A former Phalaphala FM presenter and producer, Ms Lutendo Tshisikule, was recently admitted as advocate to the High Court. Tshisikule, who worked for 19 years in the broadcasting industry, left the station in January 2023. She completed her LLB degree in 2021 and began focusing on her career as a legal expert.
Tshisikule, who had always dreamed of becoming a radio presenter, was born in Shayandima. She started her primary education at Lurenzheni Primary and went to Thohoyandou High School. After completing her matric, she enrolled in a BA communications degree at the University of Limpopo.
Her dream of being on the radio materialised in 2004 when she first joined the Phalaphala FM crew. She presented many shows with veteran radio presenter Mpho "Jantiby" Nafela, who always called her "Flower Girl." She then started producing the "Nne navhone" show, presented by Rofhiwa Nethengwe, from 09:00 to 12:00, Mondays to Fridays.
Tshisikule said that she had never imagined ending up in the legal fraternity. When she was working at the radio station, her life goals gradually started shifting. After completing her communications degree at the University of Limpopo, she enrolled in an LLB at Unisa. Upon finishing this, she applied to be admitted as advocate of the High Court. This happened in June this year.
"During my journey, I realised that there was just so much injustice in the world and our people are less informed on how the law works and the types of recourse at their disposal," she said.
"The thought of completing my LLB degree was always a priority, and I studied day and night. I took my books with me to work and even studied during lunchtime," she added.
Tshisikule wants to set an example to both her friends and young people of the Vhembe District, showing that coming from a rural area should not limit one's dreams and ambitions. "Things were difficult when I was growing up back in the village. I always told myself that I would realise my dream one day, and here I am now," she said.