Tshwane-born podcaster and rising media star Yanda Woods is stepping into a powerful new role. The 20-year-old, whose real name is Luyanda Mhlalukwana, is joining a brand-new digital series called Room of Safety. The show is all about helping young people stay safe while using the internet.
Yanda is already well-known in the podcast world. She’s one of the voices behind Spreading Humours, a podcast that’s part of the popular Podcast and Chill network. She co-hosts the show with Seemah and Zille Wizzy. Together, they chat about everything from current news and pop culture to their personal lives. Fans can listen on Apple Podcasts or watch on MacG’s YouTube channel.
According to Daily Sun, now Yanda is taking things to the next level. She’s joining a strong team of influencers and creatives to talk openly and honestly about the dangers young people face online. These include cyberbullying, online scams, fake news, AI misuse, and predators who target teens.
She’ll appear alongside Craig Nobela from Paramount’s Culture Squad and a group of well-known personalities like LordKez, Foyin Ogunrombi, Azana, MajorSteez, Melissa Nayimuli, Mawelele, and Naledi. The group will lead real and honest conversations in Room of Safety, showing viewers how to stay smart and strong on the internet.
The show is part of MTN’s Help Children Be Children campaign, and it’s being produced in partnership with MTV Base. The series will include 10 episodes and will officially premiere on 20 July 2025 at 3pm on MTV Base (DStv channel 322). It will also be shared on the MTV Base South and MTV Base Africa social media pages.
MTN Group Executive for Sustainability and Shared Value, Marina Madale, explained the reason behind the series:
“As much as the internet opens up opportunities, it can also cause serious harm. With Room of Safety, we want to make sure young people have the tools and confidence to protect themselves,” she said.
Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and GM of Editorial at Paramount Africa, added: “We’ve used our platform to speak up on issues like HIV, mental health, and gender equality. Now, we’re helping the next generation take charge of their digital lives with Room of Safety.”
Yanda, who is also the granddaughter of world-famous artist Esther Mahlangu, brings fresh energy and a relatable voice to this important campaign. Through her, and her fellow castmates, Room of Safety aims to be more than just a show — it’s a guide for young people to navigate the digital world safely and confidently.
