Why joining 'Expresso Morning Show' is the start of a massive new chapter for Chanley Wong

Chanley Wong considers it an “honour and a huge responsibility” to be added to the “Expresso Morning Show’s” presenter line-up.

“It feels surreal, honestly,” the two-time South African Film and Television Awards-nominated television personality told “Independent Media Lifestyle”.

“‘Expresso’ has always been one of those shows you grow up watching, it’s warm, it’s positive, and it’s part of people’s daily routines.”

Wong, who is also a renowned content creator, made her debut on the S3 weekday morning programme on Tuesday, February 17, where she joined Zanele Potelwa to broadcast live from the show’s Johannesburg studio at Fourways’ Design Quarter.

This latest project marks Wong’s return to television after a seven-year hiatus. During this time away, she focused on digital content and other platforms.

Her new role on “Expresso Morning Show” also comes after she waited 12 hours at the “Presenter Search on 3” auditions back in 2018, hoping to be part of the show.

And while it is now finally her time to shine on the programme, she insisted that not being accepted previously was a lesson, not a setback.

“It taught me that opportunity often tests your patience before it rewards your talent, and if you’re not willing to wait for it, you probably don’t want it badly enough.”

And as the morning show environment can be fast-paced, Wong also explained how she prepares herself mentally and emotionally before going live on air.

“Morning television is high energy, but I’ve learned that you don’t have to match chaos with chaos.”

“You prepare, and you trust yourself. That calm becomes your strength; it gives you control.”

Wong was born and raised in Benoni. As a former Miss Benoni, she is no stranger to the spotlight, having first become a familiar face to South African audiences through children's programming. Her television credits include hosting popular youth shows such as “Craz-e”, “World Live”, “Sistahood” and “ShizLive”.

Wong excelled in this space, receiving two Safta nominations for Best TV Presenter, notably for her work on “Sistahood” in 2017.

After working across youth TV, radio and digital, Wong said that this multi-platform experience has shaped her as a presenter.

“Multi-platform work forces you to evolve,” she said. 

“It’s taught me to listen better, to respond faster and to show up prepared, no matter the medium. They’ve shaped me into a presenter who is versatile and deeply connected to the audience.”

She is also proud of her achievements to date, including her Safta nominations, and looks forward to many more to come.

“It’s deeply humbling. You sometimes don’t always pause to realise how far you’ve come. Safta nominations make you stop and reflect, and it’s a reminder that consistency, discipline and passion do get noticed.”

Wong added, “It also motivates me. Recognition is beautiful, but it raises the standard you hold yourself to. It pushes me to keep perfecting my craft and showing up with intention.”

Meanwhile, after building a strong connection with audiences, especially the youth, the one message that Wong wants to give young South Africans is: “It’s okay to fail.” 

“For every yes, there are 1000 no’s. In fact, failure is part of the journey. Every setback is a lesson, and every mistake pushes you closer to your goals. What matters is that you keep going, learning, and growing. That’s how you truly ‘fail forward’.”

Outside of presenting, Wong also aims to continue perfecting her craft - whether it’s presenting, acting or content creation. 

“This year, I’m determined to take my content to the next level: learning new filming and editing skills, experimenting with storytelling and really pushing my creativity.” 

“Travel is also a big passion of mine. I’ve always been a solo girl exploring the world and seeing my favourite artists perform, and I definitely want to do more of that in 2026.” 

“Through it all, I want to continue spending time with my friends, family, and support system, the people who keep me grounded and have helped me get to where I am today.”

And after a live morning show, “Move, rest, binge, repeat!” is her favourite way to unwind and recharge for the next day.

“I like to get some movement in, catch up on sleep, relax with my favourite series and then get ready to do it all over again.”

As Wong settles into her new “Expresso Morning Show” role, she hopes that viewers see her as genuine, approachable and authentic.

“I hope they see someone who’s excited to start the day with them, not just in front of the camera but as part of their morning. Being in people’s homes is a privilege I don’t take lightly.”