Thabi Kamwangala-Mwenifumbo is an award-winning media personality, celebrated TV and radio presenter, producer and voice-over artist. She recently won the MISA Podcast of the Year Award (2024), solidifying her status as one of Malawi's most inspiring women. Malawian Girls Rock had the privilege of catching up with her for an exclusive interview.
MGR: What sparkled your passion for creating captivating media experiences and how has it evolved over time?
TKM: I remember as a kid I would watch the news with my father. What they talked about always fascinated me especially the news anchors. When I was in university, on some holiday, my father took me to a graduation ceremony at one of the schools in our village. He wanted me to encourage young people there by way of speech. That was my first speech on a large podium and since then, I knew that's what I always wanted to do. That's my journey into the media and I always go back to those humble beginnings just to think what would the little me watching a program or the news love to see.
MGR: Can you share a particularly memorable project or event you've hosted and what made it stand out?
TKM: This is definitely a difficult question. I don't think I can pick only one because there have been so many projects. But I think any program or event where I interact with different people and hear their perspective on life always standout to me.
MGR: How do you balance your personal life and work life? And why is this balance important to you?
TKM: I must be honest, in the beginning it was difficult for me. I start work at 5am, sometimes have to work on weekends and on holidays also, I tend to be somewhat of a workaholic. Exceptionally this year, I think I'm definitely doing better and trying to create time for family, friends, God and most importantly myself. One needs time for oneself for sure.
MGR: Can you share an example of a media project that educated or inspired your audience, especially fellow women, both young and old in a meaningful way?
TKM: I host a program called Mayi Wamakono (modern woman) and recently we started a group, more like a movement, where we have been doing some charity work and I'm definitely proud of that. I want my legacy to be beyond the airwaves, so this initiative helps empower different people which is something I'm extremely passionate about.
MGR: How do you measure the success of your projects and what impact do you hope to leave on your audience?
TKM: If I get one person to commend my speech, event, program, story or whatever I do or that it touched them, that's the moment of impact. These days I tend not to focus on issues such as the fame, the awards, the recognition, rather, I do what I do to leave an impact and make a positive difference.
MGR: How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements and how do you incorporate them into your work?
TKM: Always important to do research and stay up to date with what's happening whether by reading or having discussions with various people. These trends include from the country and also around the world.
MGR: What's next for you? Are there any exciting projects or initiatives on the horizon that you can share with us?
TKM: There is alot so I guess you just have to wait and See.
Despite her numerous accolades, Thabi Kamwangala remains one of Malawi's most impactful women, continually inspiring others through her work in TV, radio and many more. Her contributions extend far beyond the recognition she receives, driven by a deep passion for making a lasting impact on the lives of many, especially women.
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