Tshego Koke is ecstatic after he received a nomination in the South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas) for best television presenter.
Speaking to Sunday World on Monday about his journey in the industry, the 32-year-old Koke said he broke into the entertainment space when he won the VJ search back in 2017.
He made it to the top three together with Gontse Makgoba and Kuhle Adams.
“The nomination is a big honour for me. I don’t think that when I got into the industry at the time, I would get nominated for an award,” he said.
“This nomination is just like a cherry on top, and just knowing that I’ve put in the work and I am finally getting recognition is big.”
Koke hosts the pop culture show Newsish on MTV Base alongside Fresh By Caddy and Shamiso. He said traditional shows like these are still being appreciated by many people.
“Newsish is an infotainment show that speaks on various topics. I also do Yo MTV Rap and SA Hits countdown.
“These are shows that literally offer infotainment from the music industry, both locally and internationally.”
Having a keen interest in fitness has complimented a lot in Koke’s work, and having been a personal trainer he believes that when you look good, you feel good.
“I was a personal trainer for two years. The life of fitness has always been something that I have gravitated towards after I completed my matric,” he said.
As someone who is always in front of the camera, he has to remain up-to-date with fashion and music, and he keeps his ears and eyes on the latest trends.
“It changes from various times, I could literally be on the internet watching an interview, it is the little things that I see around me.
“If it sits with me, then I am going to ride the wave on a certain trend or look.”
He was recently on a photography reality TV show The Perfect Picture, and believes it was a great experience and a big highlight of his career.
“It came at a point where I was yearning for growth. When I was called for it, I was so happy for the opportunity. It took me back to the days of the VJ search.
“It had that element of surprise to it and it brings the competitiveness out of a person.”
Koke co-owns Azishehub, a hubbly and shisha rental company. He has also been chosen as the host for The Ruling House Party taking place in Hartbeespoort in September.
He said he plans on collaborating with such events in an entrepreneurial type of way.
“These are the type of avenues that I am trying to grow in, so that even long after television, I have cemented myself and I am able to make more money.
“Parties such as The Ruling House Party are events that I hope to find myself growing in.”
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