MANIINI – Listeners of Phalaphala FM and the local community now have somebody to be proud of, as a former barefoot goat caretaker from the dusty Maniini settlement is making his mark in the national broadcasting industry.

He owes his success to hard work, perseverance and a positive attitude. It has been a long and winding road to success for Ndivhuyafhi Mathode (30) who presents Ndevhetsini (current affairs) on Phalaphala FM. Barely two years after joining the station, Mathode’s popularity has grown tremendously because of his emphasis on promoting his mother tongue (Tshivenda) without compromise.

“My programme is more informative than entertaining and I make sure that the language I use is understandable to everyone. When it comes to radio, one has to be very careful with language because it is the only way of communication with the listeners. I know there are people out there who are only fluent in Tshivenda and it is my responsibility to make them part of the Phalaphala FM family. Ndevhetsini is very important as it tells people about what is happening around them and it is important to use the language they will easily understand.”

Ndevhetsini is aired on weekdays between 06:00 and 07:00 and the second session comes between 18:00 and 19:00. It gives Mathode an opportunity to interact with big shots in the political, social, entertainment, and sporting circles globally.

It still remains a mystery how an ordinary boy like Mathode managed to climb so high up the South African broadcasting ladder within such a short space of time. However, the road to stardom was not as easy as his listeners might think.

He completed his primary schooling at Tshivhulana and proceeded to Tshipakoni Secondary School, where he matriculated in 1994. In 1998, he joined the Univen Radio news department where he compiled, edited and presented news. He also worked as the Marketing and Advertising Manager for the station.

His career blossomed when he presented Vhaimbi na Vhasiki on Tuesday nights, a programme that promotes indigenous music at Univen FM. Univen FM listeners called him Tshizhozhi (one who hits people with music) because of the powerful traditional music he played.

“Although I had a large following at Univen FM, I could not resist the golden opportunity of joining Phalaphala FM. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I do not regret taking the decision.”

Some of his current responsibilities include production, presentation of the Ndevhetsini programme and arranging interviews.

Married to Mashudu and blessed with a 2-year-old daughter, Atshidzaho, Mathode thanked his listeners for their support since he ventured into the broadcasting industry. “I am what I am because of my listeners and I will never forget to appreciate their continuous support. My achievements are through their constructive criticism and, with their support, I believe I will go far.”