College of Human Sciences

Prominent radio producer proudly graduates at Unisa

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Masilo Isaac Mashila

Masilo Isaac Mashila, an award-winning senior radio producer at Thobela FM, is beaming with pride after graduating with an Honours degree in Media Studies through the College of Human Sciences’ Department of Communication Science – his second postgraduate qualification at his university of choice.

Mashila’s academic journey is a prime example of the importance of perseverance and the willingness to overcome obstacles. Despite his demanding schedule as a national radio station producer, Mashila remained committed to his studies, attending lectures online and completing assignments to achieve his academic goals.

Mashila’s achievement also highlights the importance of continuing education in advancing one's career. With the ever-changing job market and the increasing demand for skilled professionals, individuals must constantly update their knowledge and skills to remain competitive in their respective fields. Mashila’s pursuit of higher education is a testament to his desire to improve his knowledge and skills to better serve his listeners and advance his career.

"Talent alone can’t sustain you in radio," the Limpopo-born radio man says. "I started as a presenter, then I was a producer, now I am a senior producer. Young people must study. They need to help in decision making. My qualifications from Unisa have helped me, because before doing my first postgraduate degree, I wasn't a researcher. Now I produce and oversee content that is expensive or extraordinary, and I think creatively."

Although his mother wanted him to be a dentist, after completing his matric, Mashila furthered his studies at Unisa, where he initially completed a National Diploma in Public Relations Management, and a short course in Practical Guidelines for Building Stakeholder Relations.

He completed his first honours degree (in Integrated Communication) at Unisa in 2019, and is currently registered for his Master’s in Integrated Organisational Communications. His thesis topic is "Communication impact in a workplace".

In addition to his academic and professional accomplishments, Mashila has won several awards, including the Best Head of Department from Radio Turf in 2016, Best Radio Presenter at Radio Turf in 2015, and Community Breakfast Host (National Community Radio Week, 2018).

Mashila aims to register for his PhD after completing his master’s degree, because he believes it will be an honour to be called Dr Mashila. He believes that education will inspire one to educate oneself further, as learning never stops.  

* By Tebogo Mahlaela, Communication and Marketing Specialist, College of Human Sciences

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Publish date: 2023/05/15

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