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Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
MEET the vivacious Sibukele Maphosa, the esteemed news anchor on ZTV, whose unmistakable voice graces the airwaves during lunchtime and evening news, connecting with millions of viewers daily.
Destiny seemed to play a hand in her life, for when her parents named her Sibukele, loosely translated as “we are watching”, little did they know that this moniker would foreshadow a remarkable journey. From a tender age, her voice resonated on national radio, and later, her bubbly presence radiated on national television, as she delivered the news with unwavering professionalism.
Saturday Chronicle had the privilege of engaging in a heartfelt conversation with Sibukele, uncovering fascinating aspects of her multifaceted persona. A traveller, a mental health advocate, and an outdoor enthusiast, Sibukele’s passions extend beyond the confines of the newsroom. Born in Harare and raised in Matabeleland South, she cherishes her roots and the experiences that shaped her.
“Sibukele is a mouthpiece, I think that probably puts everything into what I do. My most public face is the TV where I am a news anchor. I read the lunchtime and the main news from Montrose Studios,” she said.
As the face and voice of news, Sibukele sees herself as a mouthpiece, the bridge between the audience and vital information. Her journey with ZBC began in 2019, and since then, she has cherished each moment, advocating broadcasting to be included in the school curriculum. For Sibukele, broadcasting is more than a profession; it fosters confidence, imparts life lessons, and empowers individuals.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the journey and I think broadcasting must really be included in our schools’ curriculum because it gives one confidence in what they do and say and you get to learn broadly,” said Maphosa in her unmistakable voice.
Her first radio show, where she discussed her passions for mining, environment, and mental health, marked the beginning of a journey she felt deeply honoured to embark upon. Looking to the future, she envisions highlighting the resources and potential of Matabeleland North and South, offering a gateway to prosperity for fellow Zimbabweans.
Unlike someone find themselves in careers they never desired, Sibukele believes that divine guidance led her to the broadcasting industry. This path has not only contributed to her personal growth but, more significantly, enabled her to impact lives. Telling Zimbabwean stories, engaging with global audiences, and connecting with executives has become her life’s purpose.
Sibukele is a strong believer that broadcasting serves as a medium to create conversations, bring laughter, and delve into crucial content. It is a force that shapes societies, subtly influencing our lives, whether we are aware of it or not. Every time she goes live, she ensures mental preparedness, channelling positive energy, and focusing on being a gracious guest in viewers’ homes.
“Broadcasting has allowed me to pursue my interests and excellently serve the nation by providing information that actually changes the lives of people. Because there is a message that the world wants to hear and I believe I have made that into a personal assignment, to start conversations, broadcasting is a medium to get people to laugh, and to deliberate on critical content. It is something that we consume, whether we are aware of it or not,” she said.
Beyond the studio, Sibukele’s zest for life knows no bounds. She embarks on journeys, both within Zimbabwe and beyond, forging a powerful network. Her work in the mental health space serves as a testament to her commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. With an unyielding dedication to her craft and a warm heart that brightens others’ days, she leaves an indelible mark on those she encounters.
“I also work in the mental health space, making the most of my networks. I also handle investors, I love to be in my garden, to be outdoors. I easily make contacts wherever I go and I have a lot of such that I made while aboard a plane,” she said.
Despite her popularity, Sibukele remains humble, approachable, and eager to connect with people on a personal level.
Her work at Montrose Studios is an authentic extension of her true self, and she invites others to engage with her beyond the realm of news. She shares laughter, seeks to inspire, and treasures each moment of human connection.
“It is a huge honour to serve the nation. You may find me laughing in a shop trying to brighten someone’s day. I want people to feel happy because they are important,” she said.
Online Reporter