Visions & Tones

Ragi Bashonga and Dr. Zuziwe Khuzwayo | '#EndRapeCulture': Unveiling the Complexities of Gender-Based Violence in South African Universities - S4E14

WARNING: 

Episode contains sensitive information, kindly make a good and clear judgment while deciding to engage with it. 

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In this enlightening 101st episode of the Visions and Tones podcast, Dr. T is joined by two esteemed scholars, Ms. Ragi Bashonga and Dr. Zuziwe Khuzwayo, to explore the depths of gender, activism, and policy within South African universities.

The episode delves into the challenges faced by university students amidst the fallist protests, emphasizing movements such as "Rhodes Must Fall", "Fees Must Fall", and "End Rape Culture". It scrutinizes the societal obligations of universities, the complexities of policy response to sexual violence, and the social media dynamics that drive public discourse.

Through this discussion, listeners will gain insights into the evolution of feminist advocacy within educational spaces, the role of social media in activism, and the personal reflections of the scholars on the enduring quest for gender equity and justice in academia, rather than putting the burden of proof on victims of sexual violence. 

You can access the article here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10130950.2017.1394636

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DR. ZUZIWE KHUZWAYO (Ph.D) is a feminist scholar and practitioner and her interests include gender, feminist theory, sexuality and labour studies. She previously worked in community development at Khanya-AICDD and as a researcher at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) of South Africa and some of the projects she was involved in focused on gender equality, HIV/AIDS and labour. A highlight of her time at HSRC was working on the 20-year review of the Commission of Gender Equality (CGE) of South Africa. This project involved reviewing the work the Commission has done and making recommendations on how to improve going forward.

Currently she is a Program Associate for the International Gender, Race, Ethnic Racial Justice Program at the Ford Foundation. She has published in the Journal of International Women's Studies, Frontiers Sociology, Agenda Journal as well as the South African Review of Sociology. 

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MS. RAGI BASHONGA is a lecturer in the Sociology Department at the University of Johannesburg, and a PhD candidate at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Her research delves into the multifaceted concepts of home, belonging, and Africanity.

Employing a unique methodological approach that bridges the gap between academic rigor and lived experience, she leverages the evocative power of storytelling and poetry to illuminate complex social realities in what she terms 'poetic portraiture'

Ragi holds a Master's degree in Industrial Sociology and Labour Studies from the University of Pretoria and is an alumnus of the Thabo Mbeki African Leadership Institute. Her research experience spans over seven years, encompassing roles as a researcher at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), the National Department of Social Development, and a policy researcher at Isandla Institute. She has also served as a youth representative to the United Nations for the International Sociological Association (ISA) and was recognized as one of the Brightest Young Minds in Africa in 2017.

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Dr. Penny Kansiime | Decoding African Spirituality in Social Work Practice - S4E13

WARNING:

This episode contains sensitive information. Please make a good judgment when deciding to listen to it. 

 

MATERIAL AND INFORMATION FEATURED:

This episode contains a brief explanation of the Movie - Moogai directed by Jon Bell. The storyline depicts lived experiences of a family of the First Nation background. The Visions & Tones does not claim any ownership of that material and we acknowledge the hard work of that production under Jon Bell, and all creative members involved. 

The episode also feature sensitive stories about the rebel group in Uganda called the "Lord's Resistance Army" with the leader - Joseph Kony. The story and the use of name has been done numerous times mainstream media and article writings and has since become subject to debates in communities. Therefore, the use of the founder's name in this episode is for that reason that the case is popular and the identities of few people involved have since been made public knowledge.  

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Join Dr. T as he welcomes back Dr. Penny Kansiime to the Visions and Tones podcast. In this engaging episode, Dr. Kansimi shares her insights into integrating spirituality within social work, particularly focusing on child protection for African heritage families in Australia. Learn about the African Spiritual Sensitivity Theory and its application in addressing complex family dynamics and spiritual issues. Discover how cultural understanding and inclusivity can transform social work practices and policies for diverse communities.

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Dr. Tony Nyundu | President Ramaphosa Vs President Trump: Insights from the Oval Office Encounter - S4E12

Welcome to the latest episode of the Visions and Tones podcast, where Dr. T offers a reflective analysis of the recent meeting between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and U.S. President Donald Trump. This episode delves into the controversial discussions surrounding the alleged white farmer genocide in South Africa and the diverse political dynamics at play in the country.

Dr. T provides listeners with a comprehensive backdrop of South African politics, highlighting the roles of key figures like Julius Malema and Jacob Zuma. This episode also examines the historical context of South Africa's political landscape, exploring the impact of previous administrations and the intricate relationships between different political parties.

As the episode unfolds, you will gain insights into the strategic diplomatic approaches employed by President Ramaphosa during his visit to the United States, the influence of foreign policy, and the role of media and AI in shaping public perception.

Whether you are familiar with South African politics or seeking to understand its multifaceted nature, this episode offers an engaging exploration of current events and their broader implications. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how international relations and political strategies unfold on the global stage.

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Dr. Agness Tembo | President of the Hunter African Communities Council (HACC) - S4E11

In this episode, host Tony welcomes Dr. Agness Tembo, the newly elected president of the Hunter African Communities Council (HACC), for an insightful conversation about her journey and vision for the organization. Dr. Tembo, originally from Zambia, shares her background as a registered nurse and academic, emphasizing her commitment to addressing systemic injustice and fostering unity within the African communities in Newcastle. She discusses her dedication to transformational leadership and outlines her strategic plans to improve visibility, support African youth, and promote cultural understanding.

The episode also highlights the significance of the upcoming Africa Day celebration and Dr. Tembo's approach to strengthening collaborations with other community organizations in the region. Join us to learn about Dr. Tembo's aspirations to create an equitable and inclusive environment for migrants in Newcastle and beyond.

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Mauro Biosse interviewing Dr. Tony Nyundu | Navigating Podcasting and the Information Age - S4E10

In this unique episode of the Visions and Tones podcast, host Mauro Biosse turns the tables and interviews the show's founder, Dr. Tony Nyundu. Listeners get an inside look at Tony's journey from the early days of starting the podcast during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to his reflections on its growth and impact.

Dr. Tony shares his thoughts on the challenges of podcasting, the commitment needed to sustain it, and the importance of staying true to one’s passion over the lure of commercial success. The conversation delves into the role of podcasts in modern media, their potential to inform and educate, and the responsibilities of creators in an age of misinformation.

Highlighting the intricacies of producing content that resonates while maintaining ethical standards, this episode is a deep dive into the world of podcasting through the lens of an academic and enthusiast who has continuously adapted and grown his platform over five years.

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Dr. Rodrigo Perez Toledo | Exploring Race and Sexuality in Sydney's Gay Saunas - S4E9

In this captivating episode of the "Visions and Tones," host, Dr. T sits down with Dr. Rodrigo Perez Toledo, a distinguished Anthropologist from Mexico, but currently living and working in Sydney Australia, known for his compelling research on race and sexuality among Chinese communities in Sydney. Together, they delve into Dr. Perez Toledo's groundbreaking work titled '"In the Saunas, I'm Either Invisible or Camouflaged": Colonial Fantasies and Imaginations in Sydney's Gay Saunas', exploring themes of decolonial thinking, male homoeroticism, and the intriguing dynamics within Sydney’s gay saunas.

Tune in as they discuss the intersection of racial identities and minoritized sexualities, ethical challenges in ethnographic research, and the complex layers of multiculturalism in Australia. Whether you're interested in Anthropology, race studies, or gender studies, this episode offers insightful perspectives and engaging dialogue.

To access the article being discussed, see below:

Perez, R. (2023). In the Saunas I’m Either Invisible or Camouflaged: Colonial Fantasies and Imaginations in Sydney’s Gay Saunas. Journal of Contemporary Ethnography, 52(6), 824–848. https://doi.org/10.1177/08912416231175866

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Dr. Tony Nyundu and Mr Eddie Onoka | A Reflection on The 'Africa and Aid' Debate - S4E8

Delve into a riveting conversation sparked by a recent debate featuring Mr Mauro Biosse and Dr. Beatrice Alupo. Join co-hosts Dr. T and Mr. Eddie Onoka as they reflect on the provocative dialogue regarding Africa's reliance on foreign aid. The episode explores the nuanced arguments from both sides, with Dr. Beatrice Alupo advocating against aid dependency due to its associated risks of creating dependency and political agendas, and Mauro Biosse highlighting the benefits of aid in bridging financial gaps and building capacity in developing countries.

The discussion further examines what was missing in the debate, particularly focusing on trade as a viable alternative to aid for achieving self-sufficiency in African countries. The co-hosts engage in a thought-provoking exchange on topics such as political interference, economic strategies, and the future trajectory for African nations seeking economic independence. Tune in for an insightful recap and in-depth analysis of one of today's most pressing issues.

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Mr Mauro Biosse and Dr. Beatrice Alupo | Should Africa Continue to Rely on Foreign AID?: The Debate - S4E7

Welcome to a special edition of the Visions and Tones Podcast, where we dive deep into the pressing debate on whether Africa should continue to rely on foreign aid. Our esteemed guests, Dr. Beatrice Alupo and Mr. Mauro Biosse, bring their expertise to the table, presenting compelling arguments on both sides of the spectrum.

Dr. Beatrice Alupo, with her extensive background in International Relations, challenges the conventional reliance on foreign aid, citing it as a tool for foreign dominance that stifles Africa's potential to harness its own resources and build competitive trade systems. She advocates for a future where Africa stands independent, investing in its own education, infrastructure, and health without the crutch of international aid.

On the other side, Mr. Mauro Bios, an electrical engineering expert stationed in Africa, argues for the strategic benefits of foreign aid. He emphasizes the role of aid in stabilizing fragile economies, providing essential services, and supporting countries like Botswana during health crises. Mauro calls for a refined approach to aid—one that is targeted, accountable, and serves as an investment in Africa’s stability and future growth.

This episode navigates the complexities of foreign aid, exploring its implications and searching for a balanced narrative. Join us for an insightful discussion on charting the best path forward for Africa's development.

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Noël Zihabamwe | Empowering African Communities with the African Australian Advocacy Centre (AAAC) - S4E6

In this episode of the Visions and Tones Podcast, join Dr. T in a compelling conversation with Mr. Noël Zihabamwe, the dynamic founder and executive director of the African Australian Advocacy Centre (AAAC). Based in New South Wales, Noel discuses the impactful work his centre is doing to address systemic barriers and promote social justice for African communities across Australia. Learn about the initiatives aimed at eradicating racial discrimination, supporting mental health, and assisting with employment opportunities.

Noël shares his personal journey and the motivation behind establishing the centre, while also highlighting the importance of community empowerment and advocacy. From collaborations with academic institutions to providing pro bono legal support, discover how the centre is making a significant difference in the lives of African Australians.

Listen in for insights into the challenges faced by refugees and migrants, as well as the efforts being made to foster inclusivity and resilience within the community. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in social justice, advocacy, and the power of community-driven change.

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Professor Mario Peucker | Combatting Far-Right Extremism - S4E5

Welcome to the Visions and Tones podcast, where we are joined by Professor Mario Peucker, an insightful scholar and researcher at Victoria University in Melbourne. As an executive member of the Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies (CRIS), Professor Peucker has dedicated his academic journey since 2003 to examining radical political movements & dissent, Muslim community activism and inclusion-exclusion dynamics across Europe and Australia.

In this episode, we explore Professor Peucker’s current research on far-right extremism and white supremacist groups and his efforts towards developing community-led anti-racism support networks in Victoria. Through a detailed discussion, Professor Peucker shares his experiences and reflections on the systemic and cultural dimensions of racism and the pivotal role of societal inclusion.

Join us as we delve into the structural underpinnings of political dissent and the power dynamics that shape extremist ideologies, drawing from Professor Peucker’s extensive research and the profound societal impact of his advocacy work.

Access Prof Peucker's article here: https://www.abc.net.au/religion/mario-peucker-understanding-the-appeal-of-far-right-extremism/104939500 

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