Press Start Mzansi

About Press Start Mzansi

Press Start Mzansi is the podcast where innovation, policy, business, and play meet to explore the future of gaming in South Africa and across the continent. Each episode features in-depth conversations with game developers, investors, government leaders, and creative entrepreneurs who are shaping Africa’s digital creative economy. We unpack how gaming is driving youth employment, digital transformation, local storytelling, and inclusive growth and why it matters now more than ever. Let’s press start on the future of African games. #GamingForGood #PressStartMzansi

Publisher

Bandile Phuthuma

Category

leisure

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

11 Aug 2025

Latest episode

26 Nov 2025

Latest episodes

8 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   26 Nov 2025

   Ep 8 – Identity, Creativity and Building Games from the Heart of Africa with Homolang “Nathi” Marule

   Ep 8 – Identity, Creativity and Building Games from the Heart of Africa with Homolang “Nathi” Marule In this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we sit down with Homolang “Nathi” Marule, founder and CEO of Atrybute Studios, to explore how imagination, spirituality, and technology intersect in African game development. From drawing robots and sharks in preschool to leading a creative studio today, Nathi’s story is one of perseverance, curiosity, and deep reflection. He describes himself as a modern African child — someone navigating tradition, spirituality, global culture, and innovation. His games and creative philosophy blend the ancestral and the futuristic, offering players not just entertainment but meaning. Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma and Kieran Reid, this conversation delves into how personal identity, culture, and storytelling shape the next generation of African creators. Nathi’s journey reminds us that building games is not just about code or design — it is about crafting experiences that connect people to who they are and who they can become. • The poetic beginnings of creativity and storytelling in Polokwane • Early encounters with computers, arcades, and discovering God of War • Choosing art over engineering and the power of having supportive mentors • From student to studio founder — finding purpose through leadership • Defining the “modern African child” and bringing spirituality into design • The balance between creativity, business, and community in Atrybute Studios • What leadership means in the creative economy • Advice for young artists and dreamers starting in townships and small towns • The mission and future of Atrybute Studios Homolang “Nathi” Marule is a technical artist, storyteller, and the founder of Atrybute Studios, a South African game development company exploring African creativity through technology. His journey began with art, computers, and a love of games that evolved into a career focused on merging imagination and entrepreneurship. Describing himself as a modern African child, Nathi’s work is inspired by spirituality, biology, and mythology, drawing from both ancestral wisdom and contemporary innovation. Through Atrybute, he champions a creative future that celebrates identity, community, and purpose. Follow his work at Atrybute.co.za and on Instagram @homolangnathi and @atrybutegraphics. Hosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming) Co-host: Kieran Reid (Two Name Games) Guest: Homolang “Nathi” Marule (CEO, Atrybute Studios) Technical Director: Dave Moyo Marketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho Tlokotsi Press Start Mzansi is the podcast where innovation, creativity, and play come together to explore the people and ideas shaping Africa’s digital future. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @PressStartMzansi for more conversations with the voices defining the next chapter of African gaming.

2. 

   12 Nov 2025

   Ep 7 – Mobility, Storytelling and Innovation in the Digital Age with Albi Modise

   In this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we sit down with Albi Modise, Senior Executive Manager for Communication and Marketing at the Gautrain Management Agency. With more than two decades of experience across journalism, media, and government communication, Albi has shaped some of South Africa’s most important public narratives. From his early days in radio and journalism to his current work leading communication strategy for one of Africa’s most recognised mobility brands, Albi shares insights into how storytelling, branding, and innovation come together in the digital age. Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma and Kieran Reid, this conversation explores how mobility connects to creativity, how communication can inspire trust and imagination, and why platforms like gaming are becoming vital to youth engagement and brand storytelling. What we cover in this episode • Albi’s journey from radio and journalism into communication and leadership • The art of storytelling and its link to identity and innovation • How Gautrain positions itself as a mobility brand, not just a transport service • The role of creativity, gaming, and digital storytelling in connecting with younger audiences • The evolving landscape of communication and leadership in South Africa • Lessons from two decades of public service and strategic storytelling • The importance of building trust, inclusion, and cultural relevance in modern branding • Albi’s advice to young communicators and creatives finding their voice Guest Albi Modise is the Senior Executive Manager for Communication and Marketing at the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA). He previously served as Chief Director of Communication and Spokesperson for the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, and has held leadership roles in media, academia, and government. A Rhodes University Journalism graduate, Albi’s career spans writing, broadcasting, brand management, and public policy. He has lectured at Tshwane University of Technology and completed leadership programmes at Wits University and GIBS. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to creative communication, innovation, and storytelling as tools for connection and progress. Credits Hosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming) Co-host: Kieran Reid (Two Name Games) Guest: Albi Modise (Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing, Gautrain Management Agency) Marketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho Tlokotsi Press Start Mzansi is the podcast where innovation, creativity, and play come together to explore the people and ideas shaping Africa’s digital future. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @PressStartMzansi for more stories from the people driving Africa’s creative and digital transformation.

3. 

   10 Nov 2025

   Ep 6 – Made in Africa: Building Bold Games with Ben Myres of Nyamakop

   In this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we speak with Ben Myres, the creative force behind Nyamakop, one of South Africa’s most acclaimed independent game studios. From Semblance, the first African-developed title released on a Nintendo platform, to his latest project Relooted, Ben’s work continues to shape how the world sees African creativity. Relooted is a heist game with a purpose. Built around recovering seventy real African artefacts currently held in Western museums, the game blends stealth, strategy, and storytelling in a powerful narrative about repatriation, cultural justice, and African futurism. Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma and Kieran Reid, this conversation explores how African creators are redefining global gaming and what it takes to build sustainable studios that tell stories rooted in local identity but made for the world. A special thank you to the Goethe-Institut South Africa for supporting this episode and helping to amplify African voices in gaming. What we cover in this episode: The creative journey from Semblance to Relooted• Researching real artefacts and turning history into gameplay Balancing fun, depth, and cultural meaning in game design Representation, authenticity, and African accents in character creation Building a sustainable studio and navigating the local ecosystem The business of creativity and staying independent in global gaming Advice for young developers starting out in Africa What is next for Nyamakop and the future of African game development Guest: Ben Myres is the CEO and co-founder of Nyamakop, a Johannesburg-based game studio known for its bold creative voice and commitment to African storytelling. His debut title, Semblance, received international acclaim for its innovative mechanics and art direction. His current project, Relooted, continues that legacy by blending political commentary, history, and design innovation into a deeply African game with global appeal. Credits Hosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming) Co-host: Kieran Reid (Two Name Games) Guest: Ben Myres (CEO and Co-founder, Nyamakop) Cinematography and Editing: Luthando Nyuswa Audio Editor: Juliette Love Technical Director: Dave Moyo Marketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho Tlokotsi Press Start Mzansi is the podcast where innovation, creativity, and play come together to explore the people and ideas driving Africa’s digital revolution. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @PressStartMzansi for more conversations with the creators shaping the future of African gaming.

4. 

   20 Oct 2025

   Ep 5 - Building a Game Development Ecosystem from the Ground Up - Raymond Ledwaba

   Building a Game Development Ecosystem from the Ground Up with Raymond Ledwaba In this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we sit down with Raymond Ledwaba, CEO of ITTHYNK Gaming, to explore what it really takes to build South Africa’s game development ecosystem from the ground up.From finance to gaming, Raymond’s journey is one of vision, grit, and purpose. He is not just creating games, he is helping to build the pipeline of African talent, companies, and intellectual property that will define the continent’s digital future. Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma and Kieren Reid, this conversation looks beyond the business of games. It is about how ecosystems are built, how communities grow, and why Africa’s next generation of developers cannot wait for opportunity but must create it themselves. What we cover in this episode How ITTHYNK Gaming began and what problem it set out to solve Why local IP and African stories matter in a global industry Challenges and opportunities in South Africa’s game development ecosystem What developers need most right now, from funding to mentorship Building national and regional collaboration across Africa The one thing that could unlock South Africa’s gaming potential Raymond’s message to the next generation of African game makers Guest Raymond Ledwaba is the Chief Executive Officer of ITTHYNK Gaming, a South African studio dedicated to growing Africa’s gaming ecosystem through development, publishing, and education. With a background in finance and management consulting, Raymond pivoted into gaming to build local intellectual property and empower emerging creators. Today, ITTHYNK Gaming is a leading voice in African game entrepreneurship, connecting creativity, business, and technology to make gaming a catalyst for social and economic impact. Credits Hosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming) Co-hosts: Khumo Moerane (ITTHYNK Gaming) & Kieran Reid (Two Name Games) Cinematography and Editing: Luthando Nyuswa Audio Editor: Juliette Love Technical Director: Dave Moyo Marketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho Tlokotsi

5. 

   2 Oct 2025

   Ep 4 - Moving People, Moving Futures with Gautrain CEO Tshepo Kgobe

   Moving People, Moving Futures with Gautrain CEO Tshepo Kgobe In this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we sit down with Tshepo Kgobe, Chief Executive Officer of the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA), to explore how mobility, innovation, and gaming intersect in shaping South Africa’s future. From building one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects to imagining what the next decade of smart mobility could look like, Mr Kgobe shares insights on leadership, technology, and the role of creativity in moving people — and moving futures. We unpack how transport isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about economic opportunity, tourism, culture, and even lessons from gaming in engaging communities. Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma with co-host Khumo Moerane, this conversation looks at how policy, play, and innovation meet on the tracks of Gauteng’s story. What we cover in this episode: Gautrain’s role in shaping Gauteng’s development and economy How transport infrastructure can connect culture, tourism, and digital storytelling What mobility can learn from gaming about engagement, loyalty, and user experience Building partnerships across government, business, and tech sectors Leadership lessons from steering one of South Africa’s most iconic projects Looking 10 years ahead: the future of Gautrain and mobility in Gauteng Guest: Tshepo Kgobe is the Chief Executive Officer of the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA). A multidisciplinary engineer with over 22 years of experience in infrastructure, energy, and rail, he has led complex projects in South Africa and internationally. With a background in civil engineering and business management, Kgobe has been at the heart of Gautrain since its inception, from technical services and trackwork engineering to his current role as CEO. Known for his vision of smart, integrated mobility, he champions innovation, transformation, and partnerships that move people and economies forward. Credits: Hosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming) Co-hosts: Khumo Moerane (ITTHYNK Gaming) & Kieran Reid (Two Name Games) Cinematography and Editing: Luthando Nyuswa Audio Editor: Juliette Love Technical Director: Dave Moyo Marketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho Tlokotsi

6. 

   19 Sept 2025

   Ep 3 - Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele - Telling South Africa’s Digital Story

   Telling South Africa’s Digital Story with Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele In this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we sit down with Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) to talk about South Africa’s place in the global digital economy — and how games can play a role. The Deputy Minister reflects on the importance of skills development, digital inclusion, and youth empowerment in shaping South Africa’s future. We discuss what it takes for government, industry, and creators to work together to build opportunities, and how games and play are part of a much bigger story of innovation. Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma with co-hosts Khumo Moerane, this conversation is a candid look at where policy, creativity, and technology intersect. It’s not just about government strategy — it’s about how digital platforms, creative industries, and young people can unlock South Africa’s potential. What we cover in this episode: The Deputy Minister’s vision for South Africa’s digital future How government views games and digital creativity as part of the economy The importance of youth voices in shaping digital policy Building skills pipelines for the next generation of creators Opportunities for collaboration between industry and government Why inclusion and access matter in every part of the digital story Guest: Mondli Gungubele is the Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies in South Africa. A long-serving public servant, he has held leadership roles at both local and national government levels. In his current role, he oversees policy and initiatives designed to grow South Africa’s digital capacity, expand connectivity, and support the country’s place in a rapidly changing technological world. Credits Hosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming) Co-hosts: Khumo Moerane (ITTHYNK Gaming) & Kieran Reid (Two Name Games) Cinematography and Editing: Luthando Nyuswa Audio Editor: Juliette Love Technical Director: Dave Moyo Marketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho Tlokotsi

7. 

   1 Sept 2025

   Ep2 - Barba Gaoganediwe - Telling Gauteng’s Story Through Gaming and Digital Tourism

   Telling Gauteng’s Story Through Gaming and Digital Tourism In this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we sit down with Barba Gaoganediwe, Head of Marketing at the Gauteng Tourism Authority, to explore how gaming can help tell the story of place, identity, and culture in South Africa. Barba shares why tourism must embrace digital platforms and immersive experiences, how township and heritage stories can find new life through play, and what it means to position Gauteng as both a destination and a narrative. From AFROPUNK Joburg to digital tourism campaigns, this conversation shows how culture, technology, and creativity can come together to shape the future of travel, storytelling, and economic growth. Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma with co-host Khumo Moerane, this episode is about more than tourism — it’s about how games can reimagine a province, empower communities, and connect the world to Gauteng’s stories. What we cover in this episode: Where gaming fits into Gauteng’s tourism strategy Place-making and destination storytelling through games Township and heritage tourism in the digital era How youth can participate as creators, not just consumers Partnerships that will shape the future of gaming and tourism Barba’s vision for a digital, connected, and story-rich Gauteng Guest: Barba Gaoganediwe is the Head of Destination Marketing & Communications at the Gauteng Tourism Authority. With more than 20 years of experience in government, tourism, and destination branding, he has led major campaigns positioning Gauteng as a hub of culture, creativity, and global competitiveness. From AFROPUNK Joburg to the Formula 1 Gauteng bid, Barba champions the integration of tourism, sports, entertainment, and the creative economy as engines of inclusive growth. Credits: Hosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming) Co-hosts: Khumo Moerane (ITTHYNK Gaming) & Kieran Reid (Two Name Games) Cinematography and Editing: Luthando Nyuswa Sound Design: Juliette Love Technical Director: Dave Moyo Marketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho Tlokotsi

8. 

   11 Aug 2025

   Ep1 - How the Jobs Fund is Supporting SA's Gaming Ecosystem

   In our very first episode, we speak to Zaid Motala, Legal Advisor at the National Treasury’s Jobs Fund, about why the Fund is investing in South Africa’s gaming industry — and what that means for the future of work, youth employment, and creative innovation. Zaid shares insights into how public policy is shifting to include non-traditional sectors, what legal and governance challenges exist in creative partnerships, and why games might be one of the most exciting opportunities for inclusive growth in the country. Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma with co-host Khumo Moerane, this conversation goes beyond funding to explore the real-world potential of play. What we cover in this episode: Why the Jobs Fund is backing gaming The stigma around games and how that’s changing Legal challenges in creative sector partnerships What early wins look like on the ground Zaid’s take on the future of African games Guest: Zaid Motala is a Legal Advisor at the Jobs Fund, a public programme aimed at supporting high-impact, innovative job creation projects in South Africa. With a background in law and a deep passion for gaming and the arts, Zaid brings a rare perspective on how public institutions can support creative ecosystems. Credits: Host and Founder - Bandlie Phutuma Co-hosts - Khumo Moerane Production - Kieran Reid Videographer and Editor - Luthando Howard Nyuswa Audio Editor - Juliette Love Technical Director - Dave Moyo Marketing Team Jessica Jardim Ashley Tanton Padi Falas-Maifala Mpho Tlokotsi

Contact Press Start Mzansi

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.