This is the story that audiences at Stellenbosch University engaged with at the screening of Whispering Truth to Power. The award-winning documentary was screened at the University Museum on 11 April 2019. Whispering Truth to Power, directed by Shameela Seedat, tracks former Public Protector Prof Thuli Madonsela as she carries out the duties of her last year in office. The film, released in April 2018, follows Prof Madonsela as she navigates the challenging waters of high-level government corruption, butting heads with a daughter and attempting to address the grievances of some of South Africa's most marginalised communities.

Prof Madonsela is currently the Law Trust Chair in Social Justice and Law Professor at Stellenbosch University. She conducts and coordinates social justice research and teaches constitutional and administrative law.

Discussion at the event saw audience members talking about the different aspects of the film that stood out for them. A member of the audience asked whether there would be a sequel. Others said that they felt Whispering Truth to Power left them on a high about South Africa but acknowledged that there were still many challenges to be addressed.

The documentary also shows the tension between the politics of Prof Madonsela and those of her daughter Wenzile. Wenzile studies law at a previously Afrikaans-medium university and is a vocal social activist on campus. She is often seen clashing with her mother on matters of politics. In one particularly tense scene, Wenzile references the constitution in defence of her choice to wear a beret when accompanying Prof Madonsela to the State of the Nation address. This after Thuli insists that she not wear it.

Speaking after the screening, LLM student Inga Dyanti said that this aspect of their relationship captures the dynamic between the older generation and their struggle against the racial injustices of apartheid and the younger generation and their struggle for a new, deeper social justice amidst rising inequality.

Some audience members were interested in the more technical aspects of the film. One person commended Seedat on the use of drone technology in filming the documentary.

Speaking after the screening, Education and Public Programmes Officer of the University Museum, Ricky Brecht, said the Museum was being proactive in hosting more socially inclusive and socially responsible events. Brecht emphasised that there is a specific focus on community engagement.

“These events are used as the match to ignite the flame for facilitated conversations on topical issues. Residents of and visitors to Stellenbosch can meet during dialogues, film screenings and other events."