In a creative industry that is constantly evolving, Siyethemba Dlamini, popularly known as Siye, is carving out a lane that is both intentional and impactful.
From podcast production to theatre development, her work is rooted in storytelling that centres African voices and lived experiences. In this edition of Gcwala, she opens up about her journey, her craft and what drives her.
Q: For those encountering your work for the first time, who is Siye?
A: I am a multidisciplinary creative practitioner working across media production, theatre and storytelling. I work as a freelance podcast producer, writer and founder of Coyi Theatre Company. My work is guided by curiosity, creativity and collaboration. I am passionate about creating platforms that amplify underrepresented voices and spark meaningful conversations.
I have produced over 10 podcast shows locally and internationally, including Teach Different, The Total Entrepreneur, Tea with Tee and Discovering Delight. I have also worked with organisations such as the US Embassy in Eswatini and Omnicor South Africa. Beyond production, I mentor aspiring podcasters through programmes like the Vukubone Sound Lab by Antidote Culture Foundation.
Through Coyi Theatre Company, I design programmes that nurture emerging writers and performers. Projects like Coyi Drama Club and Theatre as Testimony create space for young creatives to tell authentic stories, including sensitive themes such as gender-based violence, with honesty and care.
Q: You wear many hats in the media space. Which role defines you the most?
A: Definitely the producer. A producer has to know everything, connect with everyone and keep the entire process moving from idea to final product. I enjoy being involved in every stage of production. It suits my personality because I like structure, control and seeing ideas come to life from start to finish.
Q: Take us back to the beginning. How did it all start?
A: I have always been a storyteller in different forms. One of my earliest defining moments was doing voice-over work for a local project at 19. That is when I realised I could use my voice to reach people.
At 22, I started a podcast with my college friends, which helped me understand audio production and distribution. At 23, I got my first paying client as a producer. That gave me the confidence to pursue this as a career. Since then, I have been working in both audio and video production, with a strong focus on podcasting.
Q: What moments have defined your career so far?
A: Getting my first paying client in 2021 was a major turning point. It showed me that I could build a career from my craft. In 2022, I became a general manager for an international podcast production and PR company. That experience taught me so much and pushed me towards starting my own business.
In 2023, I mentored upcoming podcasters through the Vukubone Sound Lab programme, which was incredibly fulfilling. Most recently, in 2026, I co-hosted a podcasting masterclass with the US Embassy in Eswatini. That moment really affirmed that my work is being recognised.
Q: What drives the stories you choose to tell?
A: I am drawn to mission-driven storytelling. Numbers are important, but impact matters more. I focus on stories that amplify African entrepreneurs, creatives and thinkers.
Through my work in podcasting and theatre, I am contributing to a growing space where African storytellers are not just reacting to global narratives, but creating their own. It is about shifting perspectives and giving young creatives a platform to share their stories.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
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