Yemisi Akinbobola

Associate Professor, School of Arts

Tell us about your career journey

I came to BCU as a Master's student in 2005 and then went on to complete my PhD, during which time I became a Visiting Lecturer. My career journey has combined academia and practice from the start. Over the years, I have successfully balanced teaching, research and enterprise, enabling me to make an impact in both academia and in practice. This has led to opportunities to contribute to policy at United Nations and African Union levels. It is always a pleasure to bring this wealth of experience into the classroom, where I have taught at all levels, from foundation to postgraduate researcher supervision.

What areas of research are you particularly interested in?

I am an Associate Professor of Women's Rights and Media Development, and that perfectly describes my research area. I am interested in the lived experiences of women journalists and what these experiences mean for media development, workplace practice and policies at different levels. My work also contributes to the broader field of African Feminism(s), particularly the importance of defining it through the lived experiences and contexts of African women.

What challenges have you faced in academia?

It took a long time for me to secure a permanent role at BCU and, while this was a significant challenge at the time, my entrepreneurial spirit led me to where I am today. The environment was somewhat limited in its embrace of enterprise and its integration with research. The current structure is more enabling in this regard, and I hope this reflects a continued commitment to research-informed enterprise and enterprise-informed research.

What are your hopes and aspirations for completing the programme?

I hope to gain greater clarity and focus, not only in progressing my career but also in enhancing the value I bring to the University and, most importantly, our students. I am intentional about paying it forward through mentorship and by sharing my experiences with others.