About Tim
A pioneer in South African broadcasting who witnessed and documented the nation's transformation from apartheid to democracy.
40+
From Sound Technician to Broadcasting Legend
Timothy Molefe Modise began his remarkable 40-year broadcast media career in 1981 as a sound technician at Radio 702. His journey took him through every facet of media production and presentation, evolving with South Africa’s own transformation.
“I had the profound privilege of interviewing history-makers like Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, and F.W. de Klerk during South Africa’s most critical transition period.”
Modise pioneered public education talk radio at Radio Metro in 1988/89, which evolved into political talk shows as South Africa moved from apartheid to democracy. His interviews with recently released political prisoners and key negotiators provided South Africans with crucial insights during this volatile period.
Beyond broadcasting, Modise has served as Chairman of the ‘Proudly South African Campaign’, Chief Communications Officer for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee, and CEO of technology firm Sizwe IT Group. He continues to influence through media training, public speaking, and event moderation.
Career Timeline
Four decades of service to South African media and public life
Started at Radio 702 as sound technician, Radio Bop presenter, SABC journalist, and Radio Metro. Pioneered public education talk radio.
- Historic Mandela/de Klerk debate panelist
- SABC Broadcaster of the Year 1991
- 800M+ viewers worldwide
Hosted talk shows on SAFM, SABC TV, Radio 702. Carte Blanche contributor. City Press columnist. AMB Securities/HSBC analyst.
- Reconciliation Award - Archbishop Tutu
- International Human Rights Award (Spain)
- GQ TV Personality of the Year
Chair: Proudly SA Campaign (Presidential appointment). Chief Communications Officer: 2010 FIFA World Cup. Chairman/CEO: Sizwe IT Group.
- Radio Hall of Fame Induction 2011
- PowerFM Launch Team 2013
- Tourism BEE Charter participant
eNCA, SABC, SowetoTV, Business Day TV, Biznews TV. Podcasts and Twitter Space talkshows. Media training and event moderation.
- Tim Modise Primary School Patron
- Presidential Investment Summit Moderator
- BRICS Business Council Moderator
Broadcasting Across Platforms
Throughout his distinguished career, Tim Modise has worked with virtually every major broadcasting platform in South Africa and internationally, bringing his unique perspective and journalistic integrity to diverse audiences across radio, television, and digital media.
SABC
Radio 702
eNCA
PowerFM
BBC
M-Net
SAFM
CNN
Cape Talk
Biznews TV
SowetoTV
NPR
International Experience
BBC Radio, NPR, CNN, Australian Broadcasting — reaching 800 million viewers globally
Community & Nation Building
A lifelong commitment to education, healthcare, and community development
Beyond Broadcasting
Tim Modise's contribution to South African society extends far beyond the broadcast studio. Throughout his career, he has dedicated significant time and energy to community development, education, and healthcare initiatives, particularly in his hometown of Garankuwa.
Tim Modise Primary School — Patron
Agisanang & Kagisanong Primary Schools renamed Tim Modise Primary School in Garankuwa. As Patron, he actively supports educational excellence in his hometown.
Nation Building Project
Worked with Sowetan's Dr Aggrey Klaaste on the 'Nation Building Project', fostering social cohesion and community development.
Open Society Foundation & Love Life
Member of the Open Society Foundation and the 'Love Life Campaign', supporting human rights and youth development.
Healthcare Governance
Board member of George Mukhari Hospital and council member of Sefako Makgatho University (formerly Medunsa), contributing to healthcare transformation.
Garankuwa Forum for Excellence
Chaired the Garankuwa Forum for Excellence, promoting educational achievement and community pride in his hometown.
Dr Sam Motsuenyane Foundation
Active participant in the Dr Sam Motsuenyane Foundation and University of Fort Hare Support Group activities.