By Theodorah Waga Mawasha
POLOKWANE-Nonkululeko Brummelda Sharon Maringa affectionately known as Rooitjie Tshwukeleni was born in Pretoria and later moved to Malamulele township.
Rooitjie, a radio producer and businesswoman took Tzaneen Voice on the journey of becoming successful at a young age and how she achieved her accomplishments. She started her radio career at the age of thirteen and has taken giant leaps in her journey.
She has obtained a BA Degree in Communication studies from the University of Limpopo and she is currently working towards completing her Honours Degree in Organizational communication with UNISA (University of South Africa).
“I was always confronted with the challenge of being overlooked, criticized, and undermined. Thus, I had to work twice as hard to prove myself because I’m a young black woman in a male-dominated space. I was a kid star and started presenting kids’ programmes for Munghana Lonene while I was still young. I now produce campus connection and Tabuma slots,” she highlighted.
She further said that her son has been, and is her biggest motivation. Watching him grow compels her to push forward. “He is the reason I cherish life and look forward to what tomorrow will bring” she mentioned.
Maringa is the founder and owner of meticulous links which deal with commercial and residential cleaning, laundry services, sanitization, image consultation, voice-overs to mention but a few.
Picture Supplied: Rootjie rose from presenting teen shows to Ta duma presenter
“People second guess me at first glance. They are always sceptical and never trust I will deliver. There are multiple challenges, particularly in business and career-wise. I am perceived as incompetent until I have rendered the service. When the work is done my clients are always left in awe because my work is exceptional and it speaks for itself” she explained.
Reflecting on the rights of women in South Africa, she said that Gender-Based Violence is like cancer that eats body cells slowly until you are powerless and with no hope to live. She emphasized the importance of being in a healthy mind, body, and environment.
She told Tzaneen Voice that Women’s month to her means to reflect on what’s happening in and around you. Identifying the gaps and filling them. Furthermore, she said it means uplifting and nurturing those around us and that, It’s a work in progress.
“To all women who are being abused, end that relationship. It is up to us to break the cycle”.
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