In the ever-evolving world of television, some stars rise swiftly, captivating audiences with their vibrant personalities and authentic connections. One such fast-rising personality is Hellen Menta, the dynamic host of the ever-popular entertainment news show Uncut & the teens-focused Tuli Luno show on Sanyuka TV. Known for her infectious energy and relatable approach, Hellen has become a voice of inspiration for teens across the country.
In this exclusive interview, she opens up about her journey to becoming a TV host, the challenges she has faced along the way, and the exciting future projects her fans can look forward to.
Q: What inspired you to become a TV host, and how did you land this amazing role on Sanyuka TV?
- Answer: One time my late dad watched my brother on TV having an interview and he was so excited to see him. To make him happy, I felt like I needed to join TV. In my F.3, I developed a passion for it, and I told my friends and family that one time I would be a TV presenter. And here I am!
Q: What was your first experience on air like? Were you nervous?
- Answer: Honestly, I was nervous. I saw the cameras and lights, and I started shivering, but I told myself to go for it.
Q: Who is your biggest inspiration in the media industry, and why?
- Answer: Sheila Tumusime and Tina Fierce. I like how they compose themselves on air and how knowledgeable they are.
Q: Balancing work and personal life can be tricky! How do you juggle hosting, school, and personal time?
- Answer: I believe in time management because it improves performance, so I have a timetable for everything. You can’t fail to create time for what you want.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge as a teen show host, and how did you overcome it?
- Answer: I was an MC at Makerere Auditorium, and I always teased students and kids. One time I challenged them to a dance-off. A girl came to compete with me, but in the process, she pulled my wig off and almost pushed me. I felt so bad, but I composed myself and kept going without putting the wig back on.
Q: Hosting live TV can be unpredictable! Have you ever had an embarrassing or funny moment on air?
- Answer: Yes, one time on Tuli Luno, I gathered students with a colleague to take a picture, but I felt so bad because I was live on air and got distracted.
Q: How do you connect with teenagers and keep your content fresh and exciting?
- Answer: I make sure I look like them and wear the character.
Q: What’s the best message or reaction you’ve received from a fan?
- Answer: Mostly, students tell me that I inspire them so much, and they look up to me.
Q: How do you handle criticism or negative comments, especially on social media?
- Answer: I have it in mind that social media critics are often badly off in life, so I don’t give a damn.
Q: If you weren’t a TV host, what other career or passion would you pursue?
- Answer: I would be a lawyer.
Q: What’s your daily routine like before going on air?
- Answer: I wake up at 6:30, do some jogging, dress up for work, and by 9 am, I must be in a meeting to plan for the day.
Q: What’s a fun fact about you that most of your fans don’t know?
- Answer: I’m very principled, though I hide it sometimes.
Q: What are your biggest dreams for your career in the media industry?
- Answer: I don’t always say my things, but what I know is that I am the next world’s big thing.
Q: What advice would you give to teens who want to follow in your footsteps and become TV hosts?
- Answer: Teens need to believe in themselves, listen to themselves, have God in their lives, and have discipline. No one wants to be around proud people.
Q: What exciting projects or surprises should your fans look forward to on your show?
- Answer: My fans should know that Tuli Luno owns the 11th hour of every Saturday. The reason the sun comes out is because of us, so they should tighten their seatbelts — they are not ready for the Teen Lioness Mentality.
Tune in to Sanyuka TV to watch Uncut every weekday at 8 pm and every Saturday at 11 am for Tuli Luno and be part of Hellen Menta’s journey that’s only just getting started.