Many radio lovers, especially those from Musina, might be asking themselves what has happened to their once-favourite darling of the airwaves, Robert Marobs Ramphabana.
The answer is simple: Marobs is still alive but he has taken a backseat by becoming actively involved in production, voice-overs, and electronic equipment repair roles. He does independent adverts for various businesses that are aired on radio stations, particularly Musina Community Radio and Phalaphala FM.
"I can run but I can't hide from the radio. Although I am no longer actively involved in direct broadcasting, the love of radio still has a special place in my heart. Radio made me what I am, and I will never be separated from it. However, one must grow up in the career world and I believe that standing on my own has given me the opportunity to grow as an individual. I certainly don't regret exchanging the studio chair for an independent production role."
Ramphabana shot to stardom in 2010 when he joined Musina FM as a presenter of the morning drive show. He was a household name in the local radio fraternity where radio was considered 'boring' without him. During his five-year relationship with Musina FM, he held various positions, ranging from senior presenter and marketing manager to technical manager. He was also a familiar face when Musina FM did its roadshows at various shopping malls and villages.
A recording artist who has released one album before, Ramphabana encourages young people to follow their dreams without giving up. "Look, I was a household name in the radio fraternity, and everyone enjoyed my voice on Musina FM. During the time when people were enjoying my voice most, I decided to follow my dreams and stepped aside from the studio. Many people complained because they were missing me. But I never looked back because I knew that there was something better waiting for me out there. Today, I'm fulfilled and happy with what I'm doing outside the studio."