Youth voices amplified thanks to local radio presenter
DJ Supta from the YFM station has hopes of being the voice of comfort and relatability for many young people in the community.
Giving a voice to the youth is the core life mission of local DJ Siyabulela Sithole (31).
He is known as DJ Supta by his community, who regularly tune in to listen to his weekday slot. He has been at YFM for 10 years.
YFM broadcast from the recent Kyakami 9Hour from the Kyalami Grand Prix.
He began his radio career in 2008 when he was in Grade 10. He was inspired by the stations his mother listened to when he was younger. “I was so intrigued and fascinated by what the presenters were doing by engaging young people and creating a story through someone’s mind by using their voice,” he said.
“I decided to try it out and, fortunately, there was a local community radio station called Takalani FM. I did a number of different shows until I was in Grade 12. I auditioned at a community radio station in Bloemfontein when I went to study there and got to be a sports presenter.”
From the station in Bloemfontein, his journey in the medium saw him present different shows until he made his way to YFM, a station catered to young people. “Being a young person in radio, it’s all young people having a voice. It’s great being part of a brand that recognises that young people are different. Whether you’re from the township, part of the LGBTQI+ community or from the suburbs, you will find a voice that speaks to you and for you,” he said.
“There is so much more that can be done in the radio space. I’ve done so much already in the almost 15 years I’ve been in radio. It’s now about getting into those spaces within the station that will engage and interact with more people,” he said.
“I believe radio is that friend for those who are lonely. We sit in the studio and talk to millions but we don’t understand the impact that has. People are listening to you and then feel full and happy again if they are in a dark space.”
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