In the very first episode of the Literacy Village Podcast, we introduce a new space dedicated to growing a culture of reading for children across South Africa. This opening conversation shares the vision behind the podcast, why children’s literacy matters in today’s multilingual and diverse society, and how storytelling, books, language, and community voices can work together to shape confident young readers.

Listeners can expect an overview of what’s to come in future episodes — including children’s book reviews, interviews with storytellers and authors, insights from early literacy academics, and practical reflections from parents, teachers, bookshops, and language practitioners. This episode invites everyone who believes in the power of stories to become part of the Literacy Village, where every child’s reading journey is valued and supported.