Munah Bagharib and Joakim Gomez- two names that seemed worlds were colliding. Both of these prominent local talents are known for their achievements beyond hosting, with Joakim as a DJ on 987FM and Munah as a YouTube star from the iconic days of MunahHirziOfficial.
With each of them achieving success in their respective fields outside of hosting, it was thrilling to witness the dynamics between Joakim and Munah, given the fact that most of us have practically grown up watching them.
The two of them came together to host the Mediacorp Let’s Celebrate 2025 Countdown on 31st December 2024, featuring performances by more than 20 artistes, such as Regina Song, Taufik Batisah and Tasha Low. Their lively hosting chemistry was the icing on the cake of the star-studded performances.
Despite their different backgrounds, it was hard to believe Joakim Gomez and Munah Bagharib hadn’t hosted together before, given how effortlessly their energies matched. This dynamic duo was a highlight at Mediacorp’s Let’s Celebrate 2025 countdown show, showcasing their collaboration.
Meet the Hosts
Joakim Gomez (@joakimgomez) first gained fame as a finalist on Singapore Idol Season 2 and has become a well-known figure in the local entertainment scene.
He is now a successful radio personality on Mediacorp’s 987FM, co-hosting 987 The Shock Circuit with Sonia Chew. Joakim is also a prominent host for major events like National Day parades and esports competitions, and is known to be passionate about making shows enjoyable for the audience.
Beyond radio, he has made a name for himself as a dynamic host, hosting countless major events from National Day parades to major esports events. His passion for hosting and entertainment shone through when he mentioned his motivation: “As an MC, I want to give them a good reason to watch the show. And as an MC, you are the face of the show. The entire show is on your back because you are presenting the show. So that motivates me to make sure that I make it worth people’s time to watch and enjoy the show.”
In 2025, he hopes to host NDP for SG60 and looks forward to exploring new grounds with his hosting partner and close friend, Sonia Chew.
Munah Bagharib (@munahbagharib) is a presenter and actress, who currently presents Talking Point, a weekly series on Channel News Asia. Known for her cheerful and extroverted personality, she brings a unique charm to her work. Her versatile interests, ranging from beauty to lifestyle make her an experienced individual in the media industry.
She first came into the spotlight through MunahHirziOfficial, a YouTube channel she started with her good friend Hirzi. The iconic duo captured the hearts of many, gaining over 100k followers during their prime. Their channel, loved by Singaporeans, featured unique local content that resonated with a wide audience.
“I’m looking forward to more upcoming collaborations on projects that are meaningful to me and more theatre productions that are in the works in 2025,” said Munah.
Countdown to the Big Day
On the morning of Dec 23, 2024, Joakim got his first look at the script.
With eight days till the show was set to happen, he tried to familiarise himself with the script and remember the song titles the performers are singing.
Joakim said: “I think, to be a good MC, it’s how you absorb stuff, how you absorb the script, how you absorb the settings. So I’ve had so many different settings where I’ve hosted for formal events, for informal events, for crowds, for no crowds. So it depends on what the messaging is, who’s performing, what the script says, and then it’s all on you as the personality. How do you deliver that same script that if you give to any other host here in Singapore, they do it their way?”.
As for Munah, she stressed the importance of knowing the show inside out and understanding what you’re trying to achieve with it, as part of the preparation stage before the event.
She added:“At the same time, also understand that anything can happen, anything can change. So always stay alert, and don’t be averse to last-minute changes or challenges.”
A big part of hosting as a duo is truly trusting your partner and their abilities to know what to do in any situation and navigating it together as a hosting pair.
Putting together a show involves so many more people outside hosts and talents. Munah also stressed the importance of trusting the producer and production crew, emphasizing that everyone is in it together and that teamwork is essential for success.
Joakim was all smiles as he expressed his gratitude to the crew. He mentioned: “I’m quite thankful to the crew and the team, they trust me and Munah and the chemistry that we have to banter off each other.”
Handling the unexpected
Coming from two very distinct duos, Joakim and Munah initially faced differences in their hosting styles. Joakim, who had long collaborated with Sonia on 987FM, and Munah, who had established strong chemistry with Hirzi, initially needed time to adjust to each other’s unique differences. “Of course, the first few days, or even hours where we start to rehearse together, there will be teething issues,” Joakim said.
Despite their initial hurdles, their teamwork and professionalism helped them overcome their differences, “I’m thankful that we are both mature adults. We are both professional enough to go like, hey, yeah, let’s try this, let’s try that, and we don’t let our egos get in the way,” shared Joakim. “She was willing to give. I was willing to give. So I think that makes a very dynamic duo. That’s the start of a good partnership as well.”
Advice for future hosts
As former communications students themselves, Joakim and Munah have some words of advice for aspiring hosts following in their footsteps. Munah emphasised the importance of courage and trusting in your abilities when facing new opportunities. She says: “You just got to give it a go. And if after you try it, it’s not for you, that’s fine. Don’t be afraid to fail.”
Joakim, too, highlighted the importance of humility and collaboration in hosting.
“If you have a partner, work with them and put your ego aside. Learn to support while still finding your moment in the spotlight,” added Joakim.
