Carol Ofori On Authenticity, Purpose And Powering A Multifaceted Career In Media

Few voices in South African media carry the warmth, wit, and honesty of Carol Ofori. Whether she’s lighting up the airwaves on East Coast Radio, lending her voice to major brands, or inspiring young readers through her children’s books, Carol has built a career defined by versatility and purpose. With a career spanning radio, television, voice artistry, and literature, she continues to evolve, not just as a broadcaster, but as a storyteller who connects through authenticity and heart.

Now, as she continues to inspire and lead through her craft, Carol reflects on her journey, telling stories on radio, and what keeps her grounded in an ever-changing industry.

Carol, you’ve built an incredible career as a broadcaster, voice-over artist and media personality. Looking back, what have been some defining moments that shaped who you are today?

There have been quite a few! I’ve been very blessed to have people believe in me and give me opportunities along the way. I’ve also invested a lot of time into learning and upskilling myself. Mentorship has been a big part of my journey. I’ve had mentors for every element of my career, from radio to voice work to writing. They’ve been sounding boards who helped me refine my craft. But most importantly, I always remind myself why I’m doing what I do. That keeps me grounded and helps me make the right decisions. And of course, I’m deeply grateful for the God-given talent I’ve been blessed with.

You’ve become one of South Africa’s most sought-after voice-over artists. How did that journey begin?

Funny enough, I didn’t even know voice-over work was a career when I started! A former colleague at 947, Simon Parkinson, told me I had a great voice and should look into getting an agent. I did my research, eventually got an agent, and the rest is history. But it didn’t happen overnight, it took years of consistent effort before I started building something real from my voice. 

As host of the weekday 9am–12pm show on East Coast Radio, you’ve become a familiar voice to so many. How do you connect so authentically with your listeners?

I remind myself that my listeners are people, just like me. I make mistakes live on air, I laugh at myself, and I share stories from my own life that people can relate to. Being open and vulnerable has helped me connect on a deeper level. It takes time to truly be yourself behind the microphone, but once you learn to drop the ‘radio voice’ and just be you, that’s when the real magic happens.

You’ve interviewed some incredible personalities. Which conversations stand out most to you?

Interviewing Nelson Mandela is one that will always stay with me. I was a rookie reporter at the time and managed to ask him a question after a press event, I don’t even remember what he said, I was just in awe of him! I’ve also had some fun and slightly nerve-wracking ones, like interviewing Morris Chestnut. I could hardly focus! Over the years, I’ve spoken to so many amazing people who’ve shared powerful and inspiring stories. Each one has taught me something new.

Broadcasting has evolved so much, with social media and digital platforms reshaping how audiences engage. How have you adapted?

It’s been a learning curve! As a millennial, I had to really push myself to embrace social media. I wasn’t always comfortable sharing parts of my life online, but I realised that if I wanted to stay relevant and connect with new audiences, I had to adapt. Now I share more, engage more, and try to meet my audience where they are, whether that’s on-air or online. 

You work across radio, voice, television and writing. How do these creative outlets bring out different sides of you?

Radio will always be my first love because it’s pure storytelling. Voice work is storytelling too, but through tone and expression. Television is about presence and visual storytelling, and my children’s books allow me to connect with kids and spark their imaginations. Each one lets me use a different side of my creativity, and I love that balance. 

You’ve been recognised with several accolades. What does that recognition mean to you?

Awards are lovely, but for me, the biggest recognition comes from my peers. When people in the industry say they look up to you or ask you to mentor them, that’s the real reward. It means you’ve earned respect through your work, and that means more than anything. 

You often use your platform to uplift women. What message do you hope to send to others chasing their dreams?

Every Wednesday on my show, we do a ‘Woman Crush Wednesday’ feature to celebrate inspiring women. My message to anyone chasing their dreams, especially women in creative spaces, is to know your why. When you know why you’re doing something, you won’t be swayed by others’ opinions or pressures. This industry is subjective, and not everyone will like what you do — or even like you. Be okay with that. Stay true to your purpose, stand by your work, and keep moving forward. 

Finally, if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

You’re going to be okay. You’ll face challenges, tough times and doubt, but keep your faith strong and stay rooted in God. As long as you keep Him at the centre of everything you do, you’ll be fine. Everything happens for a reason, and it all leads you to where you’re meant to be.

As she looks ahead, Carol remains focused on growth, gratitude, and using her platform to make a difference. “Every chapter of my career has taught me something new about myself and the power of storytelling,” she says. “If I can inspire someone to chase their passion, stay true to who they are, and keep faith through it all — then I’ve done what I was meant to do.” Grounded in faith and guided by purpose, Carol Ofori continues to prove that success in media isn’t just about having a voice, it’s about using it to uplift, inspire, and connect.

Find Carol Ofori on Twitter and Instagram @CarolOfori and on Facebook @RealCarolOfori.