"I couldn't believe my ears when my name was called in the fully packed hall while the audience was ululating and cheering for me. … Being counted amongst the best is a giant step towards making my mark in this tough broadcasting industry."
These were the words of Freddy Mudau from Musina FM after winning the Best Gospel Radio Presenter Award during the 12th Independent National Gospel Music Awards (INGOMA). The ceremony was held in Midrand, Gauteng, a fortnight ago.
Mudau, who has been with Musina FM for more than 10 years, presents Mulisa wa Ndele, a gospel music and talk show that airs every Sunday morning.
Overwhelmed with joy, Mudau told the Limpopo Mirror that he had considered himself an underdog in the Best Gospel Presenter category. "Competing with big names Basil Sono, Trish Waboraro, and Lefa Phetho is not child's play. I believed my chances of taking the award were very slim, but God works in his own ways because He makes what seems impossible possible."
Mudau thanked the community of Musina, as well as the board and management of Musina FM, for their support. "This award is dedicated to everyone who supported me through thick and thin. This is not a personal but a societal achievement. The award has demonstrated that Musina talent can compete with and beat big names in the national entertainment industry."
Musina FM station manager Justice Langa said Mudau's achievement had boosted morale at the radio station. "We are very proud of him, because he has demonstrated to South Africa that Musina FM is an integral part of the South African broadcasting industry."