From student to Media Mogul: The inspiring journey of Jerry John Akornor

Jerry John Akornor’s career is a powerful narrative of passion, perseverance, and purpose in the ever-evolving world of media. Born and raised in Ghana, Akornor’s journey in communication began with a keen desire to change the media landscape. Little did he know that his academic ambitions at the University of Media, Arts, and Communication (UniMAC-IJ) would set the stage for a trailblazing career that spans broadcasting, journalism, media entrepreneurship, and development communication.

A strong foundation in education

Akornor’s academic journey began at UniMAC-IJ, where he laid a solid foundation in communication studies. His Diploma in Communication Studies specialized in Journalism, marking the start of his professional endeavors. Building on this, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies in 2020, refining his skills in media ethics, effective communication, and journalism. His academic pursuit didn’t stop there—Akornor went on to complete his Master’s degree in Development Communication from the same institution, further enhancing his understanding of how communication can drive societal change.

Building a career in Ghana’s media landscape

Even as a student, Akornor displayed a remarkable drive to succeed. His career began at TV3 Ghana, a subsidiary of Media General, where he quickly made his mark as a Broadcast Journalist and Court Correspondent. Akornor’s role allowed him to delve into the intricacies of Ghana’s legal system, reporting on court cases and justice-related issues with precision and dedication.

From TV3, Akornor moved to Class FM, part of Class Media Group, where his talents continued to shine. His ability to adapt to different media platforms and provide insightful, thorough reporting established him as a versatile and respected figure in the Ghanaian media scene.

Akornor’s career trajectory took another leap forward when he joined The Light Foundation (TLF), an NGO focused on monitoring and evaluation. As the Monitoring & Evaluation Officer and later the Publication Officer, Akornor ensured that TLF’s projects were executed accurately and effectively. His unique ability to merge media work with development communication set him apart in both fields.

Rising to prominence in Broadcast Media

A pivotal moment in Akornor’s career came when he joined Metro TV, a subsidiary of Ignite Media Group, as Lead Producer. There, he took the helm of the 7pm and 10pm News broadcasts, leading editorial teams and managing complex media projects. Akornor’s editorial judgment, attention to detail, and leadership in the newsroom helped produce news programs that garnered nationwide respect. His success at Metro TV is a testament to his ability to balance creative storytelling with ethical journalism in a fast-paced environment.

Becoming a Media Entrepreneur

Akornor’s career took an entrepreneurial turn when he founded African Editors, a platform dedicated to telling African stories from an African perspective. As Chief Editor, he has created a space where independent, insightful reporting on Africa’s politics, development, culture, and society thrives. Under his leadership, African Editors has grown into a trusted source for news and analysis, making a significant impact on the African media landscape.

A vision for the future

Akornor’s contributions to media and communication have not gone unnoticed. His work has earned him accolades, including the Board Chairman’s Award from Nuclear Power Ghana for his role in raising awareness about nuclear energy. This recognition speaks to his commitment to excellence and his lasting impact on the media industry.

As a media entrepreneur, journalist, and thought leader, Jerry John Akornor’s story continues to inspire aspiring media professionals across the continent. His journey—from a student at UniMAC-IJ to a leading figure in African media—proves that with dedication, vision, and hard work, success is within reach. Akornor’s story is not just one of personal achievement but also of the transformative power of communication in shaping societies.

Shaping the nuclear narrative in Ghana

One of Akornor’s most remarkable contributions has been his work on nuclear energy in Ghana. Through his involvement with Nuclear Power Ghana, he has become a key voice in educating the public about nuclear energy’s potential. His extensive reporting on the topic has highlighted Ghana’s readiness for nuclear energy and its importance in the country’s energy future.

As Chief Editor of African Editors, Akornor has written insightful pieces on Ghana’s nuclear power program, focusing on safety, energy security, and the peaceful uses of nuclear technology. His coverage has contributed to informed public discourse on the topic, helping to bridge the knowledge gap about nuclear power in Ghana. Akornor’s role in organizing and participating in workshops with Nuclear Power Ghana further reinforces his position as a key advocate for nuclear energy.

A global vision

Akornor’s growing influence extends beyond the borders of Ghana. As a participant in various international nuclear energy initiatives, his work has taken on a global dimension. He will soon travel to Japan, sponsored by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to engage with nuclear experts and explore nuclear installations. This upcoming journey highlights Akornor’s role in the global conversation about nuclear energy and his continuing influence in shaping Ghana’s nuclear agenda.

Leadership and skills

Beyond his technical expertise in media, Akornor is known for his leadership, analytical abilities, and innovative ideas. His work in media consultancy, leadership, and content creation reflects his adaptability and commitment to excellence. He has demonstrated the ability to work independently and collaboratively across different sectors, ensuring that his projects are successful and impactful.

A visionary shaping Africa’s Media landscape

Jerry John Akornor’s career continues to break new ground in both the media and development communication sectors. His story is a shining example of how media professionals can influence national and global narratives. Through his work, Akornor has shown how the media can be harnessed not just for storytelling but for social and developmental change.

A future of limitless possibilities

With his rich experience, innovative ideas, and commitment to shaping Ghana’s energy future, Akornor’s journey is far from over. His upcoming trip to Japan and his ongoing work with nuclear energy projects in Ghana are only the beginning of what promises to be a lasting impact on both the media and energy sectors. For Jerry John Akornor, the future is full of promise, and his influence on Ghana and the African continent is only set to grow.

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This rewritten story highlights Jerry John Akornor’s career trajectory, his contributions to Ghana’s media and nuclear energy landscape, and his visionary leadership in the African media space. Through hard work, innovation, and dedication, Akornor continues to shape the future of communication and media both in Ghana and beyond.

Curriculum Vitae
Jerry John Akornor

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Personal Information

Name: Jerry John Akornor

Address: Jerry John Akornor
C/o Lawyer Tony Lithur
Lithur Brew & Company
No. 110B 1st Kade Close, Kanda Estates
P.O Box CT 3865 Cantonments Accra

Phone: +233 244731951 / +233 599896099

Email: jerryjohnakornor@yahoo.com

Gender: Male

Date of Birth:

Nationality: Ghanaian

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Work Experience

Producer
Ignite Media Group – Metro TV
October 7, 2022 – December 31, 2023

Lead Producer for 7pm News, 10pm News, Weekend Midday News.

Conducted interviews with prominent personalities.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Media Officer
The Light Foundation, TLF
February 1, 2022 – September 2022

Conducted monitoring and evaluation of projects.

Provided media consultancy and handled media issues to promote TLF.

Media Coordinator
Ghana-India Trade Advisory Chamber, GITAC
May 1, 2020 – May 1, 2021

Provided media consultancy, handled media issues, and promoted GITAC via media channels.

Chief Editor
African Editors/www.africaneditors.com
June 15, 2021 – Present

Developed content, investigated stories, proofread and published on the website www.africaneditors.com.

Broadcast Journalist & Court Correspondent
Media General – TV3 Ghana
September 1, 2013 – September 30, 2014

Compelling live court reporting, write-ups on issues facing rural Ghana.

Member of the Legal and Political Desk.

Loan Officer
South Sahara Investment Limited, Adenta-Accra-Ghana
January 2, 2009 – December 20, 2010

Educated clients on loan policy, assessed clients, approved loans, and designed strategies for loan reimbursement.

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Education

MA in Development Communication
University of Media, Arts and Communication Institute of Journalism (UniMAC – IJ), Accra-Ghana (2023)

BA in Communication Studies
University of Media, Arts and Communication Institute of Journalism (UniMAC – IJ), Accra-Ghana (2020)

Diploma in Communication Studies
University of Media, Arts and Communication Institute of Journalism (UniMAC – IJ), Accra-Ghana (2013)

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Certifications

Certificate of Rank for recognition of proficiency, standard and efficient service as Media Coordinator, from Ghana-India Trade Advisory Chamber (2020)

Certificate in ICT

West African Senior School Certificate

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Skills

Proficiency in English Language

Excellent writing and oral communication skills

Strong analytical skills

Broadcasting voice and presence

Ability to generate original ideas

Good interviewing and listening skills

Interest in current affairs

Marketing and leadership abilities

Proficiency in Microsoft Word

Ability to work independently

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Projects/Research Works

Media Liberalisation and Democracy: Experiences in Accra, Ghana (2013)

Coronavirus: Ghana’s Story So Far (April, 2020)

Influence or No Influence: Investigating the Brown Envelope Practice in Ghanaian Journalism (December, 2023)

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Seminars

First Public Relations Students Conference, African University College of Communications (AUCC), Accra-Ghana (2012)

Media Training on Ethical and Journalistic Reportage on Migrants, UN Migration Agency, International Organisation for Migration, Golden Tulip Hotel, Accra-Ghana (2018)

Pharmaceutical Crime Investigations and Intelligence Training Workshop, Food and Drugs Authority Head Office, Accra-Ghana (2018)

Environmental Protection Agency Training Programme for Journalists, GA West, Accra-Ghana (2019)

International Criminal Law and Justice Training for Anglophone African Journalists, GIMPA Faculty of Law, Accra-Ghana (2019)

Databank Media Training on Banking Sector Clean-Up Exercise, Databank Head Office, Accra-Ghana (2020)

Local Organising Chairman, African Migration Summit, Accra International Conference Center, Ghana (2021)

Nuclear Power Ghana Training Workshops

Media Training Workshop, Nuclear Power Ghana (December 2, 2021)

Workshop for Media Professionals, Nuclear Power Ghana (July 21, 2022)

Media Workshop for Regional Managers of GNA and Selected Editors, Nuclear Power Ghana (August 5, 2022)

Media Workshop for Regional Managers of GNA and Senior Media Professionals, Nuclear Power Ghana (November 22, 2023)

Board Chairman’s Award for Demonstrating Understanding of Nuclear Power, Nuclear Power Ghana (November 22, 2023)

IAEA TC Sponsored Participation to Familiarise and Engage Counterparts and Visit Nuclear Installations in Japan (July 1, 2024)

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References

1. Hon. Kojo Yankah
Board Chairman, TV3 Ghana (Media General)
Former Director, University of Media, Arts and Communication Institute of Journalism (UniMAC-IJ), formerly GIJ
Founder, African University of Communications and Business (AUCB), formely AUCC

Former Editor, Daily Graphic Newspaper

Email: kojoyankah71@gmail.com

Phone: +233 205117171

2. Lawyer J. Nii Ayikoi Otoo
Former Attorney General & Minister of Justice
Former Ghana’s Ambassador to Canada
Email: ayikoiotoo@gmail.com
Phone: +233 202011992 / +233 545678644

3. Lawyer Kimathi Kuenyehia
Senior Partner, Kimathi & Partners Law Firm
Airport Residential Area, Accra
Phone: +233 247960465 / +233 577651394

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Headlines of Stories Published on www.africaneditors.com on Nuclear Power

Illuminating the Path: Bridging Information Gaps on Nuclear Power Discourses in Ghana

Nuclear Power Plant as Viable Option for Ghana’s Next Baseload Solution

Nuclear Power Ghana Ends 3-Day Workshop with Awards

Nuclear Power Ghana Gets Preferred & Backup Sites

Ghana Has Been Ready to Go Nuclear Since the 1960s – NPI Director

Ghana Will Pursue Nuclear Energy for Peaceful Purposes Only – Energy Minister

Burkina Faso to Sign Nuclear Power Deal with Russia

Forum on Nuclear Power Programme Held in Accra

Ghana Committed to Nuclear Power Prospects – Dr. Prempeh

Nuclear Regulatory Authority Board Inaugurated

NPG, GAEC, HTU Signed MOU to Develop Human Resources for Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme

Board of Nuclear Regulatory Authority to Be Inaugurated Soon

Akufo-Addo Approved Inclusion of Nuclear in Energy Mix

African Countries Eyeing Nuclear Power ‘Club’ by 2030

Ghana’s Nuclear Power Agenda: Lessons from Germany Reactors Online-Polls

Zaporizhzhia: Real Risk of Nuclear Disaster in Ukraine – Watchdog

Powering Ghana’s Economic Development through Nuclear Energy and Safety

Uphold Integrity and Accountability on Nuclear Power Reportage – NPG Boss

30% of Electricity to Be from Nuclear Energy by 2070 – Akufo-Addo

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This document summarizes Jerry John Akornor’s qualifications, experience, education, and publications, along with significant references and the impact of his work in the media and energy sectors.