Rabia Mayet | rabiamayet@radioislam.co.za

16 April 2025

7 minute read

A representation of a person is often seen in the words that people use to describe him or her at crucial times in their life. Supportive, committed, impactful, on and off-air warmth are just some of the words that come to mind when describing the character of program producer and presenter, Sister Zeenat Norsarka. “A generous human being, overflowing with kindness, a nurturing mother-figure, and an example of excellence,” are more words used by her colleagues at Radio Islam used when talking about this impactful radio personality.

With mixed emotions at leaving Radio Islam after over a quarter of a century of producing and presenting programs, “a little sad, a little happy,” Apa Zeenat said it’s “time to pass on the torch…to the younger ones.”

Her career in radio started in the late 90’s, when Sister Zeenat’s journey on air began soon after she returned from performing hajj. Her dua to empower herself to inspire others, and to spread Islam in whatever way she could, culminated in her taking on a post at the radio station. At a meeting with Apa Khadija Badat, she was encouraged to do some recordings from a house, which in her words, was a type of kitaab reading; finding something of interest in the kitaab, recording it and sending it through to the station on cassettes.

Uncle Ismail Variawa, Apa Zeenat’s mentor and first program manager, mentions that Apa Zeenat was amongst the first group of women on air, at a very early period, a couple of years after the radio station received its license. “She stood with the radio station through all its challenges…paving the way for future female presenters.”

As one of the earliest voices on Radio Islam, the exceptional work done by Sister Zeenat and the many milestones she reached had Ml Sulaimaan Ravat describing her as “a pivot of the programming line-up.” Apa Zeenat’s seamless “ability to move between different genres and different topics” was an inspiration to the team at the radio station, and she never held back from giving her input and commitment, always motivating the rest of the team.

Ml Heider Dhorat remembers all Apa Zeenat’s contributions to the radio station from its inception, and the noble work she was involved in with the rest of the team, mentioning her “cool, calm and collected disposition,” and making the dua for her to “enjoy the fruits of Radio Islam in Jannah.”

As the only daughter from a home of six brothers, Sister Zeenat found her sisters in her workspace at Radio Islam. Mentioning the importance of females in our lives, she said that the sisterhood brings about an “amazing energy,” building spaces where women can work together and grow together. Apa Zeenat is also well known for her recipe program and her contribution towards the first Radio Islam Recipe Book.

Sister Amaarah shared a heartfelt message wherein she expressed her pleasure and gratitude at working with Apa Zeenat and mentioned her co-presenters “dedication, passion and talent,” which inspired her during their shared time at the radio station.

Tasneem Ahmed Badsha says that Apa Zeenat’s advice to her at her nervousness during her first program 19 years ago was: “that’s your domain, and you own that space.”

Zeenat Abdul remembers Apa Zeenat’s “positive, big sister role” through the hustle and bustle of the newsroom while Sameera Bamath referred to Apa Zeenat as “that constant source of warmth and strength” who “served with sincerity.”

“Anytime you need something, I’m here to assist you,” are the words of Apa Zeenat’s that resonate with Bibi Ayesha Laher, who values and respects her mentor.

Faaiza Munshi joined Radio Islam when the transition from cassettes to live recordings were taking place. She has many memories of Apa Zeenat, but the impactful mantra: “you’re never too old to learn,” and her ability to stay calm under pressure taught Faaiza that even if you’re unsure or lack self-assurance, there’s always another woman to hold out a helping hand. “Take kindness wherever you go, and don’t ever walk around looking like your problems,” are the valuable lessons from Sister Zeenat that she has instilled in her own life.

Being recognised in the community, meeting people who listened in to her programs and being acknowledged and shown gratitude is what kept Sister Zeenat going through her bleakest moments. She is also a true ambassador of the radio station, promoting Radio Islam International wherever she goes.

Faaiza Bloem says that Apa Zeenat had “a way of making people feel seen, heard and valued,” and Mumtaz Saley stated that Apa Zeenat was instrumental in guiding her and “helped me through my anxiety.” Zaakira Ansarmeeah remembers being guided on the “do’ and don’ts on air” when filling in for another presenter for the first time.

Apa Rayhaanah Omar shared her first experiences at the radio being welcomed by Apa Zeenat, “one of the pioneer women in Muslim radio in South Africa.” She was “so much more than a colleague over these 25 years,” and her sincerity as a role model has instilled feelings of gratitude for the time Apa Rayhaanah has spent with her.

A voice full of “wisdom, compassion, and strength,” someone who “responded to her calling as a radio presenter,” and an “entertaining and engaging presenter” on the airwaves, truly one of the most impactful voices on Radio Islam International.

Sister Zeenat’s heart-rendering farewell resounded over the airwaves of Radio Islam for the final time: “As I bring this incredible chapter with Radio Islam International to a close, I deeply feel humbled and grateful…To my dearest listeners…from the early days of reading kitaab lessons, to delivering the news, sharing recipes on The Recipe Corner, hosting Socially Speaking, guiding mothers through the Baby Program and exploring wellness on the Health Program…Your unwavering support, thoughtful feedback and kind words inspired and uplifted me every step of the way. You were never just an audience…it has truly been a privilege!” Sister Zeenat did not forget her colleagues, guests, station and programmes managers, husband and family in her heart-rendering farewell. “This journey was never just mine alone, it belonged to all of us!”

Listen to the full interview with Apa Zeenat Nosarka and Faaiza Munshi here.