Seedpod
Seedpod is a podcast dedicated to the people shaping our world through social entrepreneurship, sustainability and design. We started this project in the hope of exploring unique perspectives on the issues facing the society we live in. Designer and entrepreneur Lee Rael is doing just that by having authentic conversations with talented creatives, innovative entrepreneurs and environmental pioneers. By unpacking their wisdom, insights and personal stories, Lee hopes to inspire and educate, and maybe even entertain.Let’s create more meaningful connections to our experiences by engaging with the people who are shaping them. We hope you enjoy the show.
Seedpod
93: Nhlanhla Mahlangu - Chant of a nation
In this week's episode I jump back to an interview I did at Design Indaba earlier this year but the relevance of the content has not changed and if anything in light of recent events is that much more powerful to listen to. I had the privilege of a half an hour conversation with Nhlanhla Mahlangu known both locally and internationally for his richly choreographed theatrical productions and his work with the famous South African artist William Kentridge. Nhlanhla is the very embodiment of tenacity. Born in Phola Park informal settlement on Johannesburg’s East Rand during the height of Apartheid, he was unable to complete his matric due to the ANC, IFP and the ‘Third Force’ violence in the Nineties, dashing his dreams of going to music school.
This is probably the most political conversation I have had on my podcast and it was humbling. I learnt a lot from this short exchange. Nhlanlha does not hold back on his beliefs about the state of our country. He embodies a fierce courage that gently cuts straight to the heart of the matter. Listening to this again 6 months later I am deeply saddened about where we are as a country today, made even worse by the events of our times. Don’t skip this episode, it is important to have the difficult conversations and hear the hard things in order to heal and move forward.