‘He dumped electrical engineering for the mic’

Bulelani Shusha’s family was more than a little surprised when he dumped his electrical engineering studies and instead pursued a career in radio. “They thought I’d start working after completing a nine month course to help provide for the family, which was understandable,” he smiled.

But after success has come the way of the 26 year-old from Khweshube village in KwaXolo, near Margate, they’ve all seen it was the right decision.

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Even as a boy, he wanted to be on radio, but wasn’t sure how to get into the industry, and mistakenly thought one had to first be a teacher to do so. “I had no intention of being a teacher, so gave it up at that time,” he laughed.

However, the desire to be on air was too strong and he changed tack after the studies by doing a broadcasting course with Coastal Media Academy. That was only last year and he was soon snapped up by Ugu Youth Radio, a community radio station based at Oshabeni.

He’s never looked back and has fast become one of the most resourceful deejays, handling sports as his normal beat and then being readily available to fill in when other presenters are absent.

Bulelani has proven that radio runs in his veins, having already scooped an award for ‘Best Sports Anchor’. “When I joined the station last year I knew my time had come. I have no regret dumping the electrical engineering studies for radio as this is where my true passion lies,” he said.

Before the lockdown he would present sports bulletins between 6am and 9am on weekdays and 3pm to 6pm on week days. During the current lockdown he is on air between 6pm and 6.30pm on week days. Like everyone else, he is looking forward to the time when South Africa can resume a more normal lifestyle. In the meantime, he just has to be patient.

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