media update’s Adam Wakefield spoke to 702 news reader and Eyewitness News reporter Aurelie Kalenga about her nomination at the 2018 Liberty Radio Awards, and what news reading is like away from the microphone.
You have been nominated for the Liberty Radio Awards. What does the nomination mean to you, as a news reader?
The nomination that I received in the News Bulletin Reader Commercial category affirms the hard work that I’ve put into my role as morning news anchor for 702 at a time of great political uncertainty. It says that I have finally found my place as a broadcaster for now.
What are the most difficult aspects of news reading?
The most difficult part is balancing the rush with quality news reporting because of how quickly stories develop at that time of the day.
What listeners don’t know is that I also edit scripts and play an active role in coordinating the flow of our content from reporters to the online team, and ultimately what goes out on air.
If you had three choice pieces of advice to give to students looking to enter the media and radio industry, what would they be?
Consume as much news as possible outside of work and journalism class. Always practice, and rehearse different ways to write and deliver stories, and read out loud. Don’t be shy.
Be patient with yourself, it’s a tough industry.
For more information, visit www.702.co.za or www.ewn.co.za.
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Working as a journalist is not for the faint-hearted. Read more in our article, What it takes to be a journalist.