ON weekdays he is a taxi driver whose sole responsibility is to transport commuters.
But on Saturdays, he changes into a radio jock who has listeners hanging on his every word.
Sphamandla Cele from Kwa-Dweshula Village outside Port Shepstone, KZN juggles life as an entertainer and taximan with amazing ease.
The 24-year-old, who is known as uMagaye to his fans, is a presenter on Mazibuye Emasisweni, a traditional affairs show on community radio station Ugu Youth Radio.
He joined the station in 2014, but said his journey into the world of radio began in 2008 while he was still in matric.
At the time, one of his teachers gave him the opportunity to host a traditional event at school.
After hosting the event, Sphamandla realised he was born to present traditional shows.
Speaking about his show, he said: “The show is presented in isiZulu and provides a platform for up and coming traditional musicians to present their work.
“This is where young artists can launch their musical careers.
“I only play maskandi and mbaqanga on my show.
“However, being a presenter is not only about playing music.
“I also have to interview musicians, open the telephone lines for our listeners and talk about anything to do with culture and tradition.”
He said the highlight of his career came last year when he was nominated in the category for Best Community DJ at the South African Traditional Music Achievement awards.
Although he did not win the award, he still has hopes of one day being crowned king of community radio.
