Imagine a vibrant voice that has graced the airwaves and TV screens, touching countless lives across Africa and beyond. Anita Erskine is that voice—a broadcaster, advocate, and multifaceted personality whose career spans over two decades. But what truly sets Anita apart is not just her stellar career in media; it’s her unwavering dedication to girls’ education, women’s empowerment, and the future of African entrepreneurship.
Her story is one of determination, passion, and a relentless pursuit to create meaningful change in society. From her early days hosting popular TV shows to now being a vocal advocate for girls’ education, Anita’s career journey is both compelling and inspiring. Let’s dive into the life and career of Anita Erskine, a true African trailblazer.
Early Life: From Ghana to the World
Born on December 3, 1978, in Jerusalem, Israel, Anita Erskine’s journey started in a household that valued both discipline and education. Her father, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Erskine, was a renowned Ghanaian soldier and diplomat, and her mother, Rose Anastasia Erskine, was equally instrumental in shaping her worldview. Anita was raised in Ghana, where she attended the prestigious Ghana International School before moving to Canada for higher education.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing—after high school, she found herself without the necessary qualifications for university. This gap led her to the world of broadcasting, where she discovered her natural talent for media and storytelling. She would later go on to study cultural studies, laying the foundation for her future career in communications.
Read: Genea Family Office Hosts Exclusive Event on Estate and Wealth Planning
Breaking Into Media: Bold Beginnings
Anita’s entry into broadcasting began in 1998 when she hosted the Bold and Beautiful Omnibus Talk Show on Ghana’s Metro TV. This marked the beginning of her media career, one that would evolve into a multitalented portfolio spanning radio, TV, and public speaking.
Moving between Ghana and Canada, Anita continued to sharpen her skills. In Toronto, she worked as a radio host at FLOW 93.5, where she became a familiar voice to many. Returning to Ghana in 2006, she landed a major role hosting TV3’s Mentor, a music talent show that gained massive popularity. Soon after, she became the Ghanaian correspondent for MNET’s Studio 53, further expanding her reach across Africa.
The Entrepreneur and Advocate
While Anita’s media career flourished, her advocacy work took root. Deeply passionate about girls’ education and women’s empowerment, Anita founded her own media company, Anita Erskine Media, in 2016. This company not only produces content but also serves as a platform for advocacy. Through programs like Sheroes of Our Time, which airs on Akwaaba Magic, Anita shines a spotlight on women making strides across Africa.
Anita’s advocacy extends beyond TV. She is involved in the Africa Netpreneur Prize Initiative, a program the Jack Ma Foundation launched to support African entrepreneurs. Here, she has been instrumental in mentoring and advising upcoming business leaders, encouraging them to dream big and make a difference.
Language as a Bridge: Bilingual Influence
One of the unique aspects of Anita’s career is her ability to broadcast fluently in both English and French. This bilingual capability has allowed her to engage with a wider African audience, from Ghana to francophone countries. Anita views language as more than a tool for communication—it’s a way to bridge cultural divides and foster greater understanding.
She continues to moderate high-profile events, such as Africa’s Business Heroes and sustainability forums, confidently switching between languages and connecting with diverse audiences.
Advocacy for Girls’ Education: A Personal Mission
Anita’s advocacy for girls’ education is deeply personal. During her work with Discovery Communications’ Impact(Ed) Initiative, she witnessed firsthand the barriers girls face in accessing education in marginalized communities in Northern Ghana. This eye-opening experience galvanized her into action.
Since then, she has used her platform to advocate for better educational opportunities for girls across Africa. She believes that educating a girl uplifts entire communities and breaks the cycle of poverty. Anita’s mission is not only to advocate but also to inspire others to join the fight for gender equality in education.
Read: Waihiga Mwaura, The BBC Africa Journalist Redefining African Storytelling
Recognition and Awards: A Legacy in the Making
Anita’s work has not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the “100 Most Influential Women in Africa” and the “Radio Female Presenter of the Year” at the 2017 Radio and TV Personality (RTP) Awards. Additionally, she has been honored for her contributions to women’s empowerment, including the Protector of Women and Girl Child Rights Award from the African Women Intercultural Dialogue.
She continues to push boundaries and use her influence to promote positive change across Africa. Her work in media, education, and entrepreneurship is a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.
Anita Erskine’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is not just about personal achievement; it’s about lifting others as you rise. Her work in broadcasting, advocacy, and education is a call to action for everyone to contribute to building a more equitable world. Whether through mentoring young entrepreneurs or championing girls’ education, Anita embodies the spirit of African excellence.
Want to be inspired by more stories of African excellence? Stay connected with Refined NG for in-depth features and powerful spotlights on trailblazers like Anita Erskine. Sign up for our newsletter to never miss a story!