Hailing from the longest stretch of South America, she traded empanadas for Tim Tams as she touched down in the lively world of Australia after a marathon of 30 hours of travel. Armed with a degree in journalism from Pontificia Universidad Católica, she’s set to spice up East Side Radio’s scene.

A little about me…

¡Hola! I’m María Elisa Herrera Venegas, a name as vibrant as my Latin roots. At 24, I proudly carry the legacy of both my father and mother in my last name—a cherished cultural tradition. As the spirited third of four sisters, back home, I’m welcomed by the enthusiastic wagging tails of my five canine best friends. A proud graduate of the Arts and Humanities College, my journey led me to embrace the world of journalism, where I get to do what I love: listen, learn, and communicate with people.

My love for media…

I found my passion for media later in life. One morning, I woke up and chose to explore journalism. University introduced me to various aspects of this field, where I fell in love with creative writing and radio. Radio was a bit challenging, but it felt like home and brought me immense joy. Now, I’m back at it, learning and having a great time at Eastside Radio.

Let’s get intimate..

It’s okay to acknowledge the challenges! Despite considering myself an extroverted person who is deeply passionate about communication, there’s an ironic twist – speaking makes my heart race, and my voice often trembles due to nervousness. But, here in the radio studio, there’s a unique security that no other area of journalism gives me. It’s not just about the music or the words—it’s about building a genuine connection between the broadcaster and the listener that makes each day a shared experience.