Women Shaping the Future of Broadcasting: Tshegofatso Mothupi
Tshegofatso Mothupi’s journey into the media sector began as a fresh college graduate seeking an opportunity to complete her in-service training. The CEO of Mahikeng FM, Karabo Kgokgong, gave her the opportunity to undertake an 18-month placement at the station, where she gained valuable exposure to various departments, including sales and marketing, administration and programming.
This experience provided her with a broad understanding of how a community radio station operates, from generating revenue through advertising and events to managing programming and supporting the station’s day-to-day administration. During her training, Mahikeng FM identified a need for additional support in Human Resources and Compliance, particularly in ensuring adherence to ICASA regulations and the requirements of other relevant regulatory bodies.
Entrusted with these responsibilities, Tshegofatso embraced the opportunity to develop new skills while contributing meaningfully to the organisation. Her dedication, work ethic and potential were recognised at the end of her internship, when she was offered a permanent position in HR and Compliance. Over time, the role evolved into her current Corporate Services position, in which she now carries out her responsibilities with minimal supervision, reflecting the trust the organisation has placed in her capabilities.
Her journey at Mahikeng FM has strengthened her confidence, demonstrated her capabilities and reinforced her commitment to supporting the station’s growth and success while continuing to develop professionally within the media industry.
As part of Mahikeng FM, a community radio station committed to serving and empowering its community, Tshegofatso plays an important role in ensuring that the station operates in compliance with the regulatory requirements of ICASA, the Department of Employment and Labour, and the Department of Social Development. Her work contributes to protecting the station’s broadcasting licence and ensuring that Mahikeng FM remains a trusted platform that informs, educates and empowers its listeners.
Importantly, Mahikeng FM’s commitment to employee development through Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives has played a significant role in Tshegofatso’s professional growth. Through the station’s investment in training, skills development and industry exposure, she has been able to strengthen her knowledge and expertise, enabling her to contribute more effectively to both the organisation and the broader community it serves.
Through these CSI-supported development opportunities, Tshegofatso has completed the BCCSA Codes of Conduct Training Course, delivered through the NAB in partnership with Stellenbosch Business School. She has also undertaken SAGE Payroll training, as well as Payroll Preparation and Analysis Management training through AgiDeal. In addition, she has attended the Radio and Digital Broadcasting Summit, along with ICASA and MDDA compliance workshops.
These opportunities have enabled her to continually expand her skills across compliance, human resources, payroll and broadcasting regulation. By applying the knowledge gained through these programmes, Tshegofatso contributes to ensuring that Mahikeng FM remains compliant, sustainable and well governed, while strengthening the station’s ability to fulfil its mandate and make a positive impact in the communities it serves.
Her professional journey reflects the value of investing in people through CSI and skills-development initiatives. From an in-service trainee gaining her first exposure to broadcasting to a trusted Corporate Services professional, Tshegofatso’s growth demonstrates how meaningful opportunities can empower individuals to build careers while contributing to the sustainability and social impact of community media.
Mothupi believes that women are the driving force behind community broadcasting, saying that the sector “thrives when women are empowered to lead, innovate and serve.”