Asili Galgalo

Visionary Journalist and digital strategist with a proven track record of leading transformation in multimedia storytelling. As digital lead for BBC Afaan Oromoo TikTok and YouTube, I scaled TikTok to 122.7K followers in 7 weeks and YouTube to 174K subscribers in one year through creative storytelling and data-driven editorial leadership. Fluent in Afaan Oromo, English, and Swahili, I champion inclusive journalism with a special interest in female engagement, amplifying marginalized voices and producing impactful stories.

With strong editorial judgement and proven leadership in analytics and cross-service collaboration, I am committed to shaping BBC Afaan Oromoo into a digital-first, video-led service that resonates globally.

Journalist - BBC Afaan Oromoo - Nairobi

(2020-10)

• Led TikTok launch, growing to 122.7K followers in 7 weeks; produced daily explainers and original stories.
• Built YouTube channel from zero to 174K subscribers in one year through audience-focused strategy and innovative formats.
• Co-created YouTube/TikTok series with team members to increase female audiences, consistently meeting weekly engagement targets.
• Acted as Senior Journalist, chaired editorial meetings, and represented Afaan Oromoo in wider BBC forums.
• Produced stories republished by Swahili, Focus on Africa, Global Women, and other BBC services; Addis mayor interview reached 1.1M views on TikTok.
• Encouraged colleagues to contribute video ideas, fostering a collaborative, video-first culture.
• Leveraged Emplifi, Chartbeat, and Telescope to identify high-performing stories and adapt them across radio and digital.
• Currently serving as Copilot lead, guiding digital transformation within the team.

Manager - Oromia Media Network - Nairobi

(2018-11 - 2020-09)

• Directed editorial decisions, commissioned impactful stories, and ensured content aligned with audience needs.
• Established office from scratch — purchased equipment, set up workflows, and hired staff to build a functioning newsroom.
• Produced and edited high-impact videos and features, strengthening OMN's digital presence.
• Applied social listening and analytics to shape programming and grow reach.
• Mentored journalists, fostering creativity and collaboration in content creation.

Broadcast Journalist - BBC Afaan Oromoo - Nairobi

(2018-03 - 2018-10)

• Presented radio programs, produced reels for Facebook, and wrote for the website.
• Brought voices of marginalized communities into coverage — interviewed women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups.
• Researched, conducted interviews, and edited audio for broadcast and online platforms.
• Produced culturally relevant and impactful stories that connected with diverse audiences.

Producer & Presenter - Star Television Network - Nairobi

(2016-07 - 2018-02)

• Hosted a two-hour live show in Afaan Oromo.
• Interviewed leaders, produced and edited video content, and built strong audience connections.

BA - Communication, Minor in Community Development - Daystar University (2025-11)

Diploma - Broadcast Journalism - Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (2016-01 - 2016-01)