By Celani Sikhakhane
Nonhlanhla Buthelezi, known as Mroza, has been a well-loved voice on Ukhozi FM for over 20 years.
She believes that staying connected with her traditional listeners while reaching out to younger listeners is why she has remained successful in the radio industry.
Mroza, who co-hosts the popular Vuka Mzansi Breakfast Show on Ukhozi FM, recently won the Entertainment Radio Presenter of the Year award at the Basadi in Music Awards, which were held at the Joburg Theatre on 10 August.
She was nominated alongside top presenters like Lethabo Lejoy of Thobela FM and Mpumi Mlambo of Metro FM.
“Even though the industry changes with technology, as a presenter on Ukhozi FM, staying connected with your traditional listeners is important. You need to grow with them while also welcoming the new generation.
“That’s what has kept me relevant all these years. I make sure to entertain the younger audience without losing our loyal rural and older listeners,” she said.
Mroza started her radio career in 2000 at Icora, a local radio station in Eshowe, and joined Ukhozi FM in 2004.
She is proud of her strong connection to her rural community of Dokodweni in northern KwaZulu-Natal and has remained grounded despite her success.
Winning the Basadi Award comes at a great time for Mroza, as she plans to use the money to give back to her community, especially in education and supporting less fortunate families.
In 2013, she started the Thumumlilo organisation, which focuses on youth skills development and provides bursaries.
In 2019, Mroza was praised for successfully climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania as part of the Trek4Mandela Expedition alongside retired public protector Thuli Madonsela.
Mroza believes her journey from a rural background to success in a competitive industry offers hope to many women from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Pictured above: Ukhozi FM’s Nonhlanhla “Mroza” Buthelezi, who plans to use her Basadi Award to give back to her village.
Source: Supplied
