LIVE SA MAGAZINE ISSUE 8 by LivityAfrica

FREE! SA

/ Issue 8 3 1 G IN R SP online: .za .co livemag

C I T C E H TIC C E L tch a W o ple t o e P ung o Y s ' SA

Genuine Leather Footwear

footwear available at

www.studio-88.co.za

CONTENTS

0912 Regulars

04 05 06

Ed’s Note Contributors News & Views / Voice of the Youth

07 08 09 10 12

Mzansi Diamonds: Where to Meat Loves and Loathes Get Your Club On Dummies Guide: The Friendzone Must Grabs: Road Trippin’ Day in the Life: She’s the Man

Live Challenge: My Day of Dirty Diapers

18 28 44 46 Features

LiveStyle

16 18 22 28 32 34 36 39 40 42

Kaleidoscope Confessions Photo Essay: Ballet Boys Cover Story: LIVE’S 25 Fashion: Curiouser and Curiouser Curating Africa Are You Man Enough? Till Home Affairs Do Us Part

37 43 44 46 47

Ghetto Justice It Pays to Save

Live Politics: Popping the Cherry Live Sports: Ajax Cape Town: Stefan van Neel Ok,Shap! Live Sounds: Gospel Roots Live Reads:Manga Manga Biz /At the Movies: The Comic Era Live Jabs: African Time

Lost in Translation

Regulars | ED’s Note

The Contributors

Words Fika Msengana | Design Keagan Hendricks Photographer Phiwokuhle Budaza

“Sun is shining, the weather is sweet.” Bob Marley sang this perfect set of lyrics to describe a beautiful sunny day.

Winter is finally over. That means no more scarfs, so shed off those layers and enjoy the breeze. No more taking selfies in the bathroom. Yes everyone, out with the ashy skin and in with the suntan lotions and the new Rihanna-inspired hairstyles. Everybody is ready to come out and play. I, for one, like to do a little flirting but if you’re not a pro, learn how not to blur the lines by reading Dummies Guide: The Friendzone (p9). l also do a little shopping and found our Must Grabs: Road Trippin’ (pp10-11) and our Alice In Wonderlandthemed fashion spread (pp28-31) full of great ideas. Singing along to Jamiroquai’s “Canned Heat” at its loudest is my favourite thing to do, but our gospel-inspired Live Sounds (p46) might have you singing a different tune this summer. We’re very proud of our cover story, LIVE’S 25 (pp22-26). We searched high and low and asked you, our readers, to nominate people, so we could come up with a list of 25 exceptional young South

4 Spring 2O13

Africans. The task was anything but easy, but we had fun searching out Mzansi’s young gems. Spring flings are fun, but take a look at Till Home Affairs Do Us Part (p36) before it all becomes too serious. In keeping with Heritage Month, Curating Africa (pp32-33) is the perfect eye-opener that will leave you questioning the category of “African art”. Whether you are on your way to the pool or to a braai, check Mzansi Diamonds (p7) for some suggestions, but avoid falling into the stereotype of keeping African Time (p48). We love summer’s music festivals, but before you start experimenting, read Kaleidoscope Confessions (pp16-17). Inspired by the changing season, we’ve decided to freshen up the look of LiveMag. So we’ve changed a few things to make your reading experience even more EXTRAordinary.

Editor Fika Msengana (21) @its_justfika

Production Manager & Writer Gugu Nonjinge (20) @Gee_skiti

Deputy Editor & Chief Subeditor Kyle Prinsloo (19)

Writers Emmanuel Pheehe (22) @mampa2 Gugulethu Xaba (22) @jujuletoire Lesedi Montjane (21) @sweet_sedi Lungile Mdaki (24) ZanaMdaki Matthew Alexander (19) @matty_c_man Seboke Bolosha (22) @Iam_ sibuke Sivuyile Nkunkumana (19) @sivuyile_tracey Polly Sekwala (21) @elizphly Sabelo Mkhabela (23) @SabzaPassword Tinashe Venge (22) @TinniVe

Joburg Editors Relebohile Nephawe (23) @LebzaNephawe Portia Mokowe (23) @MissySparklez Features Editor Chido-Vanessa Dandajena (22) @ChidoV_Dandi Art Director Lauren Smith (24) @laurenCSmith Digital Editor & Writer Chireez Fredericks (22) @cherispot Photo Editors & Photographers Andy Mkosi (23) (Cape Town) @AndyMkosi Khabazela Mkhize (22) (Joburg) @Khabazela_Mkhiz Social Media Editors & Writers Abel Dantyi (23) (Cape Town) @abel_dantyi Lebogang Thlako (25) (Joburg) @_bubunas Fashion Editor & Writer Buhle Mweli (24) @BezuluBuhle

Designers and Illustrators Keagan Hendricks (20) Mohamed Hassan (22) @mo_fok Simphiwe Zuma (23) @DeepWarrior_CPT Photographers Fezile Jack (24) @i_don_didit Khotso Tsaagane (22) @ke_kgotso Lindokuhle Sobhekwa (19) Patrick Simba (20) @Lapat Phiwokuhle Budaza (25) @piiwii

Contributors

Live SA YouTube Kabelo ‘Kevin’ Tshabalala (22) @likewebstar Khanya Mpahlwa (21) @mpahlwa Mendile Mpunzi (24) @mpunzi Siki Beyi (24) @Sikieee Tracey Southgate (20) @traceysouthgate Mentors Lee Middleton: Senior Editorial Beth O’Connor: Editorial Joburg Joonji Mdyogolo: Editorial Laskarina Yiannakaris: Design Ed Suter: Photography Bulelani Mvoto: YouTube Tamara MacLachlan: YouTube Linda Nkosi: Digital & Social Media Meet some of our first-time contributors Polly Sekwala This free-spirit is a writer and occasional blogger. She has a diploma in media and advertising. Polly says she’s always had a desire to be part of a youth-driven publication because she wants her voice (as a young individual herself) to be heard. Phiwokuhle Budaza (Phiwe) She is a documentary photographer specialising in street photography. Working at LIVE has helped her gain experience in other styles of photography and taught her selfdiscipline with regards to deadlines. Phiwe is self-motivated and inspired by everyday life. She loved working with her teammates Andy, Patrick and Fezile. Mohamed Hassan (Mo) Mo studied graphic design at CPUT (Cape Peninsula University of Technology). He

started working at LIVE to gain knowledge and experience as a designer and illustrator. Mo says that LIVE has been an amazing learning journey for him and loads of fun too. “It’s been a good way of applying what I’ve learnt at varsity. I’m getting a clear idea of what my employer’s expectations will be once I get into the industry.” Special Thanks to: Joshua Klein, Gavin Elder, Tom Kennedy, Qhakaza, Maleh, Sarah Mann, Tom Porter, Khaya Bhubesi, Thabiso Mohare, Chipo Mapondera, Henrike Grohs, Jonx Pillemer, Makgomotho Ngwasheng, Lolo Veleko, City Varsity College, Jasmine Adam at Media 24, Damien Schuman, Kool Out, Sithembele & team, Marikana Boys, Booka T Entertainment, Felix Seuffert, Nu Metro, Patrick Conroy, Cecil Lyons, Charlotte Kilbane, Nuruniesa Allie at eNCA, Shuvai Finos and all at Ikamva Youth, Andries from Mad World, Ntombi Mponda, Petronella Sono, Natasha Miller, Janine Geldenhuys and all at Metropolitan, Jozelle Louw at sportscene, SANDF, Johann Schwella, Matt Riley and Raf Newman and all at 140 BBDO, Raffaele Delle Donne, Abie at The Makeup Issue, Helen Turvey, Karien Bezuidenhout, Karen Gabriels, Wendy Stoffels and all at the Shuttleworth Foundation, Mark Shuttleworth. Publisher: Gavin Weale Project Director: Claire Conroy Youth Development Producer(Cape Town): Shallom Johnson Youth Development Manager (Joburg): Nkuli Mlangeni Office Manager: Veronica Shumane Editorial Assistant (Joburg): Sid Sidwaba Senior Accounts Manager: Vuyisa Ndleleni Sales & Marketing Executive, and Distribution Manager: Papi Mireli

Marketing Intern (Joburg): Balebogile Jack For advertising enquiries, please call (021) 4800 400/email papi@livityafrica.com www.livity.co.uk www.livemag.co.za A WORD ON LIVEMAG SA LIVE is a media platform for the youth, by the youth. You – yes you – could get your work published, just like all the names you’ll spot as you page through this copy. We offer three-month unpaid internships giving every contributor experience in the publishing and media industry, and opportunities that prepare them for a real working environment, all under professional mentorship. Our full-time team is based in Cape Town while part-time positions are offered both in Johannesburg and Cape Town. From writers to photographers, graphic designers to video editors to stylists, everyone finds his or her niche. So if you’re between the ages of 18-25 and have a passion for the media industry (don’t panic, no experience required) apply now! Send your CV and a sample of your work to contributions@livemag.co.za Not in Cape Town or Jozi? Don’t stress We accept submissions from across the nation. Go to www.livemag.co.za/how-tocontribute, follow the guidelines and show us what you’re made of! Watch us at: youtube.com/livemagsa Like us on Facebook at: LIVE MAGAZINE SA Tweet us: @LIVEMAGSA Stay mobile at: WWW.LIVEMAG.CO.ZA Join our GOOGLE+ circle at: LIVE MAGAZINE SA

Regulars | News and Views

There was so much hype around our PopUp Culture issue that we decided to turn News & Views into a space for Letters to the Editor. We loved the feedback from our readers! Please keep it coming. Some of our favourites... Words Fika Msengana | Design Simphiwe Zuma That Okmalumkoolkat cover was one of LiveSA’s best covers. Thabiso Dyasi 17, Eastern Cape The more I read copies of LiveMagSA, the more I really feel like I should join the LiveMagSA team and contribute. Anela Matebese 19, Port Elizabeth Rape is one of the biggest issues facing the South African youth. My call is for every single one of us to speak out and urge the government not to be lenient on rapists. We need more rape survivors and less rape victims. Offenders should not get punished for two years and come back to watch TV with their victims. We need to get rid of the rapists in our living rooms. Avuyile Qhawekazi Matiwane 22, Cape Town in response to Issue 7’s ‘The Enemy You Know’ article I was disappointed at the outcome of this issue’s photo essay. As a fan of the LiveMagSA brand, it’s one of the features I look forward to. Andrew Jackson 23, Cape Town The Ed’s note was well written and funny. I agreed and laughed at every

Spring 2O13

point made on the Loves and Loathes piece. I must admit there was very little I didn’t like about the magazine (considering that this is my first time reading it), but I wish that there were more sports reviews. Jason Hendricks 20, Johannesburg Issue 7 was my first time reading Live magazine and I loved it. I am a big fashionista and your fashion spread (even though I wasn’t the target market) really won me over. Keep up the good work. Kim Jacobs 19, Cape Town The Live Eats was so cool and entertaining! I totally wanted to make that spinach feta quiche thingy. I like that you guys introduce things at different times :) It’s dope. Props to LiveMagSA. Heeeeeeeey! Lauren Naidoo 22, Durban

THE YOUTH: FIXERS OR COMPLAINERS? VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Words Chido-Vanessa Dandajena | Photography Phiwokuhle Budaza

Riyaadh Sucang, 17

I think that young people create their own problems and expect government to do everything. Young people need to realise that everything is in their own hands.

Zandile Nyembe,18

We don’t do anything, we just talk. We see what’s wrong but don’t fix it.

Nicole Lideman, 20

Everybody complains. For example, everyone complains on campus about broken computers and printers but no one is willing to do anything to fix it. Some people do show initiative but not many. There are more complainers.

Tabitha Nyembe, 21

We want things handed on a silver platter and we are afraid of hard work.

Yolanda Songiga, 22 The youth is motivated and want to do their own thing. The government has failed us, so the youth are gogetters.

Michael Hobbs, 22

We have complete reliance on the government. Young people should not rely so much on the government and the government needs to support those who stand up.

Mzansi Diamonds

Where To

Meat Pack the cooler box, gather your chommies and let LIVE take you to some of the best braai spots in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Words Kyle Prinsloo, Gugu Nonjinge & Gugu Xaba Design Keagan Hendricks Photography Phiwokuhle Budaza

Finger-lickin’ good Mzoli’s

cpt

MZOLI’S PLACE

No diets here

tu ts Ho

JHB

TSO’S BUTCHERY AND FAST FOODS An upmarket modern pub and grill in Mogale City, Tso’s offers not only the best service but the best quality in meat, chicken, lamb and beef. Featuring home-grilled traditional tshisa nyama, cooked meals and fast food services, they also serve a wide variety of wines and whiskeys. The place is young, hip and frequented by youth keen for a township experience. The venue buzzes from Friday to Sunday afternoons, and provides secure parking. It’s conveniently located in a busy and safe environment, making it easy to access transport.

The 411: They also offer catering services. (073) 707-2031

Sweat it out (aka, making room for more)

CHAF POZI Situated in Soweto, Chaf Pozi is a hotspot attracting locals and international tourists alike. Its super cool shebeen vibe is great for chilling with your mates while you eat braaied meat along with other popular township cuisine like samp and pap. Chaf Pozi doesn’t just cater to those hungry for food: it’s also famous for being at the foot of the 100m Orlando Towers, from which adrenaline junkies can bungee jump. In addition, the restaurant hosts some of Mzansi’s biggest talents like DJ Black Coffee, while also providing up-andcoming artists a great platform to perform.

The 411: Halal and veg meals by pre-order only. Parking provided. Open Wed to Sun. (011) 463-8895 www.chafpozi.wozaonline.co.za

In the heart of Gugulethu, just 18km out of Cape Town, Mzoli’s is known for its eclectic crowds, and, of course, signature meat... And pap. From pork chops to beef steaks, the succulent meat, with a secret mix of herbs and spices, is braaied on the spot by the staff. Bring your own beverages (and serviettes). For the true Mzoli’s experience, where good music meets a jovial crowd followed by awesome grub, Sunday is the day.

The 411: Bookings for large groups are essential. (021) 638-1355

TOKAI FOREST Tokai Forest is a picture perfect, Twilightesque setting with its never-ending pine trees. It’s a great spot to kick back with your Weber, while the little ones play on swing sets and jungle gyms. It’s best to enjoy this serene setting (the pines are where the vampire association ends, really) on a Sunday, leaving you stress-free for the week ahead. Besides the peaceful environment, this is a BYO situation, so don’t forget the meat, beverages, blankets and entertainment. If you do bring a boombox, think of others and keep it down.

The 411: Entrance to the braai area is R10 per adult, R5 per child and R10 per car. (021) 712-7471

Regulars | Loves & Loathes

LOVES FROM GUY TIME TO SLY TIME

GETTING FANCY WITH YOUR NANCIES

ID FOR WHAT? IT’S CALLED SWAG

Standing at the bar with your friends about to get that “cheers” shot down when your pack spots a girl sent from the Sports Illustrated gods. While the back-and-forth debate on who gets to take a chance ensues, she smiles at you and BAM!, the two of you are dancing “Closer” than Neyo would. You sly devil you.

Ladies, remember those six-inch, hella-high leopardprint stilettos you bought two years ago that have just been hoarding dust in the corner under your bed? Well you finally have a good reason to dust ‘em off, whip ‘em out and slap ‘em on as you doll yourself up with your gal pals while jammin’ to “Khona” by Mafikizolo and Uhuru.

Calmly freaking out in line watching the bouncer demand IDs. The sad reality is that you’re a year younger than the qualified club-goers breezing in. The happy reality is you’re rocking your white v-neck, leather jacket and killer combat boots... and can grow facial hair like wild fire. The bouncer gives you that empowering nod and you swagger on in like Jay-Z’s prodigy.

#FeelTheWrathOfYourFriends

DANCE. EAT. LOVE. When the DJ speaks your language, the company is good, and the vibe is right, you’ll be dancing till the cops shut you down… Literally. Crawling out of the club, suffering from CWS (Can’t Walk Syndrome), seems like a pretty good night. But wait! There’s more! Bliss strikes when you remember those coins still bouncing around in your pockets. Yes, MacDodos is calling your name, honey.

#SmoothCriminal

get your club on PING your friends, and sort your outfit and have your party places in check as LIVE hits the night, recalling the infamous loves and loathes of clubbing. Words Buhle Mweli & Kyle Prinsloo | Design Mohammed Hassan | Photography Patrick Simba

AND SO ARE THE FIGHTS OF OUR NIGHTS Dancing with a beer in one hand and some chick’s booty in the other (yes, the dancefloor is that packed), pushed and shoved by the crowd. Next thing you know, your beer has splashed on this Hulk Hogan beast-of-aman’s girl. Oh, and that booty you were touching? (Not on purpose, really.) Also hers. Watch your face, stomach and pride,‘cause the Hogan is ready to throw ‘em harder than Ali. The worst part is your friends standing by laughing as if it’s all a joke. #ThePriceOfPartying

8 Spring 2O13

WHERE FRIDAY AT? Heading home on a Sunday after an epic party-fest, you realise it’s actually five AM and work starts in three hours. A cowboy scrub-down at the sink (yes, a quick wipe of the important bits) is all you’ve got time for. Knotty hair and all, you wouldn’t dare miss that meeting. Or would you? Coming up with a valid excuse is nearly impossible when you look and smell like you’ve been hit by the SAB truck...

FIRST-CLASS NIGHT, THIRD WORLD BUDGET Waking up the next morning all hungover with a boss-like grin recalling how the ladies were loving you in the club... Yes, you’ve slept in your clothes and yes, your things are still there, but hold the vomit, one of your belongings has lost some volume. Seems like you were “ballin’” so hard last night that you blew your cash on drinks for Africa and private transportation. #RoughMonthAheadSir

AND THEN THERE WAS THAT TIME... Getting drunk and making life altering mistakes – like letting a stranger buy and serve your drinks, and/or then leaving with him. He might pass for Trey Songz’ little brother, but safety first. The possibility of getting drugged and taken advantage of is no joke. So keep your eyes open while breaking it down!

LOATHES

Dummies dummiesGuide Guide

THE

friendzone Words Fika Msengana & Matthew Alexander | Design & Illustration Mohamed Hassan

The “Friendzone”: a cursed place from which no man or woman can escape. Well, not entirely true. Guys tend to be more open-minded about letting a girl out. Girls police the zone pretty fiercely. To be fair, the signs were probably there all along. But for those blinded by love, let our dummies guide show you some of the signs.

MAN, YOU’RE IN THE FRIENDZONE WHEN... SHE TELLS YOU EVERYTHING This doesn’t mean the important stuff only. If she tells you about the clothes she might buy, the food she’s craving or the time she walked into the glass door, she isn’t trying to impress you. Girls usually hold off on tell-all sessions with guys they’re interested in (at least until you put a ring on it). SHE DOESN’T FLIRT You’ll notice that a lot of girls, even if only your friends, will flirt with you occasionally. It’s not blatantly obvious, but it’s there: maybe a little touch here and there, perhaps a kiss on the cheek. She probably wouldn’t object to going on a date if you ask in one of those affectionate moments. But a total lack of show-and-tell action from her side? Consider yourself in the black hole of the friendzone. SHE TALKS ABOUT OTHER GUYS And not to make you jealous If she is genuinely discussing boy problems with you – how she feels and her dilemmas with other guys – you have definitely been zoned. For example: she told you about her crush, and it’s not you. At this point, just call yourself Dr Phil. SHE NEVER DRESSES UP FOR YOU Girls love getting pretty. They appreciate a good-hair day and will spend an hour on their makeup in an effort to look like they aren’t wearing any. If a girl knows you’re heading her way and you find her sprawled out on the couch, watching re-runs of Keeping Up With The Kardashians, completely makeup free, hair in a dodgy bun, and head-to-toe in her Tweety Bird pajamas... You’ve lost this race, buddy.

GIRLS: IN THE ZONE TODAY, OUT TOMORROW SHORT IS SWEET Guys typically have very short attention spans and are easily distracted/attracted. So flick your hair: it’s an immediate turn-on. And please avoid rambling on about irrelevant things (your favourite makeup, how expensive your weave was, etc). Look closely: notice our eyes glazing over. Translation? We’re probably spacing out, thinking about the girl behind you and wondering if she talks this much. (DON’T) PUMP UP THE BASE Before a guy falls for a girl’s lovely personality, we first fall for her looks. So make sure you’re not wearing too much makeup and that your sense of fashion isn’t always a hoodie and track-pants. And a side note to all the ladies out there who attended “the skimpier, the better” school: please drop out. If you want that knight in shining armour, remember the princess was wearing a gown, not a bathing suit. It’s a fine line between sexy and trashy. KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN “YOU’RE” AND “YOUR” Yes, intelligence matters. If we’re debating the merits of tax, and you think that it’s a great thing to increase taxes, providing an explanation (like, “We need it if we want funding for free education”) and besting us mentally will immediately spark our interest. PAY YOUR WAY Whether we like it or not, the universal law of first dates (still) dictates that men get the bill. Don’t go singing Amen just yet. Ladies, if you don’t at least offer to pay your way, it seems like you’re just with us for the free food. If you do offer to get your half of the bill, it shows that you’re independent – an attractive quality in a woman.

Regulars | Must Grabs 1

ROAD TRIPPINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Start your engines, put your sunnies on, turn up the music and let the journey begin.

Spring 2O13

Want to win big with sportscene? Tell us about your road trip essentials – from clothing to accessories to beauty products – and stand a chance to win a voucher worth R1000! 15 December 2013 Email to: win@livemag.co.za or post on Live digital: www.livemag.co.za

Girl 1:

Red beanie @Parooz Fashions R120 Black long-sleeve top Model’s own Smiley face tights @Parooz Fashions R290 Red Converse @sportscene R579

Boy:

Cap @Old Khaki R150 Black and gold printed t-shirt @Parooz Fashions R250

Redbat jeans @sportscene R199 Shoes @Old Khaki R799

Girl 2:

Green top with studs @Parooz Fashions R799 Striped leggings @Parooz Fashions R399 White Converse @sportscene R579 2 Redbat sleeveless leather gillet @sportscene R599

White top @Old Khaki R399 3

Girl 1:

Army green crop top @Parooz Fashions R350 Denim shorts @Parooz Fashions R450

Boy:

Beanie @sportscene R125 Comic-strip t-shirt @Parooz Fashions R250 Shorts @Old Khaki R299

Analogue camera @Lomography R1200

Girl 2:

Aztec shorts @Parooz Fashions R390 4

Girl 1:

White Converse @sportscene R579

Boy:

Blue and red Vans @sportscene R549

Girl 2:

Redbat brown brogues @sportscene R599

5 Red and navyblue backpack @Parooz Fashions R490

Styled & Photographed Lebogang Tlhako Assistant Stylist Gugu Xaba Design Lauren Smith Models Shelley Mokoena, Keneilwe Mothoa, Siyabonga Mashele.

Necessities for the new season? livemag.co.za/roadtripping

Regulars LiveinChallenge Regulars ||Day the Life

She’s the

“Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” LIVE spent an evening with drag queen royalty, witnessing the dazzling transformation of a diva. Words Seboke Bolosha | Design Simphiwe Zuma | Photography Fezile Jack & Zhann Solomons “You can’t just put foundation on and call yourself a drag. You’ll look like a man with makeup on,” said Vida, who sat surrounded by sponges dark with foundation. They looked like things a child could use to play dress-up. The way she applied her makeup, with such delicacy, you could tell that she knew what she was doing. She was striving for perfection. “Powder is a drag queen’s best friend,” said the 26-year-old, who has been performing as a drag queen for more than a year. I watched Alexander Tabisher transform into his vivacious alter-ego, Vida – going from man to diva – with awe. “Some drag queens don’t like to be called ‘drag queens’,” Vida responded when asked about stereotypes. “They like to be called ‘female impersonators’ because they want to look like a woman out in the streets, whereas what I do is take it to the next level. I am not trying to be a woman. To me this is a character,” she explained, making her thick eyebrows disappear behind more foundation. “I do it because I want to see a transformation. It’s nice to know that you have done your work so well that people don’t recognise you out of drag.” The transformation was complete: hair styled to perfection, black dress hugging his body – fitting for the “mature” look Alex prefers for this character – Alex was gone, only Vida and her

12 Spring 2O13

perfect makeup remained. “I hope you put this through Photoshop because I am having a breakout on my nose,” she joked. Vida performs on Fridays at Bubbles Bar in Cape Town’s “gay village” of Green Point. On Fridays you’ll find everyone, gay or straight, at Bubbles – there for the sheer love of drag performance. Alexander both hosts and performs as Vida. After her “warm-up show” at 9pm, she waits for the club to fill for her later shows (R20 at the door). During this time, anyone in drag is welcome to take to the stage. Vida’s own performances are mash-ups of her favourite songs; tracks like Celine Dion’s “That’s The Way It Is” and Mariah Carey’s “Emotional”. While Vida performs, topless male waiters with glittered bodies and muscles to kill for made the classic gay bar scene. As Vida took her first break, the crowd begged for more. This was only the beginning. Vida would perform until 2am. “I hate to blow my own horn, but I am a natural performer,” she had said earlier. And it was true. Standing on a stage that looked too small for this performer, Vida owned the crowd – all eyes glued to her, mouths singing along to her every move. Experienced and not-so-experienced dancers killed it on the dance floor. They loved her! This was the life of a queen. A drag queen.

man

NOW OFFERING DEGREES IN SOUND & FILM

ANIMATION

FILM

SOUND

ANIMATION, VFx & GAMING

Animation for Film, Visual Effects, Game Art & Design, Animation for Apps & Mobile Gaming, Stop Motion

DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Short Films, Documentaries, TV Commercials, Music Videos, Backpack Video Production, Film Business, Digital Content

SOUND PRODUCTION

Studio Recording, Music Producing, Live Sound, Music Business, Sound Design for Film, TV & Interactive Media

> World class facilities > Internationally recognised

> Small classes > Personalised tuition

CALL 021 469 3600 SAE INSTITUTE 5 Church Square, Cape Town CBD Email: capetown@sae.edu | Web: www.capetown.sae.edu With Campuses Across The Globe OUR WORLD IS YOUR STAGE

CAPE TOWN

Regulars | Live Challenge

my day of DIRTY DIAPERS In each issue of LIVE, one unlucky soul faces their fears with a challenge: telling jokes, chilling at a gay bar, shark cage diving (easy, right?)… Well, I got the worst challenge of them all. Words Matthew Alexander | Design Lauren Smith | Photography Andy Mkosi It’s smiling at me with a runny nose, its tiny fragile body engulfed by my huge hands. My brain churns: “What if I drop it? Why is it smiling at me? Please lord, I hope it doesn’t pee on me”. If you haven’t guessed, yes, my challenge was to take care of babies. Those little things that run around and pee on everything including themselves. I’m not afraid of babies. I am afraid of cleaning them and holding them. I’m the guy who runs around with the kids and makes them laugh, but the moment they cry – releasing rivers of tears and snot – I turn and walk away like I’ve never seen the child. I made my way to the Christine Revell Children’s Home in Athlone early in the morning. Driving there, I already felt uneasy. For three hours I would be responsible for the wellbeing of toddlers and infants. ‘Uncle Matthew’. Things began with a short meeting with the social worker to discuss issues around photographing the kids, who were all rescued from broken homes or had been orphaned (this is why you don’t see any of the faces of the little ones here). I then met the only nurse in charge of the infant and toddlers’ section. The doors opened to the sound of happy and energetic children, creating a picture in my mind of children swinging from the ceiling and flinging poop at each other. My photographer, Andy, turned to me with a sly grin (the entire ride over she had been planting images in my head of me either dropping an infant or getting beaten by hundreds of toddlers with toys and tiny hands). I took a deep breath. Even though there were just over ten children, it felt like there were hundreds of them. I prayed they’d have mercy on me. As I wandered nervously into the room, a tiny boy raised his arms to be lifted. I obliged, my paternal instincts kicking in as I flew him around the room. Seconds later, another child ran up to me. Then another. Soon they were fighting for my attention and trying to grab Andy’s camera. We played for a few more moments, but I was relieved when the time came for us to move on to the infants.

New-found friend

14 Spring 2O13

Before I carry on, I should say that I’ve never fed, burped, cleaned or put a baby to sleep. That was until I was given this tiny fragile child. He weighed no more than three kilos. I cradled him in my arms and began to feed him his bottle. He clutched the bottle, happily drinking away. I worried that he might

Eat up little man

WTF...? be drinking too fast or that I wasn’t cradling his head correctly. Even though the nurse assured me I was doing fine, I felt sure that his head was angled weirdly and that he might be choking. Panicking, I kept bugging the nurse for safety tips, asking if this child was actually still alive and okay. The time came to burp the baby. I flung a towel over my shoulder and began my duty to keep this child alive (yes, my duty). It burped, but my horrors only continued. Time to change its diaper. It was the single most horrifying thing I’ve yet to experience in my short time here on this earth. While I was changing it, the baby started pooping, peeing and burping all at once, both legs kicking with joy. Meanwhile, I was feeling like I was seeing something I’m not supposed to see. And the stench... Nauseous, I continued to brave the storm of oozing poo, forced to use another diaper to contain the mess. It was chaotic. When it was all over, I stood in a moment of stunned silence. “What just happened?” I wondered. Finally, hands a bit shaky, I changed the baby’s clothes. After all this, putting him to sleep was kind of… calming. It took a few verses of Louis Armstrong’s “Smile” and some cradling, but I finally got the little one to sleep. However, peace would not be mine. It was feeding time for the toddlers. One baby in particular was giving me a hard time. First he cried because he didn’t want food. Then he cried because I took it away. Sitting in front of him, I started making train noises. Next to him another cute child was dozing off, her entire body rocking back and forth as her eyes closed and then immediately burst open and closed again -- entertaining and also really cute. Meanwhile, the crying child suddenly grasped my arm tightly. As I turned to look at him, a volunteer got vomited on

by the child she was feeding. Around us, the other children who had eaten were dropping like flies from exhaustion. In the midst of all the feeding chaos, the very first child who had greeted me began to cry non-stop in his cot. Being the experienced man I am, I ignored him. But after a while I felt sorry for him. It was time to truly man-up and give him and the other children the best I could in terms of affection. I picked him up and in an instant he stopped crying. I tried to put him back in his cot, but he clung to me and began crying again (I’m really not good with kids). With all the other kids finally fast asleep, I cradled him and walked around, humming softly in his ear. Once he passed out I placed him gently in his cot, and with a little manoeuvring, got him to release me. The whole thing felt like a game of chess – every time I made a move, he would counter and completely ruin my strategy. But not this time. Lying on the carpet, feeling sad and tired from the three hours of play-time and feed-time and poop-time, I discovered a new-found respect for parents and the ladies at the Christine Revell Children’s Home.

Feeding time

I wish you would eat your food

Looking up at the makeshift stars and handcrafted art on the ceiling, I wished I could give these kids everything they need and want. Even though they’re a lot of work, their smiles make it well worth it. It was sad to leave knowing that these orphans possibly face a future without parents or good homes. It also made me realise that when the time comes, I’m going to adopt. But I’m never changing another diaper again. Ever. If you wish to contribute your time or make a donation, please contact the home on (021) 697-1748. Think you could work with kids? Here’s how: livemag.co.za/diapers

Feature

Kaleidoscope confessions Words Matthew Alexander | Design Mohamed Hassan

he atmosphere buzzes with vibrant sounds and the thump of thousands of stomping feet. Hands reach for the stars. Pupils begin to dilate. Lumo-green paint drips from hands and legs glowing in the moonlight. People dressed as wolves, tigers and other animals dance next to others donning American Indian chief headgear. The crowd begins to feel the rush of drugs kicking in. It’s going to be a wild night. I am at a three-day trance party at Ruigetvlei farm in Buffalo Drift. Trance festivals are attracting the attention of many young South Africans. Happening across South Africa over the spring and summer months, the festivals are the collective energy of thousands of people dancing to the same beat, many on psychedelic drugs. Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin mushrooms (shrooms) and Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, loosely referred to as ecstasy) provide an intense psychological experience, amplifying the user’s senses – colours will be brighter, sounds more intense – and causing some people to hallucinate.

16 Spring 2O13

Scientists still aren’t clear exactly how psychedelic drugs affect the brain, but some effects have been documented: users often become talkative, energetic and tactile (meaning they can’t help touching anything and everything). They might have abnormal perceptions, anything from feeling detached from their body, to feeling that time is distorted, to being anxious or panicky. Some are very happy; others might feel paranoid. According to many users, most first-timers ingest the drugs not knowing about the effects.

“...his nails were long and dirty, he had red evil eyes and he’s with six buddies that had knives and whips and they’re chasing me and they wanted to f**k me up” Nineteen-year-old Michael* from Belhar has been a “psy-head” for three years. “I was laying in my tent, staring at the trees and the grass and I felt like a baby... Everything was so simple,” he said of an experience at a trance party where he took LSD. “The grass...was just beautiful... Everything was just wow.” Drugs that make you feel like a baby sound all

good and fun, but what’s actually going on? Kevin Stoloff is a resident psychiatrist at Crescent Clinic, a psychiatric institution in Claremont, Cape Town. “The drugs that we’re talking about act on serotonin, which is a brain chemical responsible for a variety of functions,” Stoloff said, explaining that serotonin affects mood, appetite, and regulation of our emotions, among other things. When a person takes psychedelics, his/her brain can become overstimulated, resulting in various types of emotions, feelings and altered perceptions, including the possibility of a “bad trip”. According to Dr Stoloff, anyone can experience a bad trip, with the possibility of becoming anxious, paranoid, and fearful. Although not everyone experiences these negative effects, there is no way of predicting one’s response to the drugs. For some people, he says, psychedelics could trigger an underlying mental illness, which could potentially be lifelong. “I was looking at my brother and he had formed the snout of a jackal, his nails were

long and dirty, he had red evil eyes and he’s with six buddies that had knives and whips and they’re chasing me and they wanted to f**k me up,” recounted David*, an experienced psychedelic user of 40 years. David started taking hallucinogens as a teen at 19. “For as far I could see it was just flat malachite stone and there was nowhere to hide, I could feel their warm breath on my back… That was k*k,” continued David, an engineer. Back at the trance festival, the music quickens, stompers stomp even harder. Giant sculptures of animals and abstract art fill the treetops, and banners draped from pillar to pillar in spirals light up and blend in with the night sky as if stars themselves. It’s a world completely its own, created out of a fellowship of warped consciousness. All in sync with the music and the world around them, almost everyone is experiencing the same high. “I see it as like having a spiritual connection to something. [But] to be honest, it’s not for everybody,” said Michael. “Police are setting up roadblocks before a party and sending us all to holding cells, just because we want to enjoy ourselves,” he added.

The music is fading as the sun rises on the conclusion of the three-day party. The markets and tents are being packed away, the stompers have lost the energy to stomp, the effects of the drugs are wearing off and fatigue sets in. All the new partygoers that have experienced this journey are sprawled out, resting their weary minds. They’ve successfully escaped the troubles and worries of the real world, but their highs can only take them so far away.

“I see it as like having a spiritual connection to something. (But) to be honest, it’s not for everybody” Michael’s advice for new stompers: “Avoid associating yourself with shady characters... stay within your group of friends. Know the drugs and substances that you’re taking, and know the dos and don’ts about it. Know your stuff, and don’t go into things blindly.” This lifestyle is not for the faint-hearted; there are real dangers involved. The choice to experience it is entirely yours. *Names changed to protect identity.

Side Trips: Hallucinogens and their dangers have not been adequately studied. But some of the risks observed: PHYSICAL:

CLASSIFICATION BY LAW:

PSYCHOLOGICAL:

- Increased heart rate and blood pressure - Tremors and lack of muscle coordination - Incoherent speech and decreased awareness of touch and pain - Hallucinations can cause people to think they are immortal, leading to fatal accidents (e.g., walking in front of cars thinking they can’t be hurt, or jumping off buildings, thinking they can “fly”)

MDMA, LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, cannabis, methamphetamine, are all classified as “undesirable dependence-producing substances” and are illegal. According to Section 17 of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act No. 140 of 1992 sentencing can be a fine or short sentence (depends on the value of the drug), up to a maximum of 15 years if the value of the substance is over R50 000.

- Can trigger long-term psychosis in those susceptible - In rare cases people experience flashbacks, in which they experience the hallucination again, without taking the drug - Long-term use can cause anxiety and depression

All images © Jonx Pillemer

Photo Essay

Ballet boys

From the rough streets of Nyanga â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where street soccer is the lifestyle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; three young boys break tradition and follow their passion of being professional ballet dancers. LIVE captured these remarkable young men dancing for what they believe. Words Kyle Prinsloo Design Mohamed Hassan Photography Phiwokuhle Budaza

18 Spring 2O13

From Left: Abongile Tenza (19) Kholekile Biyongo (17) Zwelixolile Banisa (17)

“I started ballet because it is the foundation. If you can do ballet, other kinds of dance will be easy for you. The basics that you do in contemporary and other kinds of dance come from ballet.” – Kholekile

Photo Essay

I prefer dancing by myself because I’m short. Short people don’t do well with partners so I get the solos and that’s what I like.” – Abongile

20 Spring 2O13

“I want to continue dancing. It’s my dream to be a professional ballet dancer. I don’t know what I’d be if I wasn’t a ballet dancer.” – Zweli

Dance For All youtube.com/LiveMagSA

+ C I T C E H C I T C E L EC Feature | Cover Story

h Watc o t e l op ng Pe u o Y 25

Writers Chido-Vanessa Dandajena, Abel Dantyi, Fika Msengana, Buhle Mweli, Emmanuel Pheehe & Kyle Prinsloo | Photographers Andiswa Mkosi, Emmanuel Pheehe & Supplied Design Lauren Smith

22 Spring 2O13

LIVE’S

25 It seemed like a great idea at the start. This was before the endless phone calls to “people who know people”, a bit of what some might call stalking, and gruelling boardroom battles over who should be on “the list”. Finally, with few casualties, we’ve reached a conclusion. If you’re mad you didn’t make the list, realise that the criteria were stiff. Just to be considered, candidates had to be aged twenty-five or under, have shown tangible progress in whatever enterprise they are pursuing (selling marbles to your neighbour doesn’t count), and, as Abel put it,“have an umph/sparkle/x-factor”. Though the sheer brilliance and achievement of everyone on our list caused us to ask ourselves “what am I doing?”, our first three really made us question our purpose in life. So without further ado – and in no real order – Live’s 25!

izwe Nzima, aka “the bicycle guy”, is a social entrepreneur with a heart and passion for community development. After winning R10 000 for best entrepreneurial student, in 2012 the Raymond Ackerman Academy graduate kick-started his business, Iyeza Express, which delivers chronic medication to the elderly in the township of Khayelitsha by bicycle.

CPT

Where did the idea for Iyeza Express spring from? I was reading about how hospitals couldn’t cope with the large increase of chronic patients and with the hospitals being overcrowded – and how the health department is trying to improve that service. Other people saw it as a problem, but I thought I could come up with a solution. What is the next step? We’re trying to create a model that can be easily applicable into other parts of the city to expand to other townships and maybe even the province. The bigger picture is to go national. Who was your biggest supporter? The Ackerman Foundation! When you’re a 21-year-old and you tell your mom or your family – I mean, I live with my grandmother – that you want to be an entrepreneur, they [say],“Hell No. You go to school and... study and you work for someone else”. I mean, I was 20 then – what did I know about business?

Thoki Tafeni

Designer

his fashion-graduate’s collection, filled with edgy designs and contours, soft and humble earth-tones and a subtle flare for the dramatic, won her the AFI Fast Track in Africa Fashion Week 2011, a competition showcasing the work of talented, emerging designers. Having conquered the runway, Thoki is also currently head stylist for People Magazine and fashion assistant at Kick Off. What was your childhood like? I was adopted at a young age... my childhood was very easy-going. I went to Camps Bay Primary School and then Westerford High. I studied arts throughout; that was my absolute passion. I love anything creative. Tell us about how you got involved with fashion? I started making little clothes for my Barbie when I was younger, got a sewing machine in grade ten. I started making little tops and stuff, and didn’t know I wanted to study fashion until a month or so before college. It was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

Advice for young South Africans aspiring to be entrepreneurs? Our advantage is our energy and our young fresh brains. We are young and fresh, we can come up with really innovative ideas. Your energy and your fresh brain actually give you that competitive edge. What I’d also say is don’t make money the problem. If your business idea is very good, money will come. Come the next 20 years, we are going to be the engine of this country. We need to start taking responsibility now already. Running a business is the way to improve the country. Has Iyeza Express changed your life? [My life] has changed dramatically. Besides the media and people looking up to me, besides all the publicity, from a 21-year-old perspective, I would say I really don’t have a normal life. This is what my mentor says: you might be 21, but you need to shift your 21-year-old mind into a 40-year-old mind who would probably be running his own business.

CPT

What are some of the biggest challenges of being a young designer? Being able to create something that is unique that nobody else has done. If you look at our industry, every second person is a designer. The people that are successful are the ones who spend day and night working and just keep pushing and don't wait and expect things to fall into their lap. It’s also keeping the momentum. You start and you think “oh, creative idea”, but the biggest challenge is starting a business. Before you dive in, you’ve got to realise that it’s not just the creative part, you need shareholders or a partner who actually knows how to deal with all those [business] aspects. How do you see yourself contributing to the industry? By creating jobs and getting everything manufactured locally, not importing, and setting up my own team. A lot of factories are now closing, so there are many talented seamstresses out there who are struggling and looking for jobs. How can the fashion industry in Africa be improved? People say that there aren’t resources, but there are resources if they are used innovatively. Who’s to say we can’t be the next mass producer, [especially in] beadwork and craft. There is a huge gap for that at the moment. Instead of outsourcing all the time, local designers should source inside the country.

Sizwe Nzima

Social Entrepreneur

Feature | Cover Story

CPT

CREATIVE/ MEDIA

JHB

Jimmy Nevis Singer

CPT

Michel Lisa Johannessen Designer 24

Danilo Acquisto

Entrepreneur & Presenter

ou may know him as the charismatic “umlungu” on HecticNine9, but Danilo is also the co-creator of popular youth media mag 6B Magazine, proving he’s got more going on than just that cameraready smile. How did you get involved with HecticNine9? They hosted auditions all throughout the Western Cape and were hoping to find a white guy, and I happened to be there. I was horrendous. Even the production manager said my audition was horrendous. But I met one of the presenters and he liked my energy and thought I had potential to make it on television.

Throw in some pastels, vibrant prints and featherlight chiffon and you have Mili Jo and Sacred, vibrant and unique labels created by designer Michel Lisa Johannessen. Featured in Elle, Cleo, SABC3, Heart104.9fm and Seventeen Magazine, this creative spirit and humble soul was still surprised and ecstatic to make our list. If your house was caught on fire, which three items would you take with? My Teddy, Eyelene (I sleep with her every night:-)), a book (You Impacted My Life), and my phone: to contact the fire fighters and have an online platform to keep the social medias running for my business (all of the above only knowing that my whole family is out already).

PMB

Were you attracted to the media industry’s glitz and glamour? People think of the world in a really black-and-white context, and they think things are either this or that. They don’t know that there are other options. I want my drive and talent to speak far louder than what I’m wearing or how much money I have or anything like that; that, for me in the long run, is absolutely irrelevant. What’s the story with co-founding 6B Magazine? I got a whole lot of people in the industry talking about how they got [where they are], what they did and what they studied. We’re basically there to give information [to] creative industry people. If you have questions, we’ll get [answers]. On our site we’ve got all the bursaries, study options, universities and everything that you need to know. Long-term goals for 6B Magazine and HecticiNine9? I see myself being at HecticNine9 until my influence is no longer relevant. When I feel like all I’m doing is a job, that’s when I’ll leave. I’m still learning a lot. [I’ll stay at 6B], until it’s turning a profit – once that's happening there’ll be options for me to start exploring other avenues. What direction should the South African media industry take? The industry is starting to shift at the moment, [to] online. I think the media [world] needs to start looking at South Africa’s influence in the online market. The industry needs risk takers to start think[ing] globally.

24 Spring 2O13

Zama Memela Cuisine

If you want to spice up your life, Zama Mamela can help you out. Owner of catering company Easy Eating, she has hosted secret dinners around Cape Town, catered for festivals like GreenPop Reforest Festival, Trees For Zambia and Creative Nestlings sessions. If you’re a foodie, get familiar. “As a kid, I believed a phat (fat), tender steak came from a Zebra’s bum cheeks :-) #folktales.”

With his ever-so-sultry voice, he got us stepping in those “Elephant Shoes” and left us fighting for his love with “Heartboxing”. Shall we give our boy Jimmy some props for his takeover of the SA music scene? Yes? Yes! I mean, who has an album out in SA that everyone is dying for? We are definitely not feeling subliminal about this kid’s work. HE. IS. DOPE. If you had a biopic based on you, who would play your character? Uhm... probably Ryan Teddy. We’d just need to make his skin darker.

KZN

Kline Smith Film Director

Yes, he has dreadlocks and no, he’s not a hippy. But close. Creative mind, UKZN Honours graduate and winner of the Grahamstown Art Festival Film award, Kline Smith has a list of credentials longer than most people’s CVs. Director, scriptwriter and actor, Kline founded Stories For Change in 2011, which turns children’s stories into theatre productions (aaauw!). “Don’t mistake humility for helplessness.”

KZN

Khulekani Magubane Novelist

While you were worrying about which outfit to wear for civvies day and memorising the lyrics

to the latest David Guetta track, Khulekani was writing. With 18 published novels, we’re not sure if Khulekani does anything else, actually. His books use topical issues such as HIV/AIDS and crime re-interpreted according to his perception, and are aimed to educate and entertain. “I love horror, suspense and adventure. The rush one gets when reading an Alex Cross by James Patterson is great. I love biographies as well. Randy J. Taraborelli is a legend. It is a personal dream of mine to write a great biography someday.”

CPT

Rudi Smit Choreographer

Boyfriend be choreographing for stars like Danny K, Willow and Jaden Smith and Loyiso Bala, y’all! You know you’ve made it if you’re the FIRST South African to be teaching dance at the prestigious Debbie Reynolds Company (which he is). What’s the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you? Being laughed at by majority of the boys in high school when it was announced in assembly that I had received my provincial colours in dancing. I felt so embarrassed.

Berita Khumalo Singer

This Zimbabwean-born songstress has enchanted South African airwaves with her single “Thandolwethu” from her first album, Conquering Spirit. Raised in the Eastern Cape, Berita only discovered her love for music at eighteen, since then, she has won Best Afro-Pop Album at the Metro FM Awards 2013. Talk about hitting the ground running.

Advice for aspiring musicians? Have a vision, pray about it and be patient. Take things one step at a time and trust it will happen.

How DO you speak South African? Currently residing in Canada, Mzanzi-born, YouTube sensation Caspar Lee teaches the world that local is lekker, my bru. With over 9 million views, Caspar somehow managed to turn talking about nothing into a business... Ja ne!

CPT

DBN Ludwick Marishane Inventor/Entrepreneur

Minnie Dlamini TV/Radio Personality

Dynamite comes in small packages and #MissMinnie proves this. She has graced our TV screens in local soapies such as Rockville and The Wild, entertains our weekends on Metro FM, and is also the face of Revlon’s Fire & Ice, Motions and Jeep. If all this isn’t enough, this likeable personality won Glamour’s readers’ choice Woman of the Year. “When you stay in your lane, the race progresses @ your pace & you become a happier person! #MissMinnie”

All of us know someone who is afraid of water and allergic to soap, right? RIGHT? Ok, this might not have been what inspired UCT Business Science student, Ludwick Marishane, but his “dry-bath” system is an answer to some of our prayers. Designed primarily for people living in poorer communities with limited access to clean water, “dry-bath” is a skin gel that conveniently substitutes as a full bath. “Not bathing all weekend for the DryBath #NoBathing Weekend. Enjoying my natural pheromones.”

JHB

Siyabulela Xuza Scientist/Inventor Bogosi Sekhukhuni Artist

A man of his times, quirky and creative Bogosi experiments across the visual arts, from sculpture to video. He joined artist Spoek Mathambo at this year’s Design Indaba, presenting South African visual culture in terms of fashionart-music-design. The Stevenson gallery exhibited his work “In the Night I Remember” (mixed media video installation) earlier this year. “I believe the arts have a major role to play in reimagining our identities, addressing the burdens of our broken past and being responsible to history.”

INVENTORS/ ENTREPRENEURS

He created rocket fuel that was safer, cheaper and more effective than the one used by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). NASA named a frikkin’ planet after him (called Siyaxuza; at night it’s near Jupiter). It’s completely natural for you to feel lame right now. And yes, he’s studying engineering at Harvard University. “I was chasing the roar of a Cessna plane dropping election pamphlets over Mthatha”- Siya, describing the moment he first fell in love with science, as quoted on www. America.gov.

PMB

Caspar Lee YouTube/Entrepreneur

“Why do people even password protect their WiFi? Jesus said you should love thy neighbour.”

JHB

Siphesihle Taryn Madlala Inventor 18 Thanks to Siphesihle and her team at Emulsified Environmentalists, kids in townships aren’t ruining their eyes trying to study with candles (not to mention accidentally burning down shacks). Made from recycled cardboard and foil, the solar-powered Emu lamp won Siphesihle and her team a trip to Portugal, and is in the pipeline to be commercially available. Bright spark! What do you like about innovating products? That they might become a permanent solution to a lot of people who cannot afford some sort of high maintenance lifestyle.

DBN

Mbali Ntuli Entrepreneur/DA Youth Leader

Raised by a taxi-owner dad, Mbali found herself in the line of fire (literally) more times than she cares to recollect. Her family lost everything when her dad died, but Mbali courageously took over the business and has proved that young women can do whatever they put their minds to. Speaking of crossfire, this thick-skinned lass also acts as the DA youth leader in SA. What do you like most about the taxi industry? There is a real

Feature | Cover Story sense of community among taxi owners. If a taxi owner passes for instance, the others will raise or collect funds to make sure the deceased’s family is taken care of.

PTA

“Hlangz” wants to fight the good fight for quality education and equality, believing we have (some) good systems in place, but are derailed by poor implementation. Who said young people weren’t into politics?

JHB

COMMUNITY/CIVIL SERVICE

Candice Andisiwe Sehoma Community Developer 20

CPT Regina Kgatle Inventor

UCT Engineering student Regina believes you shouldn’t have to own a Macbook for learning to be fun, and proves that one person’s trash (literally) is another’s treasure. Regina used e-waste (disposed electrical parts) to create an educational arcade machine. The machine’s syllabusbased educational games are a great reminder that learning isn’t confined to the classroom. If your house was on fire, what three things would you take? My phone to tweet about the incident *hides*. Rooibos to calm me down. My bible!

GRJ

Joseph Rautenbach Inventor

This science boffin created a public Twitter-based rating device called Service Star. Customers send a tweet to the device (mounted on a wall at the establishment being rated) with a rating out of five stars. The device lights up the appropriate number of stars to show the average rating. Restaurants, B&Bs and even government institutions can be rated by the public in an easy transparent way. “Service Star was a great success - I’m thankful for all the positivity.”

1 st

OUT OF THE BOX

Wandisile Nqeketho Community Developer

Don’t be mislead: Wandisile may hang with gangsters, but he uses his connections for good. Aside from co-founding 18 Gangster Museum with Siyabulela Daweti (a gallery of artworks by former prisoners that tells the story of gangsters in Khayelitsha), Wandisile also runs Ilima Cleaning and Recycling, an initiative encouraging township residents to collect recyclable material which they exchange for shopping vouchers. What obstacles have you had to overcome to get to where you are? Having people closest to me disapprove of me doing business. Thanks to good mentors like Mr Luvuyo Rani and the Raymond Ackerman Academy, I managed to overcome that and distanced myself from negative people.

“I went to a good school, Waverley Girls’ High School. It was embarrassing to bring my friends home because I knew what kind of toilets they used. In their families they have wellequipped toilets. Not like ours.”

DBN

Hlanganani Gumbi Politics

Michaela Mycroft Activist

Some of us give to charity or spare a coin for the homeless guy in our street, but how many dedicate their lives to those in need? Born with cerebral palsy, Michaela “Chaeli” Mycroft is an activist for the rights of children living with disabilities in South Africa. The Chaeli Campaign raised R1 million in funds towards purchasing motorised wheelchairs for disabled children. Props! “Always believe in yourself and know that you have gifts the world needs.”

Being the youngest municipal councillor in the country is no joke, and neither is being the founder of the Rhodes University DA Students Organisation.

For more on our cover stars livemag.co.za/25 Behind the Scenes youtube.com/LiveMagSA

“Had a great few days off, start training today! so motivated to get better and improve myself!”

If you thought studying medicine at UCT was difficult, imagine graduating 3rd in a class of 171, then working as a doctor at the Chris Baragwanath Hospital (in Jozi), studying a law degree through UNISA and running the MH Foundation, providing learning resources to disadvantaged kids. I’m light-headed just thinking about it. But Vuyane did it all. AND features in local and international films in his free time. Man insists on leaving nothing for the rest of us. Complete the question: “I can’t believe that I...’’ I can’t believe that I am where I am today, and my journey is just beginning.

26 Spring 2O13

CPT

This Gold Medalist made his mark last summer after simultaneously crushing the ego of and beating reigning Olympic Medalist, Michael Phelps in the Men’s 200m fly. As if this wasn’t enough, Chad also went on to pick up Silver in the 100m fly in London. He won the FINA World Cup in 2011, and topped the Men’s 200m fly at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Show off much?

DBN

Chad Le Clos Athlete

If you’re on Oprah’s Power List, you know you’re doing something worth bragging about. Candice Sehoma is not only an ambassador for One Young World, she is also the founder of Building Blocks Foundation, which minimises the use of chemical toilets in the Alexandra township. “Faeces-flingers”, take note.

What is a major misconception about politicians? People always associate me with tenders. Sometimes ladies will date councillors in the hopes of getting a tender. It’s actually quite funny to watch.

JHB

Vuyani Mhlomi Doctor/Community Developer

THABISO, YOU’VE COME A LONG WAY.

NOW LET’S GO EVEN FURTHER. 140 BBDO_808210_E_LIVE

After hard work, discipline and saving, Thabiso Mda was able to start his own tailoring business. A business that has since grown from strength to strength thanks to his endless ambition, and a little help from Metropolitan. With expert advice and a range of investment plans, education, life, health and funeral cover, let’s make sure you go even further.

For more information visit www.metropolitan.co.za

LIFE

FUNERAL

E D U C AT I O N

RETIREMENT

H E A LT H

Metropolitan, a division of MMI Group Limited, an authorised financial services provider

INVESTMENTS

Feature | Fashion

Say goodbye to winter with our wonderland of styles and palettes sure to brighten up your closet.

“Curiouser and Curiouser” 28 Spring 2O13

MAIN PAGE: Dress @Sitting Pretty R590, Shoes and headband Modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own THIS PAGE: Bird chiffon dress @Mungo & Jemima R470, Necklace @Accessorize R269, Hat @The Little Hattery R3200, T-shirt @Henry R300 Navy chinos @Boasten Society R799, Blue suspenders Stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own Falling down the rabbit hole. livemag.co.za/alice

ABOVE: African print bag @Accessorize R349, Waist shorts @Sitting Pretty R400, Pink shirt @Jay Jays R229, Bangle @Accessorize R149. LEFT: Grey t-shirt @sportscene R129, Red shorts @sportscene R349, White sneakers Stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own, Green shorts @sportscene R349, Tiger-print t-shirt @sportscene R149. BELOW: White dress @Spilt Milk R590, White hat @The Little Hattery R850, Red lace dress @Spilt Milk R498, Gold head-piece & bracelets Stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own, Yellow chinos @Henry R650, Blue t-shirt @Henry R300, Babatunde cap @Boaston Society R199, Red hat @The Little Hattery R500

Fashion

ABOVE: White dress @Mungo & Jemima R650, Head scarf @Accessorize R189, Necklace @Accessorize R199

Stylist & Words Buhle Mweli | Photographer Fezile Jack | Designer Simphiwe Zuma | Assistant stylist Sivuyile Nkunkumana | Photo assistants Patrick Simba and Phiwokuhle Budaza | Makeup Caitlin Killassy, Rifqa Kalla | Models Sikelelwa Beyi, Cherwin Petersen, Saskia Riley, Irvine Bosha, Tracey Southgate | Props ChiChi Interiors | Location Deer Park, Cape Town Behind the Scenes youtube.com/LiveMagSA

Feature Dan Halter, Vote With Your Feet (2013) Found plastic mesh bag with custom woven tartan fabric Image courtesy of Whatiftheworld / Gallery

CURATING AFRICA Type the phrase “African art” into Google. What do you find? Walt Disney’s Lion King? Obscure-looking sacrificial masks from indigenous tribes, or small symbolic statuettes of spirit gods? So what is African art, if even Google can’t define it? LIVE investigates. Words Khabazela Mkhize | Design Simphiwe Zuma

32 Spring 2O13

ombarded by every kind of article, essay, exhibition press release and website that has ever been authored on the matter, you’ll find that so-called African art is defined by everything from geography to inspiration. Some deny it exists. So what IS African art exactly, and what does the art world make of this categorization? African art is obviously difficult to classify. First off, who is included or excluded? An African artist who lives and works in Africa is an obvious starting point, but what about those who travel between Africa and other parts of the world? Or even those who have never been to Africa but whose heritage is African and whose work is inspired by and/or reflective of this endowment? And what about white Africans who come from Europe? Do they have as much claim to be included in the category as their black counterparts? “I tend not to think about it in terms of ‘African art’ but more in terms of art from Africa,” writes Maria Varnava, Director of London’s Tiwani Contemporary Gallery, in an email. “The reason for this is when you use a broad term like ‘African art’ it makes it seem like one homogenous ‘thing’ instead of acknowledging not only that Africa is not a country, but a continent with 54 different countries. I also feel it feeds into the audiences’ misconception of what this ‘African art’ is, i.e., not experimental, not conceptual, ‘tribal’, ‘ethnic’, masks, feathers etc,” adds Varnava. Active for almost two years, the Tiwani Contemporary Gallery held its first show in December 2012 and has since been well received by the London art world and the general public. “I feel that the challenges we face [as a gallery] are not that different from the challenges faced by any young gallery. I would assume that one thing we really wanted to establish from the outset is that we are not an ‘African gallery’, but simply a gallery that has its remit and area of specialisation in contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, like other galleries have their remit,” writes Varnava, who grew up in Lagos, Nigeria. “Sub-categories to me are more interesting than broad umbrella categories,” says Lerato Bereng, curator at the Stevenson contemporary gallery in Johannesburg. “you will find a lot of artists that are working with Dadaist principles but living in Africa; [so] what relationship does that have with Dada-influenced works that are happening abroad?” asks Bereng, referring to the European avantgarde movement that, responding to the horrors of World War I, desperately sought a clean slate for humanity.“To try and separate between us (Africa) and them (the west) is problematic, the whole world is making art,” comments Daniel Halter, a Zimbabwe-born

multimedia artist now living in South Africa. Bereng agrees, adding: “There are pros and cons to categorizing by geography. ‘Contemporary South African art’ is a broad term – I wouldn’t say there is anything particularly South African about it, but then again, what is ‘South African-ness’?” the curator asks. Artists – both in Africa and abroad – who have been given the “African” label, are often uncomfortable wearing it. “Definitions are always problems, people don’t fit nicely and easily into specific boxes,” notes Halter, whose work explores ideas of fabrication [innovation] and the issues of post-apartheid Zimbabwe and South Africa. “The work I do, I hope it gets people to ask questions. I don’t try to shove an agenda,” he says.

“To try and separate between us (Africa) and them (the west) is problematic, the whole world is making art” Contemporary African artists have faced difficult struggles, especially when confronting prevailing misconceptions and prejudices about Africans and Africa.These stereotypes are further fostered by pervasive efforts to categorise art from Africa in conformity with Western aesthetic criteria. Every aspect of African culture is, in some way, stamped by that of others. “In Italy I had an exhibition in Milan where I don’t think people understood

the work at all. There was a catalogue to my work, which a professor wrote something on. He kind of got the meaning wrong, he certainly misunderstood a couple of things,” recalls Halter of his exhibition, Never Say Never, which featured a collection of maps woven from a shredded telephone directory, shredded $1 000 Zimbabwean banknotes and gold-coloured thread. How useful are shows and exhibitions solely dedicated to art from Africa that are taking place outside of the continent, and are they necessary? “I think it is useful and necessary. Tate Modern in London recently opened two extremely important exhibitions: Benin-born Meschac Gaba’s Museum of Contemporary African Art and Sudanese-born Ibrahim ElSalahi’s A Visionary Modernist,”Dyangani Ose, curator of International Art at Tate Modern and co-curator of the El-Salahi show explains in a recent interview. According to him, the necessity comes from the need to create “a more inclusive narrative of art history”. Lerato Bereng offers another view: “The problem with art fairs that isolate African art is it becomes a difficult position depending on how it is placed. Doing an art fair of African art in Europe just seems like a curial box [craft shop] kind of thing. It exoticises the art. What I think is a more interesting position is an international conversation,” she asserts. Art, African or otherwise, has existed for time immemorial, inspiring humans all over the world since people can remember. So if art is universal, should we not then be striving as humans to grasp its intrinsic meaning? The geographical interpretation of any piece of art seems useless.

Serge Alain Nitegeka, Obstacle 1. (2012) Paint, wood. Installation Image courtesy of STEVENSON

Feature

Are You Man Enough?

am a Zulu man, and in my culture circumcision is not really important. It doesn’t really matter if you do it or not, or where one chooses to do it,” says 25-year-old father and founder of Joy House Entertainment, Mpho Khumalo. Khumalo refers to the beliefs in groups like amaXhosa and amaNdebele that circumcision is a required step to manhood. “As a person who grew up in the city, [circumcision] doesn’t contribute towards my manhood. It’s a choice I took to prevent STIs, and it’s also a contributing factor towards my hygiene,” adds Khumalo, who underwent medical circumcision in a hospital when he was 17-years-old.

Words Polly Sekwala & Relebohile Nephawe | Design Simphiwe Zuma

In South Africa, many men undergo circumcisions within hospitals. But for cultural reasons, others still prefer being part of a larger initiation rite performed by elders. According to 2012 World Health Organisation (WHO) report, Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision

“I

LIVE investigates whether circumcision practices should still be performed the traditional way or if it’s time to take a modern approach.

34 Spring 2O13

for HIV Prevention, male circumcisions can reduce female-to-male transmission of HIV and other STIs by 60% (circumcision prevents growth of some bacteria living on and around the foreskin of the penis). If treated with care, a medical circumcision wound normally heals within six weeks. In the mountains, where no medical attention is available once the cut has been made, the wound must heal by itself. According to the WHO, in nearly half the cases, unhygienic conditions lead to infection.

“I would have remained a boy in the family if I hadn’t gone through with it” Each year during the school holidays – June to July and November to December – teenage boys in rural areas lose their lives at initiation schools due to infection from circumcision, as well as dehydration and hypothermia. In July this year, the Mail and Guardian reported that 27 boys had died at an Mpumalanga initiation school since the beginning of the year – a number which increased over the following weeks. Although there is a general lack of information on the subject, the same article stated that the Eastern Cape Province reported 323 initiation-related deaths between 2008-2013; an additional 126 boys were forced to have “genital amputations” due to circumcisionrelated infection. “I don’t necessarily think the deaths are that high. The media just loves to blow things out of proportion,” comments 22-year-old Xolisile Qwesha, a confident modern man still grounded to his roots. “Things aren’t as bad as they are portrayed in the newspapers,” states the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) student. “I prefer traditional circumci-

sion. For us amaXhosa people, this is a very cultural matter,” Qwesha explains. Indeed in the Xhosa culture, circumcision makes a boy a man. Circumcision is not only about getting the cut, but about the initiation process as a whole. Talking about what happens during the initiation is taboo, but Sibusiso Gaca, a 20-year-old Witwatersrand (Wits) University student spoke to LIVE about the lead-up to his initiation.

Tshepong Hospital in North West. The health practitioner goes on to explain that the procedure is not 100% safe even in hospitals. Patients can experience excessive bleeding, wound infections and increased risk of meatitis (inflammation on the opening of the penis). Outside of medical facilities, traditional circumcisions can result in the same complications, as well as gangrene (leading to the loss of the penis) and death.

Having defied his mother’s preference that he get circumcised in a hospital, Gaca chose to go to his home village in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, for his initiation. “It’s crucial to respect other people who don’t believe in circumcision, even though Xhosa society doesn’t regard you as a man if you haven’t gone through it,” insists Gaca, who identifies himself as “a true Xhosa man”. He continues: “Having grown up in a fatherless household basically influenced my decision. I would have remained a boy in the family if I hadn’t gone through with it.”

Risks aside, circumcisions performed in a medical environment – Medical Male Circumcision (MMC) – is normally very safe (only 1- 4% experience complications) and has been identified as important to public health, due to its role in HIV prevention. “MMC is now part of the HIV prevention programme,” Dr Libina says of the two-hour procedure. Because traditional circumcision does not always remove the entire foreskin, those with the traditional cut cannot rely on it for the same HIV prevention.

Gaca was the focus of the documentary Ndiyindoda, where he shared his experience of the journey of initiation. He admits he was scared to lose his life in the bush, and conquering that fear meant he could conquer anything else in the world. Knowing that he could survive the experience boosted his confidence. “Traditional male circumcision varies across South Africa,” Professor Robert Thornton, a medical anthropologist from Wits, elaborates. “Some cultural backgrounds like the Zulus do not necessarily practice the tradition. Even with Jewish men it is not a sacred practice.” He concludes that the whole process of getting the cut is about being brave and courageous, as well as establishing identity, protection and respect from society. “To many people, circumcision is more than getting the cut. It is associated with culture, tradition, the ceremony and manhood,” agrees Dr Limakatso Libina, who founded the Gola Monna (or “grow man”) Clinic, at the

Celebrating culture and heritage is crucial to us as a diverse country, but when a cultural practice threatens lives, we must evaluate how we are doing things. The bridge from being a boy to a man must be crossed. But we still ask, is your manhood defined by the cut?

What you should know: • Some South African cultures believe in initiating young girls; i.e., the Zulus perform “Umemulo” and the Venda culture have the “Domba”, where female elders discuss womanhood with young women aged 18-21. • All government hospitals perform circumcisions for FREE! ZuziMpilo Medical Centre (Johannesburg) Email: info@zuzimpilo.co.za Call: 0860 467 456 Men’s Clinic International (Cape Town) Email: internet@mensclinic.co.za Call: 021- 421 8720

Feature

TILl home affairs DO US PART Illegal marriages and partnerships may seem like a convenient quick-fix, but the problems that come with them could ruin your life. LIVE investigates. Words Chido-Vanessa Dandajena | Design Lauren Smith | Photography Andy Mkosi The nature of their union appeared unusual at the start. An Egyptian of 17, caramel skin creased with premature responsibility. His alleged wife-to-be strode in at his side: a full-bodied local woman of 54, disinterest plastered on her face. Her rigid movements and his darting eyes betrayed their discomfort before the immigration consultant who would test the authenticity of their union, and hopefully vouch for them at Home Affairs. “How long have you been married? Are you living together?” The immigration consultant fired a series of sharp questions at the “couple”. The woman shifted and shuffled in her seat. The tension in the room increased with every question. Only a few minutes passed before anxiety gripped the young Egyptian, causing him to flee from the office straight into the arms of a waiting immigration officer. Cape Town immigration consultant and former Home Affairs employee, Gerrit Janse Van Rensburg relates this experience across a boardroom table. The result of the young Egyptian’s attempt to illegally marry a local for residency? Deportation and a possible fine. “Partnerships of convenience are what we call these unions, where people enter into relationships with illegal foreigners to acquire permanent residency,” explains Janse Van Rensburg. According to StatsSA, the total number of documented immigrants in SA in 2012 amounted to 142 833; of that total, 1283 received permanent residency. However, simply being in the country won’t grant one the same rights enjoyed by citizens. “Many foreigners come in as asylum seekers first,” says Janse Van Rensburg, “then they get into partnerships of convenience.” There are various types of temporary visas/ permits that can lead to permanent residency in South Africa: work permit, asylum seeker permit and spouse permit, i.e., marriage and/or life partnership. In order to qualify for the life partnership visa the couple – one of whom must be South African – needs to provide proof of a genuine union. That means shared financial resources and/or assets, as well as shared accommodation. After five years of compliance to the above criteria, applicants are eligible for permanent residency. Although this seems like a lengthy period, the life partnership visa is also the only visa that allows applicants to study, work and even start businesses while waiting to acquire residency status. Consider Lucia Benson*. A lively woman from

36 Spring 2O13

Rome, Italy, 30-year-old Lucia was backpacking when she met South African Mark Adams*. Having spent a brief time together, she didn’t think much about Mark until months later when he surprised her with a week’s visit to Rome. When the week was over, Mark suggested that Lucia return to Cape Town with him. So she did. Lucia fell in love with the city and decided she wanted to stay. There was no talk of marriage or a lifelong commitment, Lucia admits, but she and Mark entered into a life partnership so she could get a visa to work and live in the country.

be for anything from a lump sum of money to rent payments or something as simple as using a phone. “I gave my name away for a cell phone contract,” Janse Van Rensburg quotes a young South African woman from Khayelitsha, who said this after a raid by Home Affairs. “As long as he pays the rent, I don’t care,” he continues, recalling the woman’s incident. The going rate to “rent-a-spouse” is R2 000 to R10 000. The trend is for foreign men to marry local women from poor communities. According to Janse Van Rensburg, foreign women rarely seek to “rent-a-husband”, although it’s not an impossibility. In any situation, entering a foreign country and looking for a wife/husband to rent can prove a tricky task. According to Janse Van Rensburg, there are discrete networks and links of informants, largely controlled by South Africans.

“I gave my name away for a cellphone contract”

“It was not an intense decision and we were both comfortable with it. I didn’t think about it too much,” says Lucia. It was easy to complete the required documents with personal and financial details because she and Mark were friends and trusted one another. The fact that Lucia was staying with Mark at the time helped create a picture of a genuine union. Although Lucia and Mark weren’t strangers, they had no clear intention to remain together as life partners or to actually get married. Five months later, Lucia has settled well in Cape Town, earning a solid income with plans to find her own place, despite the fact that shared accommodation is a requirement for a life partnership visa. With over four years remaining before she can claim residency, Lucia does have concerns that should her friendship with Mark end, he could cancel the life partnership visa. Mark may have simply wanted to help a girlfriend stay in SA, but for others the lure could

These partnerships might seem like the perfect deal, but the punishments are steep: the foreigner can face potential fines, jail time and deportation, while South Africans can face charges of “aiding and abetting”, with 15-years jail time, fines and emotional distress. The last may sound silly, but the development of attachments and creation of families are not uncommon. “I’ve listened to many local women... cry about how their husbands have left or disappeared after they had a child together,” says Janse Van Rensburg. Relationships that start off as business arrangements sometimes evolve into real unions. “Often, after the five years are over, the [foreign] men run away or divorce the [local] women, and immediately after gaining residency bring their own families [into the country].” Partnerships of convenience are illegal and the consequences are potentially detrimental for all involved. Their existence is testament to the desperation of many immigrants for a new home and of locals for money. But in some cases, it’s just people taking the easy way out. Lucia might have to stay legally bonded to a partnership she no longer wants. The young Egyptian likely ended up deported back to the country he fled. All of these people, no matter their motivation, sacrificed a piece of freedom for a visa. *Names changed to protect identity.

Live Politics | Regulars

POppIng the cherry

Born frees: Will they embrace the freedom they were born into and vote in the 2014 national elections? LIVE found out.

Words Abel Dantyi | Design Simphiwe Zuma | Photography Phiwokuhle Budaza South Africans born after 1994 are referred to as “born frees” and they will be voting for the first time in 2014. According to Statistics SA, almost six million South Africans will become eligible to vote for the first time in the 2014 national elections. According to the Independent Electoral Commission, only four out of 100 born frees in the Western Cape are registered to vote. At 15%, the Eastern Cape has the highest number of born frees registered to vote out of all nine provinces. About 10% of teens are registered to vote across the other provinces. LIVE spoke to seven born frees aged between 18- and 19-years-old around the country. From Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape, to Dobsonville in Johannesburg, to the suburbs and townships of Cape Town, LIVE asked whether these young minds will take part in the polls and why. “I will vote because I want to experience the excitement that comes with voting,” said Zukani Kota from Samora Machel township in Philippi, 20km from Cape Town. A few streets away, aspiring computer scientist Malusi Ndindwa said he fears if he doesn't vote he will not get job opportunities. This was what elders in his community had told him. Ziyanda Futshane from Khayelitsha said

angrily, “There is no difference: my mother and sisters vote all the time and still I don't see change.” Futshane lives in a shack in Makhaza with no proper sanitation. In the southern suburbs of Cape Town, Marcy Williams* lives with her family of three. Williams told LIVE that she can't wait to vote for her favourite party. “I am going to vote for the Democratic Alliance (DA) because unlike the African National Congress (ANC), they are not corrupt,” she said, refering to recent allegations of ANC President Jacob Zuma spending over R200 million on his Nkandla mansion. Unlike Williams, Emmanuel Satram* is voting for the ANC, a party he said keeps its promises: “I will vote for the ANC because they fight against drug-use by holding anti-drug

“There is no difference: my mother and sisters vote all the time and still I don't see change”

forums.” Emmanuel lives in Mitchell's Plain, a community infamous for drug problems and gangsterism. In rural Transkei, Sabelo Nobomvana, an aspiring biochemist, is unsure whether or not he will vote. “If the government could give us science labs at school so we could do chemistry experiments, maybe I could change my mind and vote.” Over in Dobsonville, Soweto, vibrant ANC- supporter Khalipa Ntuga says she is going to vote for the ruling party. “I will vote for the ANC because I want them to build schools in rural areas and deliver basic infrastructure like housing in townships like Alexandra.” Oyama Gambula says she will vote for the ANC because it always wins elections. She is from Nyanga township in Cape Town, where gangsters roam the streets. In exchange for her vote, Gambula wants the ruling party to provide security and protection by having police officers patrolling the streets at night. Born at the dawn of democracy, SA’s new voters have freedom and choice in the palms of their hands. Will they use it?

*Names changed to protect identity

Leaders or Looters? Get the full picture.

Power, influence, selflessness, money? What drives and guides the people who decide the future of South Africa? Tune in to eNCA to get the full picture and find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really going on.

No Fear. No Favour. eNews Channel Africa DStv 403 United Kingdom: Sky Digital Satellite Platform 517

Real Life | Feature

Ghetto Justice

For the poverty-stricken community of Nkanini in Khayelitsha, mob justice seems to be the only option of dealing with crime. LIVE investigates. Words Matthew Alexander | Design Keagan Hendricks | Photography Andy Mkosi

handi*guides me along a dirt path barely wide enough for two people to pass. “Yes, they beat up a gangster and they burned him. You want to see where?” She points to a field where a group of children have begun a game of soccer. We are in Nkanini, on the outskirts of Khayelitsha, about 30 km from Cape Town, where anger over crime has manifested in the community resorting to “mob justice”. My guide is a woman in her late 20s. Wellbuilt and casually dressed, Thandi’s own tragedy has yet to be avenged. We continue through the narrow streets, passing shacks crammed together, outside toilets and a polluted well where three children play. “You see on this side there is no street... There is no light, it is not safe,” Thandi explains, pointing down a dark path where shrubs loom, blocking all light. “My cousin was killed,” she says out of the blue and with surprising nonchalance as she walks ahead, leaving me to catch up. Earlier at the soccer field I had met two students. When asked about the man who had been burned here, one backed away, reluctant to talk about the events he had witnessed. But the other willingly said: “I didn’t agree with it. They [the mob] should’ve called the police first.” I now continue with Thandi away from the field towards the busy main road of Nkanini to question other

residents about mob justice. Everyone I approach seems to know something, but no one will say anything. “I heard about it but I wasn’t there” sums up the common response. A BBC News article of 2011 quotes South African police statistics showing that “of the 46 killings committed on an average day in South Africa, 5% are a result of vigilantism”. The community here seems separated from the rest of the world. I see police along the main roads, but “they cannot patrol between the shacks because inside here there are no streets. No van or ambulance can go in,” Thandi confirms, picking up the pace as she takes me to the place her cousin was killed.

“They’re aware that if they do something, they’re going to be moered (beaten) by the community.” Arriving at a shack, Thandi enters a room by crawling through a tiny gap in the wall. She emerges with a picture of a beautiful young woman with a bright smile. “This is my cousin who was shot. They said ‘rape each other’, but she said ‘I can’t’... So they shot her. She died immediately,” Thandi says as she points to the place in the shack where her cousin was murdered. She explains how her cousin and some friends were hanging out when a group of guys arrived and demanded the women sexually violate one another or be killed. “They [the community] didn’t find the group because it was too late. So what I did was go to the

For more info visit:

South African Human Rights Commission: www.sahrc.org.za Young In Prison: www.younginprison.org.za

police,” Thandi continues. A case file was opened, but nothing has happened. “I don’t know how people can come and attack them [the perpetrators]. But the community doesn’t like these skollies (gangsters),” Thandi vaguely comments when asked for her opinion on the community possibly taking revenge against her cousin’s killers. She points to the far end of the train line. “The skollies come from that side, from Mikasa, to cause trouble on this side. Others from our side can cause a little trouble, but they know the community. It’s not easy for someone who’s staying here to cause trouble,” she says with a stern look. “They’re aware that if they do something, they’re going to be moered (beaten) by the community.” On that same day I catch up with social justice activist, Nkwame Cedile, from Khayelitsha, who last year protested against vigilante killings by going on a nine-day hunger strike. In the same year he also joined fellow activists who staged a protest by standing outside Parliament with tyres around their necks, depicting the horrendous act known as “necklacing”. Cedile’s jovial nature contrasts sharply with his words when he speaks about mob justice.“Before we can necklace, let us ask if these [perpetrators] had all that they needed as children to become fully fledged adults?” Cedile believes that poverty and terrible living conditions are part of what makes people resort to drastic measures. Though he agrees that crime is a problem, he also believes that “it is unfair that our community is dripping with the blood of its own children”. I leave Nkanini to return to my cosy home in the suburbs, filled with despair and anger. I hope that Thandi finds true justice: in the police and the courts. Justice that is void of violence. I also pray that the residents of Nkanini, and other areas where vigilante justice is happening, find a better solution to their troubles. Solutions such as proper roads as well as better services and policing. All these things will take time to achieve, but they are possible and must be done. Because when someone is forced into a corner, they’ll do anything to get out, even if it means harming their own people. It’s up to the community to draw the line so victims don’t become perpetrators. *Names changed to protect identity Taking the law into your own hands. Yay or nay? livemag.co.za/vigilante

Feature | Brought to you by Metropolitan

IT PAYS TO SAVE Despite sharing the same Zodiac sign, twins Khanyi and Mandla could not be more different. Words Sivuyile Nkunkumana | Illustration Mo Hassan | Design Lauren Smith

s kids Khanyi was lil’ miss goody two shoes, constantly praised for her academic achievements, while brother Mandla was evel knievel, always getting into trouble and thriving on being anything other than his twin sis. No surprise that these two had different strategies putting the cap on their cash. Khanyi being a maths boffin uses her mathematical ability and predicts her financial future. She sees early on that she shouldn’t trash her cash on the typical womanly pleasures she so desperately desires. The expensive spa visits, the R2 000 weaves and her compulsive shoe fetish are merely defaults on her path to living that high life she pictures for herself. In her last year of university, aged 20, Khanyi lands her first job as a financial assistant at a top accounting firm, earning a salary of R10 000. She decides to start saving, and promises to put aside R300 every month on an investment that will give a 10% p.a. return. Consistently saving, Khanyi knows her small sacrifice now will mean a big reward in future. Like a down-payment on the Golf 6 GTI she so desperately wants (not to mention being able to subsidise her desperate craving for shoes). Meanwhile Mandla is making a name for himself as a graphic designer, earning good money in freelancing gigs for magazines like GQ. However, he chooses to follow the lifestyle endorsed by famous “You Only Live Once” (YOLO) rapper, Drake. Unlike his sister, he fails to consider his financial future a high priority, thinking that saving is only for old fellas and family planners. He blows his cash on the latest bling, Ice watches, Vans sneakers and if his wallet still looks solid, happily liquefies what’s left on club hopping. The twins hit 25. Khanyi is now engaged to a hot shot lawyer who worships her, devotedly satisfying her expensive tendencies and spoiling

40 Spring 2O13

her rotten at every opportunity. They met at her first job, and she is already thinking about a house with her hubby to be. Her investment since age 20 has left her in high spirits, as her fund is now worth R450 – the beginning of a contribution towards that dream home. Mandla has made it big in the magazine industry, but has yet to invest in anything as he is too blinded by his own excessive obsession for living the high life. He has already fallen into the credit trap, and has made many upscale purchases – the latest HD television sets, plush leather furniture – that frankly he cannot afford on his budget. At the age of 30 Mandla sees the light when the twins’ father passes, and he realises he has no savings to help his mom out. After all the out-of-sight purchases he’s accumulated, obtaining a loan to help mom isn’t an option. Mandla decides to cash his stash in, and save R300 every month in an investment similar to sister’s, which thanks to the great interest rate, is now already worth nearly R20 000. At age 35, Khanyi’s fund has reached R39 844. This saver happily envisions the life of stability for her and her family. Though disappointed to realise his fund was only worth R20 071, Mandla -- who went from big spender to keen saver -- has decided to settle his funds on a comfortable flat he’s had his eyes on. Khanyi continues to save until the age of 40, when her fund has grown enough that she can just leave it to do its own thing. Mandla, however, has to continue his monthly deposits until the age of 60 (yes, the land of 60 seems miles away in a future with flying cars and robot dogs, but...it really just may arrive). From robot dogs all the way to a land occupied by ancient beings with white hair and wrinkles, the twins -- now 60 -go to cash-in. Wanting to help her two grandchildren pay for university, Khanyi is overjoyed to find that after all her years of saving her investment has paid off with a grand total of R71 826. Mandla, who has enjoyed

his bachelor life and was hoping to spend his retirement travelling abroad, was less than excited to discover that at R32 401, his fund was less than half of Khanyi’s, even though he had saved ten years longer than his sister (and with the exchange rate going crazy, that wasn’t going to get him the dream holiday he had imagined)! The secret behind investing is starting early and enjoying the benefits of compounding interest (i.e., letting your money work for you). Khanyi was smart enough to realise at an early stage that investing her money meant a higher reward in future, despite the sacrifices she had to make. When Khanyi was 40, she already had a good savings base that continued working for her. Because Mandla was too busy living in the moment and only thought to save when he was 30, at 40 he was still busy trying to build a reasonable amount in his investment. Moral of the story: the sooner you start saving the better. A wise person once said “procrastination is the thief of time”. In this case, the more you procrastinate the more cash you waste! So stop misbehaving and make haste on those savings! If you are unsure of how to start an investment or savings plan, Metropolitan’s financial experts can give you a step-by-step guide to helping you get started. Follow us on Facebook at: The Metropolitan llYF

Calendar Savings Plan January

February

March

April

Time of the year when the expenses for your child’s education must be paid. Apply for an education plan today to secure your child’s future education.

Everything begins with a plan and it’s never too late to start. A financial adviser can give you sound advice to help you manage your money and guide you to choose the right products that you can afford.

Would you be able to afford the same lifestyle when you retire? Save towards your retirement every month so the you can enjoy your golden years.

Accidents are a fact of life. If you are travelling this Easter, be sure to protect your income by considering a hospital plan to cover daily living expenses.

May

What will happen to you if you become disabled and can no longer work? Disability cover helps take care of your family even if you are disabled.

September Spring clean your finances. This is a good time of year to review your financial goals and see if you are still on track. Meet with a financial adviser.

July

June

August

Winter brings lots of rainy days so avoid “isikoloto” by ngo “cash”. Start saving every month for that rainy day when you need it most. Metropolitan offers you different saving products to help you save for your goals.

By putting something small away every month, your big dreams can come true. Speak to a financial adviser to help you choose a savings plan to suit your needs.

This is a month to honour women. As a woman, you are the pillar of strength in your household. Use this opportunity to strengthen your finances and secure your family’s future by taking out life cover.

October

November

December

A decent funeral can cost you up to R30 000. Put a little extra money away every month to ensure a dignified funeral for your loved ones. By doing this, you can be prepared for the unexpected.

Top Ten Saving Tips: ♦

Stop making excuses for not saving.

♦

See a qualified financial adviser.

♦

Prioritise your needs.

♦

Cut down on your expenses.

♦

Set yourself a financial goal.

♦

Use credit carefully.

♦

Pay off expensive debts first.

♦

Teach your children to save.

♦

Shop around before you buy.

♦

Save for your retirement.

Planning a holiday trip? Remember to pack your income protection cover when travelling long distances. Your family will be taken care of even if something happens to you.

Your December bonus is on the way. Pay “isikoloto” first and put some money aside before spending all of it this festive season. Give yourself a gift and save towards making your big dreams a reality.

win

yourself a blackberry & your SCHOOL a tv & dvd player! Metropolitan is sponsoring some awesome prizes to the value of R3O OOO! TVs, DVDs and BlackBerry You could win by answering this easy question:

How much money did the twins put aside, every month when they started to invest?

> email YOUR ANSWER to win@livemag.co.za

“It’s never too early to start getting the correct financial advice from the right people. Metropolitan has been serving South Africans for over a century”

Rules

1. The judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into 2. Prizes are not transferable and may not be converted into cash 3. Staff members of Live Magazine, Metropolitan and the sponsors and their immediate family members may not enter 4. The competition is open to readers in South Africa 5. Any incidental costs are not included in the prize 6. The prize is valid for six months from notification. The closing date for entries for this issue is 16 December 2013 and no late entries will be accepted

Terms & conditions apply See www.livemag.co.za for more info. Visit our mobile site at www.livemag.co.za and youtube.com/livemagsa for more tips and more chances to win. Entries close 16 December 2013. In Association with

Metropolitan, a division of MMI Group Limited, an authorised financial services provider

Feature

Lost in Translation

A recent UKZN language policy requiring every first-year student to learn Zulu from 2014 has caused a stir. LIVE asks why the fuss and what are the language policies at other universities? Words Chireez Fredericks | Design Lauren Smith | Photography Patrick Simba

outh African universities have committed themselves to multilingualism to help preserve our country’s indigenous languages. According to Stats SA, isiZulu is the most widely spoken language in South Africa, with a little over 23% of the population using isiZulu as a home language, followed by isiXhosa at 17% and Afrikaans at 13%. English, although the dominant medium of instruction, is the home language of only a little over 8% of South Africans. The stats make it clear that in order for any individual to function in the SA linguistic context, they should have basic communication skills in at least one African language. But when the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) announced this May that isiZulu would be a compulsory course for all firstyear undergraduates, regardless of the subject they choose, a negative response came from students and academics alike. According to Independent Online (IOL), 60% of people in KZN are first-language Zulu speakers. UKZN student, Ashveer Arjeeth (23) posted his disagreement with the policy on the UKZN Facebook page on May 16: “How can UKZN make such big decisions without doing proper research and getting feedback from their students? On what basis was the decision made?”

“Learning in Afrikaans is hard, and as an Englishspeaking student I hate it” The university believes that all first-year students enrolled from 2014 onwards will have developed some level of isiZulu proficiency. This does not, however, mean the university will become a dual-medium institution. The University of Witwatersrand (Wits) has had experience with diversifying its language policy. In 2003 it implemented Sesotho as a second language because Sesotho is the home language of 11.3% of the student population. According to the Wits Vuvuzela, a Wits journalism school publication, this effort failed. Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Yunus Ballim was quoted in the article as saying: “I think it’s fair to say the document failed. In its intention it was noble, but in its practical implementation sense it was ill-conceived. It is in serious, serious need of a rewrite.”

42 Spring 2O13

The University of Cape Town requires all firstyear medical students to either take Afrikaans or Xhosa. Third-year medical student Siphosethu Ntshinga (23), whose home language is isiXhosa, believes that the language policy at UCT aims to help students become better doctors. “As a doctor you need to be able to understand your patient in order to help them, and in the Western Cape the most spoken languages in public hospitals are Xhosa and Afrikaans,” says Ntshinga. Although required to study Afrikaans, he supports the language policy at UCT. Stellenbosch University has been teaching its students in English and Afrikaans for just over a decade. “The university enforced its multilingual language policy in 2000, which aims to develop linguistic diversity because students who enroll at Stellenbosch are majority Afrikaans-speaking. They are therefore given the same opportunity as English-speaking students,” says Professor De Stadler, director of The Language Centre at Stellenbosch, refering to SU’s policy that Afrikaans remain the primary language of instruction, with accomodation made for English (and isiXhosa to a lesser extent).

Cape Town-born BCom student at Stellenbosch, Candrin Atkins (21) says, “Learning in Afrikaans is hard, and as an English-speaking student I hate it.” Atkins explains that in her class of over 200 students, lecturers use both English and Afrikaans powerpoint presentations. “Some lecturers speak both English and Afrikaans to help the English students. Also, questions are answered in the languages they are asked in,” says Condrin. Mark Einhorn (25), a PHD maths student from Zimbabwe, whose home language is English, said he found it daunting at first: “I was worried because the main medium is Afrikaans. But I was lucky because most of my courses were mathematically orientated.” Mark says that success depends on the student and whether or not they are willing to apply themselves. Professor De Stadler says that language can form a barrier to learning, but those who “actively participate in bilingualism are empowered both socially and academically. Any language poses a problem to those not speaking it. The question we should be asking is how do we deal with this problem?” Take It Or Leave It youtube.com/LiveMagSA

Ajax Cape Town’s rising star Stefan Van Neel

Sports | LiveStyle

Words Kyle Prinsloo & Fezile Jack | Design Mohamed Hassan | Photography Andy Mkosi

LIVE sat down with 21-year-old Stefan Van Neel and got the 411 on his life as a professional football player for Ajax Cape Town. Keep an eye on this up-and-coming soccer player peeps!

What do you do for Ajax? I’m a goalkeeper. I’ve been one since I was 10, playing for the Ajax Cape Town Youth Academy. Last season I was one out of seven development players who were promoted [to the first team for Ajax Cape Town].

What is your best soccer memory so far?

Stefan Van Neel, 21

Which South African goalkeeper do you admire?

I have a lot! When I was 16 years old... I played at the Metropolitan Bale Cup Tournament in Belhar [It’s a prestigious U19 tournament in South Africa] and we won it. I played with a dream team, which involved Daylon Claasen, who is in Europe now, and Thulani Serero, who is playing for Ajax Amsterdam. That’s probably the best memory – playing with those guys.

I’m a fan of Itumeleng Khune; he’s the Bafana number 1 [goalkeeper]. He displays very good football skills on the pitch and, in my opinion, he deserves to play in Europe. He is probably one of the world’s best. And yes, I would play for Bafana Bafana – no shame.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

I haven’t really thought about that because I’ve been in Ajax my whole life, but I’ve heard that a Capetonian going into another province is very hard. I have a lot of friends who play [in other provinces]. They say it’s a totally different ball game. I’m happy where I am right now.

Being promoted to first team. It was always a childhood dream of mine to play professional soccer.

What is your biggest dream for your career? My biggest dream has to be playing for my country because being selected for the national team means that you’ll be playing at the highest level of football and could compete against some of the worlds best players. Also, by being selected, you are recognised by your efforts and hard work. Being a national player would mean that I did something right. I would only want to make my country proud.

If you weren’t playing for Ajax, who would you play for?

Where have your travels taken you as a soccer player? In 2006, I was selected to play in the Dallas Cup in America. In 2009 I was afforded the opportunity to play two tournaments in Holland and one in Japan. In 2010 I went to Switzerland and Germany to play tournaments as well. In 2012, I played in one of the most prestigious youth tournaments in Amsterdam in which my team came fourth. I’ve been to quite a few places.

FUN FACTS ABOUT STEFAN VAN NEEL - Sports an outlined African continent tattoo around his left elbow and also a portrait of Jesus on his right forearm. - Won a meet-and-greet competition with Snoop Lion(previously known as Snoop Dogg) when he performed in CPT. - He is, as of recent, a golfing enthusiast. - Loves partying, but prefers to call it “just enjoying the music”. - Aspires to be like his eldest brother Bevan Moleveld, who is in the music industry. - Loves his family and would put them first no matter what. - His mantra is, “One life, one chance”. - He is single and ready to mingle, ladies!

THREE OTHER AJAX PLAYERS YOU SHOULD BE EXCITED ABOUT: They are Franklin Cale, Dominic Isaacs and Nathan Paulse, all former players for Ajax Cape Town. They were re-signed recently and form part of the core team of experienced players who will help to hopefully bring home the trophy for this season’s Premier Soccer League.

Blow for blow. Can you take a punch? livemag.co.za/boxbox

LiveStyle| Brought to you by CONNECT ZA

OK,SHAP!

Now that winter has passed, we finally have a chance to bloom. LIVE has assembled the must-do events for spring. You can thank us now. Words Khabazela Mkhize, Fika Msengana, Relebohile Nephawe, Sivuyile Nkunkumana & Khotso Tsaagane | Design Keagan Hendricks

fnB JoBurg arT fair 27-29 September, Sandton Convention Centre Artlogic will run its sixth edition of the Joburg Art Fair at the Sandton Convention Centre this September. The fair will exhibit popular galleries like the Goodman, alongside newer ones such as the Sibisi Art Gallery. This year the fair will explore more African and European inspired galleries, including art houses from England, France, Spain, Germany, Mozambique, Nigeria and Zimbabwe. [RN] Tickets: R15 scholars R50 Friday, R100 Saturday or Sunday www.fnbjoburgartfair.co.za or: info@artlogic.co.za

Maloof Money Cup 27-29 September, Kimberley Since its inception in 2008 in Orange County, California, the Maloof Money Cup has been the event of the year for skateboard aficionados worldwide. In 2011 the Maloof brothers decided to host the world competition outside of the US, on a mission to bring skateboarding to communities worldwide. And so to the approval of every plank pusher in SA, the world’s greatest skateboarding event came to Kimberly. It’s been two cool years since the first Maloof Money Cup at the Big Hole. All trucks and decks will head to the Kimberly Maloof Skate Plaza for the 3rd instalment this September. The opening ceremony includes a charity concert. The main competition event includes a men’s pro-street event, men’s provert event, an amateur street event and an amateur vert event, all at the Maloof Skate Plaza. A festival village where you can camp and chill will also be available. You can also check out the Maloof’s Skateboarding for Hope Tour, rolling through cities around the country in preparation for the main event. [KM]

www.maloofmoneycup.com/ Tickets available online and at the door Weekend passes R50

44 Spring 2O13

fuTure MusiC series September - November, Cape Town and Johannesburg

LIVE spoke with one half of 2 Bears, Raf Rundell

Since July, the British Council Connect ZA and LiveMagSA, in association with sShadoworkSs, have been hosting a new series of live music events in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The series, #FutureMusic, aims to connect the creative communities of the UK and South Africa. Some acts to grace the stage include the UK’s hottest producer Actress, and a handful of Mzansi’s globally admired acts including BLK JKS, Zaki Ibrahim, Okmalumkoolkat and Dirty Paraffin.

• How would you describe your sound?

The next shows will take place September 20/21 and November 8/9 in Johannesburg and Cape Town, respectively.They will feature acts like the UK’s 2 Bears (featuring Hot Chip’s Joe Goddard). [KT] For more details, check out: www.facebook.com/ livemagsa.

Loose house music from London.

• What kind of music are you influenced by?

Absolutely everything. The sounds on the streets or in the trees. We love house, hip hop, reggae, soul, drum ‘n bass, country, rock, disco and jazz. Even the bad stuff is influential in its own way.

• You recently remixed Rita Ora, whom would you like to remix next?

Hmmmm, tricky question. We’re just about to remix house music godfather, Todd Terry. We’re pretty pleased about that.

• What do you know about the SA music scene?

Woefully little. I’m planning to get busy and do some serious research ahead of our trip to SA. We know about BLK JKS, and I was introduced to the music of Thandiswa Mazwai recently. She seems cool. www.the2bears.co.uk/

Future Music Video youtube.com/LiveMagSA

CTRL, ALT-J

Rocking The Daisies 3-6 October, Cloof Wine Estate, Darling Rocking The Daisies Music and Lifestyle Festival is back: bigger and better. For those who have rocked the fest before, start flexing those thumbs in anticipation of tweeting and instagram-ing every memory. New to the festival? Welcome. Artists like Spoek Mathambo, The Plastics, Alt-J and Beach Party will rock the four stages. Having sold out last year, the festival has added more space, bigger arenas and obviously, top quality local and international music. And don’t stress about food, drink or getting bored between shows – a large food village, a trade market and a tasting hub for wine enthusiasts are all available. Only 15 000 tickets are on sale, so with all this added awesomeness, act fast. Prices range from R200 (exclusive of Festival Show) to R700. [FM] Visit www.rockingthedaisies.com for more details Or check Rocking The Daisies Facebook page and Twitter @RockingTheDaisy

4th SHNIT INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL 2-6 October, Labia Theatre, Cape Town

After winning awards and featuring at music festivals like Coachella, Alt-J are back to Rocking The Daisies once again. Leeds-based Alt-J has been turning heads in the UK with their non-conforming rock sound. Their rapid rise to fame, with little to no record label promotion, is true testimony to the power of quality music and word of mouth. Check them along with other UK headliners Skunk Anansie and The Hives at this year’s festival. [FM]

kiRsTenbosch summeR conceRTs 23 November - 6 April, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town

Kirstenbosch summer season is almost here. Highlights this summer include the Parlotones and Mi Casa, and Goldfish is set to headline for New Year’s Eve. The concerts are a great Sunday afternoon jol in breathtaking surroundings. Arrive early as good spaces fill quickly. [SN]

Tickets: R90 to R145 (adults), R65 to R115 (age 6 to 21 years). Tickets will be available at: www.webtickets.co.za

Future filmmakers and regular movie lovers: dim the lights and get your popcorn ready as Cape Town gears up for the International Shnit Film Festival. Showcasing some of the best international and local short films, Schnit 2013 is also setting up camp at the Rocking the Daisies Music Festival. This year there are over 200 imported films as well as local talent on the lineup. Opening night will include previews of all the films that will be screened, and a show-stopping after-party. [SN] Tickets available at the Labia Theatre. R30p/p per screening (R150p/p for weekend passes) R20p/p per screening for students and pensioners (R130p/p for weekend passes) Rocking the Daisies music festival guests get free access to the Shnit film fiesta tent,where screenings will be broadcasted all day.

connectza.tumblr.com/

LiveStyle | Live Sounds

GOSPEL ROOTS

Gone are the days when gospel music evoked visions of robed choirs belting out archaic songs. Today the genre blends hip hop, kwaito and many other sounds. LIVE unwraps some of SA’s gifted gospel-influenced singers. Words Buhle Mweli | Design Lauren Smith | Photography Patrick Simba, Mabusi Cebekhulu & Fezile Jack Spha Mdlalose

This 24-year-old vocalist is a member of the gospel band New Breed Africa, established by American gospel sensation Israel Houghton. Winning South African Jazz Idols 2011, and sharing the stage with local jazz greats Sibongile Khumalo, Neo Muyanga and Sibongile Mngoma are just some of the accolades this sultry-voiced UCT graduate can claim. “I’m focusing on performing and I’m hoping to release an album in the near future,” says this refreshingly unassuming artist, who insists that her biggest achievement thus far is doing what she loves – singing and playing piano. Facebook: Spha Mdlalose

Kurt Dodgen

At just 23, this University of the Western Cape graduate has released a self-produced EP with six incredible songs. Not only a songwriter, vocalist and producer, Dodgen also plays drums, guitar and keyboard. His sound can be described as contemporary (Christian) rock. “I want my music to be a church resource for praise and worship, but also a source of upliftment for every person who listens,” says this versatile artist. www.kurtdodgen.com Facebook: Kurt Dodgen (Artist Page)

Skye Wanda

With her attention-grabbing rhymes and soulful voice, Skye (who has shared the stage with LIVE cover stars Zaki Ibrahim and OkMalumKoolKat) stands with the best of gospel/soul artists. “I rhyme and sing about God, social ills, love and ubuntu,” says Skye, who is recording an album with her Durban-based band, Encore. Skye, who got her start rocking Zulu gospel medleys, continues to root her music in the genre for its positive message. Facebook, Soundcloud and ReverbNation: Skye Wanda Twitter: skyewanda1

46 Spring 2O13

Album Review: For You Khaya Mthethwa, 2012 One of the few SA Idols’ winners who has maintained the musical momentum afforded by the competition, Mthethwa released this debut CD in 2012. Before he found fame on Idols, he was known for his work with gospel group Joyous Celebration. Mthethwa’s first single, the chart-topping “Move”, was a pleasant surprise with its distinct R&B, neo-soul sound.“This Love”was one of my favourite tracks - it has that soulful sound that made millions fall in love with this vocalist initially. His arrangement of Nicki Minaj’s “Superbass” gave me Idols nostalgia, while the powerful original composition,“That’s The Way God Planned It”, paid lyrical homage to his gospel roots. Mthethwa’s melodic vocals are motivation enough to give this one a good listen, and all in all, you won’t regret taking this 13-track disc to the till.

Ten minutes with the prince of gospel PK (pastor’s kid), first black Idols’ winner, Clash of the Choirs’ choirmaster and winner, and gospel artist: all titles Khaya has earned. The one that matters most to him, however, is “musician”. LIVE caught up with the 26-year-old Durbanite on his musical journey. What does gospel music mean to you? A way to communicate God’s love to us. It’s a force and a medium of encouragement. What is your favourite track on your debut album For You? “That’s The Way God Planned It”. I did a cover of that track in Joyous Celebration, it was amazing. And track 4, “This Love”. I really love that track. I wrote 60% of the tracks on the album. Many people know you for gospel music. Do you see yourself releasing a gospel album anytime soon? Absolutely, March 2014. A lot of musicians get boxed, but I want to be versatile. Fundamentally we are artists. We should be allowed to express ourselves in any form that is relevant to us. If your house was burning down, what three items would you not leave behind? Laptop, cellphone and my

watches. I am a watch fanatic, but I’m not going to tell you how many watches I own (chuckles). Your greatest stage moment? In Nigeria in December last year [2012] when I performed to a crowd of over half a million people at The Experience, the biggest gospel concert in Africa. What’s the one thing that you would like our readers to know about you? We [as the youth] normally want things to happen overnight for us. What does happen overnight is preparation. If there’s one thing people don’t know about me it is that I spend sleepless nights preparing myself, so that opportunities don’t meet me unprepared. It’s easy to see someone successful, and judge them. You don’t know what happens behind the scenes, before the fame. Twitter: @khayamthethwa Facebook: Khaya Mthethwa Listen to these versatile gospel stars: livemag.co.za/gospel1

At the Movies & Live Reads

The Comic Era

You won’t mind hitting replay for these visually epic comic book adaptations. Words Chireez Fredericks | Design Keagan Hendricks

Sin City

300

X-Men: First Class

Batman: The Dark Knight

2005/ 124 minutes/ Diretor: Robert Rodriguez/ Orgin: Frank Miller’s Sin City/ Rating:

2007/ 117 minutes/ Director: Zack Snyder/ Origin: Frank Miller’s 300/ Rating:

2011/ 132 minutes/ Director: Mathew Vaughn/ Origin: Kirby and Lee’s X-men/ Rating:

2012/ 152 minutes/ Director: Christopher Nolan/ Origin: Bob Kane’s Batman/ Rating:

Sin City explores the scandalous lives of the seductive women and rugged men caught up in the violent corruption of “Basin City”. This brilliant adaptation’s nudity, vulgarity and gripping fight scenes are disturbing and intriguing. Mostly black-andwhite, the film pops with colours: blond hair, red blood and green eyes. Taming the explicit content, Rodriguez still places you inside the fantastic comic book world.

Bad-ass King Leonidas leads 300 buff Spartans into battle against the heavily pierced Xerxes and his army of 300 000. A sepia effect was added to the movie, giving it a washed-out yet brutal feel. Striking colour compositions – the Spartans’ blood-red capes, a gold streak of light in the gloomy sky – set the overall feel of this timeless adaptation. This artistic action film is definitely one for the books.

Set during the peak of the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, this prequel to the original X-Men trilogy focuses on the relationship between Charles Xavier (Professor X) and Erik Lensherr (Magneto). Drifting from the comic’s original outline, Vaughn focuses on shape-shifting characters, teleporting and telekinesis, and blends the sci-fi genre with a distinctively retro 1960s feel.

The second instalment in Nolan’s Batman trilogy, The Dark Knight sees Batman’s hopes of handing over his crime-fighting duties thwarted by the arrival of the clown prince of crime, the Joker. Nolan’s stylistic choices of low lighting and dramatic shadows – scenes are often dark or lit only by dim street lamps – add to Batman’s mystery. The Dark Knight established a strong visual standard for superhero flicks.

Manga Manga Biz Iconic Japanese comic books for beginners.

Aries

Naruto

Fairy Tail

Bleach

Written & Illustrated by: Fuyuki Rurika/ 2012 - ongoing/ Rating:

Written & Illustrated by: Masahi Kishimoto/ 1999 - ongoing/ Rating:

Written & Illustrated by: Hiro Mashima/ 2006 - ongoing/ Rating:

Written & Illustrated by: Tite Kubo/ 2001 - ongoing/ Rating:

Aries is a modern adaptation of the Greek tale about the love between Hades (god of the underworld) and Persephone (daughter of Demeter). Aries’ style is straightforward – almost plain – yet visually appealing. The narrative is a clichéd love drama, but it is a great manga to start with if you like romance.

Naruto follows the story of boy ninja Naruto Uzuamki, whose rough childhood makes him constantly need to prove himself. Each character’s personality is depicted super realistically by Kishimoto’s great illustrations of facial expressions and by their emotional back stories. A fun, action-driven ninja series.

This series centres around the Fairy Tail guild: a club for humans with magical powers. Members go on various adventures to complete missions, like killing monsters or fighting dark guilds for money. Great characters include Happy the Cat (comically lovable and poking fun of everyone), and Erza, a strong female warrior who changes armour mid-battle! Clear illustrations make this manga easy to follow.

Bleach follows the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, who gets the powers of a soul reaper. With his newfound powers, Ichigo defends humans from evil spirits and guides deceased souls to the afterlife. Though the first few chapters drag, the great artistic style makes up for it. As the manga progresses, artistic details are added to the characters, making their appearances change in amazing ways.

Where to find manga: livemag.co.za/mangamanga

Watch the movie trailers here: livemag.co.za/comicmove

LiveStyle | Live Jabs

African Time Tired of coming up with excuses for your tardy ways? Words Kyle Prinsloo | Design Keagan Hendricks | Illustrations Lauren Smith Why are you still conspiring grand lies for your “late coming” when the universe has equipped you with a term so effervescent, so “Amandla”, it just pops off the tongue with African pride: African Time™ (T&Cs apply. Countries on other continents are ineligible to use or abuse this African-only concept.)

African Time for Africans! So let’s be clear and cut-throat about African Time. African Time applies to all the born-free and born-captive people of Africa. Yes! I’m talking about us blacks, whites and coloureds, and maybe Indians (rumour has it they’ve got Indian Time, which is basically when blabbing on for hours makes one late). To the rest of the world and “foreign nationals” residing in Africa – including those who’ve been living here for longer than they should – NO, this does not apply to you! We thank you for contributing to our economy by bringing all your dollars and pounds and touristy ways, but it’s our time, literally! It’s Africa’s time for African Time.

The by-laws and sly-laws of African Time Examples where you could use African Time to your advantage: When your boss calls a meeting for Tuesday (possibly the most boring day after Monday) that you know will be a snooze-fest (you overheard bossypants talking about reviewing and analyzing statistics of the latest survey blah-blah). So what if you miss that meeting that could have gotten you a promotion? Wednesday just feels like the perfect day to start work. We all work better when Friday is around the corner, am I right? It’s called compromise, heads-ofcompany, a cornerstone of African Time.

Clocking into work at 9am to avoid that “three strikes and you’re out” lecture seems like a violation of your rights. Coming in at 10 is totally doable and doesn’t collide with your life – definitely the most sensible solution. So what if there are people dying to have a job like yours where they don’t have to be at work at 6 and get paid next to nothing. They should look harder. For the rest of us, African Time is our national right! (And you can always blame the bus. Late buses fall under the by-laws of African Time too. Still working out the kinks.Y’know, African infrastructure and stuff.)

African Timekeeper

And so is African Time...

African Time is totes shap shap when you use it – it just feels right. But joh! When other people use it, pull out your African Timekeeper Card. You need to keep your peoples in check about what you expect, when you expect it. I mean, what happened to work ethic and dependability? They need to understand how things are and you need to show them! But not now. Maybe later when you’ve got some time.

Being the worldly trendsetters that we Africans are (yes, we are! Look at Beyoncé stealing OUR Pantsula moves, or OUR rhythms popping up in international pop songs), we’ve branded the whole late-coming saga. Gone are the days when lying about delayed trains, bumper-to-bumper traffic and tending to your bed-ridden grandma were reasons for tardiness.

African Time (Ah-free-can tie-ym): Substantiated tacit reasoning for a practice engaged in by people indigenous to Africa when partaking in events that don’t benefit them, which allows them to withhold time they believe could be spent more wisely, by still partaking/engaging in said event, but at a (usually later) time that better suits them (derived from the Latin, Africanus lateivus).

48 Spring 2O13

When your lecture is at 2pm – right after lunch – and you’re still having an awesome chill sesh with your homies. Strolling in at 2:20 is way more convenient (and necessary to quench your thirst for gossip). Missing the most vital part of bookkeeping and can’t balance ledgers? With African Time, there’s always next year, and you might just be late for that too.

An era of enlightenment is upon us. African time is here and now! Let’s put our problems of land reform and corrupt officials aside – we can deal with them later. It’s time to salute the active-lazies, rebels-without-a-cause, independentminded and next-level-isht people we are for evolving the greater scheme of African life! Amandla to us! Amandla to African Time! Is there a way to avoid AT? livemag.co.za/clock

This piECE oF pApEr CoulD TrANsForM your liFE Make this piece of paper into anything you want. You can snip it at the dotted lines. You can make a hat. A boat. Why not make a building? Or a negligee? It’s up to you. Design it and transform it because that’s what World Design Capital Cape Town 2014 is all about. Once you’re done, take a photo and post it to our Facebook page - facebook.com/wdc2014. The most transformative design will win 2 VIP tickets to a gala event, where you will be able to mix and mingle with some of the most creative and forward-thinking designers. Transform this piece of paper, you could transform your life*.

E C

*Terms and conditions apply. Competition closes 31 October 2013.