Azania hits the ground running as host of revitalised #RealTalkOn3
It was a seamless transition for local media personality, radio presenter and businesswoman Azania Mosaka who took over the improved Real Talk on SABC 3.
With her graceful and elegant nature, Mosaka kicked off her first week on our TV screens as the new presenter of the award-winning talk show.
The 41-year-old said she was excited to be entrusted with the “unexpected opportunity”.
Azania said she had to consider the offer thoroughly, especially with the various roles she has - entrepreneur, mother and radio presenter.
“Because of the growth, you need to delegate and see the fact that you can't be all things in all areas, so this was actually a push,” she said.
She hosted the TV talk show when radio presenter and former host Anele Mdoda took a break, and she had the opportunity to rediscover her love for TV, which made great an impression on audiences, which in turn reflected on the ratings.
Mdoda decided to resign from the show and the management at Cheeky Media, who produce Real Talk, saw it fit to entrust the show to Mosaka.
#RealTalkOn3 with @Azania_. Reactions to her latest role as a broadcaster. @ReporterStar pic.twitter.com/jk7dRl1CTB
— Nokuthula Zwane (@Zwane_2Li2Ls) June 18, 2018
She added that she found out about her new gig two week ago and had already spoken to Mdoda.
“I did give her a call when the stand in and when she resigned because I also wanted to speak to her about her decision. She was clear to me about the fact that she wanted to explore other things. People have plans and something you realise that it's time to pursue x... that is what I took it to be,” she said.
Mosaka told The Star she aimed to engage in conversations that encourage people to dream, motivating girls and young women, as well as re-invigorating the audience and reminding them of their hopes and aspirations.
I like @Azania_ interviewing style. So much class and elegance. She’s not too pushy and the beauty of being a great host!! #RealTalkOn3
— Cam (@CamModisane) June 18, 2018
With her natural curiosity, she said she wanted to highlight ordinary people with extraordinary stories, which includes high-profile guests.
Mosaka kicked off her first week with a star-studded guest list which included Being Bonang reality star, entrepreneur and presenter, Bonang Matheba.
Local TV personality Bonang Matheba and Azania Mosaka on Real Talk at Steyn City, Johannesburg. Picture: Itumeleng English/African News Agency (ANA)
She tastefully probed Matheba on her life, career, social media presence and choices.
Throughout the week she will interview guests from the entertainment industry, including DJ Zinhle, Lady Zamar, Kwesta and Mshoza.
Mosaka said: “I do things that make people think 'are you out of your mind', like daring to go from a graveyard slot to drive time. Programme managers have believed in me and I dared to do it," she says, adding that this "challenge will be no different".
With a 24 year career, she ensures longevity in such a precarious industry by maintaining her pace.
Something genuine about Azania. And I love that she respects her guests; very important in an interview. #RealTalkOn3
— Lihle Mgobhozi (@Leesh_Lay) June 18, 2018
“That literally was my springboard to my career. I am 41 now it terms of TV and radio, what was key for me and what I discovered was to pace yourself, not do things that you shouldn't do,” she said.
Executive producer of the show Janez Vermieren added that it was an honour for a seasoned broadcaster joining the team.
“The Real Talk brand is built upon real conversations, telling the stories of ordinary South Africans and the conduit to this is an impartial host who has empathy and understanding of our country's complexities," Vermieren said.
Audiences can look forward to an hour of engaging TV and stimulating conversation on Real Talk, weekdays between 6pm and 7pm, on SABC 3.