Emani joined CBS 17 as a reporter in May 2020. You can catch her reports during the 11 p.m. newscasts.
Emani is an Emmy award winning journalist who enjoys giving a voice to the voiceless. She’s also been recognized by the Broadcasters Education Association for her coverage of Ebola reaching the United States.
Prior to Raleigh, Emani spent four years as an anchor/reporter in Waco, Texas.
During her time, there Emani covered several national stories including a judge setting a $4 billion bond, a Killeen police officer’s son fatally shooting his neighbor on camera and the Twin Peaks biker shootout trials, among others. Her reporting on a wrongful conviction was also featured on Netflix and led to a new trial being granted.
Emani’s reporting has also inspired the community to pay for eye sight saving surgery for a teen after her insurance denied the operation.
It also has helped lead to the creation of mentorship programs in schools impacted by bullying and led the community to gift a single mother a new house and car after hers burned down.
Emani was born and raised in Southern California. She has a Bachelor of Science in Journalism and Political Science from Northern Arizona University.
When she’s not tracking down a story Emani enjoys dancing, relaxing at the beach or by the pool and reading.
Emani is an active member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
If you have a story idea, restaurant recommendation or just want to say hi email Emani at epayne@cbs17.com.
