She is radio royalty and fast approaching two decades as a professional broadcaster. This year, Ukhozi FM host, DJ Zeal, real name Zandile Dladla, celebrates 17 years in the radio game and says the journey has been worth every challenge.

A YOUNG HOST

She showed her love for radio from a young age unknowingly. "When I was still at school, I used to have a voice recorder; I would record myself and listen to my voice over and over again. I thought I was just playing; I didn't know that would be my career,' she said. Zeal said she manifested her gift. "I remember my speaking talent was identified in high school through a Toastmasters program where I excelled as a chairperson and developed good leadership skills too,' Zeal said.

RADIO BUG

She grew up in a Christian home with high values. "I grew up in a good home with hard-working parents and sisters. Our Christian faith, IsiZulu culture, and education were the pillars of our upbringing,' she said. "Even though we stayed in the township of Mlazi, our parents made sure we went to the best schools and tertiary institutions. I will forever be grateful to my parents for placing me in spaces that would groom my talent. It was not easy for them, but it was worth it,' she added. Radio found her while she was doing her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations Degree at the University of the Witwatersrand. "I was recruited for campus radio; I entered radio competitions, but I made sure I finished my degree, not only for my parents but also for my bread for the future,' she added.

OBSTACLES

Being on radio for 17 years, Zeal says her biggest challenge has been accepting that broadcasting is not a permanent job. "It is not a permanent job. It is a performance-based career; year on year you have to earn the renewal of your contract,' she says. "I have done many other jobs while doing radio as my passion. That has been important for my growth and stability. Sometimes I felt like giving up because it was hard to juggle, and the uncertainty was almost overwhelming, but thank God I am still here,' she adds. "Now I am confident in my craft; I've learnt to balance and do other business outside radio, and that keeps me going,' she told ZiMoja.

MEMORIES

She's had many memorable times on air. "I just love radio; it's a feeling I get from my gut that truly satisfies me,' she says. "It's like I'm worshipping God when I switch on that mic. I'm at the right place at the right time doing the right thing. The show that changed my life and made my name known is The Urban Beat with Vinny Da Vinci, DJ Christos, and DJ Siyanda,' she added.