This SA Fm radio presenter is passionate about the youth surrounding her, and the issues they have to face on a day to day basis. And at only 24-years old, Naledi Moleo is already making a difference.
After hosting television programmes such as Youth expression and Make your move Naledi is now using the platform of talk radio to tap into the many voices of South Africa’s diverse and dynamic youth.
We sat down to talk to this inspiring young woman about her exciting career.
What’s your average day like?
My day begins with an early morning cup of tea while I page through the daily newspapers. Keeping up to date with what is happening around us is very important.
Upon arrival at the office I start with researching whatever it is that we are discussing on the day and making sure that I have a full understanding of the discussion. I don’t want to be caught clueless on air for all the country to hear.
Once I am off air, we have a debriefing session with the producer and talk about what we did well and what we could do better.
When did you realise that you wanted to work in radio?
I realised that I wanted to do radio when I was already hosting a current affairs talk show on television on SABC News International called “Youth Expression”.
I loved talking and engaging young people on important issues, and radio offers a freedom of expression. Radio is so much more laid back that it gives you an opportunity to really and honestly engage with guests and callers.
What were the challenges of trying to make a name for yourself in the industry?
I am still trying very hard to make a name for myself. I think the biggest challenge so far was to be taken seriously in the world of news and current affairs at such a young age.
What is the best part of the job?
The best part of my job is getting to meet and interview people that I would never meet any other way. It is being able to travel and broadcast from the most exciting of places.
The best part is having a great show, when the lines are going crazy because all the listeners would like to share in on the conversation.
What qualities should one have to succeed in radio?
A hunger for knowledge and information, trust and confidence in yourself and most of all a great personality. Personality just means that you are comfortable to show people who you really are.
What advice would you give young women who want to follow in your footsteps?
Take the first step. Walk into that building that intimidates you and ask who you could speak to in order get you one step closer to achieving that goal. If you do not know how to get there, find someone who does. Look at the organisation and identify what is missing from it and show them how you can help.
Never be afraid to volunteer or work for free or even shadow, time on the job is a priceless thing to have in terms of the amount that you could learn.
What do you think the future holds for women who want to make this a profession?
I think the future is very bright, there is a growing interest amongst listeners in strong female voices. We as women need to celebrate being women and not try to compete with men.
What is the one thing you are most proud of?
Right now, I am proudest of the constant growth that my career continues to show me. There is a lot in the pipeline, but some things people will just have to wait for.
What do you still hope to achieve in and through your career?
I have always dreamt of having a self-titled television talk show but in the mean time I look forward to spreading my wings on radio and hopefully being able to work on other stations as well.
More than anything, I am working on a few documentaries that I am hoping to get flighted on television.
You can catch Naledi’s show IN TUNE on SAFM 104-107 every Saturday afternoon at midday 12h00.