The Zimbabwean-born presenter died on the weekend after suffering a massive seizure at her Johannesburg home.

PowerFM presenter Pabi Maloi was one of many who took to Twitter to express her feelings. She said, “Trailblazer for black female broadcasters. RIP Alyce Chavunduka.”

Chavunduka was the first black presenter of SABC’s evening English news back in the early nineties.

SABC spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago paid tribute to her when he told The Daily Sun, “Alyce Chavunduka played a pivotal role at a critical time when the then channel, TV1, and indeed the whole organization, was undergoing a transformation process as the country was carving itself into an inclusive and democratic society.

“Her demeanour and high level of professionalism carried her through, and most importantly her contribution to the SABC and influence she had on black women to penetrate the broadcasting industry will never be forgotten.”

Another veteran presenter, Metro FM’s Robert Marawa said, “She was one woman whose work and professionalism I really admired. She achieved many firsts. A true pioneer.”

Meanwhile her former boss at Highveld Stereo, Ravi Naidoo, said, “Sad to hear of the passing of Alyce Chavunduka, an honour to have had her on 94.7 Highveld, a great talent gone too soon.”

Teamtalk

(Credit:Gallo.Twitter.Alyce Chavunduka)