Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – The moment that thousands of aspiring broadcasters and listeners across KwaZulu-Natal have been waiting for has finally arrived. Today, Gagasi FM proudly announces the winner of the Gagasi FM Rising Star Sports Presenter Search 2026, marking the culmination of an inspiring journey to discover the province’s next exceptional radio personality.
Launched to uncover fresh broadcasting talent, the Rising Star Presenter Search attracted an overwhelming response from passionate and ambitious individuals eager to pursue a career in radio. Following a rigorous selection process, auditions, and live challenges, the competition narrowed the field to an outstanding group of finalists who demonstrated remarkable talent, creativity, confidence, and a genuine passion for broadcasting.
Over the past few weeks, audiences have had the opportunity to follow the finalists’ journeys as they showcased their unique personalities, storytelling abilities, and on-air potential. Their commitment, resilience, and professionalism have embodied the future of South African broadcasting and reflected the incredible depth of talent within KwaZulu-Natal.
Today’s announcement will officially introduce the newest member of the Gagasi FM family, whose talent, determination, and authentic connection with audiences have earned them the title of Gagasi FM Rising Star Sports Presenter 2026.
In celebrating this milestone, Gagasi FM is also proud to recognise the remarkable achievements of every finalist who participated in this year’s competition. Their journeys have inspired listeners across the province and demonstrated that the future of broadcasting is bright.
THABISO KHUMALO
My name is Thabiso Khumalo, professionally known as Teekay Thabza. I am a South African sports broadcaster, presenter, media personality, fashion model, graphic designer, voice actor, and creative strategist based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
I currently serve as the Sports Presenter on Soulful Drive at Highway Radio 101.5 FM, where I deliver live sports bulletins every weekday from 15:00 to 18:00. Beyond my on-air responsibilities, I create digital content, design promotional graphics, and contribute to the station’s branding and creative strategy.
Before joining professional radio, my passion for presenting earned me two nominations for Best TV Presenter of the Year at both the LYD Awards and the MAM Awards. These experiences, combined with my work in broadcasting and media, have strengthened my confidence both behind the microphone and in front of the camera.
Born in Durban and raised in eMondlo, Vryheid, my journey has been shaped by resilience, creativity, and a determination to create opportunities where they do not exist. I am passionate about telling meaningful stories, connecting with audiences, and using the power of sport and media to inform, inspire, and entertain.
Favourite Quote: “Opportunity doesn’t guarantee success.”
Sthokoziso Ntshangase
My name is Sthokoziso Ntshangase, born and bred in the small town of Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal.
I am currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Sport Management at the University of Cape Town. Professionally, I serve as a Sports Broadcaster at uMgungundlovu FM, where I host the sports show every Saturday from 15:00 to 17:00. I also work as a Sports Administrator at Langalibalele Sports Academy, where I am committed to developing young football talent and contributing to the growth of the game at grassroots level.
My passion for sport, especially football, began at a very young age. Growing up, I spent countless hours watching and enjoying local football because my family had its own football club, VIP. Those early experiences ignited a lifelong love for the beautiful game and inspired me to pursue a career in sports broadcasting.
Today, I am passionate about giving a voice to athletes, telling compelling sporting stories, and using the power of media to inspire communities and promote local sport. Every opportunity behind the microphone is a chance to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact.
I believe that where you come from should never define how far you can go. With hard work, consistency, and purpose, anything is possible.
My personal motto is: “Give the world a reason to remember your name.”
Sfundo Smanga Mkhize
My name is Sfundo Smanga Mkhize, a dynamic sport enthusiast and emerging broadcaster, currently studying at University of Zululand in a different industry but during my time at the University I have volunteered as football referee and participated as volunteer for KZN intervasity in 2024. I am passionate follower of both local and global sport. Being a top 5 finalist for Gagasi FM Rising Star Sport Presenter search has been an amazing experience and as someone from OBuka I am driven to show young people from my area that it’s possible to break into media industry, own a mic and make my mark in South African sports.
Wendi Ntshangase
My name is Wendi Ntshangase from Ntuzuma in Durban. I made my radio debut in the 2023 Gagasi FM Rising Star Presenter Search then began my sports content creation two months after the competition ended. I then went on to host an award-winning Sports Show at PukFM, a Northwest University Potchefstroom campus radio station. My most recent experience was my collaboration with Lamontville Golden Arrows during the Bafana Bafana run in AFCON to professionally analyse the performance of the boys.
I represent resilience, determination and commitment to my craft as a passionate sports broadcaster that connects with the sports community through a bright and engaging personality.
SLII DIAZA
Born and raised in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, Slindile Mlondo, professionally known as Slii Diaza, is a sports broadcaster, television and radio personality, and digital media professional committed to informing, inspiring, and connecting with audiences through the power of storytelling.
With experience spanning television, radio, live event hosting, and digital media, Slii has built a reputation for bringing energy, authenticity, and confidence to every platform she steps onto. Among her career highlights, she has served as the Red-Carpet Host at the KZN Sports Awards, where she also created digital content for Joma Sport South Africa.
She has further collaborated with Joma Sport South Africa to produce sports content and compelling brand storytelling across various tournaments and events, while also working alongside several KwaZulu-Natal media platforms as a presenter and broadcaster.
Being selected as a Top 5 finalist in the Gagasi FM Rising Star Presenter Search marks another exciting milestone in her broadcasting journey. She hopes to use this opportunity to connect with audiences across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond while continuing to establish herself as one of South Africa’s next generation of broadcasters.
Favourite Quote:
“This isn’t just my dream—it’s proof that perseverance, faith, and consistency can open doors you once only imagined.”
Listeners and followers are encouraged to visit Gagasi FM’s digital platforms to view the official finalist profiles and join the station in celebrating the announcement of the Gagasi FM Rising Star Presenter Search 2026 winner.
