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Bizana, Eastern Cape – In a small town where dreams often seem distant, Melissa Dumela has become a symbol of hope and inspiration. At just 25 years old, she is not only a rising star at Alfred Nzo Community Radio but also a proud representative of her hometown, Bizana. Her journey to the airwaves is a story of passion, resilience, and the power of believing in one’s dreams, even when the odds seem stacked against you.
Growing up in Bizana, Melissa’s love affair with radio began in the most unassuming way. “During my teenage years, I didn’t have a smartphone,” she recalls with a nostalgic smile. “I had uTilili, a basic mobile phone, and my source of entertainment was the radio. My favorite station was Umhlobo Wenene FM, and the show Emfuleni Wothando by Tsidi was where my love for radio began.” It was in those moments, listening to the voices coming through the airwaves, that Melissa first dreamed of being the voice on the other side, inspiring others just as she had been inspired.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including living with a disability, Melissa never wavered in her pursuit of this dream. After graduating in 2022 with a degree in Communications and Media Studies, she embarked on a journey to find her place in the radio industry. “I had always dreamt of being a radio presenter, using my voice to inspire others. I went for other radio auditions but had no luck,” she admits. But giving up was never an option for Melissa.
Her big break came in the most unexpected way—a friend’s status update on social media led her to discover a talent search audition for Alfred Nzo Community Radio. “When I saw the post, I was so excited and thought of the possibilities,” she says, her excitement still palpable. Melissa seized the opportunity, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Now, as a presenter at Alfred Nzo Community Radio, Melissa takes immense pride in her role. “It feels great; it feels good. I’m not only an Alfred Nzo Community Radio Presenter, but I am also representing my hometown. That is my greatest honor!” For Melissa, this achievement is more than just a personal victory. “As a young lady living with a disability, it means I can, and my voice is worthy of being heard.”
Her journey on the radio has been nothing short of transformative. “I learned that radio is not about me; it’s about the listeners,” she says. The experience has allowed her to co-host shows, develop topics, and bring in guests, all while engaging with the community in meaningful ways. One topic close to her heart was discussing how parents can raise children living with disabilities—a subject she has long wanted to address on air.
Yet, Melissa is acutely aware of the challenges facing traditional media, particularly among her peers. “When I looked at my now colleagues, I am the youngest of the four. My generation is not interested in radio or television; they are more interested in social media gossip and trends,” she observes. But instead of seeing this as a setback, Melissa views it as an opportunity. “I want to be the person they want to hear the latest updates from.”
Her journey has not been one of solo achievement. Melissa is deeply grateful for the support she has received from her community and beyond. “My supporters have been so kind. Some couldn’t vote for me, but they sent me airtime to vote for myself. Others shared my posters everywhere. I have never met some of my social media friends, but they showed kindness and support, convincing their family members and friends to vote for me. I am grateful for them.”
Looking ahead, Melissa is determined to make an even greater impact. “I want to give them more reason to renew my contract. I hope to bring change in the conversations held on radio, to motivate and inspire other young people.” She believes in the power of radio as a platform for collective voices, not just her own. “When people listen to my voice, I want them to know I am them, and they are me. It’s not my platform, but it’s our platform. I can be their tool to make their voices heard.”
As she continues to break barriers and challenge perceptions, Melissa Dumela’s story serves as a reminder that dreams are valid, no matter where you come from or the obstacles you face. Her voice, once just a whisper in the small town of Bizana, is now a powerful tool for change, resonating far beyond the borders of her community. And as she often tells her supporters, “Ndingowenu”—I am yours. Indeed, Melissa is one of them, and through her, their voices will continue to be heard.
