by Mihlali Matiwane
Alpha Ramushwana, a Pretoria West born and bred Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) alumnus, is fast making a name for himself in the journalism industry. Popularly known for his witty news reporting style at Eyewitness News, Ramushwana is hard at work building a career at one of the country’s leading media houses.
He credits his mother, a former news anchor at SABC, for sparking his passion and shaping his love for journalism. “Watching the news has been a constant thing in our household and I was forever drawn to it,” he said. Inspired by this environment, he enrolled for a Journalism qualification at TUT in 2020, followed by a Postgraduate Degree in Journalism. Though initially unsure about radio, his first job at Tshwane FM that same year, ignited a deep passion for broadcasting. A significant step in his career came in 2022, when he joined Eyewitness News, which provides broadcast content for Radio 702, 947, CapeTalk and KFM.
He acknowledges the instrumental role TUT played in shaping his journey. “TUT has been a major blessing in my life. Through the University, I managed to secure an internship at Pretoria Rekord Newspapers, where I gained first-hand experience in a newsroom,” he said.
He added that his lecturers played a crucial role in helping him land his current position at Eyewitness News. “My lecturers believed in me, nurtured my talent and have become lifelong mentors. I do not think I would be where I am today without their support,” he said.
Alpha Ramushwana at the 702 Studios.
Alpha Ramushwana
Also contributing to his success is former lecturer, Tshamano Makhadi, who remained a mentor, offering career advice whenever needed. “Many TUT students share the same experience with him always making time to support us,” Ramushwana noted.
Like other young professionals, Ramushwana has faced his share of challenges. “I sometimes make mistakes, at times lose hope and want to give up. But I have come to understand that this is all part of the journey,” he admitted.
His major support system has been his mother. As a fellow TUT journalism alumna, she understands the industry and provides valuable guidance. His father, though in a different profession, also plays a key role by checking in on his daily experiences.
Looking ahead, Ramushwana considers further studies, possibly pursuing a Master’s degree in Strategic Communications or an MBA, with long-term aspirations of earning a PhD. In his journalism career, he hopes to continue refining his skills and one day become a trusted voice in the industry, possibly hosting a current affairs radio show. “For now, it is all about learning and growing,” he concluded.