Cape Town – South African women’s stories, struggles and triumphs are taking centre stage in a new podcast series launched by First for Women and hosted by award-winning media personality Anele Mgudlwa.
Titled The Anele Podcast – Her & Now, the eight-part series premiered on 7 May 2026 and promises to create a bold and authentic space for conversations that matter most to women across the country.
Through candid discussions and personal storytelling, the podcast shines a spotlight on the realities, resilience and everyday experiences of South African women.
The series is inspired by findings from the Her & Now: Insights into the Women of South Africa 2025 report, which surveyed more than 4,000 women nationwide, according to IOL.
The survey revealed that women today are navigating a complex reality — feeling more empowered than ever before while also facing emotional exhaustion, financial pressure and growing social demands.
The podcast brings these findings to life by turning statistics and research into raw, relatable conversations that reflect the lived experiences of women from different walks of life.
In an Instagram post shared by First for Women and tagged by Mdoda, the brand described the podcast as more than just another talk series, saying it aims to shift perspectives and spark meaningful conversations.
“It’s more than a podcast. It’s a reflection of real lives, real voices, and real truths. The Anele Podcast Her & Now launches this week. Keep an eye out… you won’t want to miss what’s coming!.”
First for Women’s Jill Mulligan said Anele Mdoda was chosen to host Podcast
because of her strong connection with South African women, The Citizen reported.
“Anele is the perfect voice for this journey,” Mulligan said, adding that Mdoda is “relatable and deeply connected to the lived experiences of South African women.”
Mulligan said the podcast aims to take the findings from the Her & Now report beyond research and into meaningful conversations. “We are proud to partner with her to take these important findings beyond the page and into the hearts of women everywhere,” she said.
Picture: Instagram/ Anele Mgundlwa
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Compiled by Glaan Sibuyi