Refilwe Mathebula, Capricorn FM’s breakfast show newsreader received a nomination for this year’s South African Radio Awards.
Khujwana born and bred Refilwe Mathebula, Capricorn FM’s breakfast show newsreader received a heartfelt nomination for this year’s South African Radio Awards.
Capricorn FM received a total of two nominations and is the only radio station to receive nominations in the Limpopo province.
“This feels like a surreal dream,” said Refilwe, village born newsreader who hails from Khujwana, in the rural Limpopo lowveld Mopani region. “I was minding my own business when a friend sent a screengrab of the news of my nomination,” Refilwe reminisced, describing the unexpected yet joyful moment.
The award nominee said she was initially reluctant to send a submission for the awards because she had tried her luck previously, to no avail. However, the station’s management persuaded her to recognise her own talent, eventually convincing her to enter for the prestigious national radio awards.
She says over and above an acknowledgement of her talent, the nomination was a moment of reflection. “It forced me to ask myself, do you know who you are?” she added.
Refilwe’s remarkable journey began in the landscapes of a rural area called Khujwana. Refilwe maintains it was not an easy road, but the determination, and unwavering support from family and community kept her going. Her father, Esrom Maake, mother, Annah Maake, and aunt, Josephine Mailula, have been consistent pillars of strength. “My father still wakes me up every morning, and the support from the community has been overwhelming—it felt like receiving my flowers while still alive,” she remarked, reflecting on the flood of calls and texts she received after the announcement was made public.
Soon after completing her Bachelor of Arts in Performing Arts from the University of Limpopo, like many graduates across the country, Refilwe found herself grappling with the scourge of unemployment.
Her mother enrolled her in a driving school, an experience she holds close to her heart. After more than one unsuccessful attempt, she left the driving school in Tzaneen for another in Phalaborwa, where she stayed with her aunt. “That move saved my life!”, remembers Refilwe.
Unbeknownst to her, Phalaborwa would change her life forever, introducing her to the world of radio and the airwaves. The year was 2010, and Refilwe would go on to start her news reading career on Phalaborwa FM’s breakfast show. Refilwe says she joined Capricorn FM by pure chance, “There was no call,” she recalled, “I happened to be in Polokwane and decided to drop my CV at Capricorn FM,” marking the beginning of an enriching chapter with the station which has been her home since June 2011.
The happily married mother of two says her faith also played a pivotal role in her journey. “Faith has been my compass,” Refilwe reveals. “It kept me grounded, rooted in purpose, and resilient.”
Capricorn FM’s Programs Manager Prudence Mabasa stated, “A hardworking and dedicated Capricorn FM News Reader is how we can best describe Refilwe Mathebula. Throughout the 12 years that she has been a news reader for the station, she has shown growth and assisted in grooming some of the news readers that have worked on Capricorn FM.
Her nomination at the Radio Awards is overdue and warming to us, for her to be recognised. We hope that this nomination will be a boost and will assist in encouraging all that dreams do come true.” Head of News Modikwa Makgoba remarked, “Refilwe’s nomination is well deserved and one that brings so much validation for a colleague who is not only consistent in her craft, but also enjoys every moment of her work on radio. Her passion for radio is positively contagious and inspirational and we wish her all the best in the upcoming award ceremony.”
Asked what her message to those who believe in and look up to her Refilwe replied, “Value and respect your craft, dream big, and embrace the guidance of those who believe in you.” As the ceremony draws closer, the Mopani region stands united, hearts brimming with pride and fingers crossed, ready to celebrate a victory for all, Refilwe Mathebula and Capricorn FM.