“Your story matters”: Dr. Gcina Mhlophe on culture, change, and storytelling | Don't Hold Back

What does culture mean today—and how do we keep our stories alive for the next generation? In the latest episode of Don’t Hold Back with Nozibele Qamngana-Mayaba, legendary storyteller Dr. Gcina Mhlophe reflects on what it means to preserve culture in a fast-changing world. Dr. Mhlophe shares her journey from a childhood “house of song and prayer” to becoming one of South Africa’s most respected custodians of heritage. She explains why storytelling remains the heartbeat of cultural identity — and why younger generations must learn to balance tradition with modern life. “Culture starts within,” she says. “It’s about having a sense of belonging, of respect, and of knowing who you are, even as the world changes.” The episode explores practical ways families can pass on rituals, the importance of African languages, and the risks of letting global influences dilute local traditions. Expect heartfelt stories, rapid-fire fun, and a snack reveal with history woven in. Don’t just listen—reflect on your own roots and share your story. This show is a collaboration between DW and leading South African radio stations, Jacaranda FM and East Coast Radio. Core Production Team: • Nozibele Qamngana-Mayaba – Host • Wanjiku Mwaura – Lead Producer (DW) • Silja Fröhlich – Lead Producer (DW) • Asumpta Lattus – Executive Producer (DW) • Diane Macpherson – Executive Producer (Kagiso Media Radio) • Ntsikelelo Khanyile – Production Assistant (Kagiso Media Radio) More Information: Find out more about this podcast: https://www.dw.com/en/dontholdback/a-... Check out more shows: • The 77 Percent (DW Africa): /@dwthe77percent • Jacaranda FM: https://www.jacarandafm.com/podcasts/ • East Coast Radio: https://www.ecr.co.za/podcasts/ Catch up with our host Nozibele: /NozibeleQamngana Join the 77 Percent Movement: 77 percent of Africans are younger than 35. Africa's youth holds the key to shaping the continent’s future. On our platforms we share their stories, their dreams and their challenges. Are you part of the 77 percent? Join the debate here on YouTube, and on the following platforms: • facebook.com/dw.africa • instagram.com/dw_the77percent • dw.com/77 • dw.com/africa #DontHoldBack #NozibeleQamnganaMayaba #GcinaMhlophe #AfricanCulture #Storytelling #CultureAndTradition #Heritage #AfricanVoices #PodcastSouthAfrica #DW #DWAfrica #the77percent #DWDontHoldBack ----- 77 percent of Africans are younger than 35. Africa's youth holds the key to shaping the continent’s future. On our platforms we share their stories, their dreams and their challenges. Are you part of the 77 percent? Join the debate here on YouTube, and on the following platforms: facebook.com/dw.africa instagram.com/dw_the77percent dw.com/77 dw.com/africa