Renowned news anchor Leanne Manas, on August 1 officially marks 20 years of being on SABC’s “Morning Live”.
The broadcaster joined the long-running news show in 2004, taking over from former face of “Top Billing” and presenter, Michelle Garforth-Venter.
Manas at the time joined Vuyo Mbuli, who died in 2013. The two news anchors became a part of South African culture, with many homes getting their mornings going, while watching “Morning Live”.
The 45-year-old even after Mbuli’s death continued to be an integral part of the SABC’s flagship news show and carving a name for herself as a broadcasting legend.
On X, formerly known as Twitter, many took time out to congratulate Manas for reaching the 20 year milestone. In response to one user, Manas remarked that the 20 year journey “certainly hasn’t been easy but it has been a privilege and honour”.
It certainly hasn’t been easy but it has been a privilege and honour https://t.co/Qvw5cOWiGQ
— Leanne Manas (@LeanneManas) August 1, 2024
Not only is Manas a seasoned broadcaster, businesswoman, and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, she is also the GLAMOUR Women of the Year 2023 Awards ICON Award Winner.
In 2022, Manas received the Knight of the French National Order Merit Award, for being one of the leading voices in journalism.
During the recent elections, Manas reflected on her first time covering elections at the national Results Operations Centre. She was up for the challenge, even though she also had nerves when she saw the SABC election set, with a massive desk.
“The nerves got the better of me, but as I walked onto that set, I was welcomed by the friendliest SABC crew who embraced me from the moment I arrived. Sitting next to the formidable Vuyo Mbuli, I realised I was going to be okay.
“In fact, I was better than okay — I was on top of the world. Something snapped inside of me that day, and the passion for what I do grew so strong that I knew this was what I wanted my career to be for as long as I possibly could.”
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