Paul Modjadji’s 10-country African tour is chronicled in an enthralling new fourteen-part travelogue, “Breaking Down Borders Africa” on SABC 1.
Countries featured include Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal. The documentary follows Modjadji as he explores Africa’s rich youth and dance culture.
Each episode shows a kaleidoscope of experiences showcasing Africa’s leading landmarks and heritage sites through the eyes of youth activists and artists on home soil.
Modjadji travels with close friends and family - sister Nthabiseng Modjadji, tour coordinator, Sibusiso Mahlangu, a filmmaker and photographer, and dancer Ginger Wensky.
Modjadji says; “Embarking on the Breaking Down Borders Africa tour is one of the most transformative experiences of my life. The continent is a melting pot of innovation, opportunity and unimaginable thrills.
“I walked away from the tour with a deeper understanding of our shared histories and common goals, and have met folks who opened their hearts and homes in a manner and hospitality that is unmatched anywhere in the world.
“In the end, beyond the incredible landmarks and myriads of adventures on sand dunes, rivers, mountains it is meeting my fellow Africans in their respective countries that remains the highlight for me. One of my regrets is that I didn’t explore the continent sooner“.
The 14-part series culminates with a two-part reunion hosted by Minnie Dlamini.
The series is a fresh take on Africa by Africans. Exploring dance and youth culture, the documentary takes viewers inside the lives of some of Africa’s most inspiring change makers.
Among them are BBC Top 100 Inspirational Women award winner Naomi Mwaura, African Union official Lorato Modongo, and founder of Zimbabwe’s Jibilika Arts Festival, Plot Makho.
The team encounters first-hand a developed, breathtakingly scenic and generously welcoming continent.
They taste exquisite cuisine, visit iconic sites including the River Nile, Victoria Falls, and Gorée as well as meeting some of Africa’s top cultural figures including Kenyan photojournalist Dr Nike Davies-Okundaye and Kenyan socio-political activist Boniface Mwangi.
“Being part of the Breaking Down Borders Africa series was an incredible experience. My favourite country was Senegal, with its amazing culture and vibrant youth activism and creativity. It was a joy to explore the dynamic and inspiring efforts of young people across the African continent, showcasing their resilience and innovative spirit”, says Nthabiseng Modjadji.
The series is produced by award-winning producer Wandile Molebatsi and directed by Paul Modjadji with Sibusiso Mahlangu as director of photography. An established dancer, choreographer and theatre maker, Modjadji directed the award-winning short film “The Deal”.
“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,” says Paul Modjadji.
“The viewer is taken on a journey that depicts the challenges, and excitement, of travelling our continent,” said the show’s producer Wandile Molebatsi.
“Each country offers a window into a people, a country and diverse experiences, landscapes, and cultures.
“It was truly amazing to be a part of a project that is so proudly Pan African with all the drama that is happening in the Miss South Africa🇿🇦 competition Breaking Down Borders is an important project that highlights how we are all one Africa and we have so many amazing cultures that we should celebrate”.
The “Breaking Down Borders Africa” Series premier’s on SABC 1 on August 7, 2024 at 6 pm.
IOL Entertainment