New radio station aims to unearth local talent
Umphakathi FM, a new radio station, aims at uplifting the community by attracting local talent to come on board.
Alone Pilusa is in the business of uplifting the community of the West Rand and has started Umphakathi FM, which is a commercial and community radio station in Randfontein.
Situated at Umphakathi Square, the station is aimed at uplifting the community by attracting local talent to come on board and showcase their talent.
It broadcasts in Randfontein, Toekomsrus, Mohlakeng, Finsbury, Westonaria, Bekkersdal, Simunye, Soweto, and surrounding areas and the station can be accessed on a frequency of 90.4.
The Herald had a one-on-one with Pilusa who is the CEO of the station. He said that he is passionate about community development and will be using the station to do exactly that.
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“The station was established in February last year and it’s been a long time coming. We recently got our license and we are ready to hit the ground running. The station is more of an entertainment station and we will be roping in local presenters to do music shows and also unearth local talent in other aspects,” said Pilusa.
Asked why he decided to start the local station, Pilusa said he did this after realising there is indeed a gap in the West Rand where a communication platform is concerned in the form of a radio station.
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“Our focus will mainly be on the youth. We will also tackle social and health issues. We also plan on unpacking different aspects of entrepreneurship due to the high levels of unemployment not only in the country but in this community as well. We also plan on having a business show which will be aimed at targeting the township economy and addressing social ills such as drugs, and issues of gender-based violence (GBV) among others.
“Our focus will also move to mine-related programs as well,” said Pilusa, who added that the response from the community has been amazing thus far.
He stated that as it stands, the station has been approached by local church leaders who come to preach, as well as young people who showcase their products and services.
Meanwhile, Pilusa is not new to this and also owns Merafong FM in Carletonville.
