Hot 102.7FM has marked the graduation of its 9th Radio Academy class, recognizing 64 new radio graduates at a ceremony held on 22 November at the station’s Hot House headquarters.

Founded by managing director Lloyd Madurai, the Hot Radio Academy offers free industry-level training aimed at opening doors for aspiring broadcasters. The 8-week program, led by radio veterans Tim Zunckel and Grant Nash covers a full spectrum of radio skills, including presenting, content creation, technical operations, copywriting, audio production, digital strategy, music management, and radio business fundamentals.

Madurai said the Academy is built on the principle of giving back. “Someone once took a chance on me, and I’ve learnt to do the same,” he noted, emphasizing that passion is the key criterion for acceptance.

This year’s graduating class reflected the diversity of South Africa, with students ranging from school leavers to career changers, podcasters, and creatives. Among them were podcaster Bongi Nawa (Miss Glam & Positive), actress Janina Posadowski, and lifelong radio hopeful Emmanuel Makanda. Another standout story was that of Pearl Mogan, a former Hot Cares beneficiary who completed her degree with community support before joining the Academy.

Graduates received certificates and professional headphones, leaving with practical radio skills, industry insight, and a new community of peers. Hot 102.7FM says the Academy remains central to its mission of nurturing the next generation of South African radio talent.