Introduction
In Episode 63 of The Incredible Machines podcast, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden are joined by Dr. Candice Bailey, a journalist, science communicator, researcher and coauthor of We Were Always Here: Stories of Black Inventors Across the African Diaspora.
Her relationship with storytelling began early. From starting a small community newspaper while still at school to building a career in journalism, research and science communication, she has spent much of her life exploring how stories and access to information shape the way people understand the world.
At the centre of the conversation is We Were Always Here, a book created to bring together stories of Black inventors whose contributions have often been overlooked or forgotten. Candice explains that the book was intentionally structured so that younger readers encounter contemporary Black inventors first, allowing them to immediately see people who look like them contributing to science, technology and innovation.
Whether you're interested in African innovation, passionate about storytelling or exploring how representation shapes what people believe is possible, this episode offers valuable insights into Black inventors, access to information, failure, and the importance of retelling history.
Key Highlights from Dr Candice Bailey in Episode 63
1. Why We Need to Retell History
One of the main ideas behind 'We Were Always Here' is that many important stories of Black innovation have either been overlooked or scattered across different sources.
Candice explains that although information about individual Black inventors exists, bringing these stories together creates something different. Readers are able to see the scale and progression of Black innovation across generations.
2. Access to Information Is a Form of Power
Candice’s academic research explored access to information laws in South Africa and their relationship with democracy. She explains that power isn't only about withholding information. It can also come from people never knowing that certain information, opportunities or possibilities exist in the first place.
3. Failure Is Part of Innovation
Failure appears repeatedly throughout the different stories in the book.
Candice explains that invention rarely happens perfectly on the first attempt. Some ideas fail. Others require repeated experimentation before they work.
“Sometimes you'll flop and sometimes you'll have a big success.”
The common thread is continuing to solve the problem rather than expecting every attempt to succeed.
4. Innovation Doesn't Only Happen in Universities
While many inventors featured in the book followed academic careers, Candice points out that invention isn't limited to universities or formal research environments.
Throughout the episode, Candice shares examples of people using their surroundings, experiences, and available resources to develop new solutions.
The message is simple. Innovation is not reserved for a particular institution, country, or type of person.
“When you are enthusiastic about what you do, you feel this positive energy. It’s very simple.”
Advertising Campaign Mentioned
Volkswagen's classic South African TV Campaign: Candice chose a Volkswagen advert that she remembers from childhood. Beyond the product itself, she connects with its music, storytelling and depiction of life in South Africa, particularly the way it brings back memories of growing up in Cape Town.
Conclusion
Dr Candice Bailey’s story demonstrates how journalism, research, history and innovation are connected by one important idea: people need access to stories that expand their understanding of what's possible. Her conversation encourages us to question the stories we inherit and make sure future generations have access to a fuller picture of history.
Whether you're curious about African innovation, passionate about representation or interested in the stories behind the inventors who helped shape the world, this episode is a must listen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr Candice Bailey is a South African journalist, researcher and science communicator. She holds a PhD in politics and is one of the coauthors of We Were Always Here: Stories of Black Inventors Across the African Diaspora.
We Were Always Here is a collection of stories about Black inventors across the African diaspora. The book explores their contributions to science, technology, medicine, and everyday life while making these stories accessible to younger and general readers.
The Incredible Machines podcast is a thought leadership series produced by Tim Africa, featuring conversations with visionary entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers from across the continent.
You can listen on all major platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts and the Tim Africa Podcast Hub.