About us

The people behind the work

A fact-check is only as credible as the people who made it. These are the editors, researchers and interpreters whose names sit behind what we publish.

Bettie K. Johnson-Mbayo

Editor

Bettie K. Johnson Mbayo is a professional Liberian journalist, with over twelve years of professional working experience in the field of journalism. She currently works as a freelance journalist and co-partner of The Stage Media (Liberia). TSM is Liberia's first fact-checking media institution with the overarching vision of mitigating misinformation and disinformation. Her work involves writing news stories and providing professional guidance to reporters within the entity. She was being nominated for an international and regional award and has won six awards from the Press Union of Liberia.

Hannah N. Geterminah

Editor

Hannah N. Geterminah is Co- Partner and Editor of The Stage Media (TSM) and 2020 Press Union of Liberia (PUL) Health Reporter of the Year. she is a fellow of the United States of America 2020, 'How We Vote International Reporting tour. Hannah is a 2016 graduate of the Peter Quaqua School of Journalism with a series of certificates in journalism. She has BA in Journalism and Mass Communication from the Graphic Era University in Uttarakhand, northern India. A Liberian journalist with lots of knowledge/experience in human interest, politics, Health, women's and children's stories. Hannah Works with the Daily Observers Newspaper and has worked in the Liberian media for the past seven years. She has broken some of the breaking news stories in Liberian society.

R. Joyclyn Wea

Program Lead

R. Joyclyn Wea is a BPA candidate at the African Episcopal University (AMEU). Joyclyn has more than five years of experience in daily journalism. She previously worked for New Republic Newspaper, In-Profile Daily Newspaper, and United Methodist Radio. Joyclyn earned a certificate in journalism from the International School of Journalism (ISJ). During her career in journalism, Joyclyn has earned certificates in specialized journalism training courses through programs implemented by Internews, IREX, JHR, FeJAL, and other organizations.

Augusta S. Lafalay

Researcher

Augusta is a skilled communication professional with more than five years of diverse journalism experience. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication and a post-graduate certificate in Marketing and Banking/Finance. Augusta's reporting expertise spans the rule of law, women's issues, and fact-checking. She is recognized for her high energy, accuracy, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a variety of situations.

Sayor Wahtorson

Pidgin Interpreter

Mr. Sayor E. Wahtoson holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting and a Diploma in Advanced Public Information Practice. With over 16 years of experience in journalism, Mr. Wahtoson has built a distinguished career, working with both international and local radio stations both within and outside Liberia. His expertise spans media communications, public information dissemination, and financial accountability, making him a versatile professional in the fields of journalism and public service. Known for his commitment to factual reporting and community engagement, Mr. Wahtoson has played a significant role in shaping public discourse through his work in the media.

Who oversees the work

Beyond the newsroom, TSM answers to a Board of Directors of five members drawn from law, economics, sociology, political science and technology, and an Advisory Board of national and international researchers, journalists and communicators.

How governance works

Work with us

Volunteers contribute to our reporting, community outreach and media literacy programmes. Tell us how you would like to help and we will be in touch when something suitable comes up.

Get involved