VUT FM celebrates its dedicated on-air and behind-the-scenes personalities.
By: Puleng Maphisa – 05 March 2024
On February 28, 2024, the hallowed halls of the Vaal University of Technology echoed with the harmonious celebration of talent as VUTFM, the university’s radio station, proudly hosted its inaugural VUT FM Presenter Recognition Award Ceremony. The momentous event was to pay respect and present well-deserved praises upon the vibrant and dedicated on-air gems, as well as those who work behind the scenes to ensure that the stations continue to breathe life into the airwaves.
This auspicious gathering served as a powerful testament to VUT FM’s commitment to uplifting the morale and spirits of its presenters. In the face of countless challenges encountered within the station, the university sought to underscore its deep respect and acknowledgment of the remarkable contributions made by these unsung heroes of the airwaves. VUT FM, not confined to the campus alone, extends its reach into the surrounding communities and boasts a robust listenership throughout the Vaal Triangle.
A remarkable group of twenty-seven (27) award recipients in total comprising thirteen (13) presenters, eight (8) content producers and six (6) news reporters and sports presenters stood in the limelight, each honored for their unique prowess. Five extraordinary individuals emerged as trailblazers of the year: Tshidiso Moremoholo, Boitumelo Mpshane, Zandile Hlongwane, Oupa Sefatsa, and Thabo Difero. Their dedication and innovation set them apart, earning them well-deserved recognition.
Adding a touch of longing and inspiration to the ceremony, the presenters were graced by the presence of Mr. Phakisi Mokoena, fondly known as ‘Phoofolo,’ a former VUT and Lesedi FM presenter. Renowned for being the trailblazer who introduced African music to the station, Phofolo addressed the gathering with wisdom gained from his impactful career.
In his impassioned speech, Phofolo emphasized the importance of uniqueness and the cultivation of a personal trademark. Drawing from his experience, he encouraged presenters to identify gaps and boldly bring about positive changes. He recalled the transformative moment when he introduced African music to the station, setting a precedent for diverse and rich cultural content.
Phofolo, a proud Sotho speaker, urged presenters to remain humble and authentic. His words resonated as he stressed the significance of interaction with the audience and the avoidance of conflicts of interest while on air. His caution to avoid the pursuit of celebrity status and focus on becoming genuine radio personalities echoed with profound relevance. He emphasised that his first encounter with VUT FM was through the current station manager Mr Mxolisi Ndongeni who he calls ‘E motso moratuwa’ as he pays homage.
The ceremony also celebrated the achievements of notable presenters like Boitumelo, a Bachelor of Science degree holder, and Zandile, an advanced Public Relations student. Both were recognized as trailblazers of the year and expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided, especially under the leadership of Saneliso Mavuka, the station content coordinator.
Acknowledging the pivotal role played by VUT FM’s stakeholders and management, the ceremony concluded with expressions of gratitude for the tremendous years of dedication and hard work from the presenters. A glimpse into the future revealed exciting prospects as the station announced the introduction of the Presenter of the Month accolade, a testament to the ongoing commitment to recognize and celebrate excellence in radio presenting.
According to VUTFM Station manager, Mr Mxolisi Ndongeni, the awards were long overdue as the on-air personnel did tremendously well in 2023. “As the station, we are very proud, and we needed to show appreciation and acknowledgment towards them. Some of them were there even when our studios where deteriorating and their commitment was still intact,” he said. Ndongeni further extended his gratitude to the station’s management, Board and the Public Relations and Marketing Director, Ms Kediemetsi Mokotsi for he called the behind the scenes work that took place to get the station to this point. “The station is doing the most, this is only the beginning,” he concluded.