Hawa Ceesay is a dedicated journalist and advocate with a passion for storytelling and social impact. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, and raised in The Gambia, West Africa, by her grandmother from the age of two to fourteen, Hawa’s upbringing instilled in her a vibrant character and warm personality.

During her high school years, Hawa recognized the prevalence of misconceptions about Africa perpetuated by the media. This awareness sparked her interest in the power of media to shape public perception and inspired her to pursue a career in journalism. Hawa graduated from the University of Memphis in 2021 with a degree in Journalism and began her career at FOX13.

As a journalist, Hawa aims to amplify the stories of underrepresented communities and cultures, shedding light on critical issues often overlooked by mainstream media. Her long-term goal is to host her own TV show, providing a platform for marginalized voices and bringing light to humanitarian crises.

In addition to her work in journalism, Hawa is a devoted advocate for bullying prevention and awareness. Through her initiative “BE A S.T.A.R,” she empowers youth to take action against bullying, promoting a culture of respect and empathy. Hawa’s efforts also extend to peer mentoring programs, including the Refugee Empowerment Program in Memphis, where she works to create safe spaces for students to grow academically and socially.

As a bullying advocate, journalist, and poet, Hawa remains committed to inspiring positive change in her community, fostering a culture of kindness, and promoting social responsibility.