Discover the heart and soul of the Overberg in kykNET’s new docuseries
kykNET invites viewers on a captivating journey into one of South Africa’s most enchanting regions with Overbergbewoners – the fifth season of the Safta-nominated Bewoners docuseries.
The breathtaking Overberg region is tucked between the Hottentots Holland Mountains, the Little Karoo and the Garden Route. Known for its rich biodiversity, rolling farmlands and deep cultural heritage, the Overberg is home to extraordinary people whose stories reflect the heart and resilience of this diverse landscape.
Each episode introduces viewers to individuals whose lives capture the warm essence of the Overberg – from conservationists and artists to educators, farmers and entrepreneurs. Their stories celebrate tradition, innovation and the unbreakable bond between people and land.
In the Overberg, where rolling hills run into the ocean’s embrace, cultures intertwine like the indigenous fynbos, creating a tapestry of life that reflects both nature’s beauty and the human spirit.
Overbergbewoners is more than a travel programme – it’s a heartfelt exploration of identity, heritage and belonging. Each episode reveals a different corner of the region, spotlighting the unique people who shape it.
Viewers will meet individuals like:
- Gavin Petersen – a penguin ranger at Betty’s Bay’s Stony Point Nature Reserve, which protects endangered seabirds.
- Monique Cananie – a passionate youth leader from Villiersdorp who empowers young people through education and opportunity.
- Neil Sandilands – acclaimed actor and Onrus local who has made waves both in Hollywood and at home.
- Lizaene Cornwall – co-founder of Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary in Papiesvlei, dedicated to ethical wildlife conservation.
- Berene Sauls – pioneering winemaker from Tesselaarsdal who turned her dream into an award-winning wine label.
- André Cloete – innovative fruit farmer near Greyton, blending tradition with modern agricultural practices.
- Oom T Newman and family – a multi-generational family of fishermen from Struisbaai who continue to brave the changing seas.
Across 13 episodes, Overbergbewoners captures the essence of small-town life, from the artistic soul of Napier to the wild beauty of Arniston, the historic mission station of Genadendal to the eco-tourism hub of Hermanus.
Why the Overberg?
The Overberg is a world within a world – home to the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the southernmost tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas and vibrant communities steeped in history. Here, past and present blend seamlessly: ancient traditions thrive alongside cutting-edge conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives.
A celebration of heritage and humanity
The Bewoners series has always been about celebrating South African stories. With Overbergbewoners, viewers can expect an authentic, visually rich and emotionally resonant exploration of a region and its people – where extraordinary fruits grow out of ordinary roots.
Join us as we journey into the heart of the Overberg – where every mountain, wave, and winding road tells a story worth hearing.
The Bewoners docuseries are produced in partnership with the needs-matched life insurer BrightRock.
Overbergbewoners premieres on Tuesday, 6 January 2026 at 21:30 on kykNET (DStv channel 144) and will also available on DStv Stream and Catch Up.
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