Popular Umhlobo Wenene FM (UWFM) radio personality Mafa Bavuma launched his book Born For This at the Steve Biko Centre in Ginsberg, King William’s Town recently.
Bavuma, known for his affectionate laugh on I-Brakfesi Eyondlayo Ekuseni (BEE), UWFM’s flagship breakfast show, studied journalism at the former PE Technicon.
As part of the launch, excerpts from the book were acted out by Vuyani Speelman, Khanyile Mgqwanci and Anele Penny in a short play. Some parts involved audience interaction which kept them engaged.
Even the GO! unexpectedly got involved, coming on to play the part of Bavuma’s wife, Kuhle.
Sticking to unconventional methods, the crowd got a glimpse into Bavuma’s life when Kuhle came on stage.
“What I found most challenging was when he started to get more famous. We’d be on a getaway and employees of that establishment would come knocking at 5am to get a piece of him. It was quite challenging,” Kuhle said.
Bavuma said he never really thought of his life as being interesting enough for a book.
“When my colleague Vuyani Green asked me to write a book about my life, I laughed it off,” he said.
He added that he had to strike a delicate balance between his family’s right to privacy and the reader’s interest.
Former BEE show co-anchor Putco Mafani said it was more than just Bavuma’s laugh that captured his attention.
“He’s a go-getter. He doesn’t hesitate, nor does he procrastinate. He has a sense of humility and is well streamlined,” Mafani said.
Artist Phila Madlingozi, singer Dumza Maswana and comedian Tsepiso Nzayo were also on hand to provide entertainment.
Mr Mafa well done I’m so glad to listen every show of BEE and now looking forward of reading your book, because I would like to write a book but I don’t know where and how to start writing. Thank You.
Mafa Bavuma we as Youth you are our Role model we are looking up after you please keep on being our example we like your behavior Mr Bavuma
Well done for every you did so far