Spotlight on Excellence: Salim Hussein

At just 18 years old, Salim Hussein has already begun to craft a reputation that precedes him as a bona fide master of linguistics and an integral part of the Strath Hits Radio Show.

As a Bachelor of Communications student, his ability to produce elegant Kiswahili passages on a whim, sets him apart both in his class and within the radio community, allowing him to take on the unique role of reading the Strath Hits Radio Show News on Wednesday and Friday evenings.

Salim is a very talented Kiswahili speaker, but he doesn’t just speak the usual two languages spoken in Kenya. He is a hyperpolyglot, fluent in a whopping seven languages—where most people find it difficult to speak even more than two or three.

Salim is fluent in Kiswahili, English, Arabic, Borana, Somali, and Rahwen, making him able to communicate with people from many walks of life.

His excellent performance has earned him a spot as the second-ever Strath Hits Wall of Famer.

In line with his chosen path of study in communications, Salim aspires to advocate for the right to free speech and self-expression around the globe, enabling people to engage in discourse and debate without fear of suppression.

Along a similar vein, he also aims to promote self-development and the right to improve oneself in all aspects of life. He is a passionate mental health activist and believes in taking action to raise awareness about mental health issues, their impact on people’s lives, and how they can be addressed.

Outside the studio, Salim recharges in the pool—an avid swimmer who finds clarity with every lap. He’s a devoted cinephile and music lover, always ready to share a movie recommendation or song discovery.

True to his creative spirit, he pens shairi and spoken-word pieces in Kiswahili and creates engaging multimedia content. Ever the social connector, Salim cherishes every new friendship and fosters community wherever he goes.

Story by: Adam Chege