Women’s sport is gaining increased attention, with Siphokazi Malinga playing a key role in this progress. As an eNCA sports reporter, she is intentional about highlighting women’s achievements across different sporting codes.
After studying journalism, she began her career as a desk writer for eNCA in 2012 and became a sports reporter in Durban in 2019. Her passion for sport and storytelling has driven her career. She says she ‘was always fascinated not just by the action on the field, but by the human stories behind it’.
Malinga explains that she is deliberate when she covers stories of women in sport as she is intent on creating gender parity.
“I intentionally tell women’s sport stories with the same urgency and professionalism as men’s sport.”
eNCA sports reporter, Siphokazi Malinga
“Newsrooms can improve by allocating equal resources, consistent coverage not just during major tournaments, and positioning women’s sport as mainstream, not a side story.”
We have seen a vast improvement in women’s sport in South Africa in sports media. Malinga says she feels honoured to be part of the female representation in the industry.
“I am extremely proud to see women’s sport receive more coverage, investment, and respect in South Africa. It shows a lot of progress. It validates the hard work of so many athletes who have long deserved the spotlight. There’s still work to be done, but the growth has been powerful to witness.”
“It feels empowering. For a long time, women had to fight just to be in the room. Now we are leading conversations, anchoring shows, and shaping narratives. It’s proof that competence and talent will always rise,” she added.
While Malinga makes strides in her own career, she made special mention of trailblazing broadcaster Carol Tshabalala. She says the broadcasting icon’s pioneering career has been nothing short of an inspiration to her in her own journey.
“I admire Carol Tshabalala because of her confidence, knowledge, and for being unapologetically herself on screen.”
“Broadcasters like Carol Tshabalala have broken barriers internationally, while other platforms have also created space for many strong female voices. I’m inspired by women who lead with excellence and open doors for others.”
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Malinga shared that the one thing about her job that she loves is being able to create and reshape the sports media landscape with her storytelling.
“Sport has the power to unite people, inspire communities, and shift narratives. Being able to tell those stories in real time, especially moments that make history, is fulfilling, and that adrenaline keeps me going.”
The sport reporter covers a range of sport and says that this allows her to serve a broad audience where all stories can be told.
“Sport reflects life. There are wins, losses, and comebacks. Covering different codes allows me to connect with diverse audiences and celebrate excellence in all its forms”, she went on to say.
She harbours hopes of one day becoming a prominent figure within sports broadcasting on the global stage and also giving back to the newcomers in the industry.
“My biggest dream is to become one of the leading voices in sports broadcasting, not just locally, but globally, while continuing to champion women’s sport. Also building platforms and mentoring young women and constantly reminding them to take up the spaces.”
She urged young girls and women who are interested in one day joining the sports media industry to make the most of their time as they look to get ahead in their careers.
“Start now! Use your voice and study the game. Be prepared, be consistent, and don’t wait for permission. The industry can be competitive, but there is space for you.”
As gsport is set to celebrate its 20th birthday, Malinga reflected on how transformative the initiative’s influence has been on the overall industry.
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“The work done by gsport has been transformative,” says Malinga. “For two decades, they have intentionally amplified women’s voices and created recognition where there was once silence. Their impact goes beyond awards; they’ve shifted the narrative and helped normalise women’s excellence in sport. That is powerful.”
Main Photo Caption: Siphokazi Malinga is intentional about her role at eNCA, ensuring that women’s sports are reported with the same level of urgency and professionalism as men’s to foster true gender parity in the industry. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Highlighting a range of sports codes, Malinga connects with a broad audience towards a future where female athletes are positioned as a priority.
Photo 3 Caption: Drawing inspiration from trailblazers like Carol Tshabalala, Malinga aims to become a leading global voice dedicated to mentoring the next generation.
