Storytelling in indigenous languages plays a vital role in preserving cultural memory, shaping identity and strengthening community connection.

Wanting to contribute to this, Gofaone Motsamai, a North-West University (NWU) alumnus, has joined Motsweding FM as a drama producer, where he oversees the development and production of radio drama content for Setswana-speaking audiences.

His storylines are grounded in community realities, including social issues, generational tensions and economic conditions, ensuring relevance and audience engagement. “Language carries worldview, humour, emotion and memory. Authentic Setswana expression ensures listeners feel represented,” says Gofaone.

He holds undergraduate and master’s degrees in communication from the NWU and is now pursuing a doctorate focused on indigenous language preservation. His doctoral research explores media as a tool for cultural transmission, language revitalisation and community dialogue.

Gofaone says his studies at the NWU have shaped his understanding of storytelling as a form of communication that influences identity and public discourse. “The NWU trained me to think about media texts in terms of construction, voice and audience interpretation,” he says. “Research workshops instilled a research-driven mindset, teaching me to ground creative work in theory, context and audience analysis.”

In his new role at Motsweding FM, he integrates theory and research into production work. He applies concepts of audience reception, cultural identity and mediated communication to guide character development, language use and narrative direction. His work also emphasises linguistic authenticity, cultural nuance and representational ethics.

Gofaone describes the role as a continuation of his academic training into professional practice: “Storytelling grounded in research and cultural consciousness can shape societies,” he says, highlighting the continuity between lecture halls and professional spaces.

Gofaone Motsamai