Once there was a girl who sang from the heart, and fought for freedom through her music. Her name was Miriam Makeba. She was raised in South Africa in the 1930s, where laws oppressed Black people like her. She rose up in song to fight the racist system of Apartheid. She used her voice to travel the world and bring awareness about the injustices her people faced at home. Because of this, she was banned from returning to South Africa for many years. After moving to the United States her career was upended when she married a controversial leader of the civil rights leader. But she still used her fame as a platform for change, and came to be known as “Mama Africa”. [This episode originally aired February 2021.]

About the Narrator

Zozibini Tunzi is a passionate activist engaged in the fight against gender-based violence and a supporter of the #HeForShe social media campaign which is changing gender stereotypes. In 2019, Tunzi was the first Black representative from South African to be crowned Miss Universe. Zozi was also the first Miss Universe to be crowned wearing her natural curls, serving as an example to young girls to embrace their most authentic selves. She is using her voice as Miss Universe to encourage young women to “take up space” and hopes to bring more voices together to make change across the world.

Credits

This podcast is a production of Rebel Girls. It’s based on the book series Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls. Executive Producers are Jes Wolfe and Katie Sprenger. This episode was produced by Isaac Kaplan-Woolner. Corinne Peterson is Production Manager. This episode was written by Grace Boyle. Proofread by Ariana Rosas. It was narrated by Zozibini Tunzi, who we will get to know better on Thursday’s episode! Sound design and original theme music was composed and performed by Elettra Bargiacchi. Final mix by Mattia Marcelli. For more, visit Rebel Girls dot com. Until next time, stay rebel!