Gqeba makes uncomfortable conversation

FOR centuries, gender roles in all South African cultures have dictated that women are less important, less deserving and cannot be equal to their male counterparts parts.

TV and radio personality, Sechaba Gqeba spoke to Weekend Argus about gender inequalities and the importance “of having these uncomfortable conversations”.

These days she has the conversations on Motswako, SABC2’s flagship women’s talk show, now in its 20th season. It showcases compelling, empowering stories that are about and for South African women.

Gqeba, who comes from a radio background said the show was a celebration of two decades of women supporting women, championing challenging conversations, changing lives, as well as educating and empowering all women.

She made her TV debut on the show in its 19th season and felt she has grown as a presenter.

“It is a huge step from 10 years of radio presenting, each show has it’s own mandate and objectives, I would never have been able to have the discussions I’m having on Motswako on my radio show which had it’s own identity and own mandate.

“But I believe I am where I am meant to be at this time of my career,” she said. Gqeba, a mother of two boys, said while she discusses difficult issues on the work front, her home life makes everything else much easier.

The Thursday night talk show will feature conversations with the likes of The Lazy Makoti, Amanda Dambuza, Lamiez Holworthy, and Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, to name but a few.

“Season 20 will be deliberate in being a platform that represents all types of women, regardless of race, sexuality or gender identity,” she said.