OSHAKATI – Every morning, in the small village of Ompunda, Okaku Constituency, young Magnaem Ndeshipanda Mvula listened eagerly to Oshiwambo Radio – now known as NBC Kati FM, entranced by the sounds of news, music and voices that carried far beyond her home.
As others switched off their radios, concerned about battery life or uninterested in anything but news or ‘Eyakulo’, Mvula stayed glued, imitating presenters and dreaming of a day she would speak into a microphone herself.
Her story, from a small village to radio studios and academic pursuits, stands as a testament to perseverance.
As she continues to learn, broadcast and impact, many can find inspiration in her belief that media is not just a profession for her, but it has always been her destiny.
She stated that it led her to volunteer work at the Oshakati Multi‑Purpose Youth Centre shortly after completing Grade 12.
For Mvula, the centre was more than just an after‑school space, as she calls it her “first university”, a place where she discovered confidence, media basics and a voice.
“Even before her professional break, I helped coordinate efforts toward establishing a community radio station. Though the station never materialised due to funding constraints, the experience ignited celebrations of possibility in my heart,” she said.
She told VIBEZ! that her professional journey formally began at the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation when, at 22, she joined despite not having enough points in Grade 12.
She remained committed to growing both academically and professionally.
She then enrolled at NAMCOL through Gabriel Taapopi Senior Secondary School, attending classes after her morning shifts at NBC.
“Later, I pursued and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree with Honours in Marketing through distance learning at the Namibia University of Science and Technology,” she shared.
Mvula added that she is now pursuing a Master of Arts in Development Studies at the University of Namibia.
“Over the past 15 years, I held numerous roles at NBC, evolving from freelancer to contract presenter and now a fully‑appointed studio producer,” she remarked.
Mvula revealed that her responsibilities are wide-ranging, including translating and presenting the news, moderating the interactive, Open Line show and producing the public affairs programme ‘Know Your Law’, among others.
She said the programme assignments are not her choice but delegated by management, a system she has embraced.
This allowed her to stretch her skills in various forms of broadcasting and journalism.
She believes that media professionals carry a grave responsibility to educate, inform and uplift society.
“When the public lacks accurate information, the media can easily be held accountable. We must be truthful, diligent and professional in every word we broadcast,” Mvula said.
She urged the youth to stand firm in their dreams.
“Let not overwhelm or disappointment deter you. Respect elders and your society, pursue education wherever you can, and steer clear of alcohol and drugs. Our government shows intent to support youth, but we must also show readiness and ambition. The future is yours to lead,” she urged.
-fhamalwa@nepc.com.na