Kofo BaptistKofo Baptist is the editor of STREETBRAND, a Christian youth magazine and online community for Christian teens and youths. From Bible studies to a Christian teen and youth forum, a free digital youth magazine, online resources, chat, private messages and much more, STREETBRAND says it wants to be a place for youths to come to for the ultimate youth experience – the way God intended it. In this interview, Spiraluniverse speaks to Kofo Baptist about Journalism, Faith and STREETBRAND.

The Spiral interview.

Kofo, tell us a little about your spiritual (or Christian) journey

I grew up knowing about Jesus (my grandmother was very spiritual) but I didn’t actually become a born again Christian till I was about 20 or so. By then, I had made too many mistakes and had a lot of regrets. Knowing and loving the Lord has saved my life.

Tell us more about STREETBRAND?

STREETBRAND is a magazine for young people who are passionate about Jesus and want to know Him more. Written for both girls and guys, the magazine is just like any magazine you can find on the shelves but informed by Christian principles so we have lots of music, films and book reviews, Christian music interviews, fashion and style, relationships, career, and thought provoking pieces on current issues. STREETBRAND is tailored to both sexes so our SBgirl section keeps readers up to date with the latest fashion finds and guys can check out the SBguy section for top grooming secrets, gadget finds and more.  

What is the most valuable (or appreciated) compliment you have received about the magazine?

We have had some really positive feedback and it’s been so encouraging. The most encouraging emails we get comes from non Christian youths who tell us they would not normally pick up a Christian magazine but that this magazine STREETBRAND has really surprised, encouraged, motivated and inspired them. Hearing things like that makes us smile.

As an editor of a Christian magazine, what is the biggest challenge you face?

We have carved a very niche market for ourselves so I guess it’s marketing to that niche audience. It is very doable but it’s been a lot of work!

Where do you see STREETBRAND in the next five years?

streetbrandI hope in five years we will be back in print and will be blanketing every school, college and university in the UK and abroad with the good news of Jesus through STREETBRAND Magazine. That would be awesome. I also pray that by then the parent company STREETBRAND Media would have developed into one of the top advertising, PR and media agencies.

You must be a really busy person with all the work you do, what keeps you going?

My family – I have a very considerate husband who also happens to be a youth pastor. My two lovely babies (and they’re really babies – both under two) keep me on my toes and fill my life with so much laughter.

What advice do you have for young people wanting to start out in the media business?

As with any industry, I would advice young people to get plenty of experience. The media industry is very competitive and having bags of experience under your belt gives you an advantage. Also you can never know enough so keep learning. Do lots of short courses; writing, photography, video editing – anything that will boost your talent and make employers seek you out.


More about Kofo


If you were to choose one place in the world to live in, where would that be?

Malta . We went there for our honeymoon and I absolutely fell in love with it.

What is the one thing you can’t do without?

Err, my computer. I live on it. It crashed and it took five days for the technicians to come out and fix it. I tell you it was the worst five days ever.

What one great thing do you want to achieve in life?

To fulfil all He has ordained me to be.

Who is your favourite Bible character and why?

Esther; her teachable character, strength and courage inspires me.


More about Streetbrand


Related Features

In addition to the Spiral Guide for Singles and the Spiral resource on Gun and Knife Crime, Spiraluniverse will be publishing a third guide at the end of April 2008. The Spiral Guide to Print Media will give an insider's guide to the leading Christian magazines in the UK, providing you with distribution figures, costs and contacts. Register here to be notified when the guide is online.




Kofo's favourite Reads

If Nobody Speaks Of Remarkable Things – Jon McGregor
Breath, Eyes, Memory – Edwidge Dandicat

No More Sheets – Juanita Bynum
The Power of a Praying Woman – Stormie O’Martian

Discover Your Hidden Treasures: Making the Most of Life's Gifts and Opportunities – Dr Sola Fola-Alade



Kofo's five favourite albums

Remedy David Crowder Band

Mary Mary Thankful

Four Kornerz - Soulectric

Casting Crown - Lifesong

Souljahz – Fault Is History

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