Written by: Maya Perry

I typically write blogs on women who have inspired me or have shown a great work ethic, but today I am writing a blog on a woman who has not only inspired but gives complete reasoning behind why I love radio. Afrika is a multifaceted personality who has been slaying airwaves for over two decades and she is my big sister. 

Afrika is the epitome of a true woman in radio. She is a role model to many women in the radio industry and has shown grace to every spirit she encounters. Afrika explains “When I started in this business nobody could talk me out of taking the risk of radio. It’s unstable, you have to move all the time. I knew I wanted to do it from the first time I opened a mic. But the last few years in this business DID prove to be unstable. And I DID have to move….like, a lot. I don’t regret the ‘nomad’ lifestyle because it was fun lol and a big part of me will always be that way.” The uncertainties of this industry can sometimes throw curve balls at you but Afrika’s faith in her craft never wavered in this ever changing media environment. 

Afrika started in the radio industry in the late ‘90s. After a short stint on WQMG, she did mornings for 102 JAMZ in 1998. Her resume includes WBHJ in Birmingham, Alabama, afternoons at WPOW Miami, stations in Detroit, Michigan. She has even done voice over for for national clients like: Xfinity, Apple, Starbucks and more

My sister, Afrika, is my biggest role model and deserves all the accolades she receives. I remember visiting my sister on air as a teen to meet Lil Bow Wow and that’s when I KNEW, I caught the radio bug. Not because of Lil Bow Wow (he was big deal a one point lol) but because I saw my sister able to be her authentic self at work. In many other careers, you have to code switch or read off of teleprompters. The excitement of being yourself on a media platform, turned out to be the best part of my experience that day. Afrika has maintained a professional and positive brand in this industry for over 20 years, and I aspire to be half the woman she is.

You can catch Afrika on middays on 97.1 QMG in North Carolina. I am honored to say I have a ‘sister’ in radio - but literally! Just know The Perry Girls are taking the radio industry by storm and we can’t be stopped. There would not be a #MissPerryApproved without #AfrikaOnAir !