Anele really sparkles

LISTENING to 5FM's Anele Mdoda is just sweet music to the ears. Thank God she is no chatterbox.

Some people have called her names. They say she is a loudmouth, a coconut, not pretty and fat. They can call her what they want but this young lady is exactly what radio needs.

In fact, it is unfair to bring "pretty" into the equation because this is radio. A good voice and charm, which she has in abundance, is what is required.

She is witty, humorous and can think on her feet. It is sometimes amazing how her mind works and how she can wiggle her way out of a situation.

Those who were present at the MTN Radio Awards will tell you how she gave veteran Jeremy Mansfield a run for his money when the two were co-hosts.

She matched Mansfield's every step and, some would argue, upstaged him with her wit.

Some old lady who was called on stage for God knows what tried to shoot her down. Mdoda simply brushed her off and continued with the show as if nothing had happened.

Now that is character. Out of admiration I tried to engage her after the proceedings but by then everyone wanted a piece of her.

Mdoda co-hosts her show between noon and 3pm on weekdays with Grant Nash. Though there is some radiant chemistry between the two, you can almost feel her dominance on the show.

Sometimes it feels as if she holds back so as not to come on too strong. It is refreshing to have such a young gem on radio because we really are in dire need of new blood.

Not just for the sake of a new voices but good ones and Anele Mdoda gives us just that.

Her show is not serious - it is just having fun and the two know how to do that and engage their listeners. With her brain it would be useful to see Anele perhaps hosting a more serious programme.