#WomenMandla – Laung is making a name for herself
JOBURG – “I was also nominated for Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) for Outstanding Ambassador based in RSA but lost the award to one of Zimbabwe’s big artist.”
Melisa Nxumalo is making a name for herself.
Better known as Melisa Laung, this 25-year-old Bruma resident is a radio presenter at Venrap Radio.
“My radio career has been a very difficult journey but it has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. I remember when I was in high school I would act like a radio presenter holding a mic and talking. I always knew that this was something that I really wanted to do,” she said.
Laung started off as a volunteer at Hillbrow FM.
“I started presenting a graveyard slot but through hard work and dedication I ended up with an 8pm slot every Friday and Saturday. Listeners would call in and we would discuss hip-hop and entertaining news during the show.
“Like any other job, there are some challenges that I faced during my first job. I was also nervous the first day I went on air. I was inspired by Bonang Matheba to become a radio presenter.
“After matric, I decided to further my studies and I now hold a National Certificate in Radio Production. In the next five years, I see myself working for a bigger radio station or running my own radio company.”
Laung recently won the Entumbane Merit Award (EMA) for Outstanding Female Artist of the Year in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
“I was also nominated for the Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) for Outstanding Ambassador based in RSA but lost the award to one of Zimbabwe’s big artist.
“I am still grateful for the nomination even though I did not win the award. The award that I won meant so much to me. It shows that I have been going the extra mile to do a better job every day.
“I was also nominated for Adara Awards which are African radio awards taking place in October,” she said.
Laung said she would like to start the Melisa Shoes Donate charity group which will focus on collecting and donating shoes for less fortunate.
