Who Is Samantha Musa aka Misred?

MisRed, born Samantha Mary Musa on May 8, 1982, in Harare, Zimbabwe, is a dynamic and multifaceted media personality, radio host, television presenter, social influencer, philanthropist, and entrepreneur.

Widely recognized as the voice behind ZiFM Stereo’s The Rush Drive Time Show and formerly a co-host of the daily breakfast program The Ignition, MisRed has become a household name in Zimbabwe’s entertainment and media landscape.

Early Life and Education

Raised in Tafara before moving to Highlands, Harare, MisRed’s upbringing was rooted in humble beginnings. Her educational journey saw her attend Hallingbury Primary School, Bindura Primary, and Lewisam Primary School, before progressing to Heritage High School and Speciss College for her secondary education.

MisRed also lived in Mozambique and South Africa, where she first discovered her passion for radio. It was during this period of self-discovery that her media persona was born. Her industry name, MisRed, originated from a bold lipstick she wore. When she stopped wearing it, a friend remarked that she was “misread,” meaning misunderstood—and the name stuck.

Career Highlights

MisRed launched her radio career in 2012 when she joined ZiFM Stereo. She rose to prominence in 2013, taking over as co-host of The Ignition after the departure of radio icon Tinopona Katsande. Her role expanded beyond the mic to include production, high-profile interviews, and shaping the show’s content—ultimately contributing to its rise as one of Zimbabwe’s top-rated morning shows.

In 2017, she transitioned to television as a co-host of Coke on the Beat on ZTV, where she interviewed local stars like Trevor Dongo and DJ Stavo. Her growing influence led her to international platforms, including coverage of events such as the MTV Africa Music Awards and Lake of Stars Festival, where she conducted interviews with global artists like Trey Songz, Tiwa Savage, French Montana, and P-Square.

A sought-after events MC, MisRed has hosted a variety of major events including the OK Grand Challenge VIP Marquee, Land Rover Discovery Launch, and South African Airways Travel Agency Awards. In 2018, she partnered with Jungle Entertainment Ventures and KOSHA Management to expand her media brand internationally.

Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy

MisRed is the founder of Red Market Sundays, a small business initiative on Twitter that gives entrepreneurs a platform to promote their products every Sunday. Through this platform, she offers support and visibility to Zimbabwean small business owners.

She has also served as a brand ambassador for major companies such as Coca-Cola, Black Opal, NetOne, Make-Up By Gamu, and more. Her influence in the fashion world earned her nominations including Zimbabwe Fashion Week Style Icon and appearances on the covers of lifestyle magazines like DIVAS Inc and Induna.

Advocacy and Public Speaking

MisRed’s expertise and influence have seen her speak on international platforms. In 2017, she joined a prestigious panel at The Business of Entertainment Conference in Zambia, which included figures like Trace TV Southern Africa VP Leonardo Manne and Econet Media CEO Joseph Hundah.

Personal Life

MisRed is a mother of two daughters, one of whom is named Hannah Asiyah Musa. She has been candid about her personal struggles, including surviving an abusive marriage that led to severe emotional and physical distress. In interviews, she has spoken about the trauma, isolation, and eventual strength it took to leave the relationship, which began during her time living in Mozambique.

In 2016, she became engaged to a man named Phil, and by 2017 had announced plans to marry. Phil was reportedly based in the UK.

Publications and Recognition

In 2021, she released her book “Be Faithful To Your Happiness”, a reflective work that shares personal insights and encourages resilience.

Awards and Nominations:

• Best Urban Female Presenter – Zimbabwe Radio Awards (2016, nominated)

• Best Fashion and Style Influencer – Zimbabwe Social Media Awards (2018, nominated)

• Twimbo of the Year – TRIBE of Influencers Awards (2018, winner)

Controversy

In 2020, MisRed issued a public apology after comments made during a Ghanaian radio interview on the #ZimbabweanLivesMatter movement were perceived by some as lacking empathy. She addressed the backlash openly on her Twitter account.