I could go on about how Debola is a consulate professional with a keen eye for details, and a unique angle to every story, but in a world where competence scarcely meets character I feel it is necessary to point out that Debola is an embodiment of both. Her empathy is never understated. Neither in her storytelling nor in her day-to-day relations. She is professional yet kind, thorough yet compassionate. The football ecosystem is a better place because she is in it. Working with her is always exciting and I have no doubt that she will be causing major shifts in the ecosystem in no time at all.

Debola is a persistent communicator with the unique ability to captivate her audience. Whether in front of the camera or strategising off-camera, she understands how to listen to her subject, deliver engaging questioning and interview with a storyline. With further skills in editing and an eye for creative, ‘Debs’ truly is an adaptable 360 degree communicator ready for any environment.

Debola’s work on the FIFA Master has incorporated an extraordinary range of skills and experiences. Her written essay whilst studying the delicate political position of Beitar Jerusalem Football Club demonstrated an intellectual dexterity which exceeded even the lofty standards of the FIFA Master program, as well as a deep understanding of the intricacies of the world of sport. I also had the privilege of working with Debola on a significant Communications task supervised by one of Britain’s leading sports consultants. Here, Debola compiled a creative and compelling digital marketing campaign which became highly commended by the program co-ordinators.

Debola is one of those very rare people who are both super creative in their storytelling, and meticulous in their delivery. She’s got an amazing eye for stories that will matter to the audience, and that same instinct for how to make that content engaging. She’s the first to try new formats, and also a Swiss army knife of a journalist - she will research, produce, present, edit, and deliver for Social, TV and Radio all in one breath. Debola is a team player, one of the hardest workers I know, and most of all she’s just the nicest person - so I’m beyond lucky to call her my colleague.

Debola is one of a few journalists that I genuinely enjoy speaking to. She always comes very well prepared, which allows her to touch on the personal side rather than just football. That alone sets her apart as you can be sure the interview won’t be of the typical, repetitious kind.

I have known, followed and interacted with the work of Debola Adebanjo for a better part of the last decade. I have also on occasion worked with her on projects and execution. What she brings to her craft is a keen, analytical, unique and also empathetic perspective that lets her see through a story in a way that not many people in visual storytelling can do. She is a professional with a strong ethic that is also fun. She has a brilliance that breathes in life to her work and ultimately makes everything and everyone she works with better.

Adebola Adebanjo is one of the most creative and versatile journalists I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. From producing viral social media friendly stories to fronting investigative reports, she has shown a rate talent for original and imaginative story telling. She's always positive and with an insatiable desire to learn from those around her, Adebola is a team player who will always go above beyond for her colleagues.