EM: You’ve had an incredible journey since starting in the newsroom at TVC Communication in 2010. What initially drew you to the world of media, and how has your passion evolved over the years?
Tolu: I had always loved watching the television and entertainment as a child and I think images of people talking stuck in my head more particularly my mum who was into broadcasting and media in her early years in Ibadan . This inspired me to pick interest in broadcasting and from there I think it was an unconscious journey to follow through and from serving at TVC to working there and other places across board . This helped to develop my skills along the way . I’ve learnt so much about my career and this has defined my path over the years
EM: From working in the newsroom to hosting your own radio show, Entertainment Unscripted, and now hosting Silverbird Today, what has been the most challenging and rewarding transition in your career?
Tolu: The most challenging was sort of figuring out myself on the show entertainment unscripted as it was the first show I’d ever do in my life from serving in the newsroom to headlining a show . That already put me on a path of individuality and a desire to grow as TV host . The most rewarding has been getting to mature and host a flagship morning show on a top TV station which was something I never really saw happening this soon.
EM: As the host of Adult Conversations on WFM 91.7, you tackled relationship topics during late-night hours. What did you learn from that experience about human connections and communication?
Tolu: Hosting the show adult conversation was such a breath of fresh hair .Understanding the human mind as it relates to challenges and trying to help people solve their problems in the best way possible. The smiles in their voices knowing that I added to lift their burden gave me lots of joy. Also the human beings just want a listening ear and that gives them comfort
EM: You wear many hats—media personality, actress, singer, writer, and voiceover artist. How do you balance these roles, and what drives you to excel in such diverse creative fields?
Tolu: Balancing so many roles as a creative requires lot of passion. Each of these fields—media personality, actress, singer, writer, and voiceover artist, feeds into the others in a way, and that helps me maintain focus and stay motivated. For example, my experiences in front of the camera as a media personality often inform my acting roles, while my love for writing helps me bring depth to the characters I portray or the stories I tell in voiceovers. I love the different aspects and the different passions keeps me on my toes and happy . I try to balance as much as possible not to get overwhelmed.
EM: The media landscape is constantly evolving. How do you ensure you stay relevant and impactful as a media personality in today’s fast-paced digital world?
Tolu: Staying relevant in the ever changing world of the media can really be daunting and difficult especially with the rise of social media and trends that is shaping the way we consume information and especially audience engagement and digital trend . I try to keep up with this changes . I try to engage my audience through this formats weather is TiKTok, instagram , X, YouTube and show them different elements of me . I think also refining myself through new presentation skills , trainings and continuous reinvention has helped.
EM: You’ve hosted major events such as the 16th Global ELOY Awards, the Lagos Business School Alumni Night and the Hereconomy Gala Night. What’s your secret to connecting with diverse audiences and making each event memorable?
Tolu: I think the secret is understanding each event and theme and putting yourself in that world . I make sure I do my due diligence by researching, background of the audience , this helps me to tailor my language and tone to that unique event . One key to success is being adaptable and being able to read the room. Whether I’m addressing a corporate crowd or a creative one, I adjust my approach to ensure that my delivery feels relatable and engaging. I also try to infuse a bit of humor, warmth, and personal anecdotes to create a sense of connection. It’s important to remain authentic while adapting my style to each event’s atmosphere Additionally, I always make an effort to engage with the audience before and after the event, which helps me gauge their reactions and build rapport. I believe a memorable event is one where the audience feels both inspired and connected—not just to the content but to each other. That’s my goal: to create an experience where people leave feeling energized
EM: Hosting a flagship show like Silverbird Today requires preparation and creativity. Can you walk us through a typical day in your life as a host?
Tolu: A typical day is a well prepped day before where I get a brief of the guests coming on the show and I try to get a lot of information about the guest beforehand and do research and note down necessary questions to ask. I make sure I get my beauty sleep and voice rested and head to the station where I get the brief of the show flow from the producer and then digest the different segments of the show . Also I follow news and trends and any updates that may be relevant to the show’s content do my makeup and wear my outfit for the show and before you know it it’s time
I also try to connect with the guests to get angles to ask questions . I try not to be too focused on the script as the show requires quick thinking and out of the box moments . After the show I try to do a post mortem and work on my mistakes and get feedback. It’s a constant cycle of preparation and on to the next day.
EM: Who or what has been your biggest inspiration in your media career, and how has it influenced your work and personal growth?
Tolu: My mum is my biggest inspiration for my media journey as her early days in broadcasting and even currently as a lecturer shaped my view and willingness to explore this path. Oprah Winfrey is another person as her ability to connect with audiences globally and tell compelling stories . Her excellent listening skills , empathy has inspired me . Also her journey through the year has taught me resilience . Toke Makinwa is another person who inspires me . Her multi-faceted journey from radio to tv, vlogging, show hosting , building a business has taught me how to stay true to one’s purpose and to continually grow in a changing world . Mo Abudu, Giuliana Rancic, IK Osakioduwa, are also big inspiration
EM: The media industry can be highly competitive and demanding. What are some challenges you’ve faced along the way, and how have you overcome them?
Tolu: The biggest challenge was really finding my voice in a sea of so many talented people and not knowing how to stand out but I think I’m slowly evolving into myself.
Another challenge is the evolution of the media landscape which can make you want to adapt to other people style and not focus on your authenticity .
Another challenge too is self-doubt which I’ve had to fight
I’m someone who is passionate about learning and I keep adapting to new challenges
EM: As someone who has already achieved so much, what’s next for you? Are there any new projects or aspirations you’re particularly excited about?
Tolu: I am looking and believing to have my own TV show where I’d interview people from all works of life and discuss unique situations people face. I’m working on a documentary which is a new territory for me but looking to tell stories through it and educate people . Also I want to put out more music to give the audience a different aspect of me . Looking to work with more brands hosting for them .
Looking to travel round the world and explore new cities. Just taking up new challenges in the media space . Would tell my story in a book someday.
