One of the familiar faces at local courtrooms and protest marches is Mpho Phyllicia Mudau, the ever-smiling and hardworking field reporter at Vhembe FM.

Born in the Nzhelele Valley and raised in the rugged village of Phiphidi, Mudau began her media journey as an intern at Musina FM in 2015.

“I learnt a lot from experienced news presenters like Sharon Matamela and others. After working there for a year, I joined Vhembe FM, where I continue to learn from seasoned journalists,” she said.

Speaking in an interview with the Limpopo Mirror on Sunday, 27 July, Mudau shared how her passion for radio was sparked. “The radio bug bit me when I was in secondary school. I spent hours glued to the radio and decided then that I would become a journalist,” she said.

Mudau writes news stories for on-air presentation and reports live during Vhembe FM’s current affairs programme Madzinginya Shango and the late-morning slot Mutingati Community Drive. Her commitment to real-time reporting speaks to her dedication to the craft. “I enjoy reporting live as news happens because, as field reporters, we know that news is all about immediacy,” she said.

Mudau has also discovered a talent for being a master of ceremonies at both community and government events. “Being a journalist has opened a lot of doors for me. I now enjoy being a master of ceremonies as it also gives me the opportunity to meet new people and make contacts to source more stories,” she said.

As the country celebrates Women’s Month, Mudau believes women should assert their rightful place in society. “As women, we bring human beings into existence and are also catalysts in grooming them into responsible individuals. This month was not given to us as a favour, but in recognition of our role in shaping humanity,” she said.