The seasoned sportscaster speaks on how she carved a space for herself in a male-dominated industry in her inspiring #HereForHer profile piece.
SuperSport football presenter Carol Tshabalala needs no introduction. The first lady of South African sportscasting has been a staple in the industry for almost a quarter of a century. But her hunger to continue to break boundaries is still at fever pitch.
An illustrious 24-year career has seen Tshabalala trailblaze a path for women in sportscasting. She had done it with grace and great aplomb, especially having broken through in what was an even more male-dominated sector of the industry at the time.
But just as any true fan of football will tell you: “You don’t choose your club, your club chooses you.” This intrinsic understanding of the great power of sport is true to the legend known as “Simply Carol’s” career.
“This vocation found me because there wasn’t a female broadcaster that I could aspire to be like. I’ve been given the opportunities, taken them by both hands and do things my way.”
A great emphasis has always been on her leaning into what has made her different. Whereas others run from it, she has embraced her difference and forged a formidable lane of her own.
“It was easy for me to build my own unique voice because I was unique,” Tshabalala reflects. “I was a woman in a very male-dominated industry (it still is). People didn’t have a preconceived idea of what I’m supposed to be doing. But one thing I learned very quickly is that I’d have to prove to myself that women really do belong in this industry.”
She now holds a tapestry of knowledge, is a beacon of light and is a testimony that stereotypes have no place in sport. Whether it is in front or behind the camera, nothing will stand in the way of an undeniable talent.
“The one stereotype I’d like to continue to break down as a female sportscaster is that we are not knowledgeable. We are not there to be close to the male sports stars – we are literally there because we have a job to do and we are knowledgeable.”
Over and above her live match anchoring, Carol’s Odyssey is Tshabalala’s newest love affair. The variety show sees the legend interview other sporting legends and gets to the crux of what shaped the men and women they’ve become.
“I’ve really enjoyed that this show inspires our future icons and reminds them how these individuals rose from literally nothing. We take it back to where they grew up and take it back to how they became global superstars.”
With SuperSport’s ongoing #HereForHer campaign continuously shedding light on women who are leaders within the industry and Your World of Champions’ ecosystem, young girls have a consistent reference point to success. Carol’s advice is simple:
“What you need to make it in this industry is your knowledge and your passion.”
Many mini-Carols will emerge of the years but there will be none like the original – the young lady who forged a seat at the table for women in sports and grabbed a plate for many more to feast.
SuperSport’s Here for Her is a movement, a celebration and a commitment to uplifting women in sports, both on the field and behind the scenes. Look out for lots more female-powered action from this bold initiative.
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SuperSport’s Here for Her is a movement, a celebration and a commitment to uplifting women in sports, both on the field and behind the scenes. Look out for lots more female-powered action from this bold initiative.