Funmi Iyanda makes history, becomes first African woman to receive honorary fellowship from UK varsity

For her immense contributions to human rights and sustainability, award-winning Nigerian broadcaster and columnist, Funmi Iyanda, will become the first African woman to be conferred with a honorary fellowship from the University of Cumbria. The award will be bestowed to her at a graduation ceremony in the historic Carlisle Cathedral in Cumbria, North West England.

Reacting to the honour, the media mogul said, “I am truly honoured to have my work and career recognized by such a historic institution and thankful for a great space to contribute to a diverse body of knowledge.”

IFLAS Founder and Professor of Sustainability Leadership, Jem Bendell, affirmed that, “She demonstrates how celebrity and media can be used to raise the level of debate about what kind of society, politics and economy we want.

“Given the gossip and squabbling in much mainstream media, it is important that our cultural leaders call us to consider what really matters in life, like poverty, equality, and the environment.  We look forward to working further with Funmi on a range of our activities in both the UK and Africa.”

A graduate of University Of Ibadan, the talk show host produced Nigeria's popular talk show New Dawn with Funmi, which aired on the national network for over eight years. Funmi is the CEO of Ignite Media, a content-driven media organization operating out of Lagos and is also a Director at Creation Television, a film production company in the United Kingdom, acquiring classic African literary content for film adaptation to a global audience. She was recently named one of Forbes 20 Youngest Power Women in Africa and recognized by the World Economic Forum making her a Young Global Leader (YGL).