Q&A with Anele Mdoda

Radio twosome Grant and Anele recently announced that they will be parting ways and leaving the popular youth station 5FM. We speak to Anele Mdoda to find out more.

It’s so sad to hear that you and Grant will be parting ways and leaving 5FM. Why the sudden or not so sudden decision?
In actual fact, it was not a sudden decision. Grant decided in November last year that he would be giving up radio in 2012.

You said on your show that you’re moving onto a new challenge. Tell us about your new opportunity? Where are you going? What are your plans?
I am joining 94.7 Highveld Stereo as the host of the afternoon drive show from 4-7pm weekdays.

Grant, an avid Buddhist and vegan, is going to Nepal to do undertake a vow of silence. Aren’t you going to miss each other considering how long you’ve been a team?
Grant and I are great friends. We have known each other for a long time. Yes, I will miss him on and off air. He is only going to Nepal for five months of the year so trust me, the other seven months are dedicated to me.

Would you ever take a vow of silence?
I do, when I am sleeping.

What have been the greatest highlights of working on 5FM?
The listeners – they are people that I would hang out with. They are basically friends that I have never met.

You mentioned on the show that it’s time to make opportunities for other aspiring DJs. Why is this so important to you?
As a young, aspiring radio presenter it can seem as though the radio industry is never going to change. So moves like my move are important because it shows people who want to get into radio that it is constantly moving and changing. Simply put, it creates opportunities for all. In addition, I will be training up-and-coming presenters at the station I’m moving to.

Where would you like to see yourself in five years' time?
I didn't see myself in this position two weeks ago so you just never know. However, have a look at the May 2010 cover of DESTINY, which I graced. I actually mention that in five years' time, I see myself as the host of an afternoon drive show.

What three tips do you have for people looking to get into radio?
1. You must be willing to start at the bottom and put in the time.
2. You must not do it for the fame.
3. You have to be yourself.