Katrina Shikonde

• WHAT is your role at the station? I am the radio news producer, responsible for producing hourly news updates, selecting and editing news clips, recording interviews, and cleaning audio for clear and timely broadcast.
• What’s the best part about working with the team here at Desert FM? The best part about working in production at Desert FM is the teamwork and fast-paced environment where every second counts. Collaborating with skilled professionals to shape clear, accurate and engaging news keeps the work dynamic and rewarding.
• Outside of radio, what are some things you’re passionate about? Singing, reading novels and watching soccer, especially when our country is playing.
• What do you think makes Desert FM unique compared to other stations in the area? Desert FM isn’t just another radio station, it’s a bold voice for the community. With a strong local identity, we reflect real stories, real people and real conversations that matter to Namibians.
• What has been the biggest challenge in your career, and how did you overcome it? One of the toughest challenges has been working under intense pressure while ensuring the news is accurate, clear and engaging. News never waits, and there’s constant pressure to cut soundbites, edit interviews and compile it and make sure every detail is correct and the story stays clear. I focus on staying organised, prioritising key information, and improving communication with the team. Over time I developed a calm and focused approach, even in high-pressure moments. That helped me deliver reliable, high-quality content.
• Looking back on your career in radio, what’s the one thing you wish you had known when you started? I wish I had known just how powerful adaptability is. When I first started, I thought it was all about getting the script right or making the perfect sound bite. But over time, I’ve learned that being open to fast changes – breaking news, last-minute edits, technical glitches, or even shifting audience tastes – is what really makes a great producer. If I had embraced that earlier, I think I would’ve stressed less and grown faster.
• How did you get into radio, and what drew you to this industry? When I was young I used to listen to Kati Fm, so I wanted to be a presenter but when I got in the industry I realised that I enjoy editing and reporting more.
• Coffee or tea? Tea.
• Early bird or night owl? Early bird.
• What’s your go-to karaoke song? Gazza, ‘Only you’.
• The book or the movie? Movie.