Tennis legend, Martina Navratilova once said: “I think the key is for women not to set any limits." Award-winning television personality, Leanne Manas, is a living example of that statement.

Very early in her career, Leanne was told she’d never make it in the industry because she wasn’t strong enough. The unflappable host of SABC 2’s Morning Live hasn’t just made it in the industry; she has reinvented breakfast television with her warm smile, infectious laugh, and confident interviewing style.

Leanne was also chosen as one of SABC’s National Anchors for the 2004 elections and presidential inauguration. Before joining Morning Live, Leanne hosted the popular Business Update on SABC 3.

Earlier in her career, she honed her skills at Talk Radio 702 and Summit TV. The darling of the nation, Leanne Manas is gsport’s woman of the month for August…

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What a journey it’s been, how are you enjoying Morning Live?
I am absolutely loving it! The only difficult part is the getting up and 4am. Your body never gets used to waking up at that hour, but it does adjust to having less sleep. I have such passion for what I do and hope that it resonates in my presenting. As soon as this passion for my work goes – that’s when I know it’s time for me to move on.

Describe your typical work day?
There is no “typical” day for me. The only constant is waking up at 4am and finishing the show at 8am. Everyday is different and that’s what I love about my life. Whether I am traveling for work, MC’ing a function, attending a social or charity event or just taking it easy, no 2 days are the same. I also do corporate Media training which keeps me busy. I do Television training for upcoming young TV stars as well. That keeps me grounded and truly makes me appreciate what I have achieved in life.
 
You’ve interviewed so many influential people, which one stands out as your best interview?
I think the best interview I have conducted was with the queen of talk herself, Oprah Winfrey. It was one of the most incredible moments of my life. It is a rather daunting task having to interview one of the best interviewees in the world. The great thing however was that we just connected from the second she entered the room and it turned out to be more of a cup of coffee between friends rather than a rigid interview. Having the opportunity to interview Nelson Mandela is another moment that will live with me for eternity!

What attracted you to the media?
I have always loved communicating with people. Even from my school days I was the one on the Public speaking and debating teams. I was always told that I had “the gift of the gab” and should become a politician. That never interested me, so I decided to go into the next best thing and that of course being Media and broadcasting to be more specific.

Are women in the media getting more opportunities now than before?
Absolutely! There of course is still some way to go. But we are almost there. Women are now not just seen as pretty faces, but we are being taken seriously. Never has the playing field been so open for us females to go out there and take a firm position for ourselves. We are seeing women succeed not only in front of the camera, but behind it as well. Women are also taking over managerial roles in all aspects of media. It is however still Male dominated, but time is certainly proving to be fruitful.

gsport strives to celebrate femininity. How would you define femininity?
The best definition I have heard about Femininity is- “femininity is defined as a woman who embraces her nature as a woman and acts in accordance.  
Never try and be something else. It is the femininity that we were born with that makes us so powerful in this world.

What’s the most amazing thing about being a woman?
That sixth sense we have. The ability to see all sides of a story. The ability to be Mothers, Sisters, wives, best friends and successful career women without so much as a complaint. Getting the job done is what we are best known for! 

Even with your busy career, you find time for charity. Tell us more about your initiatives?
I support many charities. I am very involved with the South African Guide Dogs Association. I also do work for the Topsy Foundation and Child Welfare. I have helped in Fundraising for Women and men against Child Abuse. And something so important for me is the fact that I am a 46664 Ambassador and work closely with HIV/Aids initiatives.

September will be exactly a year you’ve been married. How have you handled juggling marriage and work?
I have an exceptionally understanding husband who makes it easy for me to grow in my career and yet still be the best wife that I can be.

What is your greatest wish?
“World peace” Just kidding!! My greatest wish is for South Africans to realize what an amazing country we have and to embrace it with open arms. To let my children see the beautiful country I have called home my entire life without fears. To let them walk in the streets without the threat of violence. I want South Africa to be the example of inspiration and hope to the rest of the world.

 

Click here to contact Leanne Manas

 

 

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