Rita Paulsen (born 26 February 1977) is a Tanzanian television personality, philanthropist, entrepreneur and chief executive officer of Benchmark Productions, a company that prepares and hosts the Tanzanian television talents show Bongo Star Search.
| Rita Paulsen | |
| Birth Place: | Karagwe, Kagera Region, Tanzania |
| Nickname: | Madame Ritha |
| Owner and Director of Benchmark Productions | |
| Known For: | Co-Founder of Bongo Star Search (BSS) |
| Occupation: | Talent manager Creative consultant Television director |
Rita Paulsen was born in Karagwe district in Kagera Region on 26 February 1977. Her father was German and died when she was young. She initially wanted to become a lawyer, but became pregnant at the age of 14,[1] resulting in isolation from her community. When she became a celebrity, she aimed to use her experiences to encourage girls who face the same situation of early pregnancy to never give up.[1]
Paulsen is the founder and chief executive officer of the TV production company Benchmark Productions. The company produces the television show Bongo Star Search, in which Paulsen is the chief judge. When launching the show, Paulsen was inspired by the American show American Idol.[2] As with the American original, the show's goal is to find and promote singing talents, especially young ones.[2] The theme of Bongo Star Search is to help young Tanzanians with music talents to have the right singing skills through singing competitions.[3] [4] [5] [6]
She is also a host of 45 45-minute television show that goes by her name, Rita Paulsen Show. The show consists of three parts: 'Changing Lives', 'Celebrity Corner' and 'Make-Over'.[7] [8]