With disability often overlooked by mainstream media, one radio station hopes to be a platform to advocate for and empower people with disabilities
Charismatic radio personality Mr TAP (Tebogo Poopedi) introduces his guest for the day as production manager Baba Signal (Buhlebenkosi Mkhize) blasts horns to celebrate. The focus is on disability and inclusion – a core mission for Skills Village Radio, an online radio station based out of Soweto, Gauteng. The duo established the online radio station in 2022.
“We have recognised that traditional media often underrepresents or misrepresents the experiences of individuals with disabilities,” says Tebogo.
“Our station aims to fill this gap by offering a space where these voices can be heard directly … and to provide a platform for skills development and community engagement,” he adds.
Buhlebenkosi adds: “Mr TAP (Tebogo) had a dream of starting a radio station that caters for people with disabilities. I was included as my specialty is sound design.”
“We both sat down and worked on the vision of how we can achieve that dream and make it a possibility.”
Chasing the dream
Armed with dream and lots of drive, the duo started Skills Village Radio with the goal of creating an inclusive community. Tebogo shares: “As Skills Village Radio, our hope is to leave a profound and lasting impact on both the disability community and the wider public.”
“Specifically, for people with disabilities, we hope to provide a sense of agency, self-worth, and the confidence to pursue their passions and advocate for their rights.”
“For the community at large, we hope to increase their understanding of the challenges and achievements of people with disabilities, and a shift away from prejudice and stereotypes.”
“We hope the community can recognise the contributions that people with disabilities make to society and the importance of valuing diverse perspectives,” he continues.
“Ultimately, Skills Village Radio hopes to inspire a society where people with disabilities are fully included, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential,” Tebogo adds.
The founders are an example of what can truly be achieved with just a dream as both were new to the radio industry and lacked some of the skills needed to run a station. They learned on-the-job.
“As I had never worked for a radio station before, I had to learn how things are done in terms of radio audio design, live streaming and presenting,” Buhlebenkosi shares.
Training the next generation
Paying it forward, the team now shares the knowledge that they have gained over the years by offering hands-on training in radio broadcasting, production and related media skills for those who would like to pursue a career in radio or journalism.
As words of encouragement, Buhlebenkosi notes: “People should avail themselves in spaces that will enable them to grow within any aspired field.
“If there are no opportunities, they should always opt for volunteering as they will learn a lot about that particular field. This will get them ready to do their best when that opportunity arises.”
“Everyone is destined for greatness regardless their race, age, disability and gender. If we do it together, it becomes even better than expected,” he adds.
A team effort
While Buhlebenkosi and Tebogo are the founding fathers, they have a dynamic team of presenters who assist with creating impactful and entertaining content.
Princess Sibanda, the human resources manager and presenter of the Health and Awareness show at Skills Village Radio, has always been passionate about disability rights.
“When I learned about the station, I was drawn to its mission of promoting inclusivity and empowerment. Joining the team allowed me to use my voice to tackle critical issues affecting people with disabilities while connecting with a broader audience,” she shares.
“Radio is a powerful medium for fostering connection, education, and awareness. It allows us to transcend barriers and create a space where diverse stories and perspectives can flourish.”
“I’m passionate about this work because it challenges stereotypes, informs listeners, and inspires action,” she adds.
The QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA) is a regular guest on the Health and Awareness show with a weekly interview on Tuesdays at 10 AM.
Presenter of the Inclusive Insights segment on Skills Village Radio and head of creative writing and social media, Simfisile Mazibuko is passionate about radio as it allows the presenters to express themselves without prejudice.
“I’m passionate about radio because it is a medium that allows expression in the purest form. It allows people to share their most honest selves without perceptions being built by the first impressions of appearance,” she explains. Her segment was inspired by her own experiences as a person with a disability.
“What inspired Inclusive Insights is my passion for inclusivity – not only of people with disabilities, but also of the allies without disabilities within the disability community. It was inspired by wanting to live in a truly inclusive and diverse world,” she says.
Pursuing passion
Princess shares some wisdom for those who are pursuing their passions, and specifically have an interest in radio: “Believe in the power of your voice and your ability to make a difference.”
“For those interested in radio, remember that authenticity is key. It’s your story and passion that will resonate with your audience. For individuals with disabilities, never let societal biases limit your aspirations. Embrace your uniqueness, seek out opportunities, and remain open to growth,” she adds.
Princess encourages people to move outside of their comfort zones, as she did within her role as human resources manager, as this can open doors to personal and professional growth.
Simfisile’s message to other people with disabilities is to remember the uniqueness that they have to offer.
“No two human beings share the same fingerprint pattern. So, everything that you touch, you have left your unique mark on. Let’s make it a goal that everything we touch has a glimmer of positivity,” she shares.
In February, the radio station celebrated its third year on air. Tebogo reflects: “The success of the station is a testament to the dedication and talent of the individuals involved. They continue to inspire and remind us that when people are given the opportunity to share their stories, the impact is profound and transformative.”
You can support the radio station through offering financial assistance, volunteering your time or simply tuning in to the thought- provoking discussion.
“Skills Village Radio is more than just a radio station. It’s a powerful example of how media can be used to promote social inclusion and empower marginalised communities,” Tebogo concludes.
