Durban — East Coast Radio’s managing director, Boni Mchunu, is an inspiration to many after her senior appointment in one of the most male-dominated streams in the media industry.
Mchunu, who grew up in the dusty township of Imbali, is an example of a rose among thorns. She was inspired by her late father, whom she credits for being the woman she is today.
She said her father played a major role in encouraging and influencing her, and that was why she fiercely took on the world.
“I grew up in Pietermaritzburg, from a family of five girls, and I was brought up by my dad Mr Hlela, who is late now but played a significant role in preparing me to be the person I am today,” she said.
Mchunu said she had always been passionate about her personal growth and most importantly, education. Holding a project management diploma, a Bachelor's degree in marketing, and an executive leadership certificate from the London Business School and Wits Business School, she has not stopped acquiring knowledge, and is studying for a Masters in Business Administration degree.
“I am proud of how far I have come, and I am grateful for what is yet to come, and I am grateful to the people who have seen me and allowed me opportunities to display my capabilities,” she said.
Mchunu said she wanted to take ECR to greater heights and see it grow as a brand like no other. She said as a passionate businesswoman she admired what the station stood for, as it was the fabric that bound KZN together.
“KZN is at the centre of everything that we do and since I was born here, live here and I am proudly KZN, my love for ECR was love at first sight; I fell in love with ECR for a long time.
“So to be given the opportunity to lead this magnificent brand that is synonymous with KZN is an honour and privilege to me.”
Mchunu said women in leadership roles should always try to lead as their authentic selves and not try to imitate anyone. She said even though the number of women in leadership positions was growing, women still occupied 23% fewer posts than their male counterparts. She encouraged women in positions of influence to ensure they kept the circle open, for women to take up top spaces in future, by leveraging their influence.
“Many women in leadership roles, myself included, suffer from imposter syndrome. Most times we doubt our power and capacity – we need not. Mentorship and coaching could not only help us find our voice but, more importantly, believe in ourselves.”
Mchunu said her future plans included growing ECR sustainably in terms of audience, profitability, boosting the well-being of her team and having a well-balanced life and quality time with her family. She said her children and husband also played a major role in inspiring her to become the woman she is today.
Daily News