Biography
Bob Mabena (born 26 July 1969), also known as the Reverend Bob Mabena, is a notable figure in the radio and television industry. His charismatic presence and unparalleled presenting ability have captivated audiences on Metro FM, Khaya FM, Highveld Stereo and POWER 98.7, where he has commanded the airwaves with ease.
Returning to Kaya FM to direct the morning show, Bob Mabena’s talent and influence reached new heights. His exceptional skills earned him the appointment as Director of MRC Radio, overseeing Gagasi FM and Heart FM. As a testament to his unwavering commitment, while at KAYA FM, he established a radio consultancy, expanding his horizons and leaving an indelible impact on the industry.
It was with great sadness that the world said goodbye to legendary radio star Bob Mabena at the age of 51 in 2020. His passing touched the hearts of many, as his distinctive voice and charismatic personality became an icon of radio.
South African radio personality
Bob Mabena |
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 Bob Mabena: History ‧ Biography ‧ Photos |
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| Wiki Events & About Data | |
| Full name: | Bob Mabena Kgomotso |
| Stage name: | Bob Mabena |
| Born: | July 26, 1969 (age 51) |
| Place of birth: | Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Deceased: | August 10, 2020, South Africa |
| Nationality: | South Africa |
| Height: | 1.61 meters |
| Parents: | Do not have |
| Siblings: | Victor Mabena |
| Couple: | Hadebe Eucharist (m. 2015-2020), Zandi Nhlapo (m. ??-2009) |
| Girlfriend • Partner: | Do not have |
| The children: | Sihle Mabena, Clementine Mabena |
| Job: | Radio and television personality |
| Net worth: | $1 million – $5 million |
Early life and education
Born on 26 July 1969, charismatic Bob Mabena found his roots in the vibrant streets of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. Growing up in the arms of Atteridgeville, he drew strength from the love and guidance of his grandmother, as fate dealt him an early loss with the sudden passing of his mother when he was just eleven years old.
Bob Mabena’s brother, Victor Mabena also found his calling in radio, lending his voice as a radio JD at Kaya FM. While his childhood and family history remain a mystery, his relationship with his brother speaks volumes, their shared passion for radio has created an unspoken bond.
Educationally inclined, Bob Mabena completed his secondary education at Saulridge High School in Cape Town. Nurturing his intellectual curiosity, he embarked on a path of further education, earning a master’s degree in journalism and broadcasting. These academic milestones became the guiding stars that led him to national and international recognition, cementing his status as a legend in his field.
Career
Bob Mabena, the star of the radio waves, began his broadcasting career in 1989, gracing the frequencies of Botswana’s now defunct Radio Bop. With each passing day, he honed his skills and honed his craft, like an artist perfecting their masterpiece. After three transformative years and a love affair with television, the renowned Koos Radebe, the visionary radio director of Radio Metro, made Bob a tempting offer to join the national radio station, Metro FM.
Seizing opportunities with boundless enthusiasm, Bob Mabena’s voice resonates across the airwaves, captivating audiences with his magnetic presence. His television projects include acclaimed shows Pick a tune And Studio Mixcontinues to demonstrate its versatility and win the hearts of viewers.
In 1996, a new chapter opened when Bob Mabena arrived at 94.7 FM, taking on the role of the charismatic morning show host. At the same time, his passion for radio extended beyond the microphone as he joined the station’s management team, leaving an indelible mark on their journey.
In 1999, Kaya FM’s catchy call came to Bob Mabena, inviting him to become their program manager and morning show host. Taking up the challenge with gusto, he entertained the crowd and took on the role of managing Primedia’s business development at the corporate level, demonstrating his business acumen.
However, the winds of change blew Bob Mabena away, leading him to become the SABC’s managing director of commercial radio from 2007 to 2009. Tasked with overseeing 5FM, Metro FM and GoodHope FM, he orchestrated a symphony of sounds, shaping the radio landscape with his visionary leadership.
Eventually, like a prodigal son returning home, Bob Mabena found himself back at Kaya FM, taking over the morning show and rising to the position of CEO of MRC Radio. His skillful guidance extended to Gagasi FM and Heart FM, leaving an indelible mark on their audio journey.
Awards & Nominations
- 2013: Best Breakfast Show, MTN 2012: Inducted into the Hall of FAME, MTN
- 1995: Best TV Host, Artes Award
- 1994: Best Rap Artist of the Year, South African Music Awards
- 1994: Best Radio Personality, Artes Award
Social media
- Twitter: Bob “The Jammer” Mabena (@mabena_bob)
Personal life
From 2015 until his death in August 2020, radio presenter Bob Mabena was married to his wife, Eucharist Hadebe. They also had a son named Sihle Mabena in 2016 and a daughter named Clementine Mabena.
He was previously married to businesswoman and television personality Zandi Nhlapo for 20 years before they divorced in 2009. They are the guardians of one child.
Furthermore, after Bob Mabena passed away, it was rumored and revealed that he left behind seven children. Clementine Mabena and Sihle Mabena paid their respects at their father’s funeral. He was accused of having several illegitimate children. This noble man died of a heart attack, which was coincidentally the cause of his death.
Net worth
His work as a media personality has earned him a small fortune. The net worth of this radio legend Bob Mabena is reported to be between $1 million and $5 million. Despite his apparent wealth, he has chosen to live a simple life.
