Show Up, Stand Out and Own Your Future: How Ntsako Mkhari Turns Passion into Purpose
When sports journalist and broadcast anchor Ntsako Mkhari walks onto the field, he isn’t just covering a match; he is living proof of what happens when you dare to show up for your dreams. From YFM’s airwaves to eNCA’s television screens, Mkhari’s voice now inspires thousands across South Africa. But his journey to the top wasn’t handed to him on a silver platter. It was forged with grit, fueled by passion and built on an unwavering commitment to put in the work, no matter what.
Turning Self-Doubt into Fuel
Growing up in Johannesburg South, sports were everywhere, from high-energy township football matches to track sprinting. Mkhari always loved words, writing and great storytelling, but stepping into the spotlight felt like a giant hurdle. He struggled with severe imposter syndrome, made tougher by a speech impediment.
“I stutter. I didn’t think I would make it because of the way that I speak.”
Instead of letting fear define his limits, Mkhari chose to listen to the people who saw his potential. At Boston Media House, his lecturer noticed his razor-sharp sports insights during casual chats and sparked a movement: “Dude, you should actually just go into sports broadcasting because I think you’d be really good at it.”
That single spark set off a firestorm of drive. Although he was already enrolled in university, he hadn’t quite found what he was looking for. Then in 2018, Mkhari learned about the Y Academy, a prestigious 12-month hands-on training programme for young professionals looking to enter radio and broadcasting hosted by YFM. He took a massive leap of faith and applied. He didn’t wait for permission or perfect conditions. He stepped into that interview with total confidence and a golden mindset every young person needs to hear:
“Before you become it, be it.”
He walked into the room already holding the discipline, energy and knowledge of the sports anchor he knew he was destined to be. He told the interviewers exactly what he was looking for and was able to steer the conversation in a way where he could showcase his strengths and knowledge. And of course, he was accepted.
The Real Secret: Field-Level Hustle
In a world obsessed with quick fame, Mkhari built his brand on pure, unadulterated hustle. Long before the bright lights and televised broadcasts, he was on the ground, attending games, showing up at press conferences and putting in the work often without earning a single cent.
“In journalism, your currency is you being there. If I am at a story, no one can tell me about it; I have a firsthand account. That is where you are moulded.”
That level of hustle requires a fire that burns deeper than a paycheck.
“This should be a passion more than anything else, so that when the bad days come along, they don’t feel so bad”
Because Mkhari was consistently on the field doing the work, the sports editors at eNCA took notice. One day when they were short-staffed and needed a reporter, Mkhari was already on the scene ready to jump in. They’d already seen his consistent dedication. When an anchor slot opened up shortly after, they asked him to do a screen test. He aced it and went live that very weekend. Opportunity didn’t just strike by luck; it met a young man who had already put in the hours to be ready for it.
Gems for the Next Generation
For every young South African looking to break barriers, build a standout personal brand, or create their own opportunities, Mkhari’s journey is proof that your background does not limit your future. Here is his challenge to you:
- Master Your Craft: Read, research, and immerse yourself in your field. Know your stuff inside and out so when your moment arrives, you speak with confidence and authority.
- Respect the Opportunity: Be a product of people who believed in you. When someone gives you a chance, bring your absolute best so they never regret opening that door.
- Endure the Process: Success takes time, patience and resilience. The early mornings and quiet grind build the muscle you need for the big stage.
- Start Right Now: Stop waiting for the perfect moment. Start where you are. Use what you have.
Remember Mkhari’s words: “Do it scared. Do it tired. Just do it.”
Whenever he watches the Springboks raise a trophy or sees young kids running after a team bus in Soweto, he is reminded that showing up is worth every second of the grind.
“You won’t get rich off of journalism, but you’ll definitely live a rich life”
Your dream is waiting for you on the other side of your effort. Show up, put in the work, and make yourself unstoppable!
