Leah Ganasen
Journalist
Durban
Summary
A versatile and driven media professional with a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, offering a strong blend of practical experience and academic training across television, radio, print, and digital media. Adept at creating compelling content tailored to diverse audiences, with hands-on expertise in production, live broadcasting, and multimedia editing. A proactive team player with excellent communication skills, known for delivering under pressure and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
4
4
Languages
Work History
Bookseller
Exclusive Books King Shaka International Airport
DURBAN
08.2024 - Current
- Managed cash register transactions accurately, ensuring proper handling of financial transactions and minimizing discrepancies.
- Used consultative sales techniques to understand customer needs and recommend relevant products and services.
- Applied interpersonal and communication skills to establish selling relationship with customers.
- Restocked shelves and kept store displays attractive and organized to drive sales.
- Assisted customers with locating books and other materials in store.
Breakfast Show Co-host, Newsreader, Sports Reporter
Southside FM
DURBAN
05.2023 - 04.2024
- Co-hosted the station's flagship morning show, engaging a diverse audience with lively discussions, interviews, and listener interactions
- Collaborated with the production team to develop daily show outlines, incorporating breaking news, trending topics, and entertainment segments
- Played a key role in expanding the show's listener base through creative on-air promotions and community engagement initiatives
- Delivered hourly news bulletins, providing listeners with up-to-date information on local, national, and international events
- Conducted thorough research and fact-checking to ensure the accuracy and reliability of news content
- Adapted news presentation style to suit the station's tone and audience preferences
- Covered live sports events, providing real-time updates, commentary, and post-game analysis
- Built and maintained a network of sports contacts, including athletes, coaches, and sports journalists, to source exclusive stories
Sports Presenter, News Writer and Presenter
Durban Youth Radio
DURBAN
02.2022 - 02.2023
- Delivered live sports commentary, keeping listeners informed and entertained with insightful analysis and lively discussions
- Researched and prepared content for sports segments, including player profiles, match previews, and post-game summaries
- Engaged with the audience through social media, responding to comments and encouraging listener participation during live shows
- Crafted news scripts that balanced conciseness with depth, ensuring key information was communicated effectively within time constraints
- Presented news on-air with clarity and professionalism, adapting to the station's style while maintaining journalistic integrity
- Worked closely with the editorial team to select and prioritize stories based on their relevance and impact on the audience
Media Production and Technical Support
Family Restoration Centre
DURBAN
06.2016 - 12.2022
- Managed the filming and photography of church services and events, ensuring high-quality visual documentation
- Edited and produced videos for online and in-house viewing, enhancing the church's digital presence
- Operated livestreaming equipment, enabling remote participation in church services and events
- Managed real-time technical issues during broadcasts, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery
- Operated the sound desk during live services, balancing audio levels and ensuring clear sound transmission
- Managed projection software, coordinating visuals with the service schedule to enhance the worship experience
Television and Production Intern
Visionview Productions
DURBAN
07.2022 - 07.2022
- Assisted in setting up and operating broadcast equipment for live sports events, gaining hands-on experience in technical production
- Supported the camera crew by managing cables and ensuring smooth movement during live shoots, contributing to the overall quality of the broadcast
- Participated in pre-production meetings, contributing ideas for camera angles, shot lists, and broadcast segments
- Assisted with live commentary, providing real-time input and ensuring smooth communication between commentators and production staff
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism
Durban University of Technology
Durban 02.2020 - 12.2022
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) - Media Studies And Communications
University of South Africa
Online 01.2025 - Current
Matric Examinations - High School
Greenbury Secondary School
Phoenix, South Africa 01.2015 - 12.2019
Skills
Media Production
Video Editing
Audio Editing
Adobe Premiere Pro
Final Cut Pro
Wondershare Filmora
Audacity
Live Broadcasting
Technical Equipment Operation
Content Creation
Writing for Print Media
Writing for Digital Media
Writing for Broadcast Media
Audience Engagement
Platform-Specific Content Strategies
Digital Poster Creation
Infographic Creation
Social Media Content Creation
Canva
Photoshop
Technical Proficiency
Sound Desk Operation
Projection Software
Livestreaming Technologies
Communication
Networking
Verbal Communication
Written Communication
Professional Relationship Building
Time Management
Project Management
Adaptability
Problem Solving
Timeline
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) - Media Studies And Communications
University of South Africa
01.2025 - Current
Bookseller
Exclusive Books King Shaka International Airport
08.2024 - Current
Breakfast Show Co-host, Newsreader, Sports Reporter
Southside FM
05.2023 - 04.2024
Television and Production Intern
Visionview Productions
07.2022 - 07.2022
Sports Presenter, News Writer and Presenter
Durban Youth Radio
02.2022 - 02.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism
Durban University of Technology
02.2020 - 12.2022
Media Production and Technical Support
Family Restoration Centre
06.2016 - 12.2022
Matric Examinations - High School
Greenbury Secondary School
01.2015 - 12.2019