Tshepo Makhubela

DJ13SA, also known as Tshepo Makhubela, is a prominent figure in South Africa's music and broadcasting industry, embarking on his journey in 2003. His career has been defined by a steadfast commitment to youth empowerment and a significant impact on the music and entertainment landscape.

Mentorship and Education:

In 2013, DJ13SA became a mentor for the 'CAGC Youth Development Program' (CAGCYDP), where he organized youth workshops, career expos, school visits, and bursary programs, empowering and preparing young individuals for their future endeavors. His dedication to mentorship continued in 2011 when he joined the 'Fuse Academy,' led by DJ Zinhle and Nomndeni Mdakhi, as a lecturer, focusing on educating aspiring female DJs.

Broadcasting Career:

DJ13SA's broadcasting journey commenced in 2011 at "VOW FM," initially as a technical producer. His contributions were pivotal in revitalizing the campus radio's presence, especially after it regained its broadcasting license. From late 2013 to 2017, at "Jacaranda FM," he progressed from a Junior Imaging Producer to a full-time drive show content producer for Martin Bester, demonstrating his creativity and commitment to delivering high-quality radio content.

Television Career and Gospel Unplugged:

In 2018, DJ13SA's career took an exciting turn as he became part of the "Gospel Unplugged" TV program on "SABC 1." His role as a seasoned resident gospel house DJ in the first season led to the show's remarkable success, marked by the attainment of a prestigious "Crown Gospel Award." In the second season (2020), DJ13SA promoted to not only a DJ but co-host, further solidifying his influence in the gospel music scene.

Expanding Influence and Industry Recognition:

DJ13SA expanded his influence by venturing into various channels and broadcasters, including DSTV's "One Gospel." He hosted feature programs, made guest appearances on music inserts, and participated in TV programs, establishing himself as a versatile media personality. Throughout his career, DJ13SA received numerous nominations at the "Liberty Radio Awards" (formerly MTN Radio Awards), winning his first 'Radio Award' in 2013 for his dedication to teaching a blind student to independently operate a broadcast studio while tutoring at the 'Wits Radio Academy.'

Business Acumen and Industry Impact:

Beyond his broadcasting and mentoring roles, DJ13SA showed a keen interest in the business side of the music industry. Guided by industry veterans like Vusi Leeuw, Mjakes Thebe and Leroy Khoza, he added substantial value to independent South African record labels and music-led PR companies. Labels such as "H.U.G.E Entertainment," "Raplyf-Records," "Inkabi Nation," "Song Bird Entertainment," "Coal Train Records," "Nu - Sound Factory," and "SBR-Projects" benefited from DJ13SA's contributions, housing some of the country's most influential artists. DJ13SA's collaborations with renowned artists like Kwesta-DaKaar, Thabsie, Masandi Mfusi, Bongani Masondo, Londie London, Big Zulu, Mfana Kah Gogo, Stimela, Zahara and Mjakes Thebe solidified his presence in the music industry, contributing to their success.

Legacy and Future Impact:

DJ13SA's journey from a budding DJ to a revered figure in South Africa's music and broadcasting industry reflects his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and excellence. His multifaceted contributions to music, broadcasting, and education serve as a testament to his enduring legacy in South Africa's cultural and creative spheres.

Trained a blind student on how to independently run a and edit a full broadcast studio. I was recognized and awarded an MTN Radio Award for my contributions to the broadcast sector for the work in 2012 under the Bright Star Category representing both Voice Of Wits (VowFM) & Wits Radio Academy under Prof Franz Kruger & Mike Smurthweight.

In 2015 i futher contributed to the station of the year award for JacarandaFM and a year later again the Best Drive Show contribution. (Martin Bester Show).

In 2018, Gospel Unplugged won a Crown Gospel Award, our contribution to the on-air programming has since shaped the pop gospel TV format aired.