Ayabonga Kekana and Mzwandile Ntshona
Already established as radio personalities and content creators with strong digital followings, the duo returned to formal study to deepen their craft.
Kekana completed his BA Honours in Media Studies, while Ntshona graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Media, Communication and Culture (BA MCC).
Their shared milestone reflects a common approach to the industry: build your platform but continue to invest in knowledge.
While their work reaches different audiences, their journeys intersect in using media with intention and purpose, and in understanding its responsibility in society.
Ayabonga Kekana: Content with purpose
Known online as ‘Somlomo,’ isiXhosa for spokesperson, Kekana has built a following through humour that often carries deeper social commentary. His content, which unpacks modern masculinity and everyday realities, is shaped in part by his upbringing in a woman-led household.
Born in Tshabo and raised in Bisho, he grew up in a family sustained by his grandmother’s work as a domestic and farm worker. Despite the challenges, access to books through a local librarian sparked an early appreciation for learning.
“Growing up in such circumstances made me believe that education will be our ticket to liberate us out of poverty,” he says.
His path into media was not linear. After initially enrolling at the University of Fort Hare, he later found direction in community radio, building his foundation at Forte Community Radio before moving into journalism.
Today, he works within the SABC, contributing to news and current affairs programming, including on TruFM.
Alongside broadcasting, Kekana has embraced digital platforms as spaces for influence and impact.
“The digital era calls for us to look at content creation as a possible career path. It provides an opportunity for people to showcase their creative flair, while acting as a tool for transformative change.”
Through his work, he has driven conversations around men’s mental and financial health, with discussions extending beyond social media into community and institutional spaces.
Graduating with his BA Honours adds to his academic journey and aligns with his long-term goals, which include further research and contribution to the sector.
“Graduation to a black child is more than just obtaining an academic qualification. It’s a symbol of hope and change,” he says.
Mzwandile Ntshona: Broadcasting as ministry
For Mzwandile Ntshona, media is an extension of his calling.
A pastor and radio presenter at Umhlobo Wenene FM, he is known for programmes that speak directly to listeners navigating grief, faith and personal struggles. His early morning prayer slot, in particular, has become a consistent source of comfort for many.
“I wanted to open a space where broken-hearted people can come and get healing,” he says.
Ntshona, who was born in Nqamakwe, credits his family and early religious education for shaping his path. Before entering radio, he served as a full-time minister, and he continues to see broadcasting as part of that work.
“I am called to preach to the entire world,” he says.
His academic journey reflects the same commitment. Having already completed qualifications in theology, his BA MCC degree at Mandela University signals a deliberate move to strengthen his communication in broader public spaces.
His graduation moment captured that blend of confidence and showmanship. As he crossed the stage at the University’s Indoor Sports Centre, the capacity audience responded with rapturous cheers and ululations as he broke into traditional dance en route to his third qualification.
Now pursuing further studies in both theology and media, Ntshona sees his future in leadership and academia, with ambitions that extend into public sector communication.
For both graduates, returning to university was not about starting over, but about building forward.
Their enrolment in Mandela Uni’s Media and Communication Department highlights the role of formal education in refining practical experience. It also reinforces a message to aspiring media practitioners: entering the industry is one step, but sustaining impact requires continuous learning.