Who is Chioniso Mashakada?
Chioniso is a young woman, first born in a family of five. Born and bred in Bulawayo. Currently a sports journalist with H. Metro and StarFM.
When did you realise your love for sport?
I started loving sport at a tender age, around eleven years. I used to watch sports at school. I joined the female soccer team when I was in form three. From then I became crazy about sport, especially football. I would listen to sports commentator Patricia Jacobson radio. On TV I would only watch sports shoes nothing else. I have always wanted to be a commentator, but the likes of Yvonne Mangunda and Chipo Sabeta motivated me to be a journalist.
How has been your journey like, did you get support from family?
My journey was not easy. My dad always noticed my passion for sport, but like any other parent, both my parents wanted me to pursue my studies and get a good job. I actually wanted to study sports media but I ended up doing Marketing because my parents didn’t approve of my choice. Growing up I would want to go and watch live matches at Babourfields stadium. At some point I would leave home saying I’m going to the library, then in the afternoon I would go to BF and watch football. That would make me so happy. My parents later on realised how determined I was, and they started supporting me.
When was your debut in sport as a journalist?
That was 2019 through the Yvonne Mangunda Mentorship Program. I auditioned for the program at StarFM and I messed up in front of the judges. But Yvonne noticed my talent and knowledge about sport through my twitter account and she decided to give me a second chance. I also got training from Muziwethu Hadebe, a renowned sports journalist from Bulawayo. From then Steve Vickers offered me training at StarFM and I was also offered a freelance opportunity at H. Metro.
What was the most highlighting moment in your career as a sports journalist?
My debut, seeing my first story in a news paper with my byline on it. Oh My God. Nothing will ever beat that moment. I was so excited. I took screenshots and sent to everyone I know.
What have you learnt through all this you have gone through?
Giving up is not an option. You can be anything you want. I chose to keep on pushing and I expressed my interests. Take a slight step towards your dream, you will see wonders.
Internationally, which sports men or women would you like to meet?
Oh God. For men its Lionel Messi, Eden Hazard and Frank Lampard.
Women it’s Asisat Oshoala she’s Nigerian and she plays for FC Barcelona female soccer. And Desire Ellis, current Banyana Banyana coach. I love her!!!
Who is your man crush sports person?
None other than Eden Hazard. Especially when he was playing for Chelsea. Hahaha he would drive me crazy.
Besides sport what else do you do?
I have a diploma in Marketing Management. I do marketing and adverts .
What’s your biggest motivation?
My background, my passion for sport.
What was the scariest moment in your life?
When I auditioned for the Yvonne Mangunda Mentorship Program.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I’m very talkative. I mean really talkative. Most people think I’m quiet. I’m also left handed.
If you had superpowers what would you like to change?
I would have my own sports show. One day is one day.
Your most embarrassing moment?
We were playing soccer, inter school competition. Someone passed me the ball and I caught it with my hands. That’s unheard of in soccer kkkkkk.
What’s your hobby?
Either am at the stadium or watching soccer on TV
Advice to fellow women?
Be you. Follow your dreams and do not give up!