Art That Changes Lives: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Makaula Foundation

Art That Changes Lives: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Makaula Foundation

The Origins of the Makaula Foundation: Uniting Youth Through Creativity

It all began with an inspiring leader. After uniting the community through art and theatre, he founded the Makaula Foundation to provide a space for self-expression, confidence, and growth for local youth. By harnessing the power of community, the foundation has multiplied partnerships, forged strong links with schools, and opened artistic opportunities for young people for over twenty years.

Theatre as a Learning and Comprehension Tool

One of Makaula Foundation’s flagship programs uses theatre to tackle a crucial issue: reading comprehension for learners from primary through to high school. Rather than keeping textbooks confined to the classroom, the team creates plays based on school materials. Children become the heroes of these stories, exploring the texts in depth, embodying characters, and truly making the content their own. This transition from reading to performance sparks creativity, interpretation, and oral expression—nurturing a vibrant, dynamic understanding of literature.

A Concrete Example: Bringing Schoolbooks to Life

At Masbam-san High School, students are adapting a Xhosa drama book, “Mamadhi Pelek,” for the stage. Immersed in the world of the text, they bring characters and imaginary places to life. According to teachers, this creative and immersive approach helps learners deeply understand the author’s intentions and grow more comfortable with both speaking and writing.

Visible Impact on Youth and the Community

Teachers are unanimous: students grow in confidence and display renewed enthusiasm for reading and writing. Many even propose new scenes or suggest writing scripts themselves. Beyond education, a whole generation is daring to dream, create, and speak up—even those who, like Azile, never imagined loving theatre or stepping into the spotlight.

A Shield Against Exclusion and Crime

In a challenging local context marked by poverty and rising crime, Makaula Foundation plays a pivotal role. Here, art becomes a shield against exclusion: young people get involved, find alternatives to the streets, organize community events, and take part in awareness campaigns, such as combating gender-based violence.

Family Support and Future Prospects

Families actively support their children, encouraging artistic ambitions and celebrating collective successes. For youth like 14-year-old Azile, theatre becomes a true passion and a potential career path.

Join the Makaula Movement

Want to get involved? The foundation welcomes young people from 6 to 18 years old every Saturday morning. To learn more and follow their news, check them out at:

• TikTok: Makaula Foundation

• Instagram: makaula_foundation

• Facebook: Makaula Foundation

Writing by Laure 

"Forgive Me Peter": Mandilakhe Pato’s Inspiring Journey Through Family, Dreams, and Resilience

"Forgive Me Peter": Mandilakhe Pato’s Inspiring Journey Through Family, Dreams, and Resilience

On the morning show Morning Cruise on Bushway U 89.5 FM, we had the privilege of welcoming Mandilakhe Pato, author of the book Forgive Me Peter. This powerful novel addresses universal themes such as difficult family relationships, parental support, and self-esteem. In a heartfelt interview, Mandilakhe shares his writing journey, inspirations, and the message he wishes to convey to young parents and anyone seeking a better understanding of these issues.

Discovering Forgive Me Peter

Mandilakhe Pato describes his book as the story of a young child, much like himself at that age, who tries to pursue her dreams despite a lack of support from her mother. The book highlights the challenges of growing up in an environment where parental encouragement is missing, while emphasizing the importance of perseverance and finding support beyond the family circle.

"Forgive Me Peter is a book about a young child trying to follow her dreams but who does not receive support from her mother. Yet, she finds comfort and help elsewhere to move forward."

The Author’s Journey

Mandilakhe’s love for writing began in primary school, in sixth grade. It was during this time that he started writing his first texts and developed a passion for reading. This early experience was crucial in shaping his determination to tell meaningful stories and inspire others through his words.

A Message for Parents and Youth

Through Forgive Me Peter, Mandilakhe wants to raise awareness among parents about the importance of supporting and encouraging their children’s dreams. He also encourages young people to believe in themselves, even when family support is lacking, and to never give up on their aspirations.

Mandilakhe Pato’s story and his book Forgive Me Peter resonate with anyone who has faced family obstacles or a lack of support in pursuing their dreams. His testimony reminds us that resilience and self-confidence can pave the way to fulfillment despite difficulties.

Writing by Laure 

One Million Chickens, One Disaster: The NSPCA Takes Legal Action Against Daybreak Farms

 

This morning on The Morning Cruise, we explored one of South Africa’s most heartbreaking animal welfare stories — a case that has shocked the nation and made headlines internationally. Over one million chickens suffered under severe neglect at Daybreak Farms, leading the NSPCA (National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) to take criminal action.

We were joined by Jake Peacock, Communication Manager at the NSPCA, to unpack the investigation, the legal response, and how the public can help.

 How It All Started

“It all started with a single complaint,” Jake explained, “which led to uncovering widespread evidence of gross negligence, mismanagement, and inhumane treatment.”

What followed was a devastating discovery: systemic cruelty and suffering on an industrial scale. Daybreak’s leadership, according to the NSPCA, failed entirely in their responsibility — an act not only unethical but criminal.

⚖️ Criminal Charges Filed

In response, the NSPCA filed a case under the Animals Protection Act, targeting the Board of Directors at Daybreak Farms. Despite the legal intervention, the company has since entered business rescue, which now threatens the NSPCA’s ability to recover over R580,000 in emergency costs.

“We’re a nonprofit with no government funding. This case has drained our resources,” Jake said.
“And now it may be nearly impossible to get those funds back.”

 Why This Matters

Some may question why the case has received so much attention — after all, “it’s just chickens.” But the NSPCA urges the public to understand:

“South Africa’s Constitutional Court recognizes animals as sentient beings. They feel pain. They suffer. And they deserve legal protection, just like dogs, cats, or wild animals.”

The law makes no distinction in the worth of animal lives. Every animal is valued, and every instance of cruelty must be taken seriously.

 What You Can Do

So how can the public help? The NSPCA is calling for:

• Financial support to help cover legal and operational costs.

• Public awareness: Share the story, speak out against cruelty.

• Community vigilance: This crisis began with one complaint — never underestimate the power of reporting animal abuse.

“Follow us on social media. Report anything you suspect. That’s how we prevent future tragedies,” Jake said.

 Learn More & Get Involved

You can find more information or donate by visiting:
👉 www.nspca.co.za

---

DJ Westman: From the West Side to the Decks of the Cape

 

This morning on The Morning Cruise, we had the pleasure of welcoming DJ Westman, one of Cape Town’s rising talents in the house music scene. With roots in Nyanga, famously known as the “West Capital” of the city, DJ Westman brings both rhythm and resilience to his sound.

From Young Dreamer to House DJ

Born Raze Lykula, DJ Wesman discovered his love for music early in life.

“My journey started when I was around 14 or 15,” he told us. “I used to sit with people who loved music and I learned from them. That’s how I became who I am today.”

Now spinning tracks across the Cape, he's gearing up for a tour in the Eastern Cape this coming weekend — and the energy is high.

 All About the House

When asked what kind of music he plays, DJ Wesman kept it simple:

“I’m a house music DJ. In the house — we call it music.”

His sets blend smooth, cool beats that get people moving, while staying true to the soulful essence of house culture.

 A Message to Young Creatives

To young people dreaming of becoming DJs, DJ Wesman had this to say:

“It’s all about believing in yourself and having the energy to pursue what you love.”

His message is clear: passion and persistence will carry you further than anything else.

Wagging Winter Shoebox Drive: Bringing Warmth to Khayelitsha’s Pets

 This morning on The Morning Cruise, we turned our spotlight to some of Cape Town’s most vulnerable residents — the pets of Khayelitsha. Our guest was Marcelle Plessis from the Mdzananda Animal Clinic, who joined us to talk about their heartwarming campaign: the Wagging Winter Shoebox Drive.

What’s the Shoebox Drive About?

The idea is simple: fill a shoebox with essential items to help keep township pets warm and healthy this winter. This can include blankets, food (dry or soft), pet jackets, toys, and even washing powder for cleaning donated blankets.

"We want to make it easy for the public to get involved," Marcelle shared. "Even one small box can make a big difference to a dog or cat in need."

These boxes go to homeless animals in the shelter as well as pets in the community whose families may be struggling during the colder months.

 How Can You Help?

If you can’t drop off a box in person, you can donate online and the Mdzananda team will pack and deliver a box on your behalf. Donations go mainly towards food and blankets, which are crucial to keeping the animals healthy until they find forever homes.

You can also sponsor a specific dog or cat, or help promote the drive by spreading the word.

Teaching the Next Generation

The clinic doesn’t just treat animals — it also works to educate children in local schools. Marcelle explained how they run lessons on how to hold an animal properly, understand its emotions, and treat it with kindness. It’s all about building a more compassionate community from a young age.

A Message of Hope

Marcelle left us with a gentle reminder:

“If you have a small dog or cat at home, please try to let them sleep indoors this winter. They’ll be so grateful — and they’ll show you so much love in return.”

So, what’s the first step you can take today?
Visit www.mdzananda.co.za 

Let’s Spread Warmth This Winter 

Whether it’s by filling a shoebox or making a small donation, every action counts.
Together, we can make this winter a little warmer for Khayelitsha’s beloved pets.

 Stay tuned to Bush Radio 89.5 FM – The Morning Cruise for more stories that matter to our communities.

writting by ida

From Lesotho to the World: SaveHXPE’s Journey of Hope, Hip-Hop, and Authenticity

From Lesotho to the World: SaveHXPE’s Journey of Hope, Hip-Hop, and Authenticity 

From the heart of Lesotho to the global stage, SaveHXPE is making waves as one of South Africa’s most promising young talents. Rapper, producer, and storyteller, his journey is a testament to creativity, resilience, and the power of staying true to oneself.

Early Beginnings: Music as a Calling

SaveHXPE’s musical journey began at just nine years old, inspired by his older brother’s rap group and the sounds of hip-hop echoing through his home. By the age of seven, he was already rapping, and soon after, he started making his own beats determined to create the perfect backdrop for his lyrics. “I grew up around music. My uncles and my mom listened to hip-hop, so I gravitated towards artists like Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, and the rap of the ‘90s and early 2000s,” he recalls.

Breakthrough Projects and Global Recognition

His first serious project, Kings 2A (2021), marked a turning point, showing him that music was more than a hobby it was his path. The follow-up, Still Deciding, brought even greater success, with the lead single “Breathe” amassing 1.9 billion streams on Spotify. “It started around me first, and then it went globally,” SaveHXPE shares, reflecting on the overwhelming response from his hometown of Maseru to the world.

A major milestone came when Erykah Badu, a childhood idol and his mother’s favorite artist, publicly endorsed his work. “It was a full circle moment for me,” he says. This recognition opened new doors, connecting him with a team in Los Angeles and propelling his career to new heights.

Staying Authentic in a Changing Industry

Amidst the rise of “bubblegum music,” SaveHXPE’s gritty, original hip-hop stands out. His EP Still Deciding resonated with fans for its authenticity and relatable stories. “People tell me their girlfriends listen to my music, or their little brothers wake up to it every day. That’s the impact I’m proud of,” he explains.

For SaveHXPE, the creative process is everything. He stays inspired by making music daily, embracing the journey rather than focusing solely on the outcome. Social media has played a crucial role, with tracks like “Breathe” blowing up on TikTok and Instagram, reaching hundreds of thousands of new listeners.

New Music and Creative Directions

His latest single, “80’s Baby” featuring Baby Days, is all about fun and artistic expression. The collaboration came about through mutual connections in Lesotho and Cape Town, leading to an instant creative spark. “It’s a playful record. I want listeners to have fun and enjoy it,” he says.

Looking ahead, SaveHXPE is excited to explore new genres, blending pop and R&B with his hip-hop roots. His upcoming single, “It Ain’t So,” drops July 11th, promising even more evolution in his sound.

Music as Storytelling and Activism

SaveHXPE’s lyrics often delve into identity, relationships, and social commentary. “I put all my emotions in the music so listeners can resonate with how I’m feeling,” he says. The song “Distance” from his EP stands out as a powerful example, helping fans navigate their own relationships and emotions.

Advice for Young Creatives

For aspiring artists, especially those from small towns like Lesotho, SaveHXPE’s advice is simple: “Use what you have and keep going. I started making music on an old Windows XP computer and recorded on my phone. The only fuel you need is creative fuel, and that will take you places you never imagined”.

A Message to Fans

Grateful for the support he’s received, SaveHXPE encourages fans to stay tuned for what’s next: “There’s so much to come this year, and I’m happy you’ve stuck with me on this journey”.

You can follow SaveHXPE on all social platforms @SaveHXPE (pronounced “Hope”) and stream his new single “80’s Baby” featuring Baby Days on all major platforms now.

Writing by Laure