By Michelle Strydom
What has been the most exciting event of your career so far?
I’m really fortunate that I’ve been able to meet and interview a lot of interesting people through my work and take part in incredible events. The one that sticks out the most is the LEWA half marathon I did in Kenya to raise funds and awareness against rhino poaching with a bunch of strong ladies from KZN in 2012. We raised about R800 000.
Word on the street is that you would like to start your own radio academy. Tell us more about this.
Yes! I love radio so much and over the years I’ve noticed that there are many people who are dying to learn how to present or get involved in the industry, but they don’t go to a university with a campus station or can’t afford the time or funds to do a full course at another institution to study radio. What I’m working on is a short course that covers various aspects of the on and off mic aspects of radio to provide someone with the knowledge they need to make a decision about a future career in the industry or just to fulfil that need to know what it’s all about. I’m also going to put the focus of some courses on female empowerment in radio as I feel there are not enough ladies in radio besides those in news, traffic or contributor roles.
How has the SABC’s decision to play 90% local content on their stations affected your show and the station in general?
It hasn’t affected my show at all. As with the majority of stations in the country, presenters don’t plan the show’s music, but rather all the content between the tracks. It’s affected the station with our mixes and DJs who submit mixes for shows now having to plan around the allocated number of local and international tracks. Some shows that were about new music from around the world have had to change and offer something new.
Where do you see your career career in 10 years?
I’ll definitely still be involved in radio. Maybe presenting at an AC station or venturing into talk radio with a successful radio academy empowering young radio enthusiasts to live their passion across the country.
What was the purpose behind going into the media industry? What do you admire most about radio?
I suppose the purpose was selfish in that it was something I’ve always wanted to do. It always sounded like fun so I did what I could to be able to do it. Now it’s more of a desire to share, entertain and engage with people who are going about their lives, but wanting to tap into something that will give them a laugh, knowledge or just a chance to take their mind of the stresses in their lives.
What I love about radio is the power it has. I’m here in a little glass and wooden box by myself talking into a microphone and what I say can cause people thousands of kilometers away, who I’ve never met, to smile, laugh or scream at their radio. That connection is what keeps the fire burning.
What is the most bizarre thing that has happened on your show so far?
I’ve had someone propose to me and another guy phoned in to tell me about his friend losing his virginity on the beach. What can I say? It’s been interesting.