Podcasts

Welcome to A! Heartbeat Podcast. In this episode, host Jennifer Mdluli and co-host Lebohang Zimba unpack whether South Africa’s 2024 elections and the Government of National Unity have truly changed the game for young people. Joined by Gugulethu Mkandla(Engage SA), Khanyisile Ngqalela (Research Institute), and Steven Nkonyeni (Action SA), the discussion dives into youth disillusionment, economic exclusion, and the meaning of democracy when the majority feels unheard. The episode challenges surface-level participation and reimagines what real civic engagement could look like for South Africa’s youth.

Credits:
Host: Jennifer Mdluli 
Co-host: Lebohang Zimba 
Guests: Gugulethu Mkandla (National Project Coordinator – Engage SA), Khanyisile Ngqalela (Public Affairs – Research Institute), Steven Nkonyane (Activator & PR Councilor – Action SA)
Director: Mpho (MrSir) Matlhabegoane
Technical Support: Lonwabo Kente

Join us on A! Heartbeat Podcast as we tackle the pressing issue of disability inclusion in South Africa. With millions of young people with disabilities facing social stigma, inaccessible infrastructure, and limited opportunities, it’s time to spark dialogue and drive change. In this episode, we’re joined by two special guests: Dulcie Molefe, a dedicated Social Worker passionate about empowering Persons with Physical Disabilities, and Mxolisi Mvubu, a paraplegic activist who’s living proof that disability doesn’t define potential. Together, they’ll share their insights, experiences, and vision for a more inclusive society. 

Credits:
Host: MrSir Mpho 
Co-host: Neo Iyame Masilela 
Guests: Dulcie Molefe (Social Worker) and Mxolisi Mvubu (2019 Activator)
Directors: Mpho (MrSir) Matlhabegoane & Nontsikelelo Khunju 
Technical Support: Lonwabo Kente

Welcome to the 3rd episode of A! Heartbeat Podcast. In this episode, we will explore how South Africa’s Heritage and Arts shape identity and community. Joined by Mxolisi Masilela (CEO & Artistic Director of The TX Theatre) and Don Sidiya (2025 Activator – Alumni of ACTIVATE! Change Drivers programme), we unpack stories, challenges, and opportunities that highlight the power of creativity in building social cohesion. 

Credits:
Host: Mpho (MrSir) Matlhabegoane
Co-host: Nhlanhla Msiza 
Expert Guest: Mxolisi Masilela (Author, Director, Actor, Producer, Facilitator, Curator, and CEO & Artistic Director of The TX Theatre)
Activator Guest: Don Sidiya (2025)
Directors: Mpho (MrSir) Matlhabegoane and Nontsikelelo Khunju 
Technical Support: Lonwabo Kente

In this episode, MrSir Mpho (Host) and Selokela Slu Molamodi (Co-Host) explore the rise of South Africa’s “Hustle Economy” and what it reveals about your survival in a broken economic system. With expert insights from development economist Phelisa Nkomo (B.O.D Chair of OXFAM) and lived experiences from young hustlers within the Activate network (Activators such as Tshidi Mabe), the conversation questions whether side hustles represent empowerment or a symptom of structural exclusion. The episode challenges listeners to imagine alternatives that move beyond survival toward dignity, equity, and lasting economic justice.

Credits:
Host: MrSir Mpho
Co-Host: Selokela Slu Molamodi
Guests: Phelisa Nkomo, and Tshidi Mabe (2018 Activator)
Directors: Mpho (MrSir) Matlhabegoane & Nontsikelelo Khunju
Technical Support: Kamohelo Moloi & Lonwabo Kente

In this episode, MrSir Mpho (Host) and Neo lyana Masilela (Co-host) unpack the role of South Africa’s R370 unemployment support grant in the lives of young people. Through expert insights from Siphelele Chirwa (CEO of ACTIVATE! Change Drivers), lived experiences from youth voices within the Activate network (Activators such as Wanda Pato), and a breakdown of the policy, the discussion interrogates whether the grant is a lifeline or a Band-Aid. The episode challenges listeners to reflect, mobilize, and demand sustainable solutions for youth economic justice.

Credits:
Host: MrSir Mpho
Co-Host: Neo lyana Masilela
Guests: Siphelele Chirwa, and Wanda Pato (2020 Activator)
Directors: Mpho (MrSir) Matlhabegoane & Nontsikelelo Khunju
Technical Support: Kamohelo Moloi & Lonwabo Kente

In this episode, Merlize Jogiat and Samm Marshall explore the impact of positive storytelling in driving awareness and action around gender justice and gender-based violence (GBV). They discuss how Social TV is at the forefront of telling compelling stories that highlight progress and solutions in the fight for gender equity. By focusing on good news stories and uplifting narratives, the conversation emphasizes how positive storytelling can inspire change, shift perspectives, and foster a deeper understanding of social issues.

Credits:
Sound: Flue
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Research: Merlize Jogiat
Facilitator: Merlize Jogiat
Technical Support: L.S. Gumede
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

In this powerful episode of Gender Chats, Merlize Jogiat, a Generation G Media Maker for Activate Change Drivers, sits down with Sabrina Walter, the founder of Women for Change, to unpack one of the most urgent issues in South Africa—gender-based violence (GBV)—and why it must be declared a national disaster.

Credits:
Research and Facilitation: Merlize Jogiat
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Tech support: Karabo Ramuhashi
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

Pitso Ntokoane in conversation with Generation Gender Champions from KwaZulu Natal.

Credits:
Facilitated: Pitso Ntokoane
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Technical support: Karabo Ramuhashi

As the Generation G programme draws to a close, we sat down with the young people who joined the programme as gender champions and took on the role of championing various campaigns and programmes in their respective communities. As the programme ends, has its aspirations of realising a gender just and violence-free society with and for young people been achieved? What are the pressing issues in their respective communities? Why did they volunteer to join this work? In this episode, we sit down with them to hear their thoughts on the programme and their role beyond it.

Credits:
Facilitated: Pitso Ntokoane
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Technical support: Karabo Ramuhashi
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

In this powerful episode of Gender Chats, Merlize Jogiat, a Generation G Media Maker for Activate Change Drivers, sits down with Sabrina Walter, the founder of Women for Change, to unpack one of the most urgent issues in South Africa—gender-based violence (GBV)—and why it must be declared a national disaster.

Credits:
Research and Facilitation: Merlize Jogiat
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Tech support: Karabo Ramuhashi

In this episode, we delve into the legacy of the late President, Nelson Mandela and cover various aspects of his life, including Nelson Mandela’s leadership journey, his global impact, and the failures and successes reflected in his legacy. We also touch on the understanding of Nelson Mandela by millennials and a generation of young people who understand South Africa and his role only through historical references, we discuss the upcoming general elections, and the relevance of his leadership today. 

Credits:
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Research: Ramadimetja Makgeru
Technical Assistance: Jennifer Mdluli 
Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

Zamayirha Peter in conversation with Media Maker, Merlize Jogiat.

Credits:
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Host: Zamayirha Peter
Research: Merlize Jogiat
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

In this podcast Bongani Mabusa, Bongani Jele and Rammolotsi Sothoane, explore why events like this are vital for fostering vulnerability and emotional expression amongst men, especially in a world that often expects men to hide their pain. Through honest conversation, we acknowledged that many men carry heavy burdens in silence, and it’s essential to create safe environments where they can share, heal, and connect with others who understand.

This dialogue is about breaking down the stigma around vulnerability and empowering men to embrace their emotions as a strength, not a weakness.

Credits:
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Sound: Karabo Ramuhashi
Tech: LS Gumede
Facilitator: Merlize Jogiat

In this insightful episode we unpack what healthy masculinity looks like through the lens of community developer practitioner specialising in clinical research (HIV prevention Advocacy), Generation G Champion and life Coach, Neo Iyana Masilela and Public Health Expert, Zibusiso Msimanga.

Credits:
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Sound: Karabo Ramuhashi
Content Lead: Ntsiki Khunju

In this deeply insightful episode,  Craig Wilkinson, author, speaker, and founder of programs that champion healthy masculinity and fatherhood unpacks the profound impact of safe masculinity within the home and how it shapes the lives of children. This episode is a heartfelt call to action for men to redefine masculinity—not as dominance, but as a powerful combination of strength and vulnerability that transforms lives.

Credits:
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Sound: Karabo Ramuhashi
Technical Support: LS Gumede
Research: Merlize Jogiat 

This episode unpacks how fathers use or allow their masculine energy in their parenting responsibilities. Inspired by the Men Enough campaign, this episode looks at the drivers of the masculinity in fathering children, and investigates if fathering is dependent on the gender of the child or its conviction. Joined by Arnold Sibanda Director of Black Male Positivity Project and Patrick Lehana who is a full-time father to a girl and boy child. This conversation seeks to identify and teach about healthy and positive masculinity so fathers can teach the same to their children irrespective of gender of the child.

Credits:
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Sound: Karabo Ramuhashi
Technical Support: Ls Gumede
Content Lead: Sir Bongani Luvalo

In this episode, Phinius Sebetsane joins us to unpack the deeper layers of consent, focusing on how it applies to both men and women. We explore the significance of clear communication, mutual respect, and understanding in fostering healthy relationships. The conversation highlights how consent is often misinterpreted, the societal pressures faced by men, and the importance of addressing these misconceptions to build trust and accountability. This episode calls for an inclusive dialogue on consent, emphasizing that it’s a responsibility shared by everyone.

Credits:
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Sound: Karabo Ramuhashi
Technical Support: Corne Kritzinger
Content Lead: Merlize Jogiat 

Names: Zamayirha Peter, Neo Iyana Masilela, Spheh Bhengu, Nonkosi Mrawushe and Thembelihle Madi.

Credits:
Host: Zamayirha Peter
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Research: Merlize Jogiat
Technical Support: Jenniffer Mdluli
Podcast Editor: Karabo Rej

Names: Zamayirha Peter, Neo Iyana Masilela, Spheh Bhengu, Nonkosi Mrawushe and Thembelihle Madi.

Credits:
Host: Zamayirha Peter
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Research: Ntsiki Khunju
Technical Support: Jenniffer Mdluli
Podcast Editor: Karabo Rej

Names: Yolanda Dyantyi, Snazzy Stories, Nonhlanhla Radebe, and Mogau Makitla.

Credits:
Host: Yolanda Dyantsyi
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Research: Selokela Molamodi
Technical Support: Lonwabo Kente
Podcast Editor: Karabo Rej

Names: Zamayirha Peter, Selokela Molamodi, Nomthandazo Shabangu and Mordecai Ndlovu.

Credits:
Host: Zamayirha Peter
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Research: Nontsikelelo Khunju
Technical Support: Lonwabo Kente
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

Beyond the elections, what the continued conversation and activity should be.

Names: Jamie Mighti, Tebogo Suping and Bongani Matomela.

Credits:
Research: Ramadimetja Makgeru
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Technical Assistant: Lonwabo Kente
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

Who is on the polls and what do they stand for? 

Names: Selokela Molamodi and Kesiwe KF Malindi.

Credits:
Led and Facilitated: Selokela Molamodi and Kesiwe KF Malindi 
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Technical Assistant: Lonwabo Kente
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

This episode of ACTIVATE! Change Drivers’ special podcast series explores the 2024 South African elections from multiple perspectives. Hosts Tebelelo and Lebohang Zimba engage with an IEC representative to discuss new changes to the electoral laws, the crucial role of youth in civic education, and what young voters need to know as they approach the polls. This discussion aims to energize and inform youth participation and highlight their role in shaping democracy beyond just voting.

Credits:
Host: Tebelelo Lentsoane and Lebohang Zimba
Guest: Linda Manetsi
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Technical Assistant: Lonwabo Kente
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

29th of May is Elections Day, some will be using the day as a public holiday others will use it as a day to galvanise their communities. Listen to three perspectives from a young person who is voting, one on the fence and one who is not voting.

Credits:
Led and Facilitated: Selokela Molamodi and Kesiwe KF Malindi , Nathacia Olivier
Research: Nontsikelelo Khunju
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Technical Assistant: Lonwabo Kente
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi

As narrated through Baba’ Seth Mazibuko, what 30 years of Freedom means from a man whose arrest and sentencing to Robben Island in his youth, influenced youth activism into this Democracy.

Credits:
Facilitated by: Zamayirha Peter
Guest: Seth Mazibuko
Research: Ramadimetja Makgeru
Producer: Zamayirha Peter
Technical assistance: Lonwabo Kente
Podcast Editor: Karabo Ramuhashi