JOHANNESBURG– THE establishment of Merafong FM can best be attributed to divine intervention. While the name has over the years been synonymous with violent protests in Khutsong, it is now mentioned in the same breath as a radio station that is empowering the local community.

Growing up in N’wamitwa, a village in greater Tzaneen Local Municipality in Limpopo Province, Alone Pilusa harboured a dream of starting a radio station that would provide a platform for communication with issues regarding crime, economic development and to commercialise local arts.

“I conceived Merafong FM 106.5 in 2010 while I was in Soweto,” says the 32-year-old Chief Executive Officer of Merafong Media Group.

“I always dreamt of starting a radio station. I remember praying to God to lead me to a community with huge challenges to start such a radio station. Immediately, a picture of Khutsong emerged. It was scenes that I saw on television when the residents fought the demarcation matter,” says Pilusa.

Growing up in Limpopo, he points out he didn’t have much knowledge about Khutsong, the area west of Johannesburg that suffered mayhem over demarcation issues in 2006 .

“Imagine, I didn’t even know that Khutsong was part of Gauteng. I had never been there before. I took the train from Orlando to Oberholzer. When I get off, I followed the multitude because I didn’t know the area at all.”

“I was inspired by the Khutsong struggle. The fact that they won the battle (demarcation from wealthy Gauteng to poorer North West Province) motivated a lot. In addition… the service delivery challenges. If you come to Carletonville, you will realise the area is still more developed and uplifted. I felt radio could be the catalyst. Above everything I was inspired by my passion for radio. I love this medium so much.”

Pilusa’s first break was at Jozi FM where he was a reporter.

The dream to open a radio station would edge closer to reality when he met local businessman, Andre Van Tonder, who committed to help him with the project.

“However, the man who became my second-in-command was Lebohang Kgadi our Station Manager. I regard as the co-founder. He played an important role to support me until we went on air. I also am indebted to our founding Programmes Manager, Thabo Mokuke.

But it was no plain sailing with lack of funding the biggest setback.

“In 2015, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) threatened to withdraw the station’s license if it did not go live.

“I told them to give us three months to fundraise to get equipments. Fortunately, Stephan Koen, a businessman in Carletonville committed to sponsor us to go on air. Wits University sponsored with a transmitter. Today, the station has been with new transmitter from Bentel Group and new home in Carletonville Mall.”

The station boasts more than 30 people including management.

Pilusa’s long-held dream has been realised.

“I’m glad the local artists can be played every day on our station. The opportunity never existed before.”

Merafong FM also supports a lot of charity of work through mobilization and communication in general has been improved in the area.

“Local businesses can get the sales promoted at lower rates than in national media. We have engaged volunteers solely from the Merafong Municipality.”

Prior to his stint on radio, Pilusa matriculated in 2003 and moved to Orlando East where he volunteered to work for Jozi FM, Thetha FM and VUT FM.

He further studied Advanced Radio course with Wits Radio Academy and graduated in 2011.

Pilusa, who also runs the Pilusa Foundation, offered some advice to up-and-coming entrepreneurs.

“They need to possess a positive attitude, focus, build character and prioritize their personal development through education, mentorship and attend events that add value to their lives. My philosophy in life: don’t allow your talent to take you where your character can’t keep you.”

 – Guardian