Slave Masters Captured the Mind: Prof Bonang Mohale on Apartheid, State Capture, & SA’s Reality

Some conversations feel less like interviews and more like sitting across from someone who has spent decades collecting stories about people, leadership and South Africa itself. In this episode of the Colour-Full podcast, Sena sits down with business leader, author and Chancellor of the University of the Free State, Professor Bonang Mohale, for a conversation that moves between humour, memory, leadership and the responsibility of telling our stories honestly.

From the very beginning, the atmosphere feels warm and unexpectedly playful. Sena arrives in studio flustered after a chaotic morning, only to be immediately disarmed by Prof Bonang’s humour and grace. Between laughter and stories, the conversation settles into something reflective, exploring how leadership is often built through the ability to make people feel seen, heard and connected.

One of the most memorable moments comes when Prof Bonang reflects on the question: “If this is your land, where are your stories?” He speaks about the danger of people failing to tell their own stories and what happens when others begin shaping those narratives on their behalf. The discussion opens into a broader reflection on memory, identity and why storytelling remains central to understanding South Africa’s past and future.

Another thread running throughout the episode is Prof Bonang’s ability to move effortlessly between humour and emotional honesty. While discussing his latest book, Coming in From the Cold, he jokes about becoming “the bestselling author, period,” before shifting into reflections on legacy, leadership and creating opportunities for younger generations to rise.

As a South African media platform and live entertainment business, Colour-Full, hosted by Stacy and Sena, continues to create conversation led podcast content exploring culture, leadership and identity through storytelling that feels personal, thoughtful and distinctly South African.