Mr Zonke’s career at the SABC has come full circle. In 2003, he was appointed SABC1’s Continuity Presenter as part of the channel’s campaign, “Yamampela”. In 2007, his on-air talent was also identified by Umhlobo Wenene FM where he presented the weekend entertainment shows on Fridays and Saturdays from 22h00 to 01h00 for a decade.
He has grown within the television ranks and has held various positions including On-Air Promo Producer and Director, Specialist On-Air Producer, Acting Network: On-Air Presentation Manager (SABC1) and Manager: SABC TV Network On-Air for all four TV Channels, a position he held since 2015 where his focus was to develop a multiplatform on-air strategy as well as on-air look and feel.
SABC GM: TV Channels, David Makubyane stated that “Phumzile is passionate about broadcasting. He has shown exceptional talent and has proven to be a dynamic and highly capable all-round broadcasting executive. I have no doubt that he will take SABC1 to even greater heights, strategically positioning it within the media and entertainment industry to win over more loyal viewers to the channel. We are proud of what Phumzile has achieved and we look forward to his contribution in his new role as Head of Bouquet: 1.”
Mr Zonke's mandate in his new role is to ensure that the channel retains its market leader position and continue to deliver a compelling public broadcast service that attracts a major share of audiences and revenue.
"Being appointed to the new role is an exciting opportunity that comes with great responsibility. It is an honour and a privilege that I don’t take for granted. I’m looking forward to the challenge and I’m ready to serve the public and contribute meaningfully to the journey of making sure that SABC1 remains at the top and continue to dominate the market through quality content and exciting youthful programming," said Phumzile about his appointment.
Mr Zonke holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), BA degree in Media, Communications and Culture, Certificate in Copywriting, Advanced Diploma in Travel and Tourism Studies; and is currently studying towards a Masters of Philosophy in International Business (MPHIL in IB).
The SABC Management wishes Phumzile well in his new role and hopes that his wealth of broadcasting knowledge and diverse skills will add great value to the business and entrench further the values of the SABC1 brand.