MTHATHA, EASTERN CAPE – For Lizwe Maphulumpana, better known to listeners as DJ Zweli, radio is far more than a career—it is a calling. Born and raised in Port St Johns (eMrhuleni) in the Eastern Cape, the energetic broadcaster has become a familiar voice on Ingwane FM, where he combines his passion for sport, music and community development. Away from the microphone, DJ Zweli is also a songwriter, recording artist and technician, proving that his love for media extends well beyond radio.
“My broadcasting career started on the 12 July 2022, joining Ingwane FM (90.6/104.5 MHz) as the presenter of Sport Parliament (Ezemidlalo), which airs every Saturday from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. I started by listening to school broadcasts as a child. At home, I would practise by presenting imaginary radio shows. That's where my love for radio was born,” he recalls
He credits legendary Umhlobo Wenene FM presenter Zingisile Mathiso, affectionately known as Ingxilimbela, as one of the broadcasters who inspired his journey into radio. "Listening to experienced broadcasters taught me how powerful radio can be. It is a platform that connects people, informs communities and gives ordinary voices a chance to be heard,” he said.
As host of a sports programme, DJ Zweli is passionate about promoting grassroots sport and showcasing emerging talent.
"My focus is on grassroots sport, where we celebrate raw talent while also giving exposure to fresh music and local artists." Although radio remains his first love, DJ Zweli is also building a name for himself in the music industry. Among his latest releases is "Weekend Banger", a collaboration featuring Kysto, Mahlafuna and Son Canga. For him, music and radio complement one another, providing different ways of connecting with audiences.
DJ Zweli said radio has transformed his life by allowing him to connect with people from different backgrounds and build lasting relationships within the community. "Radio brings people together. It creates a sense of belonging and allows communities to share their stories."
While some believe podcasts have replaced traditional broadcasting, he strongly disagrees.
"Podcasts are valuable, but they cannot completely replace radio. Radio provides immediate local news, community updates and real-time interaction that podcasts simply cannot offer." He also points out that the industry has evolved significantly.
"Today's radio stations are no longer limited to FM or AM frequencies. Through internet streaming, people can listen from anywhere in the world using smartphones and smart speakers.
" One of the biggest is securing interviews with high-profile sports personalities. "It can be difficult to get access to top-level players and sports figures, but we continue working hard to bring listeners quality content.It is not easy to make a lot of money in radio, but it is still possible if you remain committed and continue developing your skills,” he added.
Over the past six years, Ingwane FM has remained his broadcasting home, where he has gained valuable experience and built strong relationships with colleagues and listeners. Among the presenters he has enjoyed working alongside is Mcebisi Mboda, whose professionalism has helped shape his own journey.
“My ultimate goal is to own a community radio station, where I can mentor and develop young broadcasters while giving talented young people opportunities to grow. I also hope to join SABC's Umhlobo Wenene FM, one of South Africa's leading radio stations. I want to use radio to uplift my community by nurturing young talent and creating opportunities for others,” he said.
DJ Zweli encourages aspiring radio personalities to remain disciplined and committed to learning."The best place to start is by building good habits. Read widely, practise every day, solve problems, learn from your mistakes and always listen carefully to other people." He believes consistency, curiosity and humility are the qualities that separate good broadcasters from great ones. DJ Zweli expressed deep gratitude to everyone who has supported his journey.
"Thank you for the incredible journey, the endless love and the unforgettable memories we have shared together. You have never been just supporters—you have been family. Your encouragement has meant everything to me, and I appreciate every person who has believed in my dream,” he concluded.
As he continues to grow both on air and in music, DJ Zweli remains committed to using his voice to inform, entertain and inspire communities across the Eastern Cape and beyond.
Connect with DJ Zweli 📧 Email: lizwe87@gmail.com X (Twitter): @djzweli_rsa TikTok: @Djzweli_rsa Facebook: Lizwe DJ Zweli Maphulumpana