Celebrating their 100th show milestone, the team behind 5 Drive reflected on an extraordinary journey defined by teamwork, connection, and innovation.
Anchored by dynamic hosts Zanele Potelwa and Nick Archibald, the show has rapidly become a standout on 5FM.
Archibald joined the team this year, and describes the transition as transformative. "Zanele leads fearlessly, ensuring everyone succeeds. This philosophy has shaped how we work as a team and how I approach radio."
Potelwa highlighted how Archibald’s leadership inspires the group.
"He brings out excellence in others. It’s contagious, and it’s created a space where everyone shines."
The duo emphasised the collaborative spirit of the six-member team - news presenter Yanga Mjoli, sports presenter Jude Van Wyk, content producer, Masego Tlhakanye and technical producer, ShabZi Madallion.
Whether it’s writing segments, producing content, or tackling challenges, they credit their success to a shared effort.
5Drive is no ordinary radio show. Its ethos revolves around connecting with listeners, often empowering them to influence content. "Our listeners aren’t just spectators; they’re part of the show," Potelwa explained.
Archibald added, "5FM’s audience is bold and eccentric. They challenge us to do wild things, and we love it."
This relationship was exemplified during initiatives like “Five Drive Gets High”, where the team tackled daring stunts, and the “Five Drive Pad Drive”, an impactful campaign providing sanitary pads to underprivileged girls.
One particularly emotional moment came when a listener flew from her hometown with a suitcase full of donated pads. "It reminded us of the power of radio to drive real change," Potelwa reflected.
The team has embraced social media to complement their on-air presence. Viral moments, like Archibald’s Traffic Challenge, have racked up millions of views, showing how digital content extends the show’s reach.
"We’re listeners too," Potelwa shared. "We live on TikTok and share our lives authentically. That’s what keeps us relatable."
With their eyes set on the future, the 5 Drive team is eager to expand their initiatives, promising bigger and bolder content in the coming year. Plans include taking the show on the road to connect with fans across South Africa.
"It’s only the beginning," Archibald said. "We’re pushing boundaries to do something truly different in the industry."
As the team wraps up the year, they’ll head home for the holidays, with Archibald and Potelwa both spending Christmas near East London. But even in celebration, the team’s spirit of unity shines through.
"5Drive is not about one or two people; it’s about all six of us working together. That’s what makes it special," Potelwa concluded.
IOL Entertainment