MBABANE – Popular South African football commentator Reggie ‘Mapensela’ Ndlovu has made a lifelong dream come true for rising Eswatini junior sports commentator, Cebolenkosi ‘Junior Mapensela’ Dlamini.
The two connected during an emotional WhatsApp conference call held two days ago. For Dlamini, the call was a long-awaited opportunity to have his idol assess his potential. Ndlovu is a titan of the industry, with a CV that includes commentating on the Nedbank Cup final between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, as well as various high-stakes Premier Soccer League (PSL) fixtures and the iconic Soweto Derby.
The 35-year-old SuperSport TV commentator, who was recently honoured as the Best Young Achiever Sportsman of the Year in Rwanda and invited to the Coliseum Stadium in Madrid to witness Real Madrid face Getafe, offered the youngster vital career advice. “Education is essential if you want to be successful in this life. I would advise pursuing a course entirely separate from entertainment as a safety net,” Ndlovu said. “Also, avoid drugs, as they only serve to derail your life. Your background does not dictate your future; you can achieve anything through hard work and dedication.”
Ndlovu also offered a crucial tip regarding Dlamini’s broadcasting craft, urging the pupil to find his own voice rather than copying his idols. “Do not mimic my style. The audience is vast, and you must be unique to truly be noticed and avoid accusations of plagiarism,” he added.
Dlamini, a pupil at Manzini Central High School, recently grabbed the headlines after thrilling spectators with his high-octane commentary during the Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation (RESCorp) Annual Sports Day. The event, held at a capacity Nsukuwansuku Stadium in Mhlume, is a staple of the Lubombo Region’s calendar.
RES Corp – a major sugarcane producer operating across Simunye, Ngomane, Mhlume, Tshaneni and Thunzini – hosts the yearly event to bring together employees and families for a day of sport, culture and entertainment. Reflecting on the call, an inspired Dlamini said the experience was a turning point for him. “I deeply appreciate these words of wisdom. To receive such encouragement from my role model is truly motivating. I will continue to work hard to nurture my talent,” he remarked.
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