It’s always a pleasure hearing about young people in the broadcasting industry achieving greatness in their lives and getting recognised for the great work they're putting in. One of those young people is East Coast Radio presenter Zaba Simbine, who hosts the 09h00 to midday show on the radio station.
Zaba was recognised in the Best Youth Radio Initiative Category at the 5th Annual KZN Young Achievers Awards in Durban over the weekend.
ZAlebs got to speak to the 26-year-old radio personality about her award and what it means to her on a personal level.
“You know, when I started out in the radio industry, I was actually told to go into radio by Sphe Ngwenya (DJ Sphectacula), who encouraged me to try it out. This was years ago, he encouraged me to try it out and convinced me that I'd be awesome at doing this radio thing.
"He was one of those young people who inspired me to do better. So to know that I’m 26 years old, a part of the youth, and I’m being awarded for something I love doing is an absolute great feeling and honour."
Although based in Durban, Zaba did mention that she has her sights on expanding her brand not only in other parts of South Africa, but on the international stage too.
“I’m an ambitious, career-driven woman and yes it is one of the boxes I need to tick off on my to do list. I do want to have a national brand, but besides that I also want to go international, I want to try out my luck in New York and in L.A. Trevor Noah did it so it’s only right that we also follow suit. It’s been a dream of mines for a very long time. ”
We also asked Zaba how she has managed to stay clear of any social media drama as a young broadcasting personality in the industry.
"When Twitter first started out, I used to be that girl who tweeted what came to her mind, but I think being affiliated with such a strong brand like East Coast Radio, who values respect, amongst other positive things is very important to me. So I feel that when we're on these social media platforms we need to respect other people. Yes, it's fine to laugh at other people now and then but that level of respect must still be maintained."
If you're in Durban, catch Zaba on her show every weekday from 09h00 to 12h00 on East Coast Radio.
Credit image: Supplied
