How I Use Social Media To Influence Nigerian Youth — Samagbeyi  – Independent Newspaper Nigeria

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Afolasade Samagbeyi, is a multimedia personality, who has been making waves with her talk show on YouTube, called Exclusives With Afolasade where she interviews Thought Leaders, Industry Leaders and Africans making a change, across the continent. In this revealing interview with EJIKEME OMENAZU, she speaks about her career and how the social media have become a veritable source of inspiration and careers for Nigerian youths. Excerpt: 

 Would you like to tell us about yourself? 

I am a seasoned multimedia personality with over five years’ experience. My mission is to leverage the power of media to solve social problems, which I have been doing with great success. As a digital media specialist, I have practical expertise in content curation and designing/ developing contextually relevant content for various media channels, including TV, radio, podcasts, websites, and social media platforms. I am passionate about digital media, innovation, and the transformative potential of technology in education and entertainment. My work involves using data analytics and research to design marketing communications and informational campaigns that cater to stakeholders’ needs and help people access, connect, learn, play, and be entertained. I have worked across a wide array of media, including social media, web, TV, and radio. Afolasade is not only a seasoned multimedia personality, but also the executive producer and host of one of the most significant talk shows in Africa, called Exclusives With Afolasade. Through this show, she engages in conversations with thought leaders and industry experts from different sectors, providing a platform for insightful discussions on various topics. 

Could you tell us about yourself and your early life? 

Growing up as the only girl and middle child in a lively household, life was always full of energy and drama. So much love at home! I was that kid who tried everything; debate, singing competitions, drama, choreography—you name it. My mum was the kind of parent who bought socks and gloves for choreography, then beads and irukere for Yoruba traditional dance, always encouraging me to explore and express myself. My dad ensured I loved reading; the first novel he bought me was Robinson Crusoe! Can you believe that? I have been curious, outspoken, and creative from a young age; writing poems, representing my school on Lagos State TV, and even penning my grandfather’s tribute. Media and storytelling have always been my calling, and I’ve dedicated myself to creating a platform where African voices that often go unheard can shine globally. 

What is your antecedence? 

I come from a close-knit family that values education, creativity, and authentic expression. Growing up surrounded by diverse perspectives from my parents, siblings, and extended family taught me never to underestimate the power of one’s journey. Every experience, big or small, eventually informed the core of Exclusives With Afolasade; shaping the way I highlight African voices, tell impactful stories, and celebrate resilience and determination in others. 

How did you choose your career? 

Media chose me as much as I chose it! I’ve been immersed in media my whole life. It feels like my purpose, the reason I’m here on earth. Whether I’m producing, handling PR and communications, working with brands, or hosting a show, I just know this is what I’m meant to do. I’ve always wanted to shine a light on Africans doing incredible things, Exclusives With Afolasade became my dream platform to showcase these change makers making real and tangible impact. 

Who are your role models? 

Locally, Mo Abudu and Teju Babyface inspire me. Globally, Oprah Winfrey and Trevor Noah showed me how story telling can educate, entertain, and inspire. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie reminds me every day to value depth, authenticity, and cultural pride in everything I do. 

How do you and others in your field contribute to national growth? 

We tell stories that matter, educate the public, and promote African talent and culture. Media helps shape narratives, inspire youth, and elevate voices that drive change making society more aware, inclusive, and proud of its achievements. For example, Olakunle Soriyan was a guy who spent about 11 years in university, was a cultist, had a lot of carryovers, but eventually became a global voice and someone many young people now look up to. Highlighting stories like his shows the transformative power of persistence, personal growth, and opportunity and demonstrates how media can inspire societal change. 

How are Nigerian youths benefiting from your work? 

Through my platform, young people see role models, get inspired, and learn that their dreams are valid. They discover creative strategies, cultural stories, and actionable advice that empower them to chase their goals. Giving them a roadmap for what’s possible brings me immense joy. 

How do the social media positively influence today’s Nigerian youth? 

Social media is like the ultimate megaphone. It educates, inspires, and mobilises. On YouTube, Tiktok and Instagram, I can spark conversations, challenge stereotypes, and influence youth thinking on issues like representation, identity, and self-expression. 

What unique initiatives and projects have you championed? 

Exclusives With Afolasade isn’t just a show—it’s a storytelling ecosystem. I’ve featured Chimamanda, Seun Kuti, Aproko Doctor to mention a few, connecting African stories to global audiences. I curate, produce, and amplify voices that inspire and redefine media on the continent and that’s applaudable you know. 

How has your work influenced others? 

Audiences feel inspired to tell their stories. Peers see the power of authentic, meaningful content. Globally, media mentions and collaborations show that African voices matter, and we have stories worth sharing everywhere. Also a young Gen Z doing what she loves and being successful at it is enough inspiration if you ask me. 

How would you describe your role as a thought leader? 

As a thought leader, I elevate African narratives on the global stage. Mentoring the next generation of media creators, while creating content that is intentional, culturally proud, and transformative. I don’t just tell stories; I set the standard for how African voices are seen and heard—one story, one platform, one impact at a time. 

To what extent have you used your platform for advocacy or societal change? 

I use my platform to champion body positivity and amplify the voices of plus-size women, challenging stereotypes and inspiring social change. Through Exclusives With Afolasade, a portion of proceeds supports Her Dream Initiative (HDI), a youth-led feminist movement empowering girls and women to claim their rights and dream fearlessly. Beyond Nigeria, HDI has made formal interventions at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on the intersection of Climate Change and women’s rights, and contributed to global platforms, including Girl Up, UN Foundation, Plan International, Thrive Future, and UN Women. Through these initiatives, Exclusives With Afolasade, through Her Dream Initiative (HDI) ensure that girls everywhere see their value, potential, and power, and have a voice in shaping local and global change. 

Which of your guests would you say surprised you most? 

That’s pretty obvious. The guest who surprised me the most has to be Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. From the moment we met, it felt divinely orchestrated. Sitting across from her was surreal—her humility, warmth, and depth made the interview feel like a heartfelt conversation with an old friend. Despite her global acclaim, she was incredibly grounded, candid, and nurturing; felt like a big sis-baby sister relationship. I expected a formal, rigid encounter, but she was the opposite: kind, validating, and genuinely present. Chimamanda is truly a national treasure. I get it, I get it now… I totally get the hype! Whatttt??! 

Could you tell us one behind-the-scenes story your audience would not believe? 

One behind-the-scenes story my audience wouldn’t believe happened during the second season of Exclusives With Afolasade. I was set to interview Olakunle Soriyan, popularly known as PK, and when we got to the location, the videographer had forgotten the cameras, he only brought tripods! At the time, I was losing my mind, but looking back, it’s hilarious. It was one of those moments that reminded me that even the best-laid plans in the media can go hilariously sideways.