TUT FM Receives Five Nominations At The 2025 Community Radio Awards. TUT FM, the dynamic voice of the Tshwane University of Technology, has been officially recognized with five prestigious nominations at the 2025 Community Radio Awards. This remarkable achievement cements the station’s place as a leading platform for youth-driven broadcasting, journalism excellence, and impactful community engagement in South Africa.
As community radio stations continue to play an essential role in informing, entertaining, and empowering local audiences, TUT FM nominations reflect its commitment to quality programming and talent development in the ever-evolving South African broadcasting industry.
A Milestone of Excellence and Recognition
With five categories acknowledged, TUT FM has emerged as one of the most celebrated university-run community stations in the country. This recognition showcases the hard work and creative brilliance of its presenters, producers, and management team.
The Five Nominations Received by TUT FM
| Award Category | Nominee / Show Name |
|---|---|
| Best News Reader | Zinhle Khumalo |
| Best Talk Show Host | Obakeng Mooketsi |
| Best Talk Show | The Groundbreakers |
| Best Afternoon Drive Show | Enroute 96.2 |
| Best Mid-Morning Show Presenter | Mathekga Senyolo |
These nominations will culminate in a formal celebration at the 2025 Community Radio Awards ceremony, scheduled to take place on 1 August 2025. The event is expected to bring together industry veterans, media students, community journalists, and radio enthusiasts from across South Africa.
The Voice of a Generation: TUT FM’s Growing Influence
For over two decades, TUT FM has been an incubator of future talent and a vibrant space for students to develop broadcasting skills. The station, based at Tshwane University of Technology, reaches thousands of listeners across Pretoria and surrounding areas with its blend of music, news, talk shows, and educational content.
What sets TUT FM apart in the South African broadcasting industry is its hybrid model — combining student training, community service, and youth-oriented programming. The latest Community Radio Awards nominations are a testament to this successful formula.
Celebrating Individual and Collective Achievements
The nominations recognize both individual brilliance and team excellence. Here’s a closer look at the standout figures and programs that earned TUT FM these honors:
1. Zinhle Khumalo – Best News Reader
Zinhle Khumalo’s nomination celebrates her articulate delivery, in-depth reporting, and commitment to ethical journalism. Her ability to present complex news in a clear, engaging manner makes her a trusted voice for listeners.
2. Obakeng Mooketsi – Best Talk Show Host
Known for his sharp wit and insightful commentary, Obakeng hosts conversations that tackle social, political, and cultural issues with nuance and depth. His nomination is a reflection of his engaging style and strong listener connection.
3. The Groundbreakers – Best Talk Show
This program brings dynamic conversations to the airwaves, focusing on youth challenges, entrepreneurship, mental health, and more. The Groundbreakers empowers its audience by shedding light on real issues with informed guests and thought-provoking dialogue.
4. Enroute 96.2 – Best Afternoon Drive Show
As a staple of TUT FM’s weekday programming, Enroute 96.2 blends music, traffic updates, trending news, and fun segments to keep commuters entertained and informed. Its nomination acknowledges the show’s smooth production and listener popularity.
5. Mathekga Senyolo – Best Mid-Morning Show Presenter
Mathekga brings energy, warmth, and authenticity to mid-morning radio. Her ability to engage with listeners and adapt to diverse topics has made her a standout voice in the community radio landscape.
Station Manager Speaks: “We Are Proud and Inspired”
Kedibone Tshelela, the dedicated Station Manager of TUT FM, expressed immense pride in the nominations.
“These nominations are a reflection of the dedication, passion, and professionalism of the entire TUT FM team. They make us proud and inspire us to continue striving for excellence while remaining deeply rooted in community development and student empowerment,” said Tshelela.
She also emphasized that such recognition helps the station assess its performance in the dynamic broadcasting landscape, identifying areas for growth and improvement.
A Training Ground for Media Talent
Beyond recognition, the success of TUT FM reaffirms its value as a media training hub. Many graduates of the station have gone on to establish careers in mainstream media, including SABC, e.tv, and online platforms.
By participating in real-time production, interviewing, and technical management, students at TUT FM gain invaluable practical experience. These Community Radio Awards nominations validate the station’s model of experiential learning and on-the-ground training.
The Role of Community Radio in South Africa
Community radio plays a critical role in South Africa’s media ecosystem, especially in marginalized areas where mainstream media often fails to reach. These stations:
- Deliver localized news and services.
- Promote cultural preservation.
- Serve as watchdogs for civic accountability.
- Offer a platform for grassroots voices.
TUT FM, with its roots in academic and youth culture, embodies the best of what community radio offers—information, education, and empowerment.
The Road to August 1: What Lies Ahead
The official 2025 Community Radio Awards ceremony promises to be a celebration of excellence and innovation in broadcasting. Whether or not TUT FM walks away with trophies, the nominations already place the station in elite company.
But the goal isn’t merely to win it about using the spotlight to further amplify voices, mentor the next generation, and strengthen the ties between students and the broader community.
The Legacy of TUT FM
Over the years, TUT FM has grown from a small student project into a powerful media institution with strong listenership and national recognition. From covering student protests to highlighting community achievements, the station has remained responsive, relevant, and resilient.
The five nominations at the 2025 Community Radio Awards highlight not just individual success but the station’s systemic commitment to quality.
The Future of Student-Led Broadcasting
As digital transformation reshapes the media industry, TUT FM is also innovating. From podcast series to social media integration and mobile streaming, the station is expanding its reach and adapting to new listener behaviors.
Future goals include:
- Enhanced digital production training
- Collaborations with other African university radio stations
- Investment in mobile journalism and on-demand content
By staying ahead of trends and focusing on media skills development, TUT FM is poised to remain a leader in the South African broadcasting industry for years to come.
Conclusion
The five nominations at the 2025 Community Radio Awards represent more than just a celebration—they are a symbol of TUT FM unwavering commitment to broadcasting excellence, community upliftment, and student empowerment. This milestone is a tribute to every intern, presenter, and manager who has believed in the vision of using radio as a tool for transformation.
