In an industry where longevity is often shifting, Sizwe Dhlomo stands as a testament to staying in power and reinvention. With nearly two decades entrenched in the entertainment scene, Dhlomo continues to redefine his role, now officially crowned as the new face of Kaya 959’s breakfast show.
The journey to the coveted morning slot was not without its twists and turns. Last year, amidst the departure of Dineo Ranaka, Dhlomo made a seamless transition from the afternoon drive to the breakfast shift, effortlessly capturing the hearts and ears of listeners. Today, his reign over the airwaves becomes official as he joins forces with Sol Phenduka to deliver a dynamic start to the day.
Reflecting on his multifaceted career with Sowetan S Mag, Dhlomo attributes much of his success to pivotal moments and sage advice received along the way. From early days as a television presenter to later embracing roles as a producer, his evolution has been marked by versatility and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Dhlomo shared in an interview with Sowetan S Mag about how he always saw himself as more than just a voice on the radio or a face on television. “Until Dillon Khan, who used to run MTV Base UK, told me on my first day of shooting not to look at myself as a TV presenter but more as a music journalist, which always stuck with me,” he remarked.
His impact extends far beyond the confines of broadcasting, with Dhlomo wielding considerable influence in shaping the cultural landscape. Recognising the weight of his words, he remains committed to using his platform responsibly, advocating for emerging artists and championing initiatives that amplify underrepresented voices.
“I amassed credibility and somehow, people started looking at me as some sort of authority to the point where if I reviewed an album and I thought it was bad, people wouldn’t listen to it … that’s when I realised I had to be more responsible with my opinion. If I didn’t have anything good to say, I would rather choose to keep my peace,” he remarked.
As he embarks on this new chapter at Kaya 959, Dhlomo’s dedication to authenticity and innovation serves as a guiding light, ensuring that his reign atop the airwaves is not just a testament to his talent, but a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
Picture: @sizwedhlomo on Instagram.