Women Shaping the Future of Broadcasting: Jasnine Roberts

Jasnine Roberts hosts the daily show Sakhisizwe on Bush Radio, where she uses the power of radio to address important social issues affecting communities, including unemployment, gender-based violence and mental health. Through the show, Roberts has also supported campaigns such as the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. On Tuesdays, Sakhisizwe features “The Bush Advice”, a segment that provides communities with access to free legal advice.

Before taking on her current role as a radio host, Roberts worked as a cashier at a movie theatre, where she was introduced to a professional working environment. “I also learned the value of hard work, saving money, and putting in long hours to work for what I wanted. This experience has taught me independence and that being inquisitive is important for learning,” she said.

She later worked in retail before deciding that she did not want to remain in the sector. Working at different shops helped Roberts build resilience and taught her how to adapt quickly to different environments. These experiences would prove valuable in her broadcasting career. She later enrolled in a leadership programme, which ultimately led to her being placed at Bush Radio.

For Roberts, broadcasting is more than a career — it is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

“Working in media is truly more passion than work for me. I enjoy the feeling of making a difference in people's lives, listening to their stories and learning from them. I continue learning constantly. I continue to learn, take workshops to attain more qualifications and courses. I refuse to be another statistic representing social ills on the Cape Flats.”

Through Sakhisizwe, Roberts continues to use her voice to inform, empower and connect with her community, creating a platform where people can engage with issues that affect their everyday lives while accessing information, advice and support. Her commitment to continuous learning and community-focused broadcasting reflects her belief that radio can be a powerful tool for social change.

Speaking about the importance of women finding their voices and taking up space, Roberts said: “Women need to stop standing in the background like shadows. We are not here to make men look good, so it’s about time we start to shine brighter.”