Ola Falola

Ola Falola is a distinguished journalist based in Cotonou, Benin, renowned for their in-depth coverage of critical human rights issues, particularly the persistent problem of slavery in Mauritania. A polyglot fluent in French, English, and five local languages across Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Nigeria, Falola's work transcends linguistic barriers and brings to light the human stories entangled in the fight against slavery. Their reporting has earned them international recognition, including the prestigious Portenier Human Rights bursary, and their contributions have been featured by prominent news organizations such as the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Development and Cooperation magazine based in Germany.

Falola's expertise extends beyond journalism; they have served as a camera guide translator for the Benin segment of 'Who Do You Think You Are,' a film produced by American baseball legend Emmit Smith. Their commitment to the craft is further evidenced by their participation in a Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT) in Canada in 2018, which equipped them with the skills to navigate and investigate challenging stories, including the exploration of modern slavery in both Mauritania and Saudi Arabia.

With a Master's degree in English from Abomey Calavi University and a National Diploma in Media Studies from Wigan and Leigh College, England, Falola's academic background complements their extensive field experience. They are also the author of "Odyssée arc-en-ciel," a travelogue published in France in 2012, which showcases their versatility and passion for storytelling across different mediums. Through their award-winning print, audio, and photojournalism, Ola Falola continues to advocate for awareness and change, highlighting the legal, social, and individual challenges in eradicating slavery and other human rights abuses.