Shifting Perspectives Podcast with Amo Helang

In this breakaway episode of Shifting Perspectives, we move beyond the stadium lights and into the heart of the township, where football is more than just a game - it's a cultural anchor, a collective memory, and a powerful tool for community revival.Inspired by the recent Kaizer Chiefs vs. Orlando Pirates showdown, we reflect on the sounds, the spirit, and the stories that live in the spaces where football once thrived - and ask: what would it take to bring it back?This is your call to dust off forgotten fields, question who’s responsible, and reimagine sport as a catalyst for culture, community, and change.

In this special Shifting Perspectives breakaway episode, we bring you a 12-minute, bite-sized roundup covering crucial moments in South Africa’s arts and culture landscape. First, we spotlight key achievements and milestones from the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture's impactful first 100 days in office. Next, dive into career spotlights on two dynamic fields within the creative industry: screenwriting and cinematography (Director of Photography). Finally, we wrap up with a review of CION Requiem of Ravel’s Boléro a powerful theatrical work by Gregory Maqoma that has captivated audiences with its poignant storytelling and visual mastery. Tune in for an enriching journey through the intersections of policy, creative career paths, and the transformative power of theatre—all in under 15 minutes.

This episode dives into how Bloo Money is helping freelancers and artists take control of their finances, transforming the "struggling artist" narrative into one of financial empowerment and sustainability. Tune in to discover how creatives can manage their income, plan for the future, and turn their passion into a financially viable career. But it doesn’t stop there—this episode is also perfect for small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to streamline their financial management and optimise their systems for growth and long-term success.

In this episode, we sit down with Frank Apollo, a music maestro and producer who draws inspiration from his namesake, the Greek god of music and the arts. Frank shares the story behind his creative evolution, from his roots in Katlehong to the release of his collaborative album Ifunk yinto ekhona, which captures the vibrant spirit of township life. We also explore his journey from accounting to music, his love for J Dilla, and how fatherhood shapes his creative process. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about following your flow, embracing your roots, and leaving a legacy through music.

In Episode 2 of Shifting Perspectives, we sit down with the Director of Arts, Culture, and Heritage of the City of Johannesburg, Mr Vuyisile Mshudulu, to explore the complex legacy of colonialism and its impact on Johannesburg as a cultural epi-center. We dive into the intricate balance between preserving heritage sites and confronting colonial history, while examining the role artists play in driving societal change. Tune in for an insightful conversation on accountability, the future of arts and culture, and the director's vision for moving Johannesburg’s creative industries forward.

In this thought-provoking episode of Shifting Perspectives, I engage with Grace Barnes AKA Grace Storm, a powerful spoken word artist, choreographer, performance and movement practitioner, and creative writer. We explore the raw emotions of grief and how it fuels her poetry, while also reflecting on the deeper call of living authentically as an artist. Grace shares her journey through local and international creative spaces, offering fresh insights that challenge the way we perceive the artist's path. This frank and enlightening conversation invites you to rethink the power of authenticity and what it means to respond to the call of your life.