The prestigious South African Radio Awards 2023 has released its list of nominations, and PUKfm, the radio station located at the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University (NWU), proudly holds four nominations under its belt.
Four Nominations, One Great Station
Vying for recognition in the campus radio stations division, PUKfm has been nominated for Best Breakfast Presenter, with Katlego Mahlangu leading the morning hours; Best Weekend Radio Show with "The Ultimate Turnup"; Best Daytime Show via "Flashback Fridays"; and most notably, what station manager Katlego Nkwe deems the crown jewel – Campus Radio Station of the Year.
Competitive Edge
Nkwe expressed the importance of these nominations, pointing out the station's strong competitive edge nationally. He stated, “The nominations underscore our continued excellence as a station. It also underscores NWU's pivotal role in the realm of campus radio.”
Fortified Broadcasting Career
Breakfast show presenter, Katlego Mahlangu, expressed her surprise at her nomination, recalling, “When I heard the news, I was just waking up. It felt like I was in a dream or still half asleep.” Mahlangu admitted to often pondering about her on-air presentation but this nomination fortified her faith in her broadcasting career.
Feels like a Victory
In similar sentiments, Khanyisile Mahlangu, host of "The Ultimate Turnup", after receiving a nomination in 2022, voiced that even a nomination feels like a grand victory. She noted, “Competing with major campus radio stations nationwide and having your show picked among the top five is truly remarkable.”
Motivation to Students
Barrie Ferreira, whose "Flashback Fridays" is contending for best daytime show, hopes that these nominations will motivate aspiring students to join the station.
Continued Success
PUKfm is not merely a nominee for the South African Radio Awards; it's a decorated winner. The station took home the title of Campus Radio Station of the Year in 2018 and has had various other accolades over the years.
In closing, Nkwe expressed immense pride in their on-air volunteers and appreciated the recognition of their exceptional talents. The award ceremony, where all eyes will be on the winners, is set for 2 December 2023 at the South African Radio Awards gala dinner.
The original article was produced by Sandile Mahlangu from the NWU.
