Emmanuel P. Makate Podcast – Episode 06
Where It All Began
Description
Welcome to another episode of the Emmanuel P. Makate Podcast. Today isn't just another conversation—it's a journey back to where it all began. Every dream has a starting point, every setback has a lesson, and every success has a story. Today, I share mine.
2023 – The First Steps
In 2023, I took one of my earliest steps into the creative space. I became a contributor to an unpublished book project coordinated by Boniwe Letsitsi, alongside several other writers. Although the project was never published, it introduced me to collaborative creative work and the challenges that often come with it.
During the same year, I founded JPZ Picnic Planners, where I gained valuable leadership experience by working closely with peers, coordinating projects, and learning how to manage people and ideas.
Those experiences became the foundation of everything that followed.
2024 – Dreams Meet Reality
The following year, I pursued an even bigger dream by launching MacDoodle FM.
The station's unusual name attracted criticism from many people, and despite the passion behind it, the platform struggled to gain recognition.
In an effort to grow its visibility, I appointed Bonolo Mokoteli as manager. Although she served with dedication and professionalism, the desired breakthrough never came, and she later stepped away from the role on good terms.
Afterwards, my cousin Thobekile Makate took over, and together with a newly elected creative board, we hoped to take the organisation in a new direction.
Unfortunately, internal disagreements eventually emerged. The working relationship broke down, Thobekile's tenure came to an end, and soon afterwards, the Emmanuel P. Makate Foundation ceased operations.
It was one of the most difficult periods of my journey—but also one of the most important learning experiences.
2025 – Starting Again
Rather than giving up, I chose to begin again.
I developed the idea of writing a book and spent time brainstorming with my friend and fellow creative, Fanie Reid, whose encouragement and support helped shape the vision during its early stages.
Although publishing proved far more difficult than expected, I remained committed to finishing what I had started.
In December 2025, after months of determination and persistence, I independently published the book—proving that sometimes the longest journeys produce the most rewarding destinations.
A Clarification by Emmanuel Makate
"During the Voices of the future book project, Boniwe Letsitsi served only as an ordinary contributor, while I and several others participated as project directors. She was not a co-author of the independently published work, the creative direction and responsiblity of that publication remains my own."
Creative journeys often involve misunderstandings, and it's important to recognise everyone's contributions accurately and respectfully.
The Azanian Arts Union
As the vision continued to grow, the Azanian Arts Union was formally unveiled.
Contributors (2025 – Current Members)
- Emmanuel Makate
- Fanie Reid ("George")
- Dineo Makaota
- Keabetswe Tau
- Lesedi "Theeze" Moremi
- Manthuseng Nkone
- Naledi Letsheleha
- Oyisa Nikani
- Mahlatse Kheswa
- Kamohelo Menyatso
New Members (2026)
- Precious Ntepe
- Mbalenhle Mroqo
- Karabo Mthombeni
- Malefetsane Motaung
Closing
Looking back, every chapter mattered.
There were dreams that succeeded, ideas that failed, partnerships that ended, and new beginnings that reminded me why I started in the first place.
If there's one lesson I've learned, it's this: your beginning doesn't have to be perfect—it simply has to begin.
Thank you for joining me for Episode 06 of the Emmanuel P. Makate Podcast.
I'm Emmanuel P. Makate, and this has been "Where It All Began."
Until next time, keep dreaming, keep creating, and never stop believing in your journey.
