Explore every episode of the podcast Talk To Me Direct

Toyin Akinniyi, Vice President for Africa at Luminate, emphasises the transformative power of collaboration and community between civil society organisations (CSOs). She deplores the misinformation and disinformation on digital platforms that hinder women’s participation in politics and advocates for storytelling as a means of holding a mirror up to Big Tech.

What is it like to be South Africa’s first-ever black, young, female Leader of the Opposition in Parliament? Lindiwe Mazibuko recounts her experiences. She talks about the double-edged sword that is digital technology and urges African voters to demand more from their elected representatives. Mazibuko also talks about her love for Beyonce’s music! There is much to learn from Mazibuko’s unique perspectives in this episode.

Irene Mwendwa, Executive Director of Pollicy and our host Natasha Kimani discuss the importance of research and gender data in understanding how to create digital tools that keep women in politics safe. Ms Mwendwa looks forward to a safer internet “that works for Africans, looks like Africans, and that is built by Africans.”

Civil society organizations must urgently prepare for elections in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), Dr Bosun Tijani, Nigerian Minister of Communications, Innovation and the Digital Economy tells podcast host, Natasha Kimani. Dr. Tijani explains why Africa must participate effectively in the global conversation on AI.

A story well told can change our personal relationships with a social issue.” - Judy Kibinge In this episode, host Natasha Kimani and Kenyan filmmaker, writer and director Judy Kibinge discuss the role of storytelling in supporting democracy in Africa. The two take a trip down memory lane on the history of filmmaking in Kenya, the huge strides the industry has made in terms of inclusion and technology, and the democratization of storytelling. They discuss the enthusiasm of African filmmakers to address issues of social justice and change through film.

Young people can and must act strategically to shape policy and harness tech for impact at grassroots level, Nigerian lawyer and nation builder, Chinenye Uwanaka teaches us in this episode.

She and our host, Natasha Kimani, explore how women leaders can be bolder in reaching out for opportunities in the civic space. Chinenye’s vision of a future led by integrity and values is inspiring.

Where do civic-minded changemakers based in Kenya’s rural communities go to find support and to amplify their messages? In her discussion with Natasha Kimani, Polly Wachira explains why community-based organisations are valuable and effective agents of change in rural spaces – and why it is essential to support them.

How can civil society organisations do their part in holding big tech accountable? How can young people ensure they are heard effectively despite social media bans? How can civil society leaders can be supported in preserving their changemaking agenda when they join government?

Join Natasha Kimani in conversation with Amina Salihu, Deputy Director of the MacArthur Foundation Africa in this scintillating first episode of the Talk To Me Direct podcast.

How can civil society organisations do their part in holding big tech accountable?  Join Natasha Kimani in conversation with Amina Salihu, the Deputy Director of the MacArthur Foundation’s Africa office on our Talk To Me Direct Podcast.