Sandile Mahlangu

For Sandile Mahlangu, 24, radio has never been just background noise — it’s a platform for influence, empowerment, and meaningful change. Sandile is shaping content and programming at YFM, one of South Africa’s most influential youth radio stations. As a programming assistant, Mahlangu coordinates talent schedules, assists with content development, booking guests and facilitating outside broadcasts. Driven by the belief that “we are the youth we’ve been waiting for”, Sandile has consistently used his platform to create opportunities for others. At North-West University, he made history as the first student journalist to cover events on behalf of the institution, amplifying student voices and showcasing campus achievements. Beyond radio, Sandile serves as a board member for the I Am Your Friend Foundation, which offers young people university readiness programmes, economic literacy and community outreach.He produces social media content, making vital information more accessible. Mentored by icons like DJ Fresh and inspired by thought leaders such as Gugu Mphuthi, Mahlangu is determined to use every opportunity to inform, empower and help shape a more knowledgeable, connected society.

Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, North-West University

• Secured a new role in programming, positioning the holder to contribute meaningfully to on-air content. This opportunity expanded a passion for information sharing across multiple shows, not just one. The most exciting aspect is the ability to influence and shape the minds of young listeners at a station primarily tuned into by youth.
• Became the first student journalist at North-West University to cover events on behalf of the institution. This was a door knocked on independently, opening the chance to give fellow students a voice and amplify the impactful work they do on campus.

I look up to different people for different reasons: DJ Fresh – He is both a mentor and a role model to me. As one of the greatest radio broadcasters South Africa has ever produced, DJ Fresh has played a significant role in opening doors for me in the world of radio. I admire how he uses the medium not just to entertain but to genuinely change people’s lives. Gugu Mphuthi – She is a trailblazer in the world of economics, making the subject accessible and relatable to the everyday person. Through radio and social media, she simplifies complex business and economic concepts, using these platforms as tools to educate the public — which is why I create social media videos as well.