By Aerusha Jenal Lalbahadur
Vibrant 16-year-old, Dhiya Pitamber, who uses her show called ‘Keeping up with the teens’ on Impressions FM Radio to express life from a teenager’s point of view, hopes to one day make a difference in the Phoenix community. The Solvista Secondary school learner, recently sat on the couch with the Phoenix Tabloid, to tell us more about her life.
Phoenix Tabloid (PT): Tell us a bit about yourself?
Dhiya Pitamber (DP): My name is Dhiya Pitamber, I am 16 years old and currently in Grade 11. I am a vibrant individual who poses a great deal of self-determination and enthusiasm. I’m always eager to achieve my goals and strive for what I want. I am a presenter on Impressions FM, doing the show called “Keeping up with the Teens”. One of the things I like is lending out a helping hand to others, I love the simple things in life, for example baking with my mother. I do not have many dislikes but one thing that gets under my skin is lies.
PT: Tell us about your family?
DP: My family means everything to me, we are very close. They have inculcated morals and values in me that I will forever cherish. They are my support structure and my guidance.
PT: Where are you attending high school and how is it going so far?
DP: I attend Solvista Secondary School. I personally look forward to going to school, you can even say I have somewhat of a perfect attendance. I have an amazing set of educators, especially my English teacher Mrs Z Ebrahim, as well as peers who are supportive.
PT: What are your plans for the future?
DP: This question actually scares me at times because I do not really have everything figured out, but what I do know is that in whatever career I choose it will be one that makes a difference in people’s lives. I will always want a career in radio.
PT: What drew you into the world of music and being a DJ?
DP: It was a passion of mine that I never knew existed, and I have Ria Nankisson and Sanjeev Maharaj to thank for giving me the opportunity to explore this passion, but another reason why I love being a radio jockey is because I get to express life from a teenager’s point of view, for some to relate to and others to understand what goes on in a teenager’s mind.
PT: If you could meet one person, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
DP: I would do anything to meet Selena Gomez because in my eyes she is one of the most inspirational and motivational people out there. She has been through many trials and tribulations but she takes it on with a smile and does not let it stop her. One of her quotes that I live by and love to share is: “You are not what happened to you, you are what you choose to become after that happened to you”
PT: What’s your take on bullying in schools and what do you think should be done to curb this?
DP: From a previous victim of bullying, I know it causes a person to completely change who they are and brings their self-esteem down, and how this can stop them from pursuing what they love. I feel that children need to be taught about bullying because when I was bullied I never even realised it.
PT: When did you first decide to become a DJ?
DP: I have always dreamt about being on radio and being able to express myself, so when I was given the opportunity, about seven months back, I grabbed it with both hands.
PT: When was your first gig as DJ and was it all that you had hoped for?
DP Technically speaking, I am a radio presenter, but in the future I would love to learn how to DJ because I find comfort in music.
PT: What are you passionate about?
DP: I am very passionate about educating others regarding equality in a society whether it be gender, race or class. I am all for pro-choice as well when it comes to sexuality, overall I think I just love to broaden people’s horizon.
PT: If you had a choice, South Africa or overseas?
DP: South Africa will always have a place in my heart, its where I was born and raised but I have always dreamt about going abroad.
PT: What is the one thing you would like other people to be more aware of and why?
DP: I want people to be more aware of what global warming is, the dire consequences it can have and the little ways that they can help to improve the situations.
PT: What are you known for?
DP: I am probably best known for being independent and as the girl who would stand up for someone. I make sure that my opinion is heard.
PT: What music are you into?
DP: I do not have a specific genre of music I listen to, I guess it is just music that I can relate to and dance too.
PT: Cardi B or Nicki Minaj and why?
DP: Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, are two powerhouse women who are both extremely talented and I love them both, but if I had to choose one I would say Cardi B. Her story and struggle from what she was to become one of the most powerful female rappers, has helped me to see that if you put in the effort you can accomplish everything that your heart desires.
PT: What do you do during your free time?
DP: With the little free time that I get, I love journaling my life, looking back on how much I have accomplished and grown into a better person.
PT: Lastly, what is your advice to people who want to make their dream a reality?
DP: Just as my parents taught me, we are all capable of accomplishing just about anything we set our minds to. Move past your fear of failure, examine your limiting beliefs, reveal your needs and take action, at the end of the day almost everything incredible that happens in our lives isn’t just the result of “good luck”. We need to work hard for it. And always remember the sky is the limit never give up and there is no specific age to accomplish your dreams.
