Summary: In our very first episode, we speak to Zaid Motala, Legal Advisor at the National Treasury’s Jobs Fund, about why the Fund is investing in South Africa’s gaming industry — and what that means for the future of work, youth employment, and creative innovation.

Zaid shares insights into how public policy is shifting to include non-traditional sectors, what legal and governance challenges exist in creative partnerships, and why games might be one of the most exciting opportunities for inclusive growth in the country.

Hosted by Bandile Phuthuma with co-host Khumo Moerane, this conversation goes beyond funding to explore the real-world potential of play.

What we cover in this episode:

• Why the Jobs Fund is backing gaming

• The stigma around games and how that’s changing

• Legal challenges in creative sector partnerships

• What early wins look like on the ground

• Zaid’s take on the future of African games

Guest: Zaid Motala is a Legal Advisor at the Jobs Fund, a public programme aimed at supporting high-impact, innovative job creation projects in South Africa. With a background in law and a deep passion for gaming and the arts, Zaid brings a rare perspective on how public institutions can support creative ecosystems.