Yengwa creates waves on radio
Ukhozi FM producer also keen to explore other options in the media
Gugu Yengwa has set her mind on making a mark and proving that there is longevity for women in fields such as technology.
Also known as BigKid, Yengwa is a technology and social media enthusiast who refers to herself as a gadget guru.
Yengwa is a technical producer on the Vuka Mzansi breakfast show at SABC’s Ukhozi FM. Some of her duties include promoting the radio station across other radio shows, and giving the listeners snippets on daily discussions, as well as monitoring the sound of the programme and doing jingles using different artists just to spice up the popular show.
“I’ve been with the SABC for 10 years now; it’s always an honour working for such a big organisation”
Yengwa started working as a radio presenter at Durban Youth Radio Station (DYR) which was a campus radio station for the University of KwaZulu-Natal at the time. After two years, she moved to Highway Radio Station where she worked behind the scenes in content and technical producing.
“After five years I was [good] enough for the SABC. I still remember the day that I was called by the SABC telling me that I got the job. Instead of me being happy, I just broke down and cried. That was 2006 as I’m celebrating my 10th year with the SABC this year.”
Even though radio is Yengwa’s first love she’s also keen on exploring other options in media. “This industry is broad and it’s not wise to limit yourself which is why I’m also a voiceover artist and own my media company as well,” said Yengwa.
The producer owns a company called Gugulakhe Media Productions known as G Media Productions which does broadcasting and entertainment.
She said even though the entertainment industry was demanding, she makes sure to always disregard the negatives and focus on drawing motivation from her environment.
“I draw inspiration from the best studio equipment with crazy software and everyone around me with positive energy inspires me to go crazy with my production. I’m a creative. My surroundings mean a lot to me,” she said.
Yengwa said she felt the industry had grown to recognise and accommodate female producers more today than they did in the past. She said she also placed a lot of emphasis on everyone in the industry getting their dues.
“Respect those that came before you and be willing to learn each and every day.”