Media graduate pursuing her broadcast dreams

POLOKWANE – A 25-year-old Mamatshele Boitshepo Mmasefako is a determined and visionary person who graduated in 2022 with a degree in Media Studies. Despite her academic achievements and passion for the field, she has faced challenges securing a job that aligns with her qualification.

Mmasefako currently resides in Turfloop and graduated from the University of Limpopo. She highlighted that she always wanted to specialise in the broadcast industry including being a radio presenter, news anchor, editorial assistant, communication specialist, digital marketing and social media specialist. “I’ve sent several applications, I even lost count and the sad part is that the feedback that I get is interviews followed by rejections,” she said.

“One of the biggest challenges I encountered was not having experience and some posts are for people from a specified area and also scammers.” She also noted that she tried to network and connect with professionals in the field of media but from the few that she met, all their suggestions required money which she did not have.

“Sometimes I feel like I lack experience because I’ve never done any practicals from university, it was only theory. For one to get experience you must volunteer at your nearest radio station and it is costly, that’s one of the challenges I face,” remarked Mmasefako. She added that her motivation is to further her studies and look for other opportunities as time waits for no man.

Mmasefako encourages young and upcoming students to never give up. “When you get a chance volunteer to gain experience, apply for internships or further your studies. I believe it is best for me to study further while I still can, hence I decided to enroll for a second degree after failing to register for my honours.”

Mmasefako remains positive even after the struggle she went through after graduating.