Listen "Ep2 - Barba Gaoganediwe - Telling Gauteng’s Story Through Gaming and Digital Tourism"
Episode Synopsis
Telling Gauteng’s Story Through Gaming and Digital TourismIn this episode of Press Start Mzansi, we sit down with Barba Gaoganediwe, Head of Marketing at the Gauteng Tourism Authority, to explore how gaming can help tell the story of place, identity, and culture in South Africa.Barba shares why tourism must embrace digital platforms and immersive experiences, how township and heritage stories can find new life through play, and what it means to position Gauteng as both a destination and a narrative. From AFROPUNK Joburg to digital tourism campaigns, this conversation shows how culture, technology, and creativity can come together to shape the future of travel, storytelling, and economic growth.Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma with co-host Khumo Moerane, this episode is about more than tourism — it’s about how games can reimagine a province, empower communities, and connect the world to Gauteng’s stories.What we cover in this episode:Where gaming fits into Gauteng’s tourism strategyPlace-making and destination storytelling through gamesTownship and heritage tourism in the digital eraHow youth can participate as creators, not just consumersPartnerships that will shape the future of gaming and tourismBarba’s vision for a digital, connected, and story-rich GautengGuest:Barba Gaoganediwe is the Head of Destination Marketing & Communications at the Gauteng Tourism Authority. With more than 20 years of experience in government, tourism, and destination branding, he has led major campaigns positioning Gauteng as a hub of culture, creativity, and global competitiveness. From AFROPUNK Joburg to the Formula 1 Gauteng bid, Barba champions the integration of tourism, sports, entertainment, and the creative economy as engines of inclusive growth.Credits:Hosted by: Bandile Phuthuma (ITTHYNK Gaming)Co-hosts: Khumo Moerane (ITTHYNK Gaming) & Kieran Reid (Two Name Games)Cinematography and Editing: Luthando NyuswaSound Design: Juliette LoveTechnical Director: Dave MoyoMarketing: Jessica Jardim, Ashley Tanton, Padi Falas-Maifala, Mpho Tlokotsi