On The Beaten Track cover art

On The Beaten Track

On The Beaten Track

Written by: On The Beaten Path Pod
Listen for free

Join us on "On The Beaten Track Pod," where we delve into the rich tapestry of stories from South Africa and beyond. Born out of a passion for storytelling during the COVID era, this podcast explores the narratives of family, community, and history that have shaped us. Each episode, released every Thursday, offers a deep dive into personal and shared stories, aiming to preserve and celebrate the voices that might otherwise be lost to time. Let's share our stories together and keep the tradition of storytelling alive.2025 On The Beaten Path Pod Social Sciences
Episodes
  • The Permanent Organiser
    May 28 2026

    Uncover the legacy of Harry Nengwekhulu, whose work behind the scenes was crucial to South Africa's liberation. From crafting revolutionary ideas to organizing across borders, his story is a testament to the power of structural activism. Tune in for an inspiring tale of courage and integrity. #history #legend #activism

    Keywords

    Harry Nengwekhulu, South African history, Black Consciousness Movement, SASO, exile, activism, apartheid, liberation, South Africa, political leadership

    Key Topics

    • Harry Nengwekhulu's role in SASO and Black Consciousness
    • The impact of apartheid on black South Africans and resistance strategies
    • Nengwekhulu's exile and international advocacy work
    • Theoretical contributions to black consciousness and liberation
    • Post-apartheid public service and ongoing legacy

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation

    03:20 Catching up and recommendations

    06:16 Introducing Ranwedzi Harry Nengwekhulu

    11:02 The Student

    15:02 Building Black Consciousness and Community

    17:21 Fear and Psychological Reclamation

    19:48 Exile and International Connections

    26:10 Post-Apartheid Contributions and Integrity

    30:08 Recognition and Legacy of Activism

    Resources

    • South African History Online - Harry Nengwekhulu
    • Black Consciousness Movement - Wikipedia
    • Steve Biko - Biography
    • Order of Luthuli - South African Government
    • United Nations Center Against Apartheid - Documents
    • U.N. Paper by Nengwekhulu (1976)
    • UNISA - Outstanding Educator Award
    • South African Management Development Institute
    • https://sahistory.org.za/archive/meaning-black-consciousness-ranwedzi-nengwekhulu

    · Limpopo Mirror (2024). 'Black Consciousness father dedicates award to others.' 10 May 2024.

    · SADC Hashim Mbita Project. Southern African Liberation Struggles, Vol. 4.

    · Nengwekhulu (neng-weh-khoo-loo) interview, Pretoria, 19 October 2011.)

    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
  • Barney Pityana: Activism and Theology
    May 21 2026

    The episode delves into the life and impact of Barney Pityana, a key figure in the Black Consciousness Movement. It explores his role in the movement's birth, his influence on human rights and education, and his ongoing activism. The episode also highlights his international engagement and return to South Africa, showcasing his enduring commitment to social justice and human dignity.

    Takeaways

    • Barney Pityana's role in the Black Consciousness Movement
    • The impact of Barney Pityana's work on human rights and education

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to the Episode

    02:01 The Life and Impact of Barney Pityana

    03:52 The Black Consciousness Movement

    05:31 Early Life and Education of Barney Pityana

    07:16 Political Activism and Expulsions

    09:28 Formation of SASO and Leadership

    11:29 The Philosophy of Black Consciousness

    12:38 The Role of Faith in Activism

    14:39 Exile and Continued Activism

    16:05 Return to South Africa and Human Rights Work

    18:11 Legacy and Ongoing Responsibility

    RESOURCES

    Wikipedia. 'Barney Pityana.' https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barney_Pityana

    The Presidency of South Africa. 'Barney Pityana (1945– ).' https://www.thepresidency.gov.za/barney-pityana-1945

    South African History Online. 'Professor Barney Nyameko Pityana.' https://www.sahistory.org.za/people/professor-barney-nyameko-pityana

    South African History Online. 'The Formation of SASO and the Black People's Convention.' https://sahistory.org.za/article/formation-saso-and-black-peoples-convention

    African American Registry. 'Barney Pityana, African Policy Advocate born.' https://aaregistry.org/story/barney-pityana-african-policy-advocate-born/

    Nordic Africa Institute. Interview with Barney Pityana by Tor Sellström, Uppsala, 23 January 1997. https://nai.uu.se/library/resources/liberation-africa/interviews/barney-pityana.html

    LSE Africa at LSE Blog (2012). 'Black Consciousness, Black Theology, Student Activism and the Shaping of the New South Africa.' https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/africaatlse/2012/10/03/black-consciousness-black-theology-student-activism-and-the-shaping-of-the-new-south-africa-stevebiko/

    Prabook / World Biographical Encyclopedia. 'Barney Pityana.' https://prabook.com/web/barney.pityana/1431005

    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
  • PETER JONES – THE MAN WHO SURVIVED
    May 14 2026

    Explore the life of Peter Cyril Jones, an unsung hero of the Black Consciousness Movement. His story of survival, activism, and testimony against apartheid's brutality is a testament to the power of resilience. Join us as we delve into his legacy and the ongoing quest for justice in South Africa. Perfect for listeners interested in history, activism, and the pursuit of truth. #history #legend #activism #BlackConsciousness #Justice

    KEYWORDS

    South Africa, apartheid, Steve Biko, Black Consciousness, activism, human rights, TRC, political imprisonment, community building

    KEY TOPICS

    Peter Cyril Jones's role in the anti-apartheid movement

    His experiences of detention and torture

    His contributions to community activism and black consciousness

    TAKEAWAYS

    Peter Cyril Jones was the last person to see Steve Biko alive.

    His detailed testimony at the TRC exposed systematic torture.

    Jones's activism was rooted in community building and self-reliance.

    His life exemplifies resilience and unwavering commitment to justice.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to Peter Cyril Jones

    00:27 The Life of Peter Cyril Jones

    02:09 Peter's Early Life and Political Awakening

    04:42 Involvement in Black Consciousness Movement

    07:36 Building Community Initiatives

    10:21 The Journey to Cape Town

    13:34 The Roadblock Incident

    17:30 Torture and Testimony

    18:41 The Specifics of Interrogation and Torture

    21:58 The Impact of Biko's Death on Jones

    24:06 The Long Detention and Its Psychological Effects

    27:24 Post-Detention Life and Continued Activism

    31:58 Testimony at the TRC and Its Implications

    36:29 Legacy and Commemoration of Peter Jones

    Testimony of Peter Cyril Jones. TRC Amnesty Hearings, Amnesty Committee of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of South Africa. Two appearances: 9 December 1997 and 31 March 1998. Full transcripts published at: www.justice.gov.za/trc/media/1997/9712/s971209e.htm and www.justice.gov.za/trc/media/1998/9803/s980331b.htm

    Jones, Peter Cyril. Oral history interview. Overcoming Apartheid project, Michigan State University, African Studies Center. Available at: overcomingapartheid.msu.edu. [Recorded approximately 30 years after the events described; Jones discusses his induction into Black Consciousness and his BCM activities.]

    Jones, Peter Cyril. Interview with Cheryl Roberts. 'Peter Jones Reflects on Black Consciousness and Steve Biko.' African Woman Warrior blog. September 2014. Available at: africanwomanwarrior.wordpress.com

    Masifundise Development Trust. 'Rest in power, comrade Peter.' Memorial tribute. March 2023. Available at: masifundise.org

    SA history profile - https://sahistory.org.za/people/peter-jones

    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_c
No reviews yet