Newcastle: A Small Town with Big Dreamers
This small town with BIG dreamers is proof that YOU can be anything—regardless of your area code! Newcastle, situated in KwaZulu-Natal, doesn’t always shout about itself because it doesn’t need to. Quietly and consistently, it has produced individuals who’ve gone on to conquer global stages, world championships, courtrooms, and culture. If you’ve ever thought, “People like us don’t make it that far”; this one’s for you. Here are four powerful examples proving that where you come from does not decide how far you go.
Newcastle to the World
DJ Zinhle
DJ Zinhle SA
DJ Zinhle is one of South Africa’s most recognizable names in music and business. Her journey started right here in Newcastle. Today, she’s a globally touring DJ, award-winning producer, media personality, and successful entrepreneur. She has headlined major festivals, built fashion and beauty brands, and become one of the most influential women in South African entertainment.
Before the bright lights and big stages, she was a young woman from KZN with ambition, hustle, and belief. Her story sends a loud message: you don’t need to be born in Joburg or Cape Town to become a global name.
Bakkies Botha
Bakkies Botha
If determination had a face, it would probably look like Bakkies Botha. Born in Newcastle, Bakkies went on to become one of the most feared and respected rugby players in the world. He earned over 80 Springbok caps and played a key role in South Africa’s 2007 Rugby World Cup victory. Known for his toughness, discipline, and never-back-down attitude, Bakkies’ journey proves that small-town beginnings can produce world champions.
Lucas Sithole
Lucas Sithole
Lucas Sithole’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. Hailing from Newcastle, Lucas became one of South Africa’s most successful wheelchair tennis players. He’s won Grand Slam titles, represented the country internationally, and earned a Paralympic bronze medal. His journey isn’t just about sport; it’s about resilience, adaptability, and refusing to let circumstances define your ceiling. Lucas showed South Africans that limitations don’t stop greatness—mindset does.
These three remarkable individuals share a common thread: they didn’t come from privilege capitals, wait for perfect conditions, or let geography dictate their destiny. They emerged from Newcastle and chose to dream bigger. As the East Coast Breakfast team visits Newcastle, this message matters more than ever: Your postcode does not define your potential.
How to Connect with East Coast Radio
If you’re interested in tuning in to the vibrant sounds of the East Coast, here’s how you can listen:
- FM Broadcast: Listen on the FM spectrum between 94 and 95 FM.
- Online: Stream live by clicking here or download the ECR App available for iOS and Android.
- DStv: Find East Coast Radio on the DStv audio bouquet.
- OpenView: Switch to the audio bouquet on your OpenView decoder and browse to channel 606.
- Amazon Alexa: Enable the East Coast Radio live stream via Amazon Alexa.
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In a world where dreams can often feel out of reach, Newcastle stands tall as a beacon of hope, proving that with ambition and perseverance, individuals from any background can achieve greatness.