Local podcast caters for people of the East Rand
With his team, they have gained over 11 000 views in less than a year since its launch.
Kwa-Thema – A former artist is giving back to the community in the form of a podcast.
Born Mbandi Nkosi, but best known as Double M, the self-proclaimed hip-hop activist is also an events coordinator and MC for the Ayishi’MIC Movement.
He sits on the board of directors for Ekurhuleni FM and is the founder and executive producer of The East Rand Podcast Files, which provides a platform for individuals with inspiring stories, as well as creators, creatives and entertainers.
They have interviewed the likes of musician Joe Nina, former professional soccer player Nelson ‘Teenage’ Dladla and rapper Rashid Kay, to name a few.
“Our stories are often taken and narrated back to us by some other people.
“I have also realised people who are doing great things with their lives, be it musicians, authors or fashion designers, needed a platform to share their stories and encourage other impoverished individuals.
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“Living in a township can do two things to you. You can either be drawn to all the negative things around you or improvise and better your situation, which will ultimately better your family and community. The podcast provides that platform,” explained Nkosi.
With his team, they have gained over 11 000 views in less than a year since its launch.
“Through the podcast, we want to inspire people to rediscover their talents and passion because, when it’s all said and done, we are all capable of achieving greater things, but only if we put our minds into it.
“I base my achievements on being able to put out episodes (videos) even if it is watched by one viewer,” he added.
Nkosi’s attraction to music started when he was in school. He holds the view that rappers have a huge impact on society and explained why he advocates for the genre.
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“Hip-hop is often misunderstood and people, especially those who don’t understand it, often mistake it for bad music with bad influences.
“This is why we need to explain to them it is a form of expression, be it music or art, especially for the black masses, since it was a way to convey our message when dealing with oppression.
“My hip-hop journey started in early 2005 through the influence of my cousin, Skhumbuzo Nkosi. He used to play a lot of so-called “underground” hip-hop, which led to me falling in love with this art form,” he said.
He dreams of owning a radio station and a media house.
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