In a province where the heartbeat of sport pulses through every township and schoolyard, Tracy Makhanya is a voice rising above the noise, loud, proud, and unwavering in her mission to shine a spotlight on the stories that matter.
As the sports anchor for Intokozo FM, a community radio station based in KwaZulu-Natal, Makhanya has carved out a reputation as a dynamic and respected presenter, determined to put local talent, especially women in sport, front and centre.
Born in Umbumbulu and raised in Umlazi, her love for sport was forged in the daily rhythm of her community, where school sports were a unifying force and weekend games brought neighbours together.
“Automatically, I fell in love with sports.”
Intokozo FM Sports Anchor, Tracy Makhanya
“My late grandfather, Walter Makhanya, encouraged me to pursue broadcasting because I was always watching the likes of Robert Marawa, Walter Mokoena, and Carol Tshabalala, back when she was Carol Manana,” she reflects.
Makhanya worked on 1KZNTV as a sports anchor in 2019, and today she touches the masses on Intokozo FM.
“No two days are the same,” Makhanya explains. “I start by researching the latest sports news, planning my shows, then going live, interviewing athletes, coaches, and experts. I especially love sharing the stories of our local teams and athletes who are making a real difference in their communities.”
She was honoured as the Best Sports Presenter in the Mzansi Community Media & Creative Awards in 2024. Currently, she’s nominated in the Zenzele Mbokodo Awards for the Best Female Sports Journalist in KZN, her star continues to shine. Achievements she describes as both “a huge surprise and an honour.”
“Personally, it validated all the hard work I’ve put into my journey. Professionally, it opened doors, like the opportunity to work with Team Zimbabwe during their 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Benin. That was a dream come true.”
For Makhanya, radio isn’t just a job, it’s a platform. A platform she uses intentionally to elevate women’s sport in the province.
“I make a conscious effort to feature women’s sports and female athletes on my show. I talk to coaches, athletes, officials, anyone who’s part of the ecosystem, to share their stories and the challenges they face. I also collaborate with local organisations to promote women’s sport and encourage young girls to participate. Representation starts with visibility.”
One story that stayed with her was that of a wheelchair basketball player from Ndwedwe who represented Team KZN at the IWBF U25 Women’s World Championship in 2023.
“Her determination and passion were next level. It was an honour to share her journey and show what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.”
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Despite her success, the road hasn’t always been smooth. Being a woman in sports media, especially in male-dominated spaces, comes with its challenges.
“There’s been scepticism. People assume you’re there to ask the ‘soft’ questions,” she says. “But I’ve learnt to be prepared, to build relationships with coaches and athletes, and to let my storytelling speak for itself.”
The landscape is slowly shifting. Makhanya says she’s seeing more women in the media space and more coverage of women’s sports in KZN, though there’s still a long way to go.
“When women take up leadership roles in sport or behind the mic, the stories change. The perspectives broaden. We need more of that.”
When asked who inspires her, she doesn’t hesitate.
“Serena Williams, for everything she’s stood for. And locally, I admire Motshidisi Mohono, the first lady of rugby, and Caster Semenya, who’s been fearless through it all.”
If she could change one thing about the media landscape in South Africa, she says, “Equal coverage. Women deserve the same recognition and support as men. It’s time.”
As for what lies ahead, Makhanya is clear-eyed and focused.
“I want to keep growing as a presenter, continue using my platform to inspire and empower girls through sport, and eventually take on leadership roles in sports development. I want to give back to my community and be part of the change I want to see.”
Main Photo Caption: Award-winning and community-driven Intokozo FM sports anchor Tracy Makhanya is using her voice to uplift women’s sport in KwaZulu-Natal. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Born in Umbumbulu and raised in Umlazi, her love for sport was forged in the daily rhythm of her community with school sports as the unifying force.
Photo 3 Caption: For Makhanya, radio isn’t just a job, it’s a platform she uses intentionally to elevate women’s sport in the province.
