Gqeba adds new energy on air
Young women’s voices coming out loud and clear
Sechaba Gqeba finds herself in the mix as she vies for her stake in talk shows.
Gqeba is the new host of Motswako on SABC2 and, with her sweet demeanour, spunk and vibe she is charming audiences and impressing critics.
To be a talk show host, one needs a cool head, but also an informed philosophical approach to life and subjects she tackles. I ask her what she thinks of our state of mind as South Africans.
“We are in a very fragile state. A lot is happening in the country, but there isn’t a better time for the woman’s voice like right now. I’m excited to be part of black women doing great things.
“The challenges are there, for example radio is still male dominated. Even in Cape Town it’s dominated by white males, you have to prove yourself twice as hard, first as a black person and then again as a woman. Change is there but it’s not enough.”
She reflects on her predecessors who include Carol Bouwer and Penny Lebyane. “I follow a number of women who have filled those shoes and I’m bringing my own youthful flavour. I see the show as a platform for young black women to be in conversation and celebrate each other. I still have to maintain the old audience of Motswako, but the surge of the voice of young black women has to be louder.”
Gqeba is up to the task to take Motswako to its former glory after close to 20 years on air. “There is a lot of competition with so many channels and new talent, but our perspective is fresher and trendier while still keeping the essence of Motswako.
“The beauty of Motswako is its variety. … This unpredictability keeps the show exciting. I want people to switch on and see the kind of girl they can have as a friend or they could bond with over a glass of wine.”
Gqeba says it took her a while to adjust to Cape Town. “But it’s a beautiful city, yet a lot of work is still to be done in terms of social equality.”
The mother of a five-yearold boy says her family keeps her grounded.
“Being on a show like Motswako is similar to radio. You won’t be in the slot forever, but for as long as I fill that a seat in the studio, I want to reach out to people and make them feel welcome. The feedback has been encouraging so far.”
Singing her praises is Bouwer, the executive producer. “Sechaba is a breath of fresh air. It was important that we introduce new faces, new voices and new ways of thinking as we … open up to new talent. “Where Sechaba is special is that she’s young and curious, wellinformed and a people’s person. She’s an exciting new energy …”
Motswako is on SABC2 on Wednesday nights at 8.30pm