BY Sisipho Mafusini
Anikah Fortune’s journey to becoming Heart FM’s Traffic Idol is a remarkable tale of determination and growth. After winning a competitive selection process, she has spent the past month delivering engaging traffic updates, quickly making her mark on the airwaves.
Reflecting on her experience, Anikah describes her time at Heart FM as both amazing and challenging. “I’ve had to unlearn many things I thought I knew,” she shares, crediting the invaluable guidance from seasoned presenters. While she acknowledges she’s not yet where she wants to be, she feels she’s improving every day. Looking back at her early traffic idol auditions, she’s amazed at how far she’s come.
One of her favorite moments happened while hiking when a fellow hiker excitedly shouted her name, revealing he listens to her daily. “I couldn’t believe it! It felt amazing,” she recalls. Another memorable encounter at the iHeart Sunday’s event reinforced her realisation that she is a role model for others, deepening her appreciation for Heart FM platform.
Anikah has always dreamed of being a radio personality, often pretending to be Jeannie D as a child. Her journey included two years at community radio at UCT, where she hosted a show covering traffic and sports. A key turning point was her job-shadowing experience at Heart FM, which solidified her passion for radio.
Admittedly, Anikah used to struggle with directions, but her understanding has evolved significantly. Now, she relies on maps and has developed a stronger directional sense.
Looking forward, Anikah aims to absorb as much knowledge as possible from her colleagues and showcase her personality as a potential voice-over artist. She aspires to be authentic and relatable, ensuring her audience finds her insights meaningful. While she acknowledges that many of her listeners are older, she strives to remain relevant and entertaining for them. Despite her youth, she describes herself as an old soul, which is why she feels such a strong connection to the station and its nostalgic vibe. “I define myself as a Sunday soul,” she says, expressing her love for the station’s values and the warmth it brings to its listeners.
The station has significantly boosted Anikah’s confidence, helping her understand her identity and place within the industry. She knows she belongs here and wants to be part of this journey for the rest of her life, whether behind the scenes or as a host. Her dream is to one day have her own show. She emphasises the importance of patience in her journey. “I’m here to listen, absorb, and learn and I love being a passenger in this journey,” she says, feeling completely comfortable in her current role while eagerly soaking up all the knowledge she can.
Anikah believes that pursuing one’s dreams is essential, regardless of challenges or doubts from others. “Never underestimate your potential,” she advises, reminding everyone to embrace their aspirations wholeheartedly. With her infectious passion and dedication, Anikah Fortune is certainly a rising star in the world of radio!
@heart1049fm Wow what a journey! 🙌✨️ Congratulations to @Anikah Fortune the winner of #HeartTrafficIdol ! 🏆 🎉 You could feel the nerves in the studio before the announcement, but Anikah’s journey to the top is one to celebrate. Watch her incredible moment and join us in celebrating her well-deserved victory. @adenthomasradio @Tara Lee @Lebo Mothibi @Zoe Human 🏳️🌈🇵🇸 @JulianCranford #HeartTrafficIdol #Winner #HeartFM #CongratsAnikah
♬ All I Do Is Win (feat. T-Pain, Ludacris, Snoop Dogg & Rick Ross) – DJ Khaled
