Senzo Msenge, fondly known as Warren Genaro by his fans, was born in Gauteng Province in the township of Thokoza and grew up in the Eastern Cape, in Qunu, next to the home of South Africa’s first black president, Dr. Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. He attended Nkalane J.S.S. and later Milton Mbekela S.S.S.. After returning to Johannesburg, he pursued tertiary studies in Office Administration, but quickly realized his true passion was not office work—it was media. A few years later, he followed his dream and studied Radio Broadcasting. Today, he is a DJ, MC, radio presenter, journalist and producer.
“I grew up in Nkalane location. As a child, I used to play soccer, swim in the river with friends, and look after cattle. During my soccer days, teammates nicknamed me “Warren” because they believed he played like former Orlando Pirates legend Warren Lewis. Qunu as a wonderful place to grow up. Every Christmas Day, children would visit Tata Mandela’s homestead to receive toys and food”, Senzo recalls. Senzo’s love for radio began at a very young age.
“I used to listen to UCR FM and Umhlobo Wenene FM at home. I would collect old radios and open them because I wanted to see the people who were talking inside.” Whenever he passed UCR FM in a taxi, he would look through the window and tell himself: “One day I will work here.” That dream eventually became reality when he joined the radio industry 10 years ago. Senzo has worked for three community radio stations: • Thokoza FM • Sabela FM • Ingwane FM He credits Ms. Lydia of Thokoza FM for giving him his first major opportunity. While there, he hosted several shows and won the Best Community Radio Presenter Award in 2023.
“I will not forget Mr. Lukes Ngxithi and Mr. Mno Manciya from Sabela FM for the opportunity they gave me before I join Ingwane FM. At Ingwane FM, I had the privilege of working alongside broadcasters I grew up listening to, including Bob Msithini, Sindile “Sir Jicks” Majikija, and Gova Maguda. I currently produces the station’s highly rated morning show “Masivukeni Mawethu” (3:00 AM – 6:00 AM) for popular presenter DJ Xolisa Sikhathele (DJ Sk). Senzo joined the RAN Online Training Programme because he had always dreamed of becoming a journalist.
“I wanted to help people who cannot help themselves by sharing their stories with the public. The programme transformed him completely. I have managed to cover many of the stories I always wanted to tell, and I have spoken to many celebrities about their journeys in the entertainment industry.” He further expressed deep appreciation for RAN Chief Editor, Mr. Phuti Ramaphakela. “He gave me more than a platform. His kindness, guidance, and the way he treats his students with care and respect made me feel safe, seen, and valued. Without him, I wouldn’t be here today.” Senzo says readers regularly send encouraging messages. “They appreciate my articles, say they are inspiring, and encourage me to keep changing people’s lives through storytelling.”
In the coming years, Senzo hopes to become one of South Africa’s best journalists while also helping young aspiring journalists develop their talents and succeed in the industry. His message is simple: “If you have a passion for it, go for it. Do your research, don’t listen to people who discourage you, volunteer to gain experience, and make sure you have the qualifications to support your journey,” he concluded.