DJ Zeal's foray into the world of radio commenced with a talent search competition at Highveld Radio, now known as 947, which was hosted by Jeremy Mansfield. As a student at the University of Witwatersrand hailing from KwaZulu Natal, she distinguished herself as one of the top three finalists.

Although Bongani Nxumalo ultimately claimed victory in the competition, DJ Zeal successfully established a significant career in radio.

She began her journey at Voice of Wits campus radio and, at the age of 24, secured her first paid position at Metro FM, having been recruited by Leo Manne.

This achievement made her the youngest female in national commercial radio at that time in 2008.

In 2002, she completed matric at Holy Family College, a private Catholic school. In 2007, she obtained my BA Degree in International Relations from WITS University, followed by an Honours Degree in Anthropology from the same university in 2008.

Radio Stations Journey:

- 2007: Voice of Wits

- 2008 – 2014: Metro FM

- 2015: Gagasi FM

- 2016: East Coast Radio

- 2017: Vuma FM

- 2018 – Current: UKhozi FM

National Radio Awards Nominations:

  • Best Breakfast Show - Commercial (Vuma FM “Good To Go” – 2017)
  • Best Weekend Show - Public Broadcaster (UKhozi FM “Ndabezinhle” – 2023)

Award-Winning Presenter:

  • UKhozi FM Award – Most Grown Show in 2024

Community Work:

  • Since 2020: Board Member & Fundraiser for Umlazi Youth NPO, From The Roots
  • 2021: Conducted informative conversations on radio and at events about “Stop GBV” as a survivor sharing her ordeal and healing journey to make a difference
  • 2024: Initiated and executed a School Uniform Donation Campaign with various sponsors

Affectionately known by her listeners as “MaDladla” and “MaZeal,” DJ Zeal’s taglines “Ngyakchazela Nje” and “Nay Le Voice” have garnered her a dedicated following. Throughout her 17 years on radio, DJ Zeal is grateful for God’s protection during her travels and acknowledges her late parents as her biggest support system and fans. 

Her current exciting chapter includes her firstborn son, Ndabenhle VM Dladla, born in 2021. Together, they founded “MaDladla MakaNdabe,” which provides event services, food services, and consulting. Ndabenhle is both her youngest and biggest partner, inspiring her to be the best person she can be.

The 17 Years of Radio with DJ Zeal MaDladla Celebration begins with Women’s Month, it includes - SABC Durban on 8 August, coinciding with Zeal’s Birthday, where she will celebrate with her colleagues.

Celebration & Birthday Tour Dates:

- 3 August: Gin Festival Kings Park Outer Fields

- 6 August: Views Twenty5

- 8 August: Tigers’ Milk Pavilion

- 10 August: Mandeni Ngcedomhlophe Stadium

- 11 August: Capello Umhlanga

- 17 August: Marleys Shisanyama Ixopo

- 18 August: Exit Shisanyama & Carwash 

- 24 August: Scrapyard Newcastle

- 31 August: Marleys Shisanyama Ixopo

- 1 September: Radisson Hotel Oceans Mall Umhlanga

DJ Zeal looks forward to meeting and thanking her listeners through the years, making appearances, and performing as an MC or DJ at various venues with other DJs and artists supporting her.