New Show on Cape Town TV Puts LGBTQ+ Stories Front and Centre

Community television station Cape Town TV is breaking new ground with PRIDE: The Queer Show with Sinalo Jonas, a first-of-its-kind talk show dedicated to the stories, struggles, and triumphs of South Africa’s LGBTQIA+ community.

The weekly programme premiered on Wednesday, 9 July, at 18h00, with repeats on Mondays at 21h00 and Saturdays at 19h30, airing until the final episode in October. Viewers can catch it on Cape Town TV, DSTV channel 263.

Hosted by award-nominated television and radio presenter Sinalo Jonas, the eight-part series explore topics ranging from religion and sexuality to stigma, resilience, and celebration. Through in-studio conversations and field segments at queer events, the show aims to shift the lens from stereotypes and silence toward authenticity, joy, and meaningful dialogue.

“Growing up, I never saw myself represented in a way that felt authentic or positive,” Jonas told MambaOnline. “This show is a dream come true. It’s a powerful step forward because it gives our community a platform to tell our own stories, to be visible, and to show young people that their identity is valid. It’s not just a talk show; it’s a milestone that says we belong.”

Breaking Barriers

Despite South Africa’s progressive legal framework, Jonas believes it has taken far too long for queer representation of this kind to find a home on local television.

“For years, queer stories were seen as too niche or controversial for mainstream TV. Our narratives were often sensationalized or simply ignored. One of the biggest challenges was proving that a show like this is for everyone, not just a ‘niche’ audience.”

Another challenge, Jonas explains, was ensuring that the programme avoided what they call “trauma tourism.”

“It was important for us to tell a balanced story, showing the joy, resilience, and everyday lives of the community. We want to create an authentic space for our guests to share their full stories without pressure to represent the entire community.”

A Platform for Change

Jonas sees the show as both a space for storytelling and a catalyst for tangible change.

“We hope to move the conversation from one of just awareness to one of action. For our queer audience, we want to provide a sense of community and show that they are not alone, while also giving them resources, whether it’s for mental health support or to report a hate crime. For the broader society, we hope the show challenges preconceived notions and sparks a more empathetic and inclusive dialogue.”

Beyond Season One

The series is available to stream live and on catch-up via freevisionplay.co.za, making it accessible to audiences nationwide. And fans can look forward to more: a second season is already on the cards.

“Well, the audience can expect season 2 of the show where we plan to extend from 30 minutes to one hour episodes,” Jonas revealed. “When season one wraps up, we will continue attending and covering LGBTQI+ events. So, event organisers and queer activists can start sending requests to feature on season two to sinalojonas@gmail.com.”

Balancing Host and Advocate

As host, Jonas says they walk a fine line between being a facilitator and a member of the very community under discussion.

“I see my role as being a bridge between my lived experience and the audience’s understanding. On one hand, I need to keep the conversation moving and ensure guests feel safe and respected. On the other, my personal experience gives me a deeper level of empathy and connection. The key is knowing when to step back and let the guest’s story shine, and when to share a piece of my own to build trust.”

With PRIDE: The Queer Show, Cape Town TV and Jonas are offering South Africans a bold and vital new space to engage, reflect, and celebrate queer life in all its dimensions.

PRIDE: The Queer Show with Sinalo Jonas airs Wednesdays at 18h00 on Cape Town TV (DSTV channel 263), with repeats on Mondays at 21h00 and Saturdays at 19h30, until October. Watch live or catch up on freevisionplay.co.za.