Rise 76: Revisiting June 16 Through Memory, Theatre and Reflection

On the latest edition of Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM, listeners were taken on a powerful journey into South Africa’s past through theatre and storytelling.

Award-winning playwright and director Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni, joined the show to discuss her latest production, Rise 76: The Story of June 16 a new theatrical work created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising.

Developed through a collaboration between Baxter Theatre Centre and Market Theatre, the production revisits one of the most defining moments in South African history through a deeply personal lens.

Rather than retelling familiar historical facts, Tiisetso explained that Rise 76 explores the memories of those who experienced June 16 firsthand.

Her approach focused on individual testimonies ordinary people reflecting on extraordinary circumstances.

Fifty years later, she asked a simple but powerful question:

The production gives voice to those personal recollections and embraces the reality that memory can be emotional, complex and sometimes even contradictory.

One of the strongest themes from the conversation was the importance of telling stories beyond textbooks.

While many South Africans recognise iconic moments and images connected to June 16, Rise 76 shifts attention to everyday people students, families and communities whose experiences are not always centred in public memory.

According to Tiisetso, these personal accounts remind audiences that history was lived by ordinary people, not distant historical figures.

The production was built through extensive interviews and archival work.

Every detail from dialogue and language choices to books referenced on stage was informed by real testimonies and historical accounts.

Tiisetso spoke about one of the most challenging parts of creating the play: balancing historical records with lived memory.

When different people remembered events differently, the creative process became less about finding a single answer and more about honouring how people carried those experiences.

To bring the world of 1976 to life, Tiisetso worked alongside an experienced creative team dedicated to historical authenticity.

From costumes and set design to music and atmosphere, every element was carefully considered to capture the energy, emotion and complexity of that era.

The result is not simply a history lesson it is an immersive experience designed to connect audiences emotionally to the people behind the headlines.

As South Africa marks fifty years since June 16, Rise 76 invites audiences to remember, reflect and ask difficult questions.

For younger generations especially, the production offers an opportunity to look beyond familiar images and understand the human stories that shaped modern South Africa.

Tiisetso hopes audiences leave with new perspectives, deeper understanding and a renewed appreciation of the resilience and complexity of those who lived through that historic moment.

Before closing the interview, Tiisetso shared a simple but meaningful word with Morning Cruise listeners:

Gentle

A reminder that even while reflecting on difficult histories, there is room for empathy, care and understanding.

Catch Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM bringing conversations that inform, inspire and connect communities across South Africa.

Presenter: Esethu Thetha

Producer: Luntu Xametshata

South African Rowing Making Waves Internationally

The latest edition of Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM welcomed rowing coach and development leader Liam Fortuin for an inspiring conversation about the exciting rise of South African rowing on the global stage.

From young athletes gaining international exposure to strong performances at prestigious regattas, the discussion highlighted a sport that continues to grow in confidence, talent, and international recognition.

Liam shared insights into the recent success of the South African Schools Rowing Union (SASRU) Under-16 development squad during their UK tour. For many of these young athletes, the experience represented more than competition it became a gateway into high-performance sport.

Competing internationally gives athletes exposure to elite environments, stronger competition, and valuable lessons that prepare them for future opportunities in under 19, under 23, and eventually senior national teams.

One standout achievement from the tour was the impressive performance by the Under 16 girls squad, who secured a victory at a major regatta in the UK.

According to Liam, this result reflects the growing strength of school rowing in South Africa and signals an exciting future for the sport.

Another highlight of the discussion was competing at Dorney Lake a venue that holds special significance for South African rowing.

The lake hosted rowing events during the 2012 Summer Olympics and remains closely linked to South Africa’s rowing achievements on the world stage.

For young rowers, racing at such a venue offered inspiration and a chance to experience international competition at an elite level.

Liam also reflected on the diversity and growth of rowing talent across the country.

Athletes from multiple provinces and schools continue to emerge, proving that rowing development is expanding beyond traditional strongholds. The broad participation across regions shows that South Africa’s future pipeline remains healthy and competitive.

The conversation also explored the rise of coastal rowing a fast-growing format attracting global attention.

South African athletes continue to gain experience internationally and position themselves for future success as the discipline develops toward greater international prominence.

One of the strongest themes from the interview was resilience.

Rowing demands physical endurance, but mental strength often becomes the deciding factor. Liam emphasised that setbacks are part of sport, and growth comes from learning, adapting, and continuing to compete with purpose.

South African rowing now turns its focus toward upcoming international events and continued athlete development across junior and senior levels.

If the current momentum continues, the country’s rowing community could see even more athletes making their mark internationally in the years ahead.

Catch Morning Cruise Monday to Friday, 09:00, 12:00 on Bush Radio 89.5 FM where conversations spotlight stories shaping communities, sport, and South African excellence.

Presenter: Esethu Thetha

Producer: Luntu Xametshata

Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM: Your Daily Dose of Inspiration and Good Vibes!

Welcome to the Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM, where we kickstart your day with uplifting conversations, amazing music, and all the positive energy you need to conquer your week!

Recently, we had the incredible pop artist Eva Marie join us in the studio, and it was an absolute blast! Eva Marie is stepping into a bold new era with her electrifying single, "IT GIRL," and she shared some fantastic insights with our listeners.

Eva Marie describes "IT GIRL" as bold, playful, and larger than life. She revealed that the vision behind the sound and production was to get everyone up and dancing, feeling like the most confident version of themselves. The song is packed with fun details, from camera flashes to cheers, all designed to transport you into a world of paparazzi and red-carpet glamour. As Eva Marie explained, these elements weren't planned but were spontaneous decisions made in the moment, making the track even more authentic and exciting!

For Eva Marie, confidence isn't about perfectly done hair or makeup; it's about waking up and owning who you are. It's about celebrating your individuality and not trying to blend in. She shared a powerful message: "Delulu is the solulu," highlighting that confidence is an energy you decide to embrace.

Eva Marie's musical journey started early, dancing around her living room inspired by icons like Lady Gaga and Britney Spears (especially early Lady Gaga!). She always knew she'd be a pop star, even telling her kindergarten teachers. Now, with her success and winning the I-POP competition in Los Angeles, she's certainly proven them right!

Navigating the online world can be challenging for artists, but Eva Marie is embracing it. She loves being in the studio and performing live, but she also understands the importance of connecting with fans online. She emphasizes staying authentic to herself in the process, and it's clearly paying off!

Get ready for more! Eva Marie has her "music vault" full and is planning to release new music every eight weeks, leading up to her debut EP. Listeners can expect even more dance-pop energy, confidence, and elevated sounds. She aims to top herself with every song, and "IT GIRL" was just the beginning.

"You are the IT GIRL. This is your world. You're the main character in your life. Act that way! Make it until you make it, and be confident along the way."

You can find Eva Marie on Instagram and Facebook at @evamarie.music, and on TikTok at @evamariemusic. Her single "IT GIRL" is available on all digital platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music.

Thank you for tuning into the Morning Cruise! We love hearing from you. Don't forget, you can send us messages and song requests on our WhatsApp line: 061 862 1065. Keep cruising with us for your daily dose of good vibes!

Presenter: Luntu Xametshata

Producer: Esethu Thetha

Empowering Young Creatives Through Art

The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM continues to be a vibrant platform for storytelling, community voices, and meaningful conversations that matter to Cape Town’s listeners. In a recent episode, the show shined a spotlight on youth creativity and the power of art, featuring an insightful interview with Taylor from the Norval Foundation.

During the conversation, Taylor shared exciting details about the Norval Foundation’s ongoing art initiatives aimed at young people. The foundation is currently hosting an art competition that gives learners a chance to showcase their creativity while competing for incredible opportunities.

Each grade category selects three finalists, with the ultimate winner receiving a bursary for art lessons at the renowned Peter Clarke Art Centre. This prize is more than just a reward it’s a gateway for young creatives to develop their skills, explore career possibilities in the arts, and express themselves more deeply.

Taylor emphasized that art is not only a potential career path but also a powerful form of therapy and self-expression. Whether pursued professionally or personally, creativity plays a vital role in emotional well-being and identity.

The judging process for the competition is both thorough and inspiring. A panel of experienced art professionals evaluates submissions based on how well they interpret the theme, the creativity of the artwork, and the effective use of artistic mediums.

Among the judges are respected figures in the art community, including Talita from Zeitz MOCAA and Cindy from the Peter Clarke Art Centre. Their involvement ensures that each piece is reviewed with expertise and appreciation for artistic excellence.

The Norval Foundation, located in Tokai in Cape Town’s southern suburbs, is more than just a museum it’s a space dedicated to promoting modern and contemporary African art. Through curated exhibitions and educational programs, the foundation actively works to make art accessible and meaningful to the community.

Listeners were also invited to attend the upcoming Museum Day, where families can enjoy half-price entry, explore exhibitions, and spend time together in a creative environment. With food trucks and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s an ideal outing for both art lovers and newcomers.

A powerful part of the discussion addressed a common concern among parents whether art can be a viable career. Taylor encouraged parents to support their children’s passions, highlighting the growing and dynamic art scene in South Africa.

She pointed out that while art is often undervalued in schools, it remains a critical tool for self-expression, especially for young people who may struggle to communicate their emotions verbally. Encouraging creativity can open doors to opportunities and personal growth.

Parents and learners are encouraged to submit their entries before the deadline on Saturday, 24 May. Submissions can be delivered directly to the foundation, and families are welcome to visit the museum for inspiration and guidance.

For more information, listeners can connect with the Norval Foundation across social media platforms or contact them directly at 087 654 5900.

This interview is a perfect example of how The Morning Cruise continues to uplift and inform the community. By connecting listeners with opportunities like these, the show reinforces Bush Radio’s mission as “the mother of community radio in Africa” a voice for empowerment, education, and inspiration.

Stay tuned to The Morning Cruise for more impactful conversations that celebrate local talent and open doors for the next generation.

Presenter: Dane Van Rhyn

Producer: Esethu Thetha and Luntu Xametshata

Cape Cultural Collective: Using Art to Build Stronger Communities

The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM continues to highlight impactful stories from across Cape Town, and this time the spotlight was on the Cape Cultural Collective (CCC) an organisation using the arts as a powerful tool for social change.

In an engaging in-studio conversation, hosts welcomed CCC representatives Vusu and Chris Verndel, who shared insights into their recent fundraiser and the meaningful work they’ve been doing for nearly two decades.

The Cape Cultural Collective recently hosted its Darling Buds of May fundraiser in Wynberg, raising over R50,000 to support its programmes. The event was not just about fundraising it was a celebration of collaboration, generosity, and shared purpose.

Supporters contributed in creative ways, from raffle prizes to experiences, demonstrating how collective effort can make a real difference even in challenging economic times. The success of the event highlighted one key message: when communities come together, meaningful impact is possible.

At the heart of the CCC is a commitment to youth development. The organisation runs a wide range of programmes designed to empower young people through creativity and expression.

These include:

• Creative writing and poetry programmes, hosted at community libraries

• Music education initiatives, providing instruments and training to young musicians

• Choir and performance groups, with rehearsals held at Artscape

• Environmental and nature based outings, exposing youth to biodiversity and wellness

• Professional recording opportunities through their TribuS sessions

Importantly, the CCC ensures that funds raised go directly into these programmes covering transport, logistics, and fairly compensating artists who contribute their skills.

During the discussion, Chris highlighted that art is more than entertainment it’s a developmental tool. Through their work, the CCC promotes:

• Social cohesion across different communities

• Positive alternatives to violence

• Personal growth and self-expression

Vusu added that art gives “a voice to the voiceless,” allowing individuals to share their stories, perspectives, and emotions in powerful ways.

Over the past 20 years, the Cape Cultural Collective has grown from humble beginnings in a small Cape Town venue into a recognised cultural force.

Some of their proudest milestones include:

• Hosting programmes at the District Six Museum and other iconic venues

• Publishing poetry collections such as Truth’s Edge and Beyond Truth’s Edge

• Performing internationally, including at the Autumn Festival in Paris

• Producing digital content that has reached over 80,000 viewers

Their journey reflects resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to community upliftment through the arts.

The CCC has an exciting lineup of events and projects on the horizon:

• Poetry and Jazz Sunset Sessions at Artscape Theatre (July)

• Regular Writers Club meetups at Mowbray Library

• Community workshops in areas like Wynberg and the Far South

• A major 20-year anniversary celebration in partnership with Artscape

• A new poetry and creative programme collaboration with Bush Radio

These initiatives continue to open doors for young creatives while strengthening Cape Town’s cultural landscape.

Getting involved with the Cape Cultural Collective is simple and accessible:

• Become a member with a small annual fee (or free for those unable to pay)

• Join programmes in writing, music, or environmental activities

• Follow the CCC on social media to stay updated and show support

Whether as a participant, supporter, or audience member, everyone has a role to play in sustaining the arts.

This conversation on The Morning Cruise is a powerful reminder of the role community radio plays in amplifying local initiatives. By sharing stories like that of the Cape Cultural Collective, Bush Radio continues to inspire action, connection, and creativity.

As the CCC approaches its 20-year milestone, one thing is clear their impact goes far beyond art. They are building communities, shaping futures, and proving that creativity can truly change lives.

Presenter: Dane Van Rhyn

Producer: Esethu Thetha

“Umgowo” Exhibition: Artists Unite to Save a Creative Home

The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM continues to spotlight powerful community stories, and this time the focus turned to Woodstock’s vibrant arts scene. In a compelling in-studio conversation, the show welcomed artists Luxolo Witvoet, Tsepo Sibzopokoja, and Lusanda Ndita to discuss “Umgowo”, a community-driven exhibition at Greatmore Studios.

“Umgowo” is more than an art exhibition it’s a movement driven by urgency and purpose. The initiative was born after growing financial pressure on Greatmore Studios, including threats to essential services like water and electricity.

Instead of waiting for help, the artists responded creatively bringing together their work to raise funds and protect the space that supports them. It’s a powerful example of artists using their craft not just for expression, but for survival.

Greatmore Studios plays a critical role in Cape Town’s creative ecosystem. It serves as:

• A safe and accessible workspace for artists

• A community hub for collaboration and growth

• A launchpad for emerging creatives, especially those without formal training

For many artists, particularly those new to Cape Town, spaces like Greatmore provide a sense of belonging and direction.

The interview highlighted a growing concern: declining funding for the arts. With little to no financial backing, artists are left to sustain their spaces independently.

At Greatmore Studios, this has resulted in:

• Outstanding municipal bills

• Risk of losing water and electricity

• Increased pressure on artists to self-fund their environment

“Umgowo” directly addresses these challenges by turning creativity into a tool for sustainability.

The artists made it clear—community support is key. Listeners and art lovers can:

• Buy artwork from the exhibition

• Visit Greatmore Studios and engage with the space

• Spread awareness and support local artists

Even simply showing up helps keep the space alive and active.

Beyond exhibitions, Greatmore Studios offers something deeper:

• A safe space for youth, steering them away from negative influences

• A platform for self-expression and storytelling

• A place where creativity can spark curiosity and inspire future artists

As shared during the interview, these spaces help “pass the baton” to the next generation.

The conversation also challenged the idea that art is not a viable career. The artists emphasized that art has always played a powerful role in society from storytelling to activism.

They encouraged parents to support their children’s creative passions, reminding listeners that art:

• Builds identity

• Gives voice to the unheard

• Can lead to meaningful and impactful careers

The exhibition is open to the public at:

• Greatmore Studios, Woodstock

• Monday to Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

To stay updated on events, workshops, and walkabouts, follow Greatmore Studios on social media.

This feature on The Morning Cruise highlights the importance of supporting local creative spaces. “Umgowo” is not just about art on walls it’s about preserving a cultural home, uplifting artists, and strengthening community ties.

In a time where creative spaces are under threat, initiatives like this remind us that art has the power to unite, inspire, and sustain.

Presenter: Dane Van Rhyn

Producer: Esethu Thetha and Luntu

Hubo Studio Puts South Africa on the Global Architecture Map

Hubo Studio Puts South Africa on the Global Architecture Map

South Africa has yet another reason to celebrate. Johannesburg-based Hubo Studio has been named a global finalist in the prestigious Architizer A+ Awards often referred to as the “Oscars of Architecture.” The studio is not only representing the country on the world stage, but also redefining how educational spaces are designed.

In a recent interview on Bush Radio’s The Morning Cruise, founder Asher Marcus described the recognition as “unbelievable and surreal.” Hubo Studio has been shortlisted among the top five small firms globally, standing out among thousands of entries.

This achievement builds on their growing international reputation, following a win at the World Architecture Festival in Miami often dubbed the “World Cup of Architecture.”

For Hubo Studio, this recognition is about more than awards. It’s about showcasing South Africa’s creativity, innovation, and potential in shaping global design conversations.

Hubo Studio’s success lies in its fresh, human-centered approach to architecture. The team is:

• Young, passionate, and mission-driven
• Focused on transforming education through design
• Collaborative even working directly with children

One of their most distinctive practices is co-designing with learners, ensuring that the spaces they create are shaped by the very people who use them.

Their philosophy is simple: design should serve people  especially children  in meaningful, empowering ways.

At the heart of Hubo Studio’s recognition is the Red Hill Early Learning Centre, a flagship project that has been ranked among the top five educational spaces in the world.

Unlike traditional schools, Red Hill breaks away from rigid classroom structures. Instead, it introduces a “mini-city” concept, where:

• Learning happens through exploration and curiosity
• Spaces are open, flexible, and interactive
• Children can move, collaborate, and discover freely

This innovative environment challenges the outdated idea of keeping learners confined to desks and corridors. Instead, it creates a dynamic ecosystem where education becomes an experience rather than a routine.

 

As Markers explained, poorly designed spaces with limited light, bad acoustics, and restricted movement can leave children feeling frustrated and disengaged. In contrast, well-designed environments:

• Promote calmness and focus
• Encourage creativity and collaboration
• Support emotional and cognitive development

At its core, Hubo Studio is not just an architecture firm  it is a multi-disciplinary team that includes educators and designers working together to reimagine education.

Their mission is to:

• Push schools beyond traditional limits
• Unlock new ways of teaching and learning
• Prepare children for an unpredictable future

By designing adaptable, inspiring environments, they aim to nurture lifelong learners who are confident in navigating the unknown.

Hubo Studio is currently in the running for the Popular Choice Award, and public votes play a crucial role.

• Click on the Architizer Awards links on the website
• Vote in all three categories
• Sign in (required)
• Vote every 24 hours until 15 May 2026

If Hubo Studio wins in June, it could be a game-changer not just for the firm, but for education and design in South Africa. It would strengthen their influence in shaping future school environments and open doors for broader collaboration with both public and private sectors.

Hubo Studio’s journey is a powerful reminder that African innovation belongs on the global stage. Through bold ideas and purpose-driven design, they are not only building spaces  they are shaping the future of learning.

And as South Africans, this is a moment to rally behind one of our own and help them bring the award home.

Written by Esethu Thetha

Presenter: Dane Van Rhyn

 

Unheard Voices: Professor Gertrude Fester on Survival, Solitary Confinement, and the Power of Memory

The history of South Africa is a tapestry woven with stories of immense resilience, yet many of the threads specifically those representing the voices of women in the anti-apartheid struggle remain overlooked. In a recent moving interview on Bush Radio, Professor Gertrude Fester joined us to shed light on these hidden narratives and discuss her powerful memoir, Prison Notebook V2957/88.

Professor Fester, whose prisoner number serves as the title of her book, spent harrowing days as a political detainee, including a significant period in solitary confinement. Her story is not just one of survival, but a call to action for women to document their own histories.

When Professor Fester was placed in solitary confinement in 1988, she was stripped of everything even pen and paper. Faced with the prospect of six months in total isolation, she had to find a way to keep her mind intact against a system designed to "demoralize and dehumanize."

"The first thing I decided was that I will compose a play in my head," Fester recalls. "Whatever happens, I’ll compose a play, I’ll compose a poem, and then I’ll say it the next day and edit it."

Her "audience" consisted of the birds that visited the bars of her exercise cage. She even found inspiration in the distant sounds of the Wynberg Mardi Gras festival drifting over the prison walls, using the music to anchor herself to the world outside. For Fester, creativity was not a hobby; it was a psychological shield against the trauma that led many of her peers to despair.

One of the most poignant moments of the interview touched on why women must tell their own stories. Fester pointed out that even in the formation of the ANC in 1913, women were excluded from membership, leading Charlotte Maxeke to form the Bantu Women’s League.

She highlighted a critical gap in South African historiography:

• The Documentation Gap: Many academic texts on the United Democratic Front (UDF) barely mention women, despite women’s organizations providing the very structures and offices the UDF relied upon in the Western Cape.

• The Burden of Memory: "It’s important to document," Fester insists. "I’m very lazy, I don’t always want to write, but I think you must."

Fester’s book extends beyond her time in South Africa, including a profound chapter on her five years in Rwanda. She was deeply moved by the Rwandan approach to reconciliation following the genocide, specifically their "Memorial Time" (April 7th to July 4th), where confessions and the search for the disappeared are prioritized.

This experience even led her to attempt a conversation with her own former interrogator. While the encounter was fraught with the former official remaining defensive and unrepentant Fester chose to include his entire three-page email in her book's appendix, allowing the reader to see the raw, unfiltered reality of the past.

Fester is candid about the role faith played in her survival, admitting that it was the only thing that prevented her from succumbing to suicidal thoughts during her darkest hours. However, she is equally clear that "freedom" in the modern South African context remains a complex, unfinished project.

She spoke of intergenerational trauma and the "woundedness" that still permeates the country. "We think we are free, but we’re not free," she noted. "We are still imprisoned by poverty and unemployment."

Professor Gertrude Fester’s journey serves as a vital reminder that while the laws of apartheid have changed, the work of healing and documenting the truth continues.

• Email: GertrudeFester@gmail.com

• WhatsApp: 082 373 4419

Listen to the full interview on Push Radio for more insights into the "Rainbow Trial" and the enduring spirit of South Africa’s women activists.

Unheard Voices

Survival, Solitary Confinement, and the Power of Memory

South African history is filled with powerful stories of resilience, but many voices—especially those of women in the anti-apartheid struggle—remain underdocumented. Recently, Professor Gertrude Fester joined Push Radio to discuss her harrowing experiences and her memoir, Prison Notebook V2957/88.

The Architecture of Survival

Spending 104 days in solitary confinement in 1988, Professor Fester was stripped of even basic writing materials. To survive, she turned to the only thing they couldn't take: her mind.

"The first thing I decided was that I will compose a play in my head... I'll compose a poem, and then I'll say it the next day and correct it."

She describes composing poems to the birds that visited her exercise cage and finding a connection to the outside world through the distant sounds of the Mardi Gras festival in Wynberg.

The Importance of Women's Stories

Fester emphasizes that women have always been at the forefront of the struggle, yet their contributions are often omitted from historical texts. She notes that women’s organizations provided the very structures the United Democratic Front (UDF) relied upon, yet these contributions frequently go unmentioned in academic records.

Lessons from Rwanda

Having taught in Rwanda for five years, Fester was deeply moved by their approach to reconciliation. She highlights their "Memorial Time" as a model for addressing trauma—a process of confession and seeking the truth that she feels is still missing in many aspects of the South African transition.

A Microcosm of South Africa

Reflecting on the "Rainbow Trial," where she was one of 14 accused, Fester notes the starkly different paths the survivors have taken. While some moved into high-ranking government positions, others have struggled to find permanent work since 1994. For Fester, this disparity is a microcosm of the country's broader challenges with poverty and unemployment.

Connect with Professor Gertrude Fester

To learn more or get in touch regarding her work and history:

• Email: GertrudeFester@gmail.com
• WhatsApp: 082 373 4419