Nthabeleng Mat Elle (professional name: MAT_ELLE) is a 3x SA Award-winning radio host, international DJ, MC, and TV presenter. She currently works at 947 Joburg and was recognized as a “Top 3 African Female 2023.” She left her career as a data analyst in 2017 to pursue radio full-time and has since become one of South Africa’s most celebrated media personalities.
Did you know that one of South Africa’s most celebrated radio personalities quit a well-paying corporate job to work for free? Nthabeleng Mat Elle, known professionally as MAT_ELLE, made this bold career move in 2017 and transformed herself into a 3x SA Award-winning radio host.
Mat Elle currently works as a radio host at 947 Joburg, where she has built a following of over 29,000 Instagram followers. Her story shows how passion and persistence can turn dreams into reality in South Africa’s competitive media landscape.
You’ll discover how this BCom Economics graduate became one of the country’s most recognizable voices, her career milestones, and what makes her stand out in radio broadcasting.
Early Life and Educational Background
Nthabeleng Matela was born and raised in Carletonville, a small mining town in western Johannesburg. Her childhood was marked by academic excellence and athletic aspirations.
She attended Westfields Primary School, where she discovered her love for sports. The future radio star initially had different career plans entirely.
Academic Achievements and Sports Dreams
Mat Elle describes herself as an “academic overachiever” with a strong passion for sports. She nearly pursued a professional athletic career but a sports injury changed her path.
Despite her interest in arts and the creative industry, she received a bursary to study BCom Economics after finishing matric. This decision would later prove valuable when she transitioned into media.
Career Journey: From Corporate Finance to Radio
The Corporate Years
After graduating with her BCom Economics degree, Mat Elle worked as a junior data analyst in Johannesburg. She seemed destined for a traditional corporate career path.
Her role involved analyzing data and preparing reports, but she always felt something was missing. The corporate world provided financial stability but didn’t fulfill her creative aspirations.
First Steps Into Broadcasting
Mat Elle’s radio career began in 2017 when she started hosting The Late Night Show from 7-10pm on campus station Tuks FM. This was her first real taste of broadcasting.
The early days required tremendous sacrifice. She worked her full-time analyst job during the day and hosted radio shows at night, often knocking off in the early hours of the morning from her midnight show, driving home, and then getting ready for work.
The Bold Decision
Mat Elle eventually decided to quit her well-paying corporate job to focus on her broadcasting craft. This decision shocked her family and friends.
She had a savings plan that she thought would carry her through, but wasn’t prepared for how tough the transition would be in practice. The financial pressure was intense.
Career Transition Timeline
| Year | Career Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Started at Tuks FM while working as data analyst |
| 2019 | Quit corporate job to pursue radio full-time |
| 2019 | Began hosting Drive Show 3-6pm at Tuks FM |
| 2020 | Joined Metro FM for weekend shows |
| 2024 | Current role at 947 Joburg |
Rise to Fame at Metro FM and Beyond
The Breakthrough Year
Mat Elle describes 2020 as “the year of many firsts” when her big break finally came. This was when her career truly took off.
She started hosting Metro FM’s Saturday and Sunday 4-6am morning show from April 1, 2020. This opportunity opened doors to bigger platforms.
Multiple Media Ventures
2020 brought several career milestones: her first commercial radio show, her first radio award for Best Drive Time Presenter, her first time DJing live on radio and television, and hosting her first television show.
She hosted TheGetTogetherExperience on SABC 1, marking her entry into television presenting. This diversification helped establish her as a multi-platform media personality.
Philosophy and Approach
Mat Elle views radio as more than just a job, stating: “Radio, for me, is not a gig. It is a privilege and a platform to serve; To ignite the lives of people every day”.
Her off-air work includes being an MC, voice-over artist, and “Queen on Decks” with a love for “skyline lifestyle and opulent spaces”.
Current Role at 947 Joburg
Joining South Africa’s Premier Station
Mat Elle currently works as a radio host at 947 Joburg, one of South Africa’s most popular radio stations. 947 has over 1 million weekly listeners and ranks as South Africa’s 15th most listened to radio station.
The station targets the 25-40 age demographic and plays contemporary music that resonates with urban professionals. Her role at 947 represents the pinnacle of her radio career so far.
International Recognition
Her Instagram bio proudly displays her status as a “3x SA Award-Winning Radio Host” and notes she was recognized as “Top 3 African Female 2023”. This international recognition sets her apart in the industry.
She’s also described as an “International DJ” on her social media profiles, indicating her reach extends beyond South African borders.
Awards and Professional Recognition
Major Achievements
| Award/Recognition | Year | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Best Drive Time Presenter | 2020 | Tuks FM |
| SA Radio Award Winner | Multiple years | Various categories |
| Top 3 African Female | 2023 | International recognition |
| Drive Show Nomination | 2020 | SA Liberty Radio Awards |
| Best News Bulletin Reader | 2020 | SA Liberty Radio Awards |
Industry Impact
Mat Elle’s dedication to her craft and unique approach to broadcasting have earned her recognition as one of the most promising voices in South African radio.
Her success story resonates with many young South Africans who struggle to balance financial security with following their passions.
Personal Brand and Social Media Presence
Building a Following
Mat Elle has cultivated a strong social media presence with 29,000 Instagram followers. Her content showcases both her professional work and personal interests.
Her professional brand emphasizes sophistication and quality. She describes herself as having “sophistication as her mood and opulence as her sound”.
Legacy Mindset
Mat Elle has expressed her long-term vision, stating: “I long to leave a Legacy behind, not just success behind. MAT_ELLE is that Legacy”.
This mindset drives her commitment to excellence and continuous growth in the media industry.
Future Prospects and Industry Influence
Continuing Growth
Mat Elle’s career trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. Her multi-platform approach positions her well for continued success in South Africa’s evolving media landscape.
Her experience across radio, television, DJing, and MCing makes her a valuable asset in an industry that increasingly values versatility.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Her story from corporate analyst to award-winning media personality serves as inspiration for young South Africans considering career changes. She proves that with determination and strategic planning, dramatic career pivots can lead to success.
The broadcasting industry in South Africa benefits from personalities like Mat Elle who bring fresh perspectives and authentic connections with audiences.
FAQ
Who is Nthabeleng Mat Elle?
Nthabeleng Mat Elle, professionally known as MAT_ELLE, is a 3x SA Award-winning radio host, international DJ, MC, and TV presenter who currently works at 947 Joburg.
What did Mat Elle study before radio?
She graduated with a BCom Economics degree and worked as a data analyst before transitioning to radio broadcasting full-time.
When did Mat Elle start her radio career?
Mat Elle began her radio career in 2017, hosting The Late Night Show 7-10pm on Tuks FM while working her corporate job.
What awards has Mat Elle won?
She’s a 3x SA Award winner, was recognized as Top 3 African Female 2023, and won Best Drive Time Presenter in 2020.
For more inspiring stories about media personalities who chose passion over security and young professionals making bold career transitions, explore EarlyMagazine—where authentic success stories matter and courage to follow your dreams gets the recognition it deserves.
