When Lonwabo Miso walked up to the stage at Multichoice City to accept the Broadcast Journalist of the Year Award at the SAFJA Awards, it was a full-circle moment. For someone who never set out to be in sports broadcasting, her journey is a reminder that sometimes, life has a way of leading us exactly where we’re meant to be.
For many, Miso is the confident voice on Radio 2000 or the sharp, engaging presenter on SABC Sport, but behind the microphone is a story shaped by unexpected turns, bold chances, and a passion rooted in family and community.
From Architecture to Airwaves
Surprisingly, broadcasting wasn’t always in her plans. “I actually studied Architectural Draughting at first,” she recalls. But fate had other ideas. An audition at Voice of Wits (VOW FM) became the catalyst for a new journey. Not only did she land a slot at the campus station, but she also earned a bursary to study at the Wits Radio Academy — the real beginning of her broadcasting career.
Raised in Kwa-Thema, Springs in Ekurhuleni, Miso grew up splitting her time between her grandmothers’ homes, both filled with a love for sport. Whether it was Olympic action on SABC 2 or local soccer games, sport was ever-present. At school, she was the all-rounder — netball, cricket, cross country, debate, drama, public speaking. Looking back, she says: “Those activities were preparing me for what I do now: being on stage, performing, sharing stories, and always being around sport. Today, I’m blessed to call that passion my 9–5.” SAFJA Women's Footballer of the year
Finding Her Voice in Sport
Her career didn’t start in sports. Initially, she focused on current affairs at campus radio. But when she noticed the sports desk was quiet, she seized the chance. “That one decision changed everything. It’s proof that sometimes your purpose finds you when you take a chance.”
That chance has since blossomed into a career admired across South Africa.
Inspired by Trailblazers
Stepping into the media space, Miso found herself surrounded by some of the country’s most formidable female broadcasters. “At Radio 2000, I was surrounded by trailblazers — Lebo Motsoeli, Romy Titus, Kass Naidoo. These women were (and still are) powerhouses, and seeing them in action inspired me deeply.”
Representation mattered, and their example not only shaped her, but also pushed her to raise her own game.
Standing Out Among the Best
Winning Broadcast Journalist of the Year was no small feat, especially given the company she kept. “I was up against two people I have so much respect for. I grew up watching Mpho Maboi, and Kamza from VOW FM is doing incredible work. To stand alongside them was already a win, so receiving the award was the cherry on top.”
For Miso, the recognition was both humbling and motivating. “TV is still fairly new for me, so this award felt like a reassuring nod that the work I’m doing is resonating. It gave me a spring in my step and reminded me that hard work never goes unnoticed.”
A Milestone for Women in Sport
Her win is also symbolic of broader progress. “To have a woman named Broadcast Journalist of the Year is a milestone in itself. It shows that women have been putting in the hard yards and are finally getting the recognition they deserve. It’s proof that we belong here, that our voices are powerful, and that we’re shifting the narrative in spaces where women’s voices were once overlooked.”
Living the Dream, Building the Future
Though she dreams of one day anchoring her own sports show or broadcasting across the continent, Miso remains focused on the present. “I’m living my dream and soaking it all in. My focus is on honing my craft, putting in the work, and trusting that the universe will open the right doors when the time is right.”
Beyond the Microphone
Off-air, Miso’s proudest title is that of mother. “I’m a mom, and my favourite hood will always be motherhood. My kids are my ‘why.’ I want them to see me reaching for greatness so they can be inspired to do the same.”
Words to Her Younger Self
If she could speak to the younger Lonwabo just starting out, she would tell her:
“Trust yourself. You are exactly where you’re meant to be. Don’t doubt your journey just because the timing feels off. If something doesn’t happen right away, it doesn’t mean it’s not meant for you. Keep the faith, keep showing up, and remember: your path is uniquely yours.”
A Voice to Celebrate
Lonwabo Miso’s journey from Kwa-Thema to Broadcast Journalist of the year is a testament to courage, adaptability, and passion. As she continues to amplify stories, inspire audiences, and pave the way for future generations of women in sports broadcasting, her Broadcast Journalist of the Year title is more than deserved — it’s a celebration of a voice that South Africa needs.
Congratulations, Lonwabo. This is only the beginning.
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