THE POWER, CULTURE AND THE VALUE OF RADIO EXISTANCE IN SOUTH AFRICA WITH BHODLELO FROM WITBANK EMALAHLENI COMMUNITY RADIO STATION IN MPUMALANGA WITBANK.
Bhodlela Phihli Phohlo
By Themba Emanuel Mashobane
Themba.mashobane@gmail.com
Tell us briefly about yourself, and what you stand for?
I am Bhodlela! A patriotic African, obsessed about Black Consciousness. A father to a son and a daughter, a lover of life, a radio DJ, a novelist (of 2 isiZulu love novels; “Isivumelwano” and “Kwanhliziyo Ngise”), a musician, a master of ceremonies and a DJ.
I stand for kindness. My motto goes like; “A candle loses none of its light by lighting another candle.”
Take us on your journey as a radio personality in short, your experience as a radio presenter?
Well, I was very lucky. No, I’m not lucky – I’m blessed! I started back in 2010, with zero experience; except a training at Gragbron Radio and Mob Broadcasting with some coaching by the then Emalahleni FM programing team. Radio has taught me to hate not knowing. It might be a language, sports, politics, and anything newsworthy, educational or entertainment – I must always have a green light! Knowledge is power, LITERALLY! When you’re used to it, it’s fun. It’s not work when it’s what you love.
What is the purpose of a radio station, particularly a community radio station?
Besides educating, informing and entertaining; a sense of community is created around community radio stations, as people will gather to listen to radio programmes and will discuss the topics covered in the show. It also shapes the opinions of the people in the area as a whole, allowing for more discussion.
The objectives, vision and mission?
Well, that depends. Community radio stations have different objectives, visions and missions. However, in a nutshell, I guess they all strive to address social issues (such as poverty and social exclusion) at the community level, empower marginalized groups and catalyze democratic processes and ongoing development efforts.
How is the culture of radio today, comparing to previous years?
Radio has evolved. Listeners and presenters are closer, as we all are on social media nowadays. Also, the introduction of WhatsApp has made things even easier. Radio has now also forged some sort of relationship with television. These days some shows, at times, can be live on TV, while live on air and on social media and YouTube channels. Radio is now on the palm of our hands. Accessible, fascinating and crazy in a good way.
What is the impact of a community radio station in South Africa compared to traditional radio stations?
Tradition radio stations focus on one similar thing that caters for the whole nation, while community radio stations focus on content that is happening at that particular area, for that specific community group, by presenters and newsreaders who reside within that community. A community radio station is a true mouthpiece for the community.
From the listeners perspective, how do they view a community radio station?
Most of them undermine and under estimate its power (maybe because they reside with the personalities in same communities), until there is a protest, job opportunities, competitions or a missing child. That will change, though. Give it few more years.
What is a role of your community radio station in your province?
To address social issues (such as poverty and social exclusion) at the community level, empower marginalized groups and catalyze democratic processes and ongoing development efforts.
Which program is favorable in your area based on age group?
The breakfast show and the afternoon drive, followed by the current affairs.
How is the future of radio in South Africa?
Bright!
Is the station reliable like before? Is the content that is being broadcasted still believable?
Absolutely! But, be the judge. Listen to Emalahleni FM 98.7
How does the community benefit from the radio station? A community radio station in particular?
Knowledge and information is always on the palm of their hands.
Is a radio station helpful in our today’s society?
Yes, more than before!
How many languages do you cover on your radio station?
Four! IsiZulu, isiNdebele, Sepedi and English.
How do you find the balance on those existing languages in your target area?
Language compliance is followed, by the guidance of the ICASA
Can you please school us on the difference between a radio DJ and a radio presenter?
Radio disc jockeys, also known as radio DJs, play and/or mix music and discuss news, music or other topics of interest. An on-air personality, on the other hand, is not responsible for actually playing and mixing music. A technical producer would help play music for them.
What is the importance of language in radio?*
Language is of utmost importance. Remember, everything you do, you do it for your listener. So, you must be certain that your listener hears you, otherwise all is futal.
Lastly, which show are you hosting, and where can people get ahold of you?
I’m currently on the Night Shift Café, alongside Sponono Hlanzi, from 22:00 until midnight. Sunday to Thursday. Exclusive to Emalahleni FM, 98.7
On Facebook I’m Bhodlela Phihli Phohlo.
On TikTok I’m @Bhodlela1
For bookings call/text: 073 654 6861
A candle loses none of its light by lighting another candle.
I, thank you.
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