Celebrated media personality Paul Modjadji’s 10-country African tour, which explores the continent’s youth and dance culture, is set to be chronicled in “Breaking Down Borders Africa.”
Set to air on SABC1 next week, the 14-part travelogue documentary follows the internationally-acclaimed choreographer, dancer, social entrepreneur and theatre maker, who also directed the award-winning short film “The Deal”, and his team as they visit Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal.
The producers said: “Each episode serves up a kaleidoscope of experiences showcasing Africa’s leading landmarks and heritage sites through the eyes of youth activists and artists on home soil.”
Modjadji is joined by his sister Nthabiseng, who is a tour coordinator; young filmmaker, graphic designer and photographer, Sibusiso Mahlangu; and South African-based German- born dancer, Ginger Wensky.
The show culminates in a two-part reunion hosted by renowned South African actress and TV and radio personality, Minnie Dlamini.
“‘Breaking Down Borders Africa’ is a fresh take on Africa by Africans,” the producers added. “Exploring dance and youth culture, the documentary takes viewers inside the lives of some of Africa’s most inspiring change makers.”
They include BBC Top 100 Inspirational Women award winner, Naomi Mwaura, African Union (AU) official, Lorato Modongo, and founder of Zimbabwe’s pre-eminent Jibilika arts festival, Plot Makho.
During their adventures, the team experience Africa’s breathtaking natural habitat as they taste exquisite cuisine, visit iconic sites such as the Nile River, Victoria Falls and Gorée.
They also meet some of Africa’s prominent cultural figures including Kenyan photo-journalist, Dr Nike Davies-Okundaye and Kenyan socio-political activist, Boniface Mwangi.
Modjadji explained: “Africa is an endlessly resourceful place and is poised to come into its own.”
“The journey revealed an unmatched generosity of spirit. Our interactions brought into sharp focus just how creative us Africans can be.”
Modjadji also directed the documentary, which is produced by award-winning producer Wandile Molebatsi with Sibusiso Mahlangu as the director of photography.
Molebatsi said: “The viewer is taken on a journey that depicts the challenges and excitement of travelling our continent. Each country offers a window into a people, a country and diverse experiences, landscapes and cultures.”
∎ “Breaking Down Borders Africa” premières on SABC1 on Wednesday, August 7, at 6pm.