Interview with host and presenter Hayet Ekeleme

Photo credit: Wildman Effects

Hayet is a seasoned host and presenter whose experience and hard work have secured her roles on prestigious channels including BBC, CBBC, Channel 4, Sky, and the BAFTA Awards. She has had the privilege of engaging with a diverse range of individuals, from acclaimed actors such as Viola Davis and Dame Emma Thompson to influential figures such as Nigel Farage.  Her guest list also boasts a multitude of stars across the entertainment, sports and music industries.

When did you start working as a host, and why?

The world of hosting wasn’t something I actively planned. It felt more like a path that unfolded naturally, starting right in the heart of my community – church! Anchoring and leading services there ignited a passion in me for connecting with people and creating spaces for shared experiences. Those early experiences in church instilled a confidence in me, and I kept seeking opportunities to connect with people. 

After appearing on Ashley Banjo’s Secret Street Crew, I even landed roles on the heartwarming CBeebies show Our Family and Channel 4’s Food Unwrapped. All along, I kept taking on hosting gigs – large events, weddings, and eventually even red carpets, award shows, movie premieres and summits.

Who inspired you to join the entertainment industry?

The entertainment industry is full of incredible voices, especially strong women and men who have paved the way for others. Oprah Winfrey’s ability to connect with people on a deep level, Steve Harvey’s infectious humour and storytelling talent and Trevor Nelson’s sharp wit and insightful social commentary – they all inspire me in different ways. 

Like them, I faced challenges growing up, and their stories resonate with me. But there’s another layer of inspiration too. Maya Jama’s unapologetic confidence and freedom to be herself, regardless of what others think, is truly refreshing. 

“Seeing these powerhouses succeed while staying true to themselves motivates me to bring my own unique energy and perspective to the table.”

What are your best projects to date? 

That’s a tough question! I truly value all my projects because each one offers a unique opportunity to connect with people and share a captivating experience. 

However, there are a few that hold a special place in my heart. Heartfelt with Hayet – a space for deep dives into the human experience – is a project I feel very passionately about.  It’s a space for exploration and connection that I find incredibly rewarding. 

And of course, these websites themselves are projects in a way. They allow me to connect with you, the audience, and hopefully open doors to future hosting opportunities.

Photo credit: Clive Spencer

Which projects do you have in mind for the future?

Looking ahead, the future is brimming with possibilities! Landing bigger gigs, such as hosting award shows, television programs, larger events or acting – that’s definitely the dream. 

But what truly excites me is the idea of developing my own show.  Heartfelt with Hayet could evolve into something bigger, tackling themes of relationships, self-discovery or current events.

I’m also currently working on a Heartfelt Journal to complement the show’s themes and offer viewers a deeper dive.

What advice would you give to anyone wishing to become a host?

For anyone out there who dreams of becoming a host, here’s what I’ve learned on my journey: find your passion, the thing that makes you light up when you speak. Start small, and gain experience – even if it’s just practising in front of a mirror at first. 

Hone your communication skills, build that confidence to speak publicly and learn how to weave a captivating story. But, most importantly, be YOU (tiful)! People connect with authenticity, so let your personality shine. 

“You’ve got to reject your way to success. And by that, I mean don’t let “no” be a setback — but rather a motivation to come back for more success.”

Every rejection is a chance to refine your approach and come back even stronger. Setting clear goals and targets is crucial too. I use a vision board and write out yearly goals with a detailed plan. Looking at them daily and visualising success keeps me motivated.

Network, build relationships and utilise the amazing world of online platforms to showcase your talents and build your audience. Never stop learning, watch other great hosts, analyse different styles and keep refining your craft. Remember, the journey itself is full of lessons. Embrace it! And who knows, you might just find yourself hosting your own dream show someday!

Where can we find you on your social media platforms?

W: www.heartfeltwithhayet.com

Www.hayetekeleme.com

IG: @hayetekeleme @heartfeltwithhayet

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@hayetekeleme