The 2024 SABC Woman In TV Award winner, Thato Moeng, is still revelling in the atmosphere of the prestigious evening that brought together some of the most inspiring women in sports. Thato reflects on the journey that led her to this remarkable moment.
“Being acknowledged for something that is my passion by my peers is truly a pat on the back,” Thato expressed, highlighting the whirlwind of a year that included major tournaments like the FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Comrades Marathon, AFCON, EURO’s, and the Olympics. “The award has allowed me to reflect, as I prepare for the next challenge.”
For Thato, the road to success in sports broadcasting has been paved with both triumphs and challenges. As a female broadcaster, she faced her share of setbacks, but her unwavering belief in her purpose has been her guiding light.
“Whatever the challenge, I always remember why I started. It is not about me, it is about the story, it is about sport,” she stated. Thato’s resilience has been key to her growth. “With every pushback, difficult situation, and countless ‘No’s’, you reset, rethink, and push on nonetheless.”
When asked what sets women apart in the field of sports broadcasting, Thato emphasised the value of diversity. “We are all so different and so special. We see things from varied angles, and that already sets anyone apart as a storyteller.”
She encourages aspiring female presenters to embrace the ever-evolving world of media. “When I started as a journalist, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram didn’t exist. Today, we have YouTube and so many other platforms to reach the masses. Use them.”
Thato has witnessed remarkable changes in the coverage of women’s sports, particularly during her time at SuperSport. Recalling one of her earliest assignments, a WAFCON qualifier for Banyana Banyana in an empty stadium, she contrasted it with the vibrant atmosphere of today’s matches.
“Fast forward 14 years later, and I can take my daughter to a midweek Banyana game that’s almost packed to the rafters.”
2024 SABC Woman In TV Award Winner, Thato Moeng
She credits SuperSport’s commitment to women’s sports and campaigns like “Here for Her” for the ongoing growth and attention.
“2023, or as I called it 2020SHE, was a phenomenal year for women’s sport, especially in South Africa, with the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup, the Netball World Cup, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The biggest flex was our all-female broadcast crew at the Netball World Cup. That’s out-of-this-world boss moves.”
The fast-paced, dynamic environment of live sports broadcasting requires intense preparation, a trait Thato has mastered over the years.
“Always be prepared, and after preparing, prepare some more. The irony is that sometimes you’re only on air for 2 minutes, other times for 15 hours. Either way, you need to be ready.”
For Thato, live television has an exhilarating rush that keeps her on her toes. “Live TV has this adrenaline rush about it. It’s sink or swim, like Russian roulette, it’s beautiful.”
Thato’s message to young women pursuing a career in media is simple yet profound, “Be stubborn about your dreams. Work at them, reach out to people, and do not be afraid of rejection. It is not a ‘No’, it is just another opportunity to rework, elevate, and be better.”
She emphasises the importance of investing in one’s craft. “Study, really invest in your craft. Write, read, watch. Immerse yourself in your passion.”
Thato Moeng’s journey from a young journalist to an award-winning sports broadcaster is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and preparation. With her unstoppable drive, she continues to pave the way for the next generation of women in sports media.