Pfariso Tshifhumulo is a well-known and popular poet in Limpopo. A seasoned traveller, he has recited his poems in distant places, including Northwest. Now, he has added another feather to his cap by becoming a radio presenter.
Better known as Pfari de Poet, he was born in Mavhode Dzimauli and has released two albums. His debut album, Venda la Namusi, was released in 2014, followed by Tshivhoni, which came out on 15 April 2024. Both albums have been highly successful, earning him numerous performances and bookings because of their popularity.
As if that were not enough, the poet has taken yet another giant leap in the entertainment industry - he is now a radio presenter at Thengwe FM in the Mutale area.
"I signed a contract with this new station in January 2025, where I started presenting two programmes: Rise and Shine, which airs Monday to Friday from 05:00 to 08:00, and Mvelele Yashu, broadcast on Saturdays from 19:00 to 21:00. This programme is very close to my heart as it focuses on the origins, culture, and traditions of the Vhavenda people. It aims to enlighten the youth, especially those who are unfamiliar with their history and roots," he said.
According to Pfari de Poet, his background as a poet has given him a unique advantage at the station. "Presenters used to play my songs on air," he said. This exposure caught the attention of the station manager, Rendani Neluheni, who reached out and invited him to join the team.
"It felt as though I had been waiting for this moment all my life - I didn't think twice about accepting. The station, based at the Thengwe Traditional Authority offices, has become my new home. I now feel valued as a rural poet, with community members regularly reaching out to me for cultural advice. This is a clear sign that I'm on the right path," he said.
Pfari de Poet explained that Vhavenda culture and traditions were his passion. "This is what I sing and recite about daily - it forms the core of my content. I am happy that since I joined the station, listenership has been growing in leaps and bounds. It shows that listeners have confidence in me, which is a great morale booster," he said.
He also revealed that his new book, Hu Kho Itea Mini, will be released soon.