Kia Johnson, co-anchor of Radio 2000's morning breakfast show Planet Haaibo shares her experience at this year's MTN Radio Awards.

We call it “the theatre of the mind” and it’s often seen as a tougher communication medium to implement than so many others.  But once you have mastered that art form, you the presenter, the “DJ” have reached a greater level of mind-set and it’s one you share with your listeners.

The sound, interaction, the ability to just about engage everyone on this platform has a certain sense of ‘magic’ about it.  Radio has been and always will be, a way for us to express our views and have our voices heard.

In true form, the MTN Radio Awards this year had a larger influx of entrants than ever before.  It’s an honour to receive this award as a Radio Personality, it carries with it a sense of achievement showcasing all your hard work and that the listeners out there are in actual fact, truly listening. 

TUKS FM, Radio702, Umhlobo Wenene, Ukhozi FM and many other participants received quite a few awards.  Umhlobo Wenene having grown their listenership in large numbers received the ‘PBS Breakfast Show’ award and Talk Radio 702’s John Robbie, known for being quite hard hitting in his approach, also walked away with a ‘Best Morning Show Host award.’ 

A man who we all hear on so many different channels and makes sure to ease our travels and keep us safe on the roads, Rob Byrne, for the first time won the ‘Best Traffic Presenter’ award, one many felt was well deserving and long awaited.  His face expressed a happiness and excitement that was absolutely priceless. His wife also accompanied him on the trip, truly a moment I’m sure they both won’t forget.

Those who attended made sure to add that extra dash of class with sexy designer suits and beautiful dresses.  Jennifer Su looked ravishing in a ‘Pallu’ inspired gown, I was styled and dressed by French/Egyptian Designer, Nagla Rouverand who literally came to my hotel suite to make sure I had the perfect outfit to wear.  Simphiwe Majola had on the snazziest red suite I’ve ever seen and not one many men can pull off. 

When 2000FM won the ‘Best Afternoon Drive Time Show’ award I ran up with my fellow colleagues as if running a race to the stage.  To describe the joy I felt being part of the team would be an understatement here.  I know they say winning isn’t everything but it sure is something when you receive the acclaim.  Almost as if there’s a stamp of approval on a job well done.

It’s known as a wireless transmission of signals through free space, it’s a space I love and will continue to have as my first passion.

“It’s not true I had nothing on, I had the radio on.”… Marilyn Monroe…

Kia xx

TV Presenter, Radio Personality, Producer, MC, Motivational Speaker, Voice Actress, DJ, Writer, Lecturer, Eco Warrior and Humanitarian. Kia Johnson  is ready for any challenge that comes her way.