In this week’s episode, Khumo Kumalo and Otsile Nkadimeng sit down with Gauteng MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa to unpack the shifting landscape of South African politics. From President Ramaphosa’s recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump to the realities young people face on the ground, this is a timely and unfiltered conversation.
As Youth Month begins, we confront the hard questions:
🔹 Why are so many young South Africans still unemployed?
🔹 Why do barriers to voting persist in a democracy built on freedom?
🔹 How can youth reclaim their agency in a political system that often sidelines them?
This episode is more than a political chat—it’s a call to action. If you’re young, concerned, and ready to shape your future, this one’s for you.
#BornFree #YouthMonth #SouthAfrica #Politics #Unemployment #GenerationNow #MGPodcasts
Khumo Kumalo is the visionary behind Misunderstood and the dynamic co-host of Born Free. Named one of the Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans of 2024, he is a bold voice in the country’s evolving political discourse.
As the author of Newsletter 94 (formerly Misunderstood), Kumalo delves into South Africa’s complex history and shifting political landscape, reflecting on the dreams and realities of a post-apartheid nation. His passion for debate and current affairs was ignited at St John’s College, later taking him to Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he continued to sharpen his perspective on leadership and social change.
Kumalo isn’t just asking questions—he’s challenging narratives, sparking conversations, and pushing South Africa’s youth to rethink what it truly means to be Born Free.
Otsile Nkadimeng is a published author, policy writer, and changemaker, balancing his role as a second-year university student with a deep commitment to youth empowerment. Recognized by News24 for his impact and awarded the Young Nelson Mandela Award in 2023, he is shaping conversations on democracy, governance, and sustainability.
As the Executive Director of SoWeVote, a platform he co-founded, Nkadimeng is making it easier for young South Africans to access critical information about politics and democracy. His advocacy extends beyond borders—he serves as a Youth Advisor to the Embassy of Sweden in Pretoria and is a fellow at the International Youth Think Tank, where he contributes to global youth policy discussions.
Passionate about sustainability, he has co-founded and led multiple initiatives aimed at environmental and social progress across South Africa. Whether in civic engagement, international diplomacy, or grassroots activism, Nkadimeng is at the forefront of youth-led change, proving that young voices aren’t just part of the conversation—they’re leading it.
Disclaimer:
“Born Free” is an opinion-based podcast and does not represent the views of M&G Media (PTY) LTD, its owners, affiliates, employees, or partners. The opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not reflect the editorial stance of the Mail & Guardian.