BY Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
Automotive journalist and Ignition TV host, Francisco Nwamba, embodies the spirit described by Guy Kawasaki when he shared these words: “Pursuing your passions makes you more interesting, and interesting people are enchanting.”
When the motoring media was slow to see his vision and embrace his passion, he created his own media platform and knocked on doors for opportunities. A decade later, he earned a spot as a motoring commentator on national TV and as a COTY juror.
How did you become a motoring journalist and when did your career begin?
I became a motoring journalist when I started The Motorist SA in 2014. I was battling to get work in the field, as I had no experience. I started my own website, wrote daily articles for it, and built an audience. I then joined the SAGMJ and managed to pique the interest of other publications and platforms, asking me to write for them and present them.
Was it easy to break through? What were the major challenges for you?
Initially, it wasn’t easy as I had to convince OEMs to trust me with their brands at a time when digital content wasn’t at the forefront. Eventually, with enough resilience, I was able to break through. I just needed to hang in there and stay passionate and the rest came.
What was the very first motoring launch you attended and what stood out about it?
My first motoring launch was for the Opel Corsa Sport. What stood out for me was the realisation that brands were willing to fly journalists to various parts of the country and the world.
What was the very first car you drove and please describe the feeling?
My first press car was a red Suzuki Swift and my thoughts on it were “please don’t crash it”. The feeling was indescribable and it was amazing to get the recognition of a brand that trusted me to drive their product.
What was your most embarrassing moment as a motoring journalist?
My most embarrassing moment as a journalist was when I had a fender bender with a Mazda 2. The driver in front of me drove off in a merging lane and stopped immediately, causing me to rear-end them at a very slow speed. Damage was minimal, but the embarrassment was sky-high.
Describe your journey to becoming a COTY jury member. What unique qualities do you bring to COTY?
As a long-standing member of the SAGMJ, I served as a trainee juror years back and progressed to become a full juror. I was honored to be a part of an important consumer facing competition such as SA COTY.
What do you look for in the Car of The Year and name two favourite finalists that have what it takes to become this year winner.
I look for a balanced vehicle, one that does many things well. There are very few bad cars today, so a car that excels in many areas whilst still remaining engaging for the driver stands out to me. My gut says the Honda Civic Type R stands a great chance, as well as the BMW M2 and the Ford Ranger Raptor. Or I could just be biased toward performance cars. I guess boys never really grow up, do we?
What item do you take from the hotel from launches?
My guilty pleasure is those fluffy hotel slippers!
