eNCA financial news anchor, Arabile Gumede (26), is a University of Johannesburg BCom Accounting graduate, who started his career in media as an intern for CNBC Africa. He later moved to eNCA as one of their youngest and brightest financial news anchor. He talks to us about his job, his perfect woman & his ideal date.
How did you actually get the CNBC Africa job?
I was doing promotions while in varsity, and one of our clients suggested I apply for the CNBC Africa internship. One year later, I got a call to come work for them. I did not have that much writing experience, so I was given the opportunity to work on the television broadcasting side. As the intern, I worked in production, assisting in research and later worked as a field presenter. Later I became a news anchor, reporting on finance.
Did you decided to work for eNCA. How did this happen, and how was the transition?
I was scouted to work for eNCA. They recognised the work I was doing for CNBC Africa and thought I would be a great asset to their company. I accepted their offer because it was a bigger platform. I love working for the channel because there is a bigger audience and more recognition. But, I have CNBC Africa to thank for the experience.
What are the challenges you face working as financial news anchor?
Being a young person talking about finance is a challenge because people will not take you serious, making the assumption that you don’t have the knowledge. People also tend to undermine me because I am black – there are a lot of stereotypes and breaking them is tough.
What are some of the problems faced when trying to address financial matters to the youth?
I actually think that we are fast becoming a financially-informed generation; there has been an increase in finance interest from younger people. Our generation also known as Generation Y, which has been afforded better opportunities – we are university graduates and get better jobs than our parents. It puts us on a better financial scale and this is why more of us want to understand money.
What is your role, then, as a young financial journalist?
Because I am young, I can relate to Generation Y, and they can count on me to report on financial matters they can relate to – I bridge the gap.
What financial tip that has worked for you would you give to others?
If you are going to save, put the money in an investment account, instead of just putting it in your savings. Invest in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The money you invest will have interest and be of better value at its maturity time.
Would you leave news broadcasting for another job? If so, what job would you do?
I would not leave my job right now. I love the space I am in and want to build my brand, and establish myself in the industry. I love my job, which gives me the opportunity to educate people on their finances. I also get to work with amazing people who I learn a lot from. In future, I would like to do radio broadcasting, but right now I love television. 
Now let’s talk about your personal life – what do you do in your time away?
I love soccer, so you will find me on the soccer field. I also enjoy being with friends, either having a braai or going out to watch movies.
Who or what keeps you going?
My mother; it’s thanks to her that I am here today. I call her my Shoprite Checkers woman of ever year (laughs). She is everything to me and has supported every move I have made and always wants me to be the best in anything I do.
Although you are not single, please tell us what you love in a woman?
I love a woman that can challenge me, someone who can share her point of view and make me see things differently. I like someone who will make me think. And I love a woman who will accept me for me.
Describe your best date idea?
A hot air balloon ride, overlooking the Magaliesburg or Harties dam, laced with a lovely picnic thereafter and maybe a crazy activity like bungee jumping or go-kart racing.
