Radio presenter, TV personality and businesswoman – Kia Johnson does it all. She makes the mornings a little brighter on the Radio 2000 breakfast show Planet Haaibo and the evenings a lot more fun with Radio 2000 show Saturday Night Live. She also produces and presents a lifestyle show called Life with KJ, of which the first season can currently be seen on Openview HD, Star Sat and Deen TV at 8:30 pm each Friday. Yet, the beautiful Capetonian still had time in her schedule to chat to us about the Mother City.
1 How does Cape Town influence you or your work?
I work in a very demanding and creative business but am lucky enough to be inspired daily. I’m close to the ocean while I work so that in itself is a huge bonus. It’s so easy for me to unwind during or after a tough day by heading to the seaside to relax. I take a breather, soak up the view and get right back on the grind again. I’m also an art lover, which further fuels my creative flow and, when that bug bites, it’s so easy to find an art gallery where I can enjoy showcased works.
2 What do you love most about this city?
The sights, the sounds and the scenery! Our diversity and the blend of multicultural backgrounds make for an interesting potjie of love, friendship and family units.
3 If your friend was visiting Cape Town for the first time, where would you take them?
That’s such a tough decision as there are so many places to explore. If I was taking a friend who’s interested in history, I would expose them to the Bo-Kaap as I’m of Indian descent and that reflects my ancestral background. For a more scenic type scenario, Stellenbosch would be lovely but my ultimate favourite would be Table Mountain. Once at the top, you’re able to see an almost aerial view of what Cape Town has to offer for both city goers and nature lovers.
4 Describe the city in three words.
Unique, Exotic, Breathtaking.
5 If you were to create a souvenir that represents Cape Town, what would it be or look like?
Growing up, I’ve always loved the Protea flower – it’s an emblem of our nation and, personally, I feel this flower reflects our gorgeous diversity.
6 What’s your favourite Cape catchphrase?
‘Awè’.
7 Three Capetonians we should be following online?
Kurt Schoonraad, Dantonio Goodman, Iqbal Survè.
Photography Courtesy images