Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange Season 12 Episode 5 Twelve Disciples of Nelson Mandela and Spit on the Broom

Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange season 12 episode 5 titled "Twelve Disciples of Nelson Mandela and Spit on the Broom" embodies a poignant story of the legacy of apartheid South Africa and the power of artistic expression to unite and heal a divided nation. This episode delves into the intricate history of the apartheid regime and its profound impact on the lives of ordinary South Africans.

The episode features the music, dance, and cultural traditions of South Africa's townships as well as the political struggles that characterized the country's struggle for liberation. The Twelve Disciples of Nelson Mandela, with their distinctive style of music is showcased alongside the Spit on the Broom dance troupe. Both groups use their art as a means of celebrating the resilience and determination of the South African people.

The Twelve Disciples of Nelson Mandela is a South African musical group that emerged from the political climate of the apartheid era. The group comprises of twelve musicians, each with their unique story and background, who have come together to use music as a tool to resist and united the people of South Africa. They draw inspiration from the teachings of Nelson Mandela, the struggle icon who devoted his life to the fight against apartheid.

Spit on the Broom, on the other hand, is a dance troupe from Soweto, a suburb in Johannesburg, where the apartheid regime forcibly removed black South Africans to create segregated townships. The group uses traditional African dance to address social issues, and they have gained international acclaim as trailblazers in African contemporary dance.

The episode also examines the role of music and dance in the liberation struggle, highlighting the use of art as a powerful tool to spread information, mobilize the masses, and as an expression of the resilient spirit of the South African people.

The documentary captures striking images of life in the townships, where poverty, violence, and inequality are still prevalent, even after the end of apartheid. It also shines a light on the power of music and dance to provide moments of joy, unity, and healing amidst the bleakness of everyday life.

The stories of these two groups provide a glimpse into the complexity of South Africa's history and present, particularly in the context of how art has played a crucial role in shaping the country's identity, healing the wounds of the past and celebrating the triumph of the human spirit.

Overall, Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange season 12 episode 5 "Twelve Disciples of Nelson Mandela and Spit on the Broom" is a powerful and inspiring depiction of the resilience of the South African people, highlighting the enduring value of artistic expression in the face of adversity.