By Ashok Ramsarup :: A new community radio station- Southside FM – sprang to life in the burgeoning residential suburb of Chatsworth, south of Durban in the South African Province of KwaZulu-Natal, promising fresh perspectives and innovative programming, including news and current affairs news programs to its audience in the port city and surrounding areas.

At the helm of this exciting venture was none other than a 22-year-old teenager named Leah Ganasen, whose passion for storytelling encouraged her to this remarkable opportunity in broadcast journalism.

Leah had always been drawn to the power of the airwaves, captivated by the idea of reaching out to communities with just her young and dynamic voice. Growing up in the residential suburb of Phoenix had spent countless hours tinkering with her radio set, dreaming of the day when she could share her voice with the world and make a difference.

When the opportunity to become the anchor of a new radio station presented itself, Leah seized it
with both hands, determined to make a mark in the field of radiocracy. Armed with a degree from
the Durban University of Technology, an insatiable curiosity and a keen sense of creativity, a lucky
break captured her heart swaying her way to community radio. She set out to create the hourly
news slot to create an hourly news bulletin that would not only educate and inform but also inspire
her listeners across the political spectrum.

From the very first broadcast, Leah’s energy and enthusiasm swept through the airwaves, riding the new waves of excitement among her audience locally and abroad. The recent launch of mid-day current affairs has become a platform for emerging entrepreneurs, businesses including artists and undiscovered talents, showcasing the diversity and richness of the local music scene.

For Leah, armed with the qualification that she obtained DUT broadened her understanding of current affairs.

As the week went by, Leah’s popularity soared, drawing in listeners from far and wide through the hourly news. Her unique blend of humor, empathy, and authenticity resonated with people of all ages, forging a deep connection between herself. newsmakers and the audience.

But success did not come without its challenges. As a young anchor in a competitive industry, Leah
faced skepticism and doubt from some of her more seasoned colleagues. Yet, with unwavering
determination and a steadfast belief in her vision, persevered and pushed past the naysayers and
continued to pave her own broadcast journey.

Through her dedication, hard work in silence and persistence, Leah not only became a respected
voice in the radio community but also a role model for aspiring broadcasters and women’s power
everywhere. Her story served as a reminder that age was no barrier to success, and that with
passion, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace the unknown, anything was possible in this
world.

And so, the 22-year-old teenager who dared to dream big and break down boundaries on the airwaves became a symbol of hope and inspiration for all who listened, proving that sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys begin with a single voice and a world of possibilities waiting to be discovered.

In the heart of the vibrant residential suburb, Southside FM Radio Station has become a beacon of hope, connecting and informing residents with the latest news and entertainment news with a the shared vision of empowerment through radiocracy.

At the helm of this ambitious project is Sadha Govender, who is the Operations and Technical Director, and is a passionate and dedicated radiocracy advocate with a deep commitment to amplifying diverse voices and shedding light on pressing issues and developmental journalism.