More than just the 'Queen of Traffic': Getting to know Jayshree Parasuramen
We’re ending Women’s Month with a profile on Durban’s
favourite traffic reporter.
You might recognise Jayshree Parasuramen’s voice every morning on East Coast Breakfast with Darren Maule.
She’s the free-spirited woman who makes sure you don’t get stuck in traffic on your way to work.
But there is more to this traffic reporter than staying up to date with accidents and broken-down vehicles. Jayshree is passionate about the arts and is a talented actress and playwright.
We chatted to her about her career and her many initiatives aimed at empowering women and the youth.
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Jayshree has been an artist for over 20 years and performed on live theatre stages for years.
Her latest play, ‘GUPTURED‘, is currently on a national tour. She created the satirical play with her mentee Denny Thaver and production manager Sandro Thaver.
Jayshree describes the project as a “hilarious comedy” that will entertain and educate audiences.
“It is a real conversation starter because the play uses comedy as a platform to connect people in the everyday common struggles we all face as South Africans. It’s a very fun play that gives you a real theatre experience of music dance and drama,” she told the ECR Lifestyle team.
When Jayshree is not onstage or in-studio with the East Coast Breakfast team, she is hosting events to empower women.
“As a motivational speaker, I try to use all my platforms toward women empowerment and community upliftment initiatives. Giving back is also a value that I try to express as often as possible. I am currently working on topics that can help women understand health and wellness more, as not everyone gets to wake up and have five minutes to themselves in the morning or even throughout the day.”
She also enjoys finding opportunities to help women network in business. Her work in the community does not go unnoticed. She received a 2019 Panache Woman Of Wonder (WOW) Award in August.
Jayshree’s electric personality stands out wherever she goes.
She usually bounces into East Coast Radio’s headquarters in Umhlanga dressed in a funky outfit, a big smile and a colourful hairdo.
She’s currently sporting blue-green hair!
While many people drag themselves out of bed every morning, Jayshree wakes up with a happy-go-lucky attitude.
“When I wake up every day, I love putting on inspirational music, which elevates me into a positive mindset. After an invigorating shower, I go into meditation and pray before I get to work. I take a moment to be grateful for everything I have. Morning time is my time for inspiration and my time to get energised,” she said.
Not even getting stuck in traffic can put a damper her mood.
“I love a good playlist, but because of my love and passion of the arts, my playlists are mostly movie scores like Pocahontas, Lion King, Little Mermaid and Frozen. I am also a huge Bruce Springsteen fan. It keeps me calm and out of trouble on the roads.”
Jayshree’s positive outlook extends to all aspects of her life and career. She spreads light and love by helping aspiring artists turn their dreams into reality.
“I want to leave a positive impression,” she said about her community work with the youth.
The award-winning personality mentors up-and-coming artists – regardless of their background.
“Having someone believe in you and guide you is imperative in growing the arts in our country. I always seize the opportunity to work closely with the government on development projects, because giving back is so vital. I know, those who are inspired to persevere will find success and then pass on the torch. It’s a wonderful and positive domino effect and I am so proud to be the first piece in that chain reaction.”
You can catch Jayshree on East Coast Breakfast with Darren Maule, Mondays to Fridays from 6:00am to 9:00am.
“If you want to avoid traffic then listen to the East Coast Radio traffic reports. Honestly, we are the best at what we do, because we really care about our listeners and especially the ones that are on the road throughout the day.
GUPTURED's next show is on September 14 at Merebank's DAFTA Hall. Get your tickets here.
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