Early Passion & Career

WITH SASSY SINGER: POWER FM YOUNGEST DJ

Growing up, I initially dreamed of becoming a lawyer because of the unfairness I saw around me. I wanted to change the world and make things more just.

But everything shifted after I watched the movie Step Up and was inspired by DJ Penelope, a female DJ who captured my imagination.

I loved everything about her, and my dream changed from law to becoming a DJ.

At first, my cousin advised me to study journalism, which confused me because I was focused on mixing music, not realizing he thought I wanted to be a radio DJ.

When I was about 14, listening to local radio shows like The Breeze with Tariro and Iyati and 326 Express with KVG and Phatisani made me realize that radio, with its mix of music and storytelling, was the perfect outlet for me.

IM: The youngest DJ at Power FM, what inspired you to pursue this career path so early on?

SS: From the beginning, I wanted to be on the radio, not TV or print. Though a lecturer encouraged me to try TV, and I landed a spot on Y.G.T., my heart remained with radio.

During my internship at Power FM, within a month, I was on air. It was exciting and terrifying, but after completing my internship, I was offered a job. It was a long but rewarding journey, and honestly, I feel like I’m living my dream.

IM: Can you share a memorable moment from your childhood that fueled your passion for radio?

SS: I don’t recall a single defining childhood moment, but listening to legendary DJs like Mdhara Zobha, Leekay, and Blubbling Bee inspired me deeply.

It wasn’t until my early teens, tuning into shows like The Breeze & 326 Express, that my passion solidified.

Those voices shaped my love for radio and storytelling.

BREAKING INTO THE INDUSTRY

IM: How did you land your role at Power FM, and what was the interview process like?

SS: It wasn’t a traditional interview process. I auditioned for a TV show, then did an internship in technical operations.

That internship led to an opportunity at Power FM as an intern, and within a month, I was on air.

That’s how I became part of the Power FM family.

IM: What challenges did you face as a young DJ & how did you overcome them?

SS: The biggest challenge was the stereotype that young people can’t succeed in an industry dominated by veterans with decades of experience.

Some didn’t believe in me, including a former boss who said, “Radio is not a playground for kids.” Her words demotivated me at first, and my performance suffered.

However, supportive colleagues helped me shift my mindset. A new boss believed in me and gave me a morning show slot, which was a turning point.

Overcoming those challenges was a process of persistence, mentorship, and growth.

IM: How do you stay authentic to yourself in a competitive industry?

SS: Authenticity is everything. It’s easy to get lost trying to please fans or imitate others, but I remind myself why I started radio: to share my love of music, connect with people, and have fun.

I embrace vulnerability, take risks, and stay true to my quirks. Listeners appreciate when you’re genuine, and that connection is the greatest reward.

Behind The Mic

IM: What’s a typical day like for you at the radio station?

SS: I wear many hats, TV, radio, and other projects, but on radio days, I arrive an hour early to prepare.

My show runs from 9 am to 12 pm, so I use that time to finalize my research, organize notes, and select music that fits the day’s theme.

During the show, I focus on creating an engaging atmosphere, often forgetting everything else.

Afterward, ideas for the next show usually come to me, and I start prepping either at work or at home.

I genuinely enjoy the process of continuous improvement.

IM: How do you prepare for shows, and what’s your research process like?

SS: Research is key. I look for trending topics but approach them from unique angles, often the “other side of the story.”

For example, I have a segment called The Home Affairs focusing on family and home issues inspired by social media and real life.

Engaging listeners on social media helps me understand their interests. Humor is important, too. I often start my promotion with a lighthearted post.

To organize my scripts and playlists, I still rely on a notebook, a habit encouraged by my mentor.

Before going live, I take deep breaths, visualize the flow, and remind myself to enjoy the moment because if I’m having fun, my listeners will too.

IM: What’s a typical day like for you at the radio station?

SS: I wear many hats, TV, radio, and other projects, but on radio days, I arrive an hour early to prepare.

My show runs from 9 am to 12 pm, so I use that time to finalize my research, organize notes, and select music that fits the day’s theme.

IM: Can you share a funny or unexpected moment that’s happened on air?

SS: One time, I announced a song with the wrong title and played the wrong track. I had to abruptly stop the music and explain, but I learned it’s often better to just move on.

Trying to explain just invited more comments.

Another time, off-air banter went on air unexpectedly when a fellow DJ accidentally shared something embarrassing.

I froze and responded in the moment, a lesson in expecting the unexpected live on air!

IM: What advice would you give to young girls who aspire to work in radio or the entertainment industry?

SS: One time, I announced a song with the wrong title and played the wrong track. I had to abruptly stop the music and explain, but I learned it’s often better to just move on.

Trying to explain just invited more comments.

Another time, off-air banter went on air unexpectedly when a fellow DJ accidentally shared something embarrassing.

I froze and responded in the moment definitely a lesson in expecting the unexpected live on air!

IM: What’s your take on female representation in media, and how can we improve it?

SS: Progress has been made, but there’s still a long way to go.

We need more diverse female voices and stories to truly reflect society.

Creating more opportunities for women and young girls in media is critical.

By supporting one another, we can build a balanced media landscape that celebrates the complexity of female experiences.

IM: Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?

SS: Yes! I’m working on a podcast called The Friction Couch, where we discuss issues affecting young people and communities.

We feature diverse guests to create thought-provoking conversations.

We’ve recorded a few episodes already, and I’m excited to share them soon.

This project is my focus right now.