The radio personality has built a career in broadcasting while using his own fitness journey to encourage others to get active.
South Africa (14 October 2026) – Shandor Potgieter has been recognised for his contribution to South African broadcasting, earning a place among the country’s 40 Under 40 award recipients in the Radio and Journalism category.
The radio personality’s career has also taken him well beyond the studio. His own health journey saw him go from weighing 136kg to embracing endurance sport, eventually qualifying for and competing at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship.
Potgieter has since used that experience to encourage others to become more active, with his community initiative, Hou Bene Hou, bringing people together through activities such as running, cycling and swimming.
The initiative is built around the idea that getting active is easier when people have a supportive community around them. It creates opportunities for participants to train, attend sporting events together and encourage one another, regardless of their starting point.
Reflecting on his award, Potgieter said he received the recognition with gratitude and humility, acknowledging the broadcasters who came before him and those who helped him along the way.
“Having a voice and a platform in this beautiful country is a privilege I will never take for granted,” he said.
He also thanked Nick Efstathiou for giving him an opportunity a decade ago, adding that he hoped to use his influence to inspire others and make a difference.
This award is recognition of his work in media, but his journey also highlights how personal experiences can be used to connect with communities and encourage positive change.
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