How Tortoise Won Respect - with Gcina Mhlophe (Episode 5)

In a world that often values talkativeness and showy displays of knowledge, this timeless story of the tortoise who won respect serves as a powerful reminder of the untapped potential of those who may be overlooked or underestimated. 

“One thing I appreciate about the story of ‘How the Tortoise Won Respect’ is its message about how we often underestimate others who don't speak much, or who may not seem particularly knowledgeable or clever. However, when faced with difficult challenges and when others have run out of ideas, it's often these seemingly overlooked individuals who can offer valuable insight and solutions that were right in front of us all along,” says Dr Mhlophe.

“I love how the tortoise in the story ultimately earned respect and saved everyone by tapping into her strengths and resourcefulness. It serves as a reminder to not judge others based on surface-level traits and to always remain open to hearing different perspectives and ideas, no matter who they come from.” 

Listen to the podcast in either English (above) or isiZulu below.

Meanwhile, unlock the magic of ‘Lungile, The Most Beautiful Girl’: an inspiring story of patience and self-discovery by Gcina Mhlophe. 

“This is a story I have loved for many years. For me, it has been a joy to tell to both young and adult audiences alike, experiencing a magical connection each time. It is about having a sense of being different from others, learning to accept it, and following one’s own path,” says Dr Mhlophe. 

Listen to the podcast in either English or isiZulu below.

Lalela isiqephu esisha sesiZulu ngenhla:

READ: Where all the stories began: African Story Magic with Gcina Mhlophe (Episode 1) 

Find more stories from African Story Magic with Gcina Mhlophe in the channel below:

More about Dr Gcina Mhlophe:

Dr Gcina Mhlophe is a renowned author, storyteller and founding director of Gcinamasiko Arts & Heritage Trust. Her works have been translated into multiple languages, including Braille, and her theatre plays have been directed in the USA, UK, and Greenland. She has been awarded honorary doctorates from seven universities globally and has received numerous accolades, such as the SAMA, OBBIE, and Joseph Jefferson Awards, as well as the SAFTA Lifetime Achievement award. Her birthday on 24th October is recognised as National Storytelling Day in South Africa since 2019, inaugurated at her adopted performance space, The Storytelling Tree, in Durban (RSA).

Main image attribution: East Coast Radio Podcasts