Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Apiyo
Hi Robert, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Dr. Robert Apiyo, popularly referred to as Prince Nesta.
Currenty, I’m an Assistant Professor of Communication and Media Studies at the University of Tampa, Florida where I get to brush shoulders with a superb team of researchers and world-class professors on a daily basis. I teach a plethora of media courses, which include both theoretical and production classes. My research interest revolves around the areas of new media and identity while specifically focussing on podcasting among Black diasporan groups in the United States.
I was born and raised in Kenya and moved to the US in 2019 to pursue my Masters degree in journalism.
I earned my doctorate from the University of Oregon, a master’s degree in Journalism from the University of Nevada, Reno, and I also hold a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in International Relations from the United States International University-Africa in Nairobi, Kenya.
I have had years of experiences working for several radio stations both in Africa and the United States.
I also run NNN RADIO (available on AppStore), an internet based radio station which features entertainment news, arts and culture, music and podcasts from content creators around the world. We are all about bringing those who typically do not get a chance to tell their stories in mainstream media to share it with the rest of the world. Going by Mark Twain’s famous quote, I also started telling stories because “I wanted to reach the heart of the world.” I really like to connect with people to really get to their hearts and souls as well as highlight their experiences.
The one thing I’m most proud of is getting the opportunity to nurture the next generation of leaders both in the US and around the world. I do not take it for granted such a noble opportunity offered to me by the University and this country. Helping to empower students from various background not only prepares them for the demands of the workplace which are continually changing but also helps shape my own perceptions and worldviews.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been entirely a smooth ride. When you follow the history of a man like me closely then you’ll understand. I have faced losses, financial challenges, moral dilemmas, inner struggles, navigating a totally new culture from that of my own, language barriers, failures, poor decisions, and even self doubts at times. In such tribulations my family, friends, advisors, and some really Godsent people have always been on my side. I’ve definitely been through enough ups and downs but I’m definitely still holding on.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As an Assistant Professor who specializes in Communication and Media Studies I’m tasked with preparing students for a future which is quite challenging to predict, yet quite exciting. It feels rewarding to be in a position which requires innovativeness in coming up with new approaches required to prepare students for a workforce where majority of the jobs haven’t even been invented yet. I’m also tasked with addng onto knowledge in my field through publications while also serving the university and the community.
I’m known for caring deeply about humanity. Going by my history, I definitely like to consider myself as a voice for the underdog and downtroddeden.
My innovativeness, tenacity, resilience, ability to relate to almost anyone, and willingness to learn from my past mistakes always makes me super proud.
I’m also proud of having fulfilled my late mother’s broadcasting career dreams while also taking my guardian grandmother’s teaching profession, to a whole new level. I’m literally a living testimony to both of their dreams.
I’m a visionary and a peron who is never afraid to reinvent himsel. That really does not set me apart from others but keeps me going for sure.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Well…Just like most kids I was a bit shy but also very observant, creative and adventurous kid. My grandmother raised me for the most part and so I grew up in the same household as my uncles, cousins amd auntys. In learned a lot from them about survival, toughness, and life in general. They have played a significant role in the man that I am today. My grandmother was a teacher and a disciplinarian too. So, since I was a bit of a silent rebel I got myself in trouble quite a lot.
Nevertheless, I can also be the life of the party, if I wanted to. Just depends with the environment. My younger sister perhaps is just another younger version of me. Just more brilliant and a much better singer than me.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prince.nesta.18?comment_id=Y29tbWVudDo4ODg3NDg5NTMxMzE4MTU2Xzk0NDM1MDQ4MDg4NjUxMQ%3D%3D
- Twitter: https://x.com/princenesta
