New podcast aimed at empowering Mzansi’s youth launches

East Coast Radio and Jacaranda FM play host to this first-of-its-kind podcast and provide access to the inspirational audio series – ‘Don’t hold back –say it loud’ - for as many of Mzansi’s youth as possible.

They've co-produced the podcast with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW) which invested in more than 20 hours of in-depth interviews with South African youth, employing a user-centred approach to address their most concerning needs.

From battling debt and suffering gender-based violence, to toxic relationships and fighting depression, this podcast covers real-world topics that matter to Mzansi’s youth.

“The data collected to produce the podcast really highlighted that urban South African youth often feel isolated in their issues. ‘Don’t hold back – say it loud’ was crafted as an audio companion to help Mzansi’s youth find their own path, but with real-world anecdotes and advice that they can put into practice every month,” says Deirdre King, Managing Director at Jacaranda FM.

The podcast is presented by well-known health activist Nozibele Qamngana-Mayaba as she creates a safe space to discuss contentious and taboo issues that matter to under 35s.

Episodes seek to inspire and encourage listeners through personal stories of the guests, who share their stories of overcoming adversity, and in so doing – empower listeners to do the same.

In the series, Nozibele Qamngana-Mayaba talks to notable South African thought-leaders, activists, and influencers on controversial topics that have a personal connection to each guest, either through their profession or their experience.

“This international collaboration is a first of its kind on African soil as Deutsche Welle, Jacaranda FM, and East Coast Radio have created a digital product together from scratch – a true collaboration. We are incredibly honoured to be Deutsche Welle’s production and distribution partner in Africa. It’s also really exciting to present the youth with an audio companion, backed by data, and produced with the utmost care,” adds King.

“Kagiso Media (Jacaranda FM and East Coast Radio), with its very successful and sophisticated media offerings, is an ideal partner for a digital partnership. As a long-time correspondent, South Africa has become a second home for me, so I am particularly pleased to start the first ever joint podcast in Africa right here - in Mzansi, where the pulse is ticking,” comments Claus Stäcker, Director of Deutsche Welle’s African Programmes.

FORMAT

The format is relaxed but the content is Gucci and informative. If you think ‘Gucci’ was a reference to Italian fashion label – this podcast probably isn’t for you J. Guests are asked to bring a special snack to the studio to share with Nozibele. The food has a special significance to the guest who shares this with Nozibele as she starts to unpack the topic of the podcast episode. Each episode also features a fun rapid-fire question session where the guest has 10 seconds to answer set questions from Nozibele as she gets to know them better.

Don’t hold back – say it loud’ is both an audio and video production. In the launch month, episode 1 and 2 will be released on 6 and 12 July respectively. Thereafter a new episode will drop every month until season one concludes in March 2023.

To listen go here or visit any of your favourite podcast platforms and search 'Don’t hold back –say it loud'.

TOPICS TO EXPECT

• “How I used sport to overcome my battles with depression” with Patience Ramavhale (activist and sports coach)
• “I optimized my life by banishing my drinking habit” with Clive Vanderwagen (coach and mentor)
• How do we make good financial choices with Bronson Friedman (financial guru)
• How I fought back against gender-based violence with Lonalinamandla Bawuti (anti- GBV activist)

 ABOUT NOZIBELE QAMNGANA-MAYABA:

With her direct, engaging, and empathetic hosting style, she is the perfect fit to address taboo topics - and to say: Don't hold back!