Building Trust in Africa’s Health Data: A Conversation on the Future of Healthcare

Building Trust in Africa’s Health Data: A Conversation on the Future of Healthcare

Morning Cruise recently explored an important question about the future of healthcare across Africa: How can we use health data to improve healthcare while protecting the people behind that data?

As Cape Town prepares to host the 18th World Congress on Public Health, researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, data specialists and civil society leaders are coming together to discuss the future of African health data systems.

On the show, we spoke to Dr. Michelle Skeleton from the University of Cape Town, who is leading the African Health Data Systems pre-conference session. The conversation highlighted the importance of public trust, responsible data governance and stronger digital health systems across the continent.Why Health Data Matters Health data can play a critical role in improving healthcare.

From tracking outbreaks and informing public-health responses to helping doctors understand a patient's medical history, quality data can support better decision-making. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how valuable health information can be when it is collected, analysed and communicated effectively. Public dashboards, for example, allowed communities to follow infection trends and understand how the pandemic was developing. But collecting data is only one part of the equation.

The bigger question is: How do we make sure that people's information is protected and used responsibly? The Challenge of Fragmented Health Systems. One of the major challenges facing African health systems is fragmentation. Different clinics, hospitals, provinces and countries may use different systems, software and patient identifiers. These systems don't always communicate with one another.

This can create a situation where a patient's medical information is scattered across multiple systems.Imagine visiting a clinic in Cape Town and later receiving treatment at a hospital in Johannesburg. If those healthcare systems cannot communicate, the healthcare professional treating you may not have access to your complete medical history.

Better interoperability between health systems could give healthcare workers a fuller picture of a patient's health, helping them make more informed decisions and potentially reducing unnecessary duplication. Building a Connected African Health Data Ecosystem, Looking five or ten years ahead, the vision is for African health systems to communicate more effectively.

That means investing in:

Better digital infrastructure

Secure data storage

Software systems that can communicate with one another

Stronger data governance policies

Improved data sharing between provinces, regions and countries

Responsible sharing of information with organisations such as Africa CDC

Better links between public health, research and private healthcare

The goal is not simply to collect more information. It is to create systems that allow useful information to be shared securely, ethically and efficiently. Putting the Public at the Centre. Health data is often discussed as a technical subject for scientists, researchers and policymakers. But ultimately, the data belongs to real people and communities.The public therefore needs to be part of the conversation.People should understand what information is being collected, why it is being collected and how it may be used. Where research is involved, participants should also understand their rights, including the ability to withdraw from research where appropriate.Trust is essential.

People are more likely to support health-data initiatives when they can see how their information contributes to a wider public benefit while also knowing that safeguards are in place to prevent exploitation or irresponsible use. Ethics and Accountability.

Another important issue raised during the Morning Cruise interview was accountability.When health data is used for research, there are established processes designed to protect participants and ensure that research is conducted ethically.Researchers and institutions have responsibilities when collecting, storing, analysing and sharing information.Data governance is therefore not simply a technical issue. It is also an ethical and legal responsibility.The question should always be: Are we using people's information in a way that respects their rights and serves the public good?

Making Digital Healthcare Accessible Beyond Major Cities Africa has significant differences in healthcare capacity and digital infrastructure.Well-resourced urban centres may have access to advanced technology and specialist healthcare, while rural and underserved communities can face very different challenges. Technology, particularly mobile technology, could help bridge some of these gaps.Mobile phones can increasingly be used to support diagnostic tools, collect information and connect healthcare workers with resources that may otherwise be far away.Artificial intelligence and digital applications also have potential applications in areas such as disease detection and diagnosis.But these technologies bring another responsibility: the data collected through digital tools must also be governed responsibly.

Creating a Common Language A major objective of the African Health Data Systems initiative is to bring people from different sectors and disciplines into the same conversation.Universities, research institutions, NGOs, professional organisations and private-sector technology companies all have a role to play.For collaboration to work, stakeholders need a shared understanding of concepts such as data governance, data sovereignty, trusted research environments and federated data systems.Creating a common vocabulary and shared principles can help build stronger collaboration across countries and institutions.

Towards a Social Contract for Health Data One of the most significant ambitions discussed during the interview is the development of a shared understanding of public trust in health-data governance in Africa.The aim is to move towards a social contract where communities understand how their data is being used and organisations understand their responsibility to protect it.Ultimately, better data systems could help Africa respond more effectively to epidemics and pandemics, improve healthcare delivery, reduce duplication and support research and innovation.But technological progress must go hand in hand with trust, transparency, ethics and accountability.

The Future of African Healthcare The future of healthcare in Africa will depend not only on doctors, hospitals and medicines, but also on the quality of the information that supports healthcare decisions.A more connected African health-data ecosystem could help healthcare professionals see a more complete picture of patients, allow researchers to collaborate more effectively and help policymakers respond faster to public-health challenges.However, the people behind the data must remain at the centre of the conversation.As the African Health Data Systems initiative continues beyond the Cape Town session and into future engagements across the continent, the message from our Morning Cruise conversation is clear:Better health data can lead to better healthcare  but only when it is built on trust and used responsibly.

Morning Cruise thanks Dr. Michelle Skeleton from the University of Cape Town for joining us and contributing to this important conversation about the future of healthcare and health data across Africa.

Listen to Morning Cruise for more conversations that matter.

Written by Esethu Thetha

Understanding Childhood Grief and the Importance of Support

 Understanding Childhood Grief and the Importance of Support

Understanding Childhood Grief: Giving Children Space to Feel, Heal and Be Heard

Grief is often seen as something adults experience, but children and young people grieve too. The difference is that they may not always have the words to explain what they are feeling. Instead, their grief can show up through their behaviour, emotions, relationships and even their performance at school.

On Morning Cruise, we had an important and heartfelt conversation with Lira Greeff, Programme Manager at Khululeka Grief Support, ahead of National Grief Awareness Day. The discussion focused on childhood grief, the challenges faced by children after losing someone they love, and how parents, teachers and communities can provide meaningful support.

Children Grieve Too Even When They Don't Say It

One of the key messages from the conversation was that behaviour is communication.

A grieving child may become withdrawn, angry, unusually social, physically unwell or struggle to concentrate. Some children may experience difficulties at school or appear to be behaving badly when, in reality, they are overwhelmed by emotions they don't yet know how to process.

Adults may expect children to grieve in a particular way, but there is no single "correct" way to grieve.

Children also understand death differently depending on their age and previous experiences. Younger children, for example, may struggle to understand the permanence of death. This is why adults need to respond in an age-appropriate way and create an environment where children feel safe enough to ask questions and express their emotions.

When Grief Goes Unprocessed

When children don't have the opportunity, space or support to process grief, the effects can extend into many areas of their lives.

They may struggle academically, have difficulty concentrating, experience behavioural challenges or make decisions that put them at risk.

The conversation highlighted the importance of giving children a safe space to talk about their loss. Programmes such as the Abangani programme aim to help children work through grief, understand their emotions and recognise that life can continue after loss.

Perhaps one of the most important messages for children is simple: It is okay not to be okay.

Every Child Needs a Trusted Adult Parents, teachers and caregivers all have an important role to play in helping children through grief.

A child doesn't necessarily need an adult to have all the answers. Sometimes, what matters most is having someone who will listen, acknowledge their feelings and allow them to speak without judgement.

As Lila explained during the interview, every child should have at least one trusted adult who acknowledges their feelings.

That support can make an enormous difference, particularly when a child feels that there is nobody at home they can talk to about their loss. Schools Have an Important Role

Children spend a significant part of their lives at school, making schools an important place for identifying and supporting learners experiencing grief.

The discussion highlighted the value of school-based support systems, including wellness hubs and collaboration between teachers, social workers and organisations providing therapeutic services.

Importantly, supporting a grieving child shouldn't happen in isolation. Teachers and other adults in the school community may also be carrying their own unresolved grief and experiences of loss.

Supporting the whole school community can therefore help create a safer and more understanding environment for children. Breaking the Silence Around Death and Grief. Why is it sometimes so difficult for adults to talk to children about death?

One reason is that adults may be struggling with their own grief. Conversations about death can make us feel vulnerable, and many adults worry that showing emotion will make them appear weak.

Cultural beliefs and traditions can also influence how families talk about difficult subjects with children.

But avoiding the conversation doesn't mean children aren't experiencing the loss.

Children feel grief even when they cannot express it in the way adults expect.

National Grief Awareness Day provides an opportunity to change that by encouraging families, schools and communities to speak more openly about grief and emotional wellbeing.

Grief Doesn't Follow a Timetable. There is no fixed timetable for grief.

It can come in waves. Someone may feel okay one day and struggle again the next. Anniversaries, birthdays, Mother's Day, Father's Day and other significant occasions can bring difficult feelings back to the surface.

That doesn't mean someone is "going backwards". It is simply part of the grieving process.The same applies to children.

Adults should allow children to experience grief in their own way rather than rushing them to "move on" or "get over it".

A Child Can Grieve and Still Carry On. One powerful example shared during the conversation illustrated how differently children can respond to death.

After a mother dies, a child may attend the funeral and witness the sadness around them, but later ask something as ordinary as, "Who's going to take me to school?" That question doesn't mean the child isn't grieving.

It may simply mean that the child's mind is trying to understand what happens next and how everyday life will continue without the person who used to be there. Children can experience profound grief while still playing, laughing, going to school and asking everyday questions.

The Message for Parents, Teachers and Caregivers .The biggest takeaway from our Morning Cruise conversation is that grief is a natural emotional response to loss.

We don't need to rush children through it. We need to listen, be patient and create space for them to express what they are experiencing. Most importantly, adults should not assume that a child isn't grieving simply because they aren't crying or talking about the person they've lost.

Sometimes grief is expressed through behaviour.Sometimes it is expressed through silence.

And sometimes, children simply need an adult who will sit with them and say: "It's okay to feel what you're feeling." Let's Keep the Conversation Going.

As National Grief Awareness Day approaches, the invitation is for all of us to start talking more openly about grief  including with children.

Let's remind young people that their feelings matter, that they don't have to face loss alone, and that asking for help is a sign of strength.

Thank you to Lira Greeff and Khuluka Grief Support for joining Morning Cruise and for the important work being done to support children, families, schools and communities through grief.

Listen to Morning Cruise for more conversations that matter.

Written by Dané Van Rhyn

 

Liyana Opens a New Chapter with “All I Want Is You”

South African music is constantly evolving, and for rising artist Liyana, that evolution is deeply personal.

During her appearance on Morning Cruise, Liyana opened up about her journey as an artist, the cultural influences that shaped her identity, and the lessons she has learned while finding her voice and redefining success.

Liyana’s relationship with music began at a young age. She started singing when she was just six years old and participated in singing competitions, performing in three different languages. Years later, while in high school, she entered another competition and tied for first place with another male artist. That experience planted a seed: when she went to university, she decided she would pursue music seriously.

For Liyana, music has always been more than a career. It has become part of who she is.

“When you love music, it becomes like your oxygen.”

Born in Germany, with Filipino heritage and having grown up in South Africa, Liyana says her multicultural background has played an important role in understanding identity and her place in the music industry. She recalls being teased at school, but those experiences eventually helped her understand that everyone carries a unique story.

She believes that identity is not only shaped by where you are born. Moving between cities, meeting new people, changing careers and experiencing different environments can all become part of a person's story.

A New Name, A New Era

In 2023, Liyana made the significant decision to leave her previous artistic identity behind and begin again as Liyana.

She describes her earlier years as a period when she was focused on establishing herself and taking every opportunity available. At the time, she felt she had to say yes to almost everything simply to get her music heard.

With experience came a different perspective.

Liyana says she eventually learned that an artist does not always have to chase opportunities, beg for attention or constantly do what others expect. Her new era represents greater confidence, freedom and the ability to create music on her own terms.

That freedom has also influenced her sound.

Opening the Door to Amapiano

Liyana describes herself as an evolving artist, and her latest musical direction reflects that.

Her song “All I Want Is You” began as an R&B record, but she has now introduced an Amapiano interpretation, opening the song to a different audience and allowing it to live in spaces such as clubs and the broader South African Amapiano scene.

The remix was produced by Terry Dragon, who was given a selection of Liyana's songs and chose the one he felt would work best as an Amapiano remake.

Liyana remembers receiving the production late at night. After putting on her earphones, she was immediately impressed by what she heard.

The experience also introduced her to the world of Private School Amapiano, a sound she describes as being on another level.

Despite moving into a different genre, Liyana believes the most important thing remains unchanged: her voice.

She says her voice is one of the qualities that makes her unique, and regardless of the production style surrounding it, that identity continues to carry her music.

The Heart Behind “All I Want Is You”

At its core, “All I Want Is You” is about emotional availability.

Liyana explains that while the song repeatedly speaks about wanting someone's body, the deeper desire is actually for their heart.

The song explores the importance of emotional connection, vulnerability and wanting someone to give themselves fully rather than simply offering something temporary or physical.

For Liyana, that message is particularly important in today's society.

She wants listeners to focus less on material things and temporary attractions and more on the heart, spirit and soul of another person.

“Focus on the heart.”

The song also marks an important personal milestone. It was her first release after taking a two-year hiatus from music, meaning that returning to the studio was also about rediscovering herself as an artist.

More Than a Comeback

Liyana is clear that this is not simply a comeback.

She is here to stay.

After previously having a much larger catalogue of music, she now finds herself entering this new chapter with a smaller but more intentional profile. She sees that as an opportunity rather than a limitation.

There is room for more music, more performances, more collaborations and more growth.

For listeners discovering Leana for the first time, “All I Want Is You” serves as an introduction to an artist who is comfortable evolving while remaining grounded in her identity.

Her journey is also a reminder that success changes as we grow.

Earlier in her career, Liyana says success meant being famous, being recognised and walking into a room with everyone knowing who you are. Today, her definition is much simpler: financial stability, peace, a strong community, meaningful friendships, family, good connections and faith.

For her, success is no longer just an image.

It is a feeling.

What’s Next for Liyana?

There is clearly more to come.

Liyana has already released a music video for “All I Want Is You” and hinted at more visual content and live performances in the future.

Her music is available across major digital streaming platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer and Tidal.

As she steps further into the Amapiano space while maintaining her R&B roots, Liyana is building a musical chapter that is distinctly her own.

From a six-year-old competing in singing competitions to an independent South African artist confidently entering a new era, her journey is one of reinvention, resilience and self-discovery.

And as Leana herself says: she's here to stay.

Catch Liyana's music and follow her journey across her social media platforms under @LiyanaKeck, and listen out for “All I Want Is You” on your favourite streaming platform.

Morning Cruise would like to thank Liyana for joining us and sharing her story, her music and the inspiration behind this exciting new chapter.

Written by Esethu Thetha

Celebrating 100 Years of Gallo Record Company: A Legacy of African Sound

8 August 2026

Celebrating 100 Years of Gallo Record Company: A Legacy of African Sound

This week, we marked a truly historic milestone in South African music. Gallo Record Company, Africa’s oldest and largest independent record label, is celebrating 100 years of musical excellence. For a century, Gallo has discovered, nurtured, and shared the voices that have become the soundtrack of our nation’s history.

As part of our countdown to this remarkable centenary, the Morning Cruise team sat down with a representative from Gallo Record Company to reflect on their incredible journey and explore what lies ahead for African music.

Gallo’s story began in downtown Johannesburg as a small music shop selling gramophones and imported records. At a time when there was no local recording industry, Gallo took a bold step  establishing South Africa’s first recording studio and capturing local talent.

This pioneering spirit laid the foundation for the country’s music industry. Over the decades, Gallo has played a key role in shaping genres such as mbaqanga, maskandi, isicathamiya, jazz, and marabi. From early legends to global icons like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela, Gallo has consistently been at the heart of South African music.

At the core of Gallo’s success is a simple philosophy: believe in the artist. The company has worked with some of the country’s most influential musicians  including Lucky Dube, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the Mahotella Queens, and many more.

By remaining artist-focused and trusting the power of authentic music, Gallo has helped shape careers that have left a lasting impact not only locally but globally.

From vinyl records and cassettes to CDs and now streaming platforms, the music industry has undergone massive transformation. Gallo has adapted by digitising its vast catalogue, making decades of music accessible to a new generation of listeners worldwide.

While streaming has changed how artists earn, it has also opened global doors  allowing South African music to reach audiences across continents. At the same time, Gallo continues to embrace tradition, reissuing classic works on vinyl and exploring new ways to keep its heritage alive.

Gallo is more than just a record label  it is a custodian of African cultural history. Its catalogue reflects the social, political, and cultural journey of South Africa across generations.

With this responsibility comes a commitment to honour artists, respect audiences, and support the entire music ecosystem — including media platforms like community radio, which continue to play a vital role in promoting local music.

As Gallo enters its second century, the focus remains on discovering and developing new talent. Through collaborations, remix projects, and partnerships, the company is ensuring that its legacy continues to evolve.

Emerging artists are being given opportunities to reinterpret classic sounds while creating new music that speaks to today’s audience. The message is clear: innovation must go hand-in-hand with authenticity.

One of the strongest messages from the conversation was the importance of staying true to African identity. South African music is unique from amapiano to gqom, maskandi to gospel and this authenticity is what resonates globally.

Artists are encouraged to embrace their roots, tell their own stories, and create music that reflects who they are. As history has shown, it is this originality that leads to global success.

As we celebrate 100 years of Gallo Record Company, we are reminded that music is more than entertainment  it is a record of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going.

From the earliest recordings to today’s digital hits, Gallo’s journey is deeply intertwined with South Africa’s story.

From all of us at The Morning Cruise, we congratulate Gallo Record Company on this remarkable milestone and thank them for a century of unforgettable music.

Written by Esethu Thetha.

MARSHARN HERNDRICKS: THE ALL IN ONE

16 July 2026.
Thursday.

    MARSHARN HERNDRICKS: THE ALL IN ONE 

 (singer, songwriter, music producer and photographer)

Marshan Hendricks is a rising South African singer, songwriter, music producer and photographer from Strand, Cape Town. She is 31 years old and has gained popularity for her fluid sound in both the English and Afrikaans music genres; including R&B, soul, hip hop and pop. She visited Bush Radio’s morning show, The Morning  Cruise to share her journey and experiences in music.    

(Picture of Marshan Hendricks
 at the front desk of Bush Radio) 

Back at school Hendricks studied music and film before launching her own career and being an independent artist. In her interview with The Morning Cruise Host she mentions that if she hadn’t studied film and music she would not have reached this level in her music career.

As one can imagine studying something that you are passionate about has a way of instilling the  zeal to move forward. When she was asked how did music and film studies influence her to be the artist she’s become she reminisced about those days and said “I learnt how to be disciplined.......every Friday to Monday at CMI  we had a show, you had to write a song and perfom it “ Marshan kept repeating how impossible it would have been for her to be at this level, hadn’t she studied music and film back at school.

Marshan emphasises on the importance of adding personality to your music, making sure that your audience know you. She adds “You need to literally stay authentic in who you are in the industry because you can lose yourself at anytime”

As she grew in music she got to work with a lot of people including Danish producer Carsten Lehn who by the way helped her release her first ever album; If You Love Me. She mentions how Mr Lehn pushed her to do better and she says listening to the album now she appreciates the pushing and all the difficulties that come with it.

( A picture of Masharn Hendricks signing
"The Wall of fame" at Bush Radio)

Earlier in the interview she mentioned that she is an introvert and the host goes on to ask how does she manage to switch personalities  from being introverted to being social. She said "It is something you learn…..You learn from repetition, if you do things over and over again it becomes good and you become great at it” She basically learnt how to adabt because of her career.

With all the genres she plays it can be difficult to keep up and maintain her own signature, upon being asked how does she make sure she maintains her brand. She says “It is important to do what feels right to you and do not feel pressured because of trends” And she was asked what helps her to be grounded she mentions her faith in God and how her surroundings shape her “Through all the ups and down music brings and the  depression, its only God who keeps me grounded and the people you surround yourself with”

 She promises her fans timeless music and an assurance of upcoming  new music including, features, music videos and her live shows. And her music is available in all social media plartforms as Marshan   Hendicks..

Written By Unathi Ngomana.

Author's Facebook Handle, Author's Instagram Handle, Author's Tik Tok Handle

 

 Catch MORNINGCRUISE on Bush Radio 89.5 FM bringing conversations that inform, inspire and connect communities across the world.

AYZOMAN SHARES LESSONS FROM HIS EUROPEAN TOUR ON BUSH RADIO

 

Ayozman reflects on European tour during Bush Radio’s Morning Cruise Show .Cape Town DJ and producer Ayozman joined the Morning Cruise Show at Bush Radio 89.5 FM to reflect on his recent seven-week European tour.

During the interview, Ayozman shared that the journey was both a personal and professional milestone. “It was my first time outside South Africa, so it became a personal journey as much as a professional one. I was there to represent who I am and where I come from,” he said. He also reflected on performing at the internationally acclaimed Nuits Sonores Festival in Lyon, France, where he proudly showcased South African music and culture to global audiences.He explained that perfoming overseas gave him the opportunity to connect with musicians ,promoters and creative communities from different countries. These interactions allowed him to exchange ideas ,build new relationships and gain brouder understanding of the international music industry.

The interview also explored the importance of using music as a tool to connect people across different cultures. Ayozman explained that although audiences in Europe came from different backgrounds, they embraced South African music with enthusiasm and curiosity. He said the experience reaffirmed that music has the power to break language barriers, create meaningful connections and introduce people to the rich cultural identity of South Africa.

Speaking about the impact of local music, Ayozman described it as “not just a sound, but a cultural movement” that brings people together and offers hope. He encouraged aspiring musicians to remain disciplined, trust the process and continue working towards their dreams, adding, “Believe in yourself, stay disciplined and keep pushing even when nobody believes in you.”

He's now back in South Africa, Ayozman revealed that fans can look forward to new music, collaborations and upcoming performances. His story highlights how local talent continues to break international boundaries while proudly representing South African culture on the global stage.

Stay tuned to The Morning Cruise Monday to Friday, 09:00–12:00 on Bush Radio 89.5 FM, the Mother of Community Radio in Africa.

Written by Oyisa Ntlombe

Employee Wellness Week 2026: Protecting Your Heart Starts at Work

Employee Wellness Week 2026: Protecting Your Heart Starts at Work

The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM continues to bring listeners conversations that educate, inspire and empower our communities. During today's show, We welcomed Carrie from the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) to discuss the upcoming Employee Wellness Week 2026, taking place from 1–7 July.

The interview focused on the importance of creating healthier workplaces and encouraging South Africans to make simple lifestyle changes that can significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Why Employee Wellness Week Matters

Carrie explained that Employee Wellness Week is an annual campaign that highlights the important role workplaces play in supporting the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of employees. Since most people spend a large part of their day at work, healthy work environments can make a significant difference in preventing chronic diseases while improving productivity and overall quality of life.

The Growing Burden of Heart Disease

Listeners learned that cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death in South Africa. Carrie explained that many of the major risk factors including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, unhealthy diets and chronic stress often develop silently without noticeable symptoms. This makes regular health screenings more important than ever.

Small Changes Make a Big Difference

The discussion highlighted several practical ways employees can improve their heart and brain health during the workday, including:

• Taking regular movement breaks and walking during lunch.

• Choosing stairs instead of elevators whenever possible.

• Packing healthy lunches and nutritious snacks.

• Drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

• Managing stress through breathing exercises, mindfulness and taking regular breaks.

• Prioritising quality sleep and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Carrie emphasised that even small daily habits can have long-term health benefits.

The Importance of Regular Health Screenings

The interview also stressed the value of annual health checks, including monitoring:

• Blood pressure

• Blood sugar

• Cholesterol

• Body Mass Index (BMI)

Early detection allows people to manage health risks before they develop into serious conditions such as heart attacks or strokes.

Supporting Healthier Workplaces

Carrie encouraged employers to invest in workplace wellness initiatives, explaining that healthier employees are generally happier, more productive and take fewer sick days.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa offers tailored workplace wellness programmes that include:

• Health risk assessments

• Blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose screenings

• Nutrition and healthy lifestyle education

• Stress management guidance

• Professional support from nurses and dietitians

• Practical wellness resources for businesses of all sizes

Final Message

As Employee Wellness Week approaches, Carrie reminded listeners that while work is an important part of life, looking after our health should always remain a priority.

By making healthier choices every day and encouraging supportive workplace environments, South Africans can reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke while improving both their personal wellbeing and workplace productivity.

Bush Radio 89.5 FM thanks the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa for joining us and sharing valuable information that can help our communities live healthier lives.

Presenter: Esethu Thetha

Producer: Luntu Xametshata

FESSAB Dance School Dances Its Way to National Success

FESSAB Dance School Dances Its Way to National Success

The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM,  celebrated an inspiring local success story with special guest Danny, founder of FESSAB Dance School in Mitchells Plain.

The interview focused on the school's outstanding achievement at the Dance Wave South Africa Dreams of Communication National Championships in Johannesburg, where the talented dancers proudly brought home two gold medals and one silver medal.

Danny shared the excitement of returning home as national medalists after only six months of preparing for competition.

"It feels amazing to know the girls worked so hard, and after only six months, they're already winners. We're proud to bring these medals back to Mitchells Plain."

Hard Work Behind the Success

Listeners heard about the dedication required to prepare for the national competition. Danny explained that the dancers, aged between six and twelve years old, attended extra rehearsals, while parents played a vital role by supporting every practice session.

She praised both the dancers and their families for their commitment and teamwork, saying their hard work truly shone on stage.

More Than Dance

The conversation highlighted how dance is about much more than performances and competitions.

Danny explained that dance helps young people develop:

• Confidence

• Discipline

• Teamwork

• Respect

• Good posture

• Social skills

• Self-belief

She shared how many children arrive at the studio shy and reserved but soon grow into confident young performers.

Building Opportunities in Mitchells Plain

One of Danny's biggest dreams has been to make dance more accessible within Mitchells Plain.

She spoke passionately about creating opportunities for young people who may not always have access to performing arts, giving them a positive space to develop their talents and chase their dreams.

Since returning from Johannesburg, the response from the community has been overwhelming, with many new families expressing interest in joining the school and several invitations to perform at community events.

Looking Ahead

FESSAB Dance School is already preparing for more competitions in Cape Town and hopes to continue building on its recent success.

Danny also reflected on the school's previous qualification to compete in New York, demonstrating just how much potential exists within the local dance community.

A Message to Young Dreamers

Danny ended the interview with an inspiring message for young listeners:

"Go for it. If dance is your dream and your passion, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Believe in yourself because only you can make your dreams happen."

Her own journey began at the age of five, and today she proudly leads a growing dance school that is changing lives through the performing arts.

Everyone at Bush Radio 89.5 FM congratulates Danny, the dancers, parents and the entire FESSAB Dance School family on this remarkable achievement.

We wish them every success as they continue to inspire the next generation of dancers and proudly represent Mitchells Plain on national stages.

Presenter: Esethu Thetha

Producer: Luntu Xametshata

Empowerment and Healing with Tasleem Adams and Techiah September

Empowerment and Healing: Mitchell’s Plain Network Opposes Abuse, Changing Lives

But today we're shining a spotlight on empowerment, healing, and personal growth. The Mitchell's Plain Network Opposing Abuse, better known as M-P-N-O-A, recently celebrated a group of resilient women who graduated from a 12-week self-discovery program.

Joining us today is a representative from the M-P-N-O-A to tell us more about the program, its impact on local women, and why creating safe spaces for healing is so important in our communities. I'm going to have the conversation with none other than Tasleem Adams and Techiah September. 

A Conversation of Hope

Host: Good morning. How are you guys doing today? Response: Thank you, I'm amazing. I'm amazing.

Host: So I'm going to jump straight into the questions. Tell us about the Mitchell's Plain Network Opposing Abuse and the work your organization does within the Mitchell's Plain community.

Response: Good morning. We are the Mitchell's Plain Network Opposing Abuse. We were established in 1996. At that time, the name was Mitchell's Plain Network Violence Against Women, and it only focused on women and children. In 2010/2011, the name changed to the Mitchell's Plain Network Opposing Abuse because men also came to the forefront seeking assistance.

The projects that we are running include victim empowerment programs where we assist on a daily basis with protection orders and court support. We also have a social worker who does one-on-one sessions, a support group that runs weekly on Wednesdays, and a community skills program on Tuesdays. We also run school projects and raise awareness out in the community to let people know who we are. We are fully funded by the Department of Social Development.

Breaking the Silence

Host: And what inspired the creation of this 12-week self-discovery and empowerment program?

Response: What inspired the program is seeing how participants enter our doors. They often arrive very broken, very isolated, and very unsure of themselves. But by the end of the 12 weeks, they feel a new sense of confidence. They gain coping mechanisms, a stronger self-esteem, and a deeper understanding of their own values and skills. The impact of the program is remarkable to us because it truly empowers our members, educates them, and builds up the community.

Host: How important is self-discovery and rebuilding one's identity for survivors of abuse and trauma?

Response: It is essential. When people think of abuse and domestic violence, they usually think of the physical effects and physical safety. But healing is much more than that, because abuse deeply damages emotional well-being, self-confidence, and identity. Self-care and self-discovery allow survivors to reconnect with themselves. It gives them a new sense of spirit and hope. When people heal and make decisions for themselves, it positively affects the family, and when it affects the family, it changes the entire community. Reconnecting and Rebuilding

Host: The graduation ceremony celebrated women from different age groups and backgrounds. What does that diversity say about the need for these kinds of support programs?

Response: We have participants coming from different backgrounds and communities outside of Mitchell's Plain. The most inspiring thing is seeing them make use of our skills development programs. These participants ultimately find jobs, start their own businesses, and become advocates for others in their own communities.

Even though they come from different cultures and traditions, being together in these diverse age groups allows them to empower each other. We see individual and collective growth. As professionals, we always say that even though they think they are learning from us, a lot of the time we are learning from them about what services are truly needed. Our methodology is highly interactive, experiential, and involves action learning to give everyone the stage to speak out.

You are tuned into Bush Radio 89.5 FM, the mother of community radio in Africa. If you want to reach out on WhatsApp, you can contact us at 061 862 1065.

From Empty Cups to Healing Journeys

Host: Many participants spoke about learning the importance of self-care and self-love. Why do you think women often struggle to prioritize their own well-being?

Response: Women are always the ones catering to everyone else's needs first. They carry too many burdens and fill too many pockets. They don't put themselves first and constantly pour from an empty cup, which eventually leads to burnout. Women are natural nurturers. We often ask them in the group: "If there is only one slice of bread left and your child is hungry, what do you do?" The mother always says she will give it to the child. But we try to teach them that if you don't take care of yourself, you cannot give what you don't have.

Host: How does the MPNOA continue supporting participants after they complete the 12-week program?

Response: We do regular follow-ups and encourage them to join our support groups. Many of them actually become volunteers or part of the organization, spreading the word and encouraging others through word of mouth. We have so many success stories of past participants joining our court and school projects.

Finding Your Voice

Host: What role can families, communities, and local organizations play in supporting women on their healing journeys?

Response: It comes down to providing access to services. It is really that simple. Many community members are simply unaware of the resources available to them. Our job is to make people realize they are not alone and that they can access good professional services at absolutely no cost.

Host: For listeners who may be struggling with abuse or trauma, how can they reach out to enroll or find you on social media?

Response: We are on Facebook, Instagram, and have a website. You can also call us directly at 021 376 0459 or 021 376 0454. We also accept walk-ins. We are situated in Beacon Valley, on the corner of A Z Berman Drive, at the Beacon Welfare Centre.

Host: Lastly, what message of hope would you like to share with someone listening today who is struggling with trauma or a loss of identity?

Response: Abuse thrives in silence. If you stay silent, the abuse continues. But healing begins the moment you reach out for support. You are not alone, and there are safe spaces available for you to heal from trauma and realize your worth. You have a voice. One of our recent participants found the strength to speak out about sexual abuse through our skills group, and that allowed her to start her journey of healing.

Host: Tasleem Adams and Techiah September, thank you so much for sharing your journey and the incredible work of your organization. Have a fantastic day further.