"When you know your stuff, you can’t be bullied” — Emefa Apawu inspires Gen Z journalists to stand their ground

Former Broadcast Journalist with the Multimedia Group Limited, Emefa Apawu, has urged young journalists particularly those of the Gen Z generation to value their craft and fortify themselves with solid knowledge as they navigate the pressures of Ghana’s political and media environment.

Speaking on the Talk No Dey Cook podcast, Apawu reflected on her own experiences interviewing top political figures, including moments where guests attempted to intimidate or undermine her.

She emphasized that confidence rooted in preparation is what shields a journalist from being pushed around.

“When you know your stuff, you can’t be bullied,” she said, explaining that political actors often take advantage of journalists who are not fully prepared.

ccording to her, politicians frequently assume that journalists “don’t read,” and that perception gives them room to evade accountability during interviews.

Apawu recounted a widely discussed interview in which a seasoned politician attempted to rattle her and even threatened to walk off the set.

Despite public criticism that followed, she noted that her composure came from having studied the issues thoroughly and knowing exactly what she wanted to ask.

She advised emerging journalists to maintain emotional discipline, especially during heated exchanges.

Using respected broadcaster Evans Mensah as an example, she highlighted the importance of staying calm and consistent no matter how guests behave.

"Once you get emotional, you lose your grip,” she warned.

Apawu added that young journalists must strive to make their intellect—“the upper part”—sharper than their reactions or emotions.

She acknowledged that criticism will always come, with both major political parties sometimes accusing her of being aligned with the other.

However, she said such pressures are part of the profession and should not deter committed journalists.

Her message to Gen Z journalists was clear: prepare, read widely, know your worth, and refuse to be intimidated.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith