citizen after his successful tenure at KBC. He continued his journey as a sports journalist for seven years at Radio Citizen, further establishing himself as a notable media personality.
However, Tirike’s hunger for growth and new opportunities remained insatiable. His move to MediaMax Networks Limited in 2013 marked another significant milestone in his career.
As the Sports Editor, he presented Swahili sports news on K24 TV and occasionally provided football commentaries on Milele FM, a sister radio station.
This move came with a significant increase in salary compared to his time at Radio Citizen, and Tirike acknowledges that he is now earning a six-figure income.
Tirike’s impact extended beyond his work in sports journalism. According to his Twitter bio, he serves as the Narok County Communication strategist and cultural ambassador.