In 2013, a moment of recognition set the stage for a journey that would redefine sports broadcasting in South Africa. When Dikeledi Letsiri stepped onto the gsport Awards stage to receive the Women in Media Award, it was more than an accolade—it was a turning point. A spark was reignited, a dream restored, and a voice found its rightful place in the heart of South African sport.
Today, more than a decade later, Dikeledi is one of the most prominent female voices in South African sports commentary. Her journey from local radio to national television, from front-of-mic to behind-the-scenes, tells a story of passion, perseverance, and power.
Finding Her Voice in a Male-Dominated Arena
Dikeledi’s first love was radio. It was where she honed her craft, where her voice began to carry weight in the world of sports broadcasting. “At first, it was only radio,” she recalls. But that 2013 gsport award was the nudge she needed to reach for more.
“In a field dominated by men, being honoured by gsport elevated my visibility. It boosted my presence and confidence in the arena as a woman who has high ambitions about her craft.” That visibility didn’t just empower her—it inspired others to believe in the strength of a woman’s voice in sport.
For Dikeledi, the recognition came at a time when she needed it most: “It brought much-needed attention to my work, and reignited the fire I had lost for my craft.”
On the Frontlines of Women’s Football
Now, Dikeledi is not just part of the game—she’s shaping how it’s told.
As one of the few female commentators regularly featured on SABC Sport, she plays a crucial role in narrating the rise of women’s football in South Africa. Whether it’s calling the shots in the Hollywoodbets Super League or producing content that highlights women’s stories in sport, Dikeledi brings emotion, insight, and authenticity to every broadcast.
Her voice is distinctive—commanding yet warm, precise yet passionate. It’s the kind of voice that makes you feel the game, not just watch it.
“TV has always been one of my goals on my vision board,” she says proudly. “When the chance finally presented itself, I grabbed it with both hands and ran.”
Behind the Scenes, Still in the Story
While her commentary is widely recognised, her work behind the camera is just as impactful. As a producer, Dikeledi has stepped into a different kind of power—one that involves crafting narratives, spotlighting talent, and ensuring women’s stories are told with the respect they deserve.
She describes this role with a mixture of pride and grit:
“It’s about getting your hands dirty to collect all the stories to take to the viewers and listeners.”
This blend of frontline and backstage storytelling makes her influence in the industry multifaceted. She’s not just presenting the story—she’s shaping it.
Moments That Matter
Despite being a seasoned veteran with over 15 years behind the mic, Dikeledi remains grounded by gratitude and driven by purpose. “I’ve reached a level of mastery when it comes to delivering, and yet I still get goosebumps every time I go on air,” she admits. “I’m more alive behind the mic!”
But beyond professional milestones, it’s personal moments that leave lasting impressions. One in particular stands out—a moment linked to her husband, who worked with the SAFA U17 girls’ team.
Watching those young players strive and dream reminded her of the power of representation. It confirmed why her presence—her voice—matters so much.
“Seeing women’s football grow rapidly, and me being part of that history in the making as a woman—it’s a feeling close to none,” she says, her joy palpable. “I can only say thank God, and to initiatives such as the gsport Awards for uplifting women and putting them on the pedestal, where everyone can recognise them.”
Redefining What’s Possible
Dikeledi’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Like many women in male-dominated industries, she had to navigate unfamiliar territory, often without a roadmap.
“My greatest challenge was stepping into something I had never done before,” she shares. “But for the love of what I do and know as a presenter and commentator, it wasn’t a hill to climb before I found my way around everything.”
Her story is a powerful reminder that passion paired with perseverance creates impact. Dikeledi didn’t just find her voice—she used it to lift others, amplify the game, and push the boundaries of what’s possible for women in sport.
The Legacy of a Voice That Belongs
In a country where women’s sports still fight for airtime, Dikeledi Letsiri’s voice breaks through the noise—not just as a commentator, but as a creator, advocate, and pioneer.
She’s not simply reporting on the rise of women’s football in South Africa—she’s part of the reason it’s rising.
And with every match she calls, every story she produces, and every girl who hears her voice and dares to dream—Dikeledi reminds us all: this is what history sounds like.
