IN CONVERSATION: SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN LEADERS IN THE COMMUNITY MEDIA SECTOR
IN CONVERSATION: SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN LEADERS IN THE COMMUNITY MEDIA SECTOR WITH ELDOS FM
12 August 2025
By Mamosa Mahlokolisane
To mark National Women's Month , the Media development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) sat for an exclusive interview with Lorreal Ferris, a highly respected and accomplished woman in media. With her remarkable achievements and dedication to empowering women.
Ferris leads Eldos FM, a community radio station promoting nation-building, environmental justice, and social change. Launched in 2009, Eldos FM is a trusted voice and creative hub, nurturing local talent and serving its loyal listener community. Ferris shares her experiences as a woman in the sectors including on .
1. What do you think are the most significant barriers to entry for women in the media industry, and how can we address them? In 16 years of being a broadcaster, I have seen an equitable balance of gender representation at commercial, public and community media with regards to presenting and reporting. Women are however underrepresented in media management and technical skills in media.
2. How do you think the media industry can better represent and amplify the voices of women? South African women have come a long way in fighting for gender rights and continue to thrive in vertical mobility. Although women have opportunities to develop, there are still social issues such as gender-based violence and femicide that plague the country. Women feel unsafe and live in fear for their children with rampant crime and lawlessness in the country. The media industry can amplify the voices of women by highlighting issues that are important to women.
1. Can you share a personal story about a time when you felt empowered or inspired by another woman? Growing up, I was inspired by my mother’s tenacity to multitask a fulltime job, side hustles and family responsibilities. My mother who raised me in church taught me that anything is possible, and everything will work out for the good for those who love the Lord. My grandmother started working at the age of thirteen as a seamstress and my great grandmother was a domestic worker. I am inspired by all the women who came before me, who persevered hardships for the betterment of their families and communities.
2. How do you think your experiences as a woman in media have shaped your perspective and approach to your work? Community radio is far more than just broadcasting. It is about being a community worker. My experience as a station manager at Eldos FM has developed me into being a philanthropist, therapist, sound board and mediator. Community media is about understanding your audience on a psychological, social, economic and political level and then to disseminate information and education.
3. What do you hope your legacy will be, and how do you want to be remembered? My legacy would be that of self-belief, love for community and passing on knowledge to the next generation.
1. What does Women's Day mean to you, and how do you celebrate it? It means that women are acknowledged for the important role they play in society. All women all over the world should get a foot massage on Women’s Day.
2. How do you think we can use Women's Day as a catalyst for change and progress? Women do a lot, every day, for everyone. Women mostly don’t have the luxury to process trauma or to even take a long nap. Women should be allowed to just be, even just for one day. Even if it means being alone with herself. I believe that it is important for our mental health.
3. What message do you want to convey to women around the world onthis occasion ? Just take some time out to be with yourself, take some time out to just be. Happy Women’s Day and Women’s Month!
As we continue to celebrate women leaders this Women’s Monthwe honour women like Lorreal Ferris, who bring invaluable contributions to our world through their gifts, enthusiasm, and commitment. May we continue to uplift and support women in their pursuits.
-END-
Ferris leads Eldos FM, a community radio station promoting nation-building, environmental justice, and social change. Launched in 2009, Eldos FM is a trusted voice and creative hub, nurturing local talent and serving its loyal listener community. Ferris shares her experiences as a woman in the sectors including on .1. What do you think are the most significant barriers to entry for women in the media industry, and how can we address them? In 16 years of being a broadcaster, I have seen an equitable balance of gender representation at commercial, public and community media with regards to presenting and reporting. Women are however underrepresented in media management and technical skills in media.
2. How do you think the media industry can better represent and amplify the voices of women? South African women have come a long way in fighting for gender rights and continue to thrive in vertical mobility. Although women have opportunities to develop, there are still social issues such as gender-based violence and femicide that plague the country. Women feel unsafe and live in fear for their children with rampant crime and lawlessness in the country. The media industry can amplify the voices of women by highlighting issues that are important to women.
Personal Story
1. Can you share a personal story about a time when you felt empowered or inspired by another woman? Growing up, I was inspired by my mother’s tenacity to multitask a fulltime job, side hustles and family responsibilities. My mother who raised me in church taught me that anything is possible, and everything will work out for the good for those who love the Lord. My grandmother started working at the age of thirteen as a seamstress and my great grandmother was a domestic worker. I am inspired by all the women who came before me, who persevered hardships for the betterment of their families and communities.
2. How do you think your experiences as a woman in media have shaped your perspective and approach to your work? Community radio is far more than just broadcasting. It is about being a community worker. My experience as a station manager at Eldos FM has developed me into being a philanthropist, therapist, sound board and mediator. Community media is about understanding your audience on a psychological, social, economic and political level and then to disseminate information and education.
3. What do you hope your legacy will be, and how do you want to be remembered? My legacy would be that of self-belief, love for community and passing on knowledge to the next generation.
National Women's Day
1. What does Women's Day mean to you, and how do you celebrate it? It means that women are acknowledged for the important role they play in society. All women all over the world should get a foot massage on Women’s Day.
2. How do you think we can use Women's Day as a catalyst for change and progress? Women do a lot, every day, for everyone. Women mostly don’t have the luxury to process trauma or to even take a long nap. Women should be allowed to just be, even just for one day. Even if it means being alone with herself. I believe that it is important for our mental health.
3. What message do you want to convey to women around the world onthis occasion ? Just take some time out to be with yourself, take some time out to just be. Happy Women’s Day and Women’s Month!
As we continue to celebrate women leaders this Women’s Monthwe honour women like Lorreal Ferris, who bring invaluable contributions to our world through their gifts, enthusiasm, and commitment. May we continue to uplift and support women in their pursuits.
-END-