Women Shaping the Future of Broadcasting: Wilma van Schalkwyk
Wilma van Schalkwyk's journey in media began in 1994, when she joined East Rand Stereo as a radio presenter. What started as a love for radio quickly grew into a lifelong calling as she discovered that broadcasting was far more than entertainment: it was a powerful platform to inform, encourage, inspire and unite communities.
During her many years at East Rand Stereo, Wilma’s career progressed from presenting to management. There, she gained extensive experience in programming, marketing, governance and station management. These opportunities provided her with a deep understanding of every aspect of community broadcasting and ignited a passion for building sustainable media organisations that serve their audiences with excellence.
In 2009, she joined Radio Pulpit, where she now serves as Senior Manager: Radio. Her role has evolved far beyond traditional broadcasting and includes radio operations, technical services, regulatory compliance, strategic planning and the development of innovative digital platforms. She is helping to lead the organisation through one of the most significant periods of transformation in the media industry.
Alongside her executive responsibilities at Radio Pulpit, Wilma has played a leadership role within South Africa's broadcasting sector. She served as Chairperson of the National Association of Broadcasters’ (NAB) Community Radio Committee and EXCO for more than a decade. She continues to serve as the committee’s Deputy Chairperson. She also served as Chairperson of the Association of Christian Media (ACM) for more than ten years. She formed part of the team that developed the NAB and Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) Future-Proofing Community Radio publication, helping equip community radio stations with the tools required to remain sustainable in an evolving digital landscape.
Throughout her 31-year career, one principle has remained constant: media is ultimately about people and purpose. Wilma is driven by her determination to uplift women around her and believes every platform should create opportunities for people to find their voice and make a meaningful impact. "Throughout my career, I've learned that technology will always evolve, but purpose never changes. Whether it's radio, digital media or A.I., my passion is to see more women find their voice, lead with confidence, and use every platform to bring hope, truth and positive change to their communities," she says.
As Senior Manager at Radio Pulpit, Wilma van Schalkwyk is actively involved in leading and supporting corporate social investment (CSI) initiatives that extend the impact of broadcasting beyond the airwaves. She helps drive projects that make a tangible difference in communities, including campaigns to collect matric farewell dresses for underprivileged learners, the distribution of sports equipment to schools and community organisations, and the facilitation of training, mentorship and skills development programmes that strengthen South Africa's community broadcasting sector.
Wilma has served for many years as a dedicated volunteer in her local church, supporting outreach initiatives in the Springs and Kempton Park communities. She has been involved in providing meals and showers for the homeless, collecting and distributing essential items to families in need, and organising Easter and Christmas celebration days for children in orphanages. Whether through broadcasting or hands-on community service, Wilma is passionate about using her leadership to serve others and create lasting, positive impact.