MonD The Queer Superhero. Image by MonD Motadi
The Queer Superhero sings their love letter to the queer community
Award winning film writer, radio and TV presenter MonD The Queer Superhero gears up for the release of their debut studio album.
MonD The Queer Superhero. Image by MonD Motadi
It is ever so refreshing to see young queer individuals thriving in a world that is constantly trying to limit them. One such person is MonD The Queer Superhero. An award-winning film writer, TV and radio presenter, actor, and LGBTQIA+ activist.
I had a conversation with The Queer Superhero about their career, art, activism, and their exciting new venture into the music industry, and this was what they had to say…
MonD the Queer Superhero
MonD growing up, did you ever think you would be walking this path of queer activism?
I never thought my work in activism would lead me here, I always had a passion for people and I believed in the ability to lead with vigour. I never stopped believing in the movement of queer liberation and I will continue to play my part as long as I live.
To many people who show you support, you are known as The Queer Superhero. Why did you choose that name?
I stumbled upon this name after engaging with friends about my passion for queer liberation. I realised that I didn’t have an image of queer representation in media, I then decided to call myself the queer superhero (which started as The Gay Superhero). The name evolved with me as I discovered my journey through queerness.
Let’s dive a bit into your show THE QUEER SUPERHERO SHOW. When you started the show, what did you hope it would achieve for you as a queer content creator and the LGBTIQ+ community?
The Queer Superhero show was birthed by creating visibility for the community. I started on YouTube trying to find what’s for me and I realised that I can learn more about queerness from other queer people’s lived experiences. I hoped for the show to achieve greatness and for it to impact people’s lives.
It’s time for music
You recently released the lead single “CHOMIE KE MMAO” from your upcoming debut studio album QUEER DREAMS. Can you describe what headspace you were in when you wrote this song? What inspired it?
I was angry when I created this song, I just thought of the queer people we have lost due to hate crimes. I started thinking about my own experience of being called Chomie.
Tell me about your debut studio album QUEER DREAMS, and the message you are trying to convey with this body of work?
This body of work is my love letter to the queer community. I explore a few genres. Each song is an articulation of my lived experience as a queer person, navigating love and self-love. I’m trying to show people that love does win. I’m also aiming to bring to light the realities of queer people, especially on the African Continent.
In addition to releasing music, you announced the birth of your record label Mond Motadi Music. What prompted you to take this giant step?
Mond Motadi Music comes from my belief in ownership. I created it with the intention that it might one day become a springboard for other queer musicians.
Art in activism
As a multi-layered artistic person who is also an activist. What role do you believe art plays in activism?
Art is such a powerful tool that can translate messages beyond our understanding, hence it plays an important role in activism.
Your award-winning film FEMININE LOTUS was such a triumphant moment for the LGBTIQ+ community of this country. Do you think it also made the impact you envisioned for it, especially with the South African film industry?
The film played a very important role in my life and I’m appreciative of the people who worked and put their worth behind this film. I’m elated that it created a ripple effect. The industry still needs to create more space so that more films like this can be made.
MonD on Love, peace, and happiness
If you had the chance to mentor a young queer person, what lesson would you teach them first and why?
Love yourself. The world can be unkind sometimes but love will heal you. So love yourself.
Who is your favourite queer icon, and why?
Dr. Bev Ditsie, I appreciate them so much for existing. I love all the work that they have done.
You’ve done radio, film & television, and now music. What is next for the Queer Superhero?
More music and more business!
If someone were to ask you today, what does MonD Motadi stand for? What would you tell them?
I stand for love, peace, and happiness. I believe that you should live life to the fullest. Queer liberation.
