South African radio’s most resilient voice, Penny Ntuli, has officially closed her chapter at Jozi FM, marking the end of a transformative two-year tenure. In an emotional social media announcement on January 28, 2026, Ntuli reflected on a journey that saw her evolve from a “temporary visitor” in Johannesburg to a celebrated, two-time award-winning broadcaster.
Initially joining the Soweto-based station in 2024 for a planned six-month stint, the KwaZulu-Natal native found herself staying for nearly two years—citing a “healthy and welcoming” environment that allowed her to heal and thrive.
The Penny Ntuli Renaissance
Ntuli’s time at Jozi FM was defined by growth that transcended the airwaves:
- Multilingual Mastery: Stepping out of her comfort zone, Ntuli mastered new languages on air. She credited the “unbelievable patience” of her listeners and the mentorship of her colleagues for helping her find her voice in a new city.
- Award-Winning Excellence: In less than 24 months, she secured two major radio awards, proving that her move from KZN to Gauteng was a masterstroke for her career.
- Cultural Impact: She became a staple of the mid-morning slot, blending her unique personality with relatable storytelling that grew Jozi FM’s digital footprint significantly.
The Road to Jozi: Remembering the Gagasi FM Stand
To understand Penny’s success at Jozi FM, one must remember the “salary shocker” that led her there. In 2024, Ntuli famously walked away from Gagasi FM after revealing a contract offer of just R2,800 a month for a three-hour show.
Her refusal to accept “peanuts” turned her into a symbol of self-worth for media professionals across Mzansi. Her transition to Jozi FM served as proof that choosing dignity over a paycheck can lead to “greener pastures.”
“Under Jozi FM’s guidance, I feel ready to grow and move on to new opportunities. This station turned a setback into a major step forward.” — Penny Ntuli
What’s Next for the Diamond of Radio?
While Ntuli has not yet named her new home, industry insiders are buzzing. Rumors suggest she has been in talks with several major national stations, while others point toward her growing success with the “Getting Comfortable” podcast, where she continues to command a massive independent audience.
