The path I have traced over these years has been full of challenges.
At the beginning, the landscape was radically different from today's – there was only TVE, later TVM. Choices were scarce, broadcasters were few, and I found myself communicating with the whole country without being able to get immediate feedback from viewers – I received it only through letters. The demands centred above all on diction and pronunciation.
Over time, however, important changes emerged: the transition from TVE Televisão Experimental to TVM, the arrival of new channels and globalisation, which allowed the consumption of international content while also giving value to what is produced at home. I remember the first presidential elections, the unity of SADC and the opportunity I had to be a pioneer in television music programmes, where I opened the way with a new form of expression and interaction.
Communication in our country has undergone a tremendous evolution, now with countless means at its disposal, from the written word to radio, television, showbiz magazines and social media. The latter have proved a powerful way of connecting directly with the public and being present at any moment.
I faced challenges because I was a young, outgoing and friendly woman. I was often misunderstood, seen as bold and fearless, which created obstacles. Fortunately, I had great mentors, such as Calane da Silva, Victor José and João Ribeiro. One episode that left its mark on me happened when I took part in a debate on culture, where I spoke about globalisation. A few days later, I was criticised in the Letters to the Editor section of the newspaper Notícias. At the time, Calane assured me that I was on the right track, saying: “If nobody is talking about you, then you must be doing something wrong”.
Compared with the start of my career, women in communication in Mozambique are now bolder, with more space and voice. However, some of them are following an unsuitable path. I advise them to always pursue their dreams while keeping their essence, to read a great deal and to be careful in choosing their role models.
Institutional brands see me as a woman of the people who conveys credibility and trust. Over time, I managed to consolidate my personal brand by associating my image and voice with various companies. Advertising has a significant impact on our culture and society, but some brands were slow to grasp its importance. We are in a new era, in which those who do not position themselves well in the digital world end up losing out.
Being a public figure brings many responsibilities. I represent my country and my beloved homeland without ever forgetting the little girl from Bairro 9 in Xai-Xai. I carry with me the voice of the people and of the young, always knowing where I come from, where I am and where I want to go. During my career, there were moments that left their mark on me, such as the project Moçambique Dá Sorte, where I had the opportunity to get to know my country in depth, or when I was master of ceremonies at the inauguration of the Aeroporto Internacional Zona A. I also remember the social work in the women's prison in Ndlavela, my trip to Zambia in 2019 to receive the award The Most Influential Woman on Business and Government on Media sector SADC North, and in 2020, when I was named The Most Influential Woman on Business and Government on Media sector Africa Continent. Both awards were gratifying recognition of the work I have been doing across the African continent.
Today, as Goodwill and Child Wellbeing Ambassador and a member of the Advisory Council of World Vision, I have the opportunity to visit remote areas and work with communities, which I believe has made me a better person.
My life took an incredible turn when I brought communication together with politics, revolutionising the outlook of the young and of the market “mamanas”. I want to be able to contribute to the people who shaped me as Eunice Andrade. The time has come to take on this challenge and show that, together, we are stronger - united, we are unbeatable.
