2007 January Woman in Media: Lebo Motsoeli

Lebo Motsoeli has the kind of all-round experience that would make seasoned campaigners in sports broadcasting green with envy.

At 23, she is a presenter, scriptwriter, and voice over artist for SABC Sport, but her early success has certainly not gone to her head.

A sportswoman herself, having played hockey for 14 years, Lebo is passionate about sport and is also keen to excel in the male dominated industry of sports broadcasting.

Lebo’s youthful exuberance is evident in her natural and energetic style of presenting.

Her biggest broadcasting highlight so far was winning the Newcomer of the Year merit Award at last year’s SAB Sports Journalist Awards.

Introducing January’s Woman in Media: Lebo Motsoeli.

How did you get into sports broadcasting?

I was coming out of Henley Reception when someone approached me and asked if I was interested in coming in for an audition to be a presenter. Well, I was a bit skeptical at the beginning, but all went well, and as they say, the rest is history.

What are your current projects?

Host presenter for Sport on 2; host presenter and voice over artist for SABC Sport; producer, scriptwriter, and voice over artist for Sports Buzz; voice over artist for Rugga Zone; presenter and voice over artist for Spike.

What do you love most about sport?

The passion.

Do you play sport?

Yes, I’ve been playing hockey for 14 years now. I’ve played for Gauteng for three years and now play for the University of Johannesburg.

How do sports fans relate to you as a woman broadcaster?

Because its such a male dominated industry, the mind-set of the fans is also the same. The fans tell you how great you look, instead of telling you how informative you are!!

What has been your fondest career highlight so far?

Winning the SAB Newcomer of the Year merit award. I’ll never forget it. It was unexpected and it’s been the best thing to happen to me very early in my career.

What is the biggest challenge working in a male dominated field?

We are seen and not heard. That’s the big problem.

Who are some of the sports broadcasters you admire?

Duane Dell’Oca (Soccer commentator, and host of Gameplan on SAfm).

How can we improve the state of women’s sport in South Africa?

Women are not recognised enough. We can’t have national women’s soccer teams playing in an international game and not televising it, while on the other hand, we broadcast a game between two unknown sides playing in an empty stadium. It’s not right.

Women need more sponsorship, media coverage and more love from their fans. But most importantly, they need the support of the country behind them the same way the male national teams have all the support in the world, even after their dismal performances.

What would be your ideal job?

I don’t believe there’s an ideal job. There’s a reason for everything. There’s a reason why I’m here. God doesn’t provide ideal situations. Where I am right now is where he wants me to be. Besides, when do you know at job is ideal?

What did you do before you got into sports broadcasting?

I was studying BA Communication Science and doing odd jobs.

Favourite sports stars:

Marsha Marescia and Sibusiso Zuma

Favourite stadium:

Kings Park Stadium in Durban

Favourite motto:

Live today as if it’s your last. Yesterday’s problems won’t make today better nor will they change tomorrow!

What inspires you?

Prayer. When all is good, when all seems to be going wrong, a little prayer goes a long way. And my parents, if I don’t speak to them at least once a day, I’ll lose it. And if I don’t see them at least once a week, I definitely lose it. They keep me going 24/7 and  they’re always there for me.

Who are your role models?

I don’t believe in role models. Certain attributes is what I take from every single person I come across. Whether it’s a little girls, an aged woman, a street vendor, or the most arrogant persona I know, I always learn something from them.

Advice for aspiring women sports broadcasters?

Don’t let anyone tell you you’re not good enough. If you want something, go out and do it!!

What are your goals for 2007?

No goals, I take each day as it comes.

Best career advice you’ve received?

You’re only as good as your last job. No one remembers the brilliant show you did a week ago, so do the current one as if it were your last one!

What do you love most about South Africa?

The weather and the food

How do you relax?

I read a lot. I’m a home junkie. If I’m not at work, 99% of the time

I’m at home. I enjoy my time along because in my industry you’re constantly surrounded by people.