Are you suffering from that Saturday morning hangover? Then Mutsindo wa Mafhelo a Vhege, hosted by Mulinda Israel Mutswaletswale, is just what the doctor ordered.
The show, which is all about music entertainment, trending songs and weekly gossip – with listeners also taking part – airs on Saturdays between 07:00 and 09:00 on Radio Thohoyandou.
The host is a 25-year-old from Tshedza, Nzhelele, who goes by the radio name Israel. An honours student in media studies at the University of Venda, he first went on air in 2024 and has never looked back.
"I have always been passionate about storytelling and connecting with people. Radio's ability to reach diverse audiences fascinated me, and the power of voice, music and conversation drew me in. My interest in the craft began in Grade 11, way back in 2019. I was greatly inspired by Phalaphala FM's Bravo 1020 and Jones Netshipise, and I would imitate them at any given opportunity," he said.
According to Israel, getting a foot in the door was not easy. "I tried different radio stations, but they didn't give me feedback. I approached some community radio stations, and they also rejected me. But I didn't give up. I'm just happy that things are now happening here at Radio Thohoyandou, where my dream is unfolding and becoming a reality," he said.
Israel has big dreams.
"I aim to grow in the industry, possibly moving into producing or managing shows. I also hope to use my platform to uplift new talent and give back to the community through my work on radio. I'm so grateful for all the support – especially from station manager Ms Zazi Makosholo, who saw talent in me and gave me the chance to showcase it," he said.