Last year, NRG Radio Uganda, kicked off its NRGetic MVPs campaign with a mission: to find the next radio king or queen, social media maestro, content creator, and in-house DJ mirroring this year’s BEAST MVP campaign which drew over 100 hopefuls to auditions.
Among the winners were Christine Ekakoro (Eka) and Ishaque Nsubuga (Big Boy Shaque) as radio hosts, DJs Beats and Robin Kist, and social media gurus Deliverance Kutosi and Drek Mugume.
As the 2024 campaign heats up, the competition is fiercer than ever. In a special news series, "From NRGetic MVPs to BEAST MVPs," we profile past winners, sharing their journeys and tips for this year’s participants. Kicking off the series, we spotlight Big Boy Shaque.
Ishaque Nsubuga, better known as Big Boy Shaque, currently co-hosts the #NRGBreakfastShowUG on NRG Radio alongside Eka and the celebrated Prim Asiimwe. The show, featuring electrifying mixes by DJ Beats, airs live every Monday to Friday from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM. “Tune in as you head to work, campus, or get ready for school,” Ishaque invites.
But Ishaque is more than just a radio host. He’s a multimedia journalist, voice-over artist and coach, poet, and English language tutor. His career took off in 2016 as an MC at high school events, coupled with debating and poetry. Venturing into voice-over artistry, he became the voice behind the popular MTN Data bundles ads. His passion for radio ignited in 2020 when he joined the Media Challenge Initiative, working on their online MCI Radio. It was here he discovered the #NRGeticMVPs contest, leading to his triumphant win.
Reflecting on his journey, Ishaque shares, “I was hesitant about auditioning for the NRGetic MVPs in 2023, fearing it might be another scam. I submitted my video at the last minute, just to try, and it turned out to be the best decision of my year. It transformed my career.”
Entering NRG Radio was a pivotal moment for Ishaque. “The auditions were tough, with many talented and well-known contestants. By staying true to myself, I managed to win the Radio King category,” he recalls. This victory stands as his proudest achievement of 2023.
Why NRG? For Ishaque, the job at NRG Radio felt like a perfect fit for his identity and exceeded all expectations. He praises the vibrant and respectful team, noting the privilege of working alongside industry veteran Prim Asiimwe. “I learn so much from her every day. My fellow MVPs winners, Eka and DJ Beats, have become like family.”
Being part of the NRG Breakfast Club is an exhilarating experience for Ishaque. “We connect with our listeners every morning, entertaining and engaging them as they start their day. It’s amazing to be part of their routine and bring energy and joy to their mornings.”
For those vying for the BEAST MVPs Challenge, Ishaque’s advice is simple: be genuine and let your personality shine. “Your only real competition is yourself. Show up as your best self each time, and you’ll have a great chance at winning.”
Stay tuned for more profiles of NRG Radio’s shining stars, and get inspired by their incredible journeys from NRGetic MVPs to BEAST MVPs.
