Radio to TV: Leanne Manas Journey in Media

Leanne Manas is a renowned South African journalist, television presenter, and media personality. She is best known for her role as the anchor of the popular morning show Morning Live on the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). Over the years, Leanne has become a household name in South Africa, admired for her professionalism, engaging presence, and contributions to journalism and broadcasting.

Early Life and Education

Leanne Manas was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and grew up in a family that valued education and culture. She attended Waverley Girls’ High School in Johannesburg, where she showed an early interest in journalism and public speaking. Leanne pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors in English and Communications from the University of South Africa (UNISA). She also holds a diploma in Speech and Drama from Trinity College in London, which helped shape her skills in presenting and public speaking.

Career in Broadcasting

Leanne began her broadcasting career in radio, where she worked as a news anchor for Radio 702 and later moved to Radio Algoa and Jacaranda FM. Her distinctive voice, articulate communication style, and passion for storytelling quickly made her a sought-after personality in the industry.

Her transition from radio to television was marked by her appointment as the financial journalist and anchor for the SABC’s business show Business Focus in the early 2000s. Her proficiency in financial journalism earned her acclaim and credibility, further propelling her career.

In 2004, Leanne was chosen as the main anchor for Morning Live, SABC’s flagship breakfast show. Her role as the show’s presenter cemented her status as one of South Africa’s most prominent journalists. Leanne’s dynamic presence and interviewing skills allowed her to cover various topics, from politics and social issues to lifestyle and entertainment.

Notable Achievements of Leanne Manas

Leanne Manas has achieved several accolades throughout her career, recognizing her excellence in journalism and her contribution to media:

• SABC’s Most Popular TV Presenter Award: Leanne has been a recipient of multiple awards, reflecting her popularity and influence in the broadcasting sector.
• United Nations Women Changing Lives Award: She was honored with this award for her efforts to empower women and highlight their stories through her work on Morning Live.
• Brand Ambassador: Leanne serves as a brand ambassador for several notable organizations, leveraging her public profile to support various causes.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Apart from her work in broadcasting, Leanne Manas is deeply involved in philanthropic activities. She is an advocate for education, poverty alleviation, and women’s rights. She actively supports several non-profit organizations and has been involved in campaigns to raise awareness on critical social issues, including gender-based violence and access to education.

Leanne is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, where she uses her platform to advocate for the rights and welfare of children in South Africa and beyond. Her work with UNICEF involves participating in campaigns, raising funds, and visiting communities to understand the challenges faced by children and highlight their stories.

Personal Life of Leanne Manas

Leanne Manas is married to Marc Menell, a businessman, and the couple has two children. Despite her busy schedule, Leanne maintains a balance between her career and personal life. She is known for her down-to-earth personality and her commitment to family values.

Leanne Manas Impact on South African Media

Leanne Manas has been a staple in South African media for nearly two decades, representing the face of Morning Live and setting a high standard for journalism in the country. Her interviews have ranged from high-profile politicians to celebrities, always conducted with integrity, insight, and an innate curiosity to uncover the truth. Her ability to handle sensitive topics with empathy and professionalism has made her a trusted figure in South African households.

Through her work, Leanne has inspired many young journalists and broadcasters, particularly women, to pursue careers in media. She has consistently advocated for ethical journalism and continues to be a role model for aspiring journalists in South Africa.

Final Thoughts

Leanne Manas remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in South African journalism. Her dedication to her craft, her commitment to social causes, and her engaging personality have left an indelible mark on the media landscape. As she continues to influence the industry with her work, Leanne Manas stands as a testament to the power of journalism in shaping public discourse and creating a more informed society.