AN HIV/AIDS UNIT INITIATIVE
AUGUST 2021 | EDITION 18
Rachel Kolisi, a woman leading the change The Rachel Kolisi Q&A event far exceeded my expectations. I knew the event would be a success, but I did not even begin to fathom how big it would be. The amount of engagement the event during the promotional was truly amazing and this allowed for over 300 people to join and witness me interview one of the most influential women in South Africa. Initially I was extremely nervous, especially at the beginning of the interview but as I conversed more with Rachel, her calm and gentle nature and tone really helped in making me more comfortable. The goal for the interview was to feel more like a conversation, just two people talking and that exactly how I felt. A highlight for me were the questions I asked Rachel, of which she would comment “Oh that’s a great question”. The questions really helped in steering the conversation to topics that Rachel was clearly passionate about such as the Kolisi Foundation and the work they do related to contributing to the fight against Gender-based Violence and helping victims, as well as global social issues such as poverty. Another highlight for me was when she touched on the racial discord in South Africa and how people need to be more educated about these topics. BY AMAHLE KUBHEKA PR Intern
1
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF UNIT Melanie Marais
Whenever I think of the word student, few words that immediately comes to mind are: growth, endurance and drive. Why? Being a student is one of the biggest achievements one can attain, despite many hurdles that comes your way. Students are open for learning new things, you dream of growing greater heights in your careers and to top it all, you have to do all this while facing so many challenges almost on a daily basis. It is always rewarding therefore, to see our students
eventually graduating, going into the workplaces and flying high the names of the family they were born in, their schools and universities. Besides the challenges there is also a lot of good in where you find yourselves in higher education. You meet many new friends, in some cases your life partner, you learn the art of survival, you can access support services at absolutely no cost to you as a student, something that is denied many out there. These support services include academic support, Student Counselling, health care and student and leadership development. My encouragement to you is to cease every moment.
Use every development opportunity that comes your way. Believe in yourself. If others could do it, you can. That was and still is my motto. Make it yours! Remember to take care of yourselves, be selfless and protect those around you by wearing a clean mask every day, covering both mouth and nose, sanitize your hand regular, go and wash your hands and stay away from areas where people disregard social distancing. This too shall pass as long as we all work together. Lastly, encourage your family members to get themselves registered for the Covid-19 vaccine. Remember this vaccine is safe for use. It will not stop you from contracting mild Covid-19 infection but research has proven that it will stop you from severe illness, hospitalization and loss of life due to Covid-19. Take care.
Continued from page 1
“You’ve got to take responsibility for yourself in that space, it is a decision” Especially on how topics like systematic racism need to be discussed more in schools so that young people are more educated and can therefore think critically about the world around them and thus how to behave in a society that is so diverse in race and culture. I also loved how she mentioned the effects of
2
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
social media on mental health and how it’s the users responsibility to consciously make the decision to stay off social media if it affects their mental health i.e “You’ve got to take responsibility for yourself in that space, it is a decision” and these words really spoke to me because going back to the article on Social Media and Mental health on the CPUT HIV Units Facebook page, this sentiment rings true. If social media is affecting your mental health, remove it from your life. There is no need to accept something that impacts you negatively, in your life.
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
The link between social media and mental health BY AMAHLE KUBHEKA PR Intern
We are all innately social beings. We sometimes feel that we need others to validate us… tell us how beautiful or gorgeous we look. What do we do first after posting a picture or video? Let’s be honest guys. Yes, we check who showed interest, how many likes we got, how many views we got. How do our total likes compare with others? How many commented on our posts. Isn’t it? The truth is we have this innate desire to be happy, accepted by other, at peace and flourish throughout everyday life, and these friendships strongly affect our psychological wellness and satisfaction. Social Media brings a lot to the table. Too much dwelling on social media platforms can affect one both positively and/or negatively. The answer is balance, balance, balance guys. And as we grow to rely more on social media as a society, it is important to remember that actual human interactions and connections trump the satisfaction we get from these platforms. Unfortunately, during this Covid-19 pandemic, for our own health and safety, we had to go into social separation and seclusion. Online media became the most important instrument for keeping us in contact with companions, friends, and family. Social media, when used in access, could however worsen one’s existing pressure, uneasiness, anxiety, uncertainty, and depression. Subsequently it is imperative to be cognoscente of the impacts it has on one’s emotional wellness. We came across a very interesting article that gave us some tips how to take care of our mental health while using social media:
Reduce time spent online & rather engage with others on a face-to-face basis Be aware of the negative emotions you might feel because of social media usage and change your focus from it for a while Switch off your social media time and again and be present with your loved ones Look at life from a different, more rose-colored lens and use social media by sharing uplifting and inspirational content. Source: Lawrence Robinson and Melinda Smith Visit this site to read more https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/ social-media-and-mental-health.htm
If you experience difficulty, depression, anxiety and find it difficult to cope, contact the Higher Health 24-hour Mental Health helpline at 0800363636 and to speak to someone. You can also email StudentCounselling@cput.ac.za for an appointment with one of our Campus Student Counsellors. Remember, instead of a tool used to self-deprecate and cause stress and anxiety, social media can be used positively to uplift yourself and others. Take care.
3
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
The Importance of Inclusivity in the institution BY AMAHLE KUBHEKA PR Intern
Introducing new PR intern As a PR intern I hope to leave a mark and to be one of the best interns the HIV Unit has had thus far. I hope to be exposed to the operations of the industry especially regarding the Unit such as brand development, writing and overall media relations. I hope to grow as a PR professional so that I can use those garnered skills to break into the industry and do amazing things. As a PR professional, my love for social media and the impact it has is growing and I’d like to utilize my professional skills to go into using social media platforms to raise awareness about important issues such as mental health and promoting a plant-based lifestyle as I am transitioning vegan. Although I am still growing and learning as a PR practitioner, I am positive that I will use my profession to impact the world one way or another. BY AMAHLE KUBHEKA PR Intern
4
Equality. That word alone stands for and represents so many people. In the name of human rights and equality, CPUT started a campaign aimed at the promotion of equality and inclusion in the university called “the Safezone”. Under the safezone, the institution stands for zero discrimination against people living with HIV, zero discrimination against people with disabilities, zero discrimination against survivors of gender-based violence, zero discrimination against people with a diverse sexual orientation and zero discrimination against people struggling with mental health. This year, a webinar was held in its honor. The #Safezone #Equalityforall webinar was held by the Division of Student Affairs and supported by HIV Unit at CPUT, with the help of the peer educators of 2021. The purpose of the webinar was to bring together the institution’s stakeholders, namely its staff and students, to provide a platform where participants could discuss the above topics and shed light on why inclusivity is important and needed in university. CPUT representatives were in attendance, and they included representatives from political structures, peer educators; HIV Unit, DSA Student Development Officers and Student Counselling. Keynote speaker Dr Nyx McLean and guest speaker Mr Naythan Kayser were also invited to provide the information necessary to understand the concepts of these topics. Dr Nyx McLean and Mr Kayser provided some important insight on why it is important to be an inclusive university. And the answer is simple, it is the right thing to do. Every person in this institution has their own identity, their own lived experiences, experiences that as a collective we must learn to understand and not just tolerate but embrace. People should have a voice and that voice should be allowed the freedom to speak on what matters to the people. “An inclusive university is an ethical university. It recognizes that exclusion on the basis of identity and lived experience is an act of harm, and so it works to include everyone in its conception of community,” said McLean. The institution in of itself aims to provide this for students. And as with any movement or project, it takes time and work from both the institution and the students to ensure that CPUT becomes a beacon of immediate inclusion. “Each and every student entering CPUT must feel a sense of belonging and experience our institution as a safe zone,” said Melanie Marais, Head of the HIV/AIDS Unit.
#safezone #equalityforall
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
CPUT PEER EDUCATION VIRTUAL TRAINING BY DR NELISWE MALEKA Peer Education Officer
Empowering students to be responsible, well-groomed graduates and future leaders remains key for Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) HIV/AIDS Unit.
wellness and social justice, for example HIV, STIs, COVID-19, sexual and reproductive health, mental health, gender-based violence, diverse sexual orientation, alcohol and substance abuse.
A total of 94 senior students enrolled at CPUT attended a 5-day virtual training early this year to volunteer and serve as peer educators. Prior to the training, a needs assessment was conducted to repositioning peer educators from being providers of peer-peer learning to advisors on planning and designing of the training content and health-related interventions. By doing so, we continue upholding our value “listening to the voices of students to ensure relevance”.
Peer educators were inspired throughout the training sessions and this can be attested by the number of virtual interactive healthrelated activities they have arranged and facilitated, reaching more than 1000 students in the first term. In addition, 4 educational video clips were created by peer educators and are available on HIV/AIDS Unit social media platforms.
“
listening to the voices of students to ensure relevance.
”
Through the training, peer educators were empowered with skills and knowledge to become change agents and be prepared to educate fellow students on various issues that affect them throughout their academic years. Peer educators became exposed to virtual-learning tools and facilitation techniques to conduct peer-peer discussions and awareness campaigns on holistic health,
5
One may ask how do peer educators manage to juggle their studies and peer education programme? Academic and personal goal including wellbeing of peer educators are and will always remain our priority at the HIV/AIDS Unit. As part of the training, peer educators are exposed to academic support services offered by CPUT FUNDANI CHED Student Learning Unit. Furthermore, peer educators have access to student support services available within Division of Student Affairs and are provided with ongoing mentoring and support. Visit our HIV/AIDS Unit social media platforms to keep abreast with peer education upcoming activities, events, and our weekly educational information on health-related and social justice matters.
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
EDITION 17
DECEMBER 2020
FIRST YEARS RISK REDUCTION CAMPAIGN SERIES 1 Become empowered with skills and knowledge to resist peer pressure The Risk Reduction WhatsApp Discussion Series 1 was an eye-opening experience for us peer educators because we had to unpack what peer pressure meant and how it affects one’s mentality, physically and psychologically. This illuminating discussion gave us more insight on Peer pressure. With the pandemic we are experimenting more with these WhatsApp discussions groups as they have become beneficial and informative to us all. Thank you to the HIV/AIDS Unit for giving a platform to discuss such important social issues. BY YANELISA KHAHLELA
SERIES 2 HIV/STI/Unplanned pregnancy #Prevention #SafetyFirst What I have experienced during the first-year Risk Reduction discussion is to know what can be valuable when talking to first year students who are straight out of high school and do not know the risks of being in tertiary school with different students of different ages. I have experience to talk openly to students on how to be responsible or take care of themselves when in a relationship, during their studies and on how to prevent dropping out of school due to HIV/STIs and unplanned pregnancy. I also gathered that many students had questions during the discussion as they wanted to know more about university life, how to make WhatsApp discussions interesting when interacting with students without physically being around them. Some students were participating a lot and sharing their views about the topic, understanding and knowledge. There was significant information and clarity provided on the topic for students to know more. I liked that I was able to learn how to handle / manage group discussions when working with other Peer Educators.
6
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
BY RATSHITIMBA LUFUNO JESSICA
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
SERIES 3 Healthy vs Unhealthy relationships Not forgetting that we do not love the same due to how love was projected on us as we grew up, most of us are just drowning in our own imagination of what love might be because we’ve never experienced it. Which means that amongst all the aspects that might influence our love language, our backgrounds play a huge role. It was such an exciting experience mentoring such an open-minded team in this discussion as they surpassed my expectations. Our topic was “do’s and don’ts of relationships” under the theme of healthy and unhealthy relationships. The way my team did it opened my third eye, and I hope it also opened others as well. For some odd reason, we tend to ignore toxicity when it is done by BY SJOZI BHENGU ourselves and become too quick to judge or point out red flags. Mostly what this discussion did for me was make me look at my own flaws, correct my own wrongs and make sure I am not toxic before I look at another’s faults. Personally, the biggest problem was gaslighting in relationships and that does not only ruin the relationship you are in at that moment but the rest of those still yet to come because now you have this toxic idea of projecting love. The discussion taught lot of us different types of relationships, what to look out for when you are in a relationship (red flags and green flags), introspection quizzes to conduct with other parties in that relationship, and how to move on and later cope after a toxic relationship. I appreciated how the audience interacted and voiced out how they perceive a healthy and unhealthy relationship as it showed how “woke” this generation is and hopefully that is a start of a drastic decline of abuse in relationships due to lack of knowledge.
SERIES 4 All you need to know about sexual and reproductive health
BY SANGE NAMBA
7
I coordinated a WhatsApp group discussion with my fellow peer educators on sexual and reproductive health, where we were recruiting students and planning how the discussion should be conducted. My biggest fear was that students were not going to join since it was Friday, or they will join but not cooperate, surprisingly they did, and I was and still impressed because it was my first time being involved in planning a discussion group. This has had a positive influence on me as a junior peer educator. I take it as a go ahead to even plan or conduct more discussions in the future. I have learned a lot about teamwork as I was working with my fellow peer educators. . We made mistakes here and there, mistakes like taking long to reply or forgetting your role during the discussion, but we corrected each other with kindness, and we remained united.
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
PEER EDUCATION TRAINING FOR THE DIGITAL AGE My experience thus far in Peer Education BY LOURIKA FOURIE CPUT Peer Educator
This past week I have experienced various emotions. Times where I felt I would know everything there is to know about a specific subject I was proven wrong. I grew curious of all we would be discussing as the
number of topics became larger and larger. I was surprised by all the possibilities this program holds and welcomes. I won’t lie there were times I floated away into space and daydreamed of other things to spend my time doing but the speakers seemed to catch me every so often and bring me back to earth. I particularly enjoyed speech and discussion on HIV/AIDS. Even though I was not present for the entire three hours I felt like I learnt so very much. I truly wish I was present during the entire session. My mind was captured and intrigued.
I was also fond of a session about Covid-19. I did not think there would be anything new to learn since we have been listening to Covid-19 updates for over a year now. A facilitator pleasantly surprised me, and I’m delighted that she did. I’ve realized that one never knows enough. There’s always room for more information and learning experiences. I am excited to do my part and share what is important to me. Thank you dearly for your effort and time. It is highly appreciated.
GROWING AS A PEER EDUCATOR BY NIKITA TEMERE CPUT Peer Educator
I have learnt a lot about HIV/ AIDS and how can people protect themselves from being infected with HIV/ STIs and other various diseases. I now know the dangers and consequences of having unprotected sex. I have been sharing this information with my peers on the importance of using condoms. During the training, it was emphasized how the institution offers academic support to students through tutors, library, student learning unit services, e-learning and more. I also liked how we were informed about counselling services offered by Student Counselling. Now I know that a survivor of rape should be taken to a Thuthuzela care center. I also learnt more about COVID-19 and that we should always sanitize and wear our 8
masks. We also learnt that we should inform and educate our families and friends about this virus. During the Friday session, the peer educators were very helpful by showing us how to create an E-portfolio through Gmail. E-portfolio is important as it contains your achievements or anything that will enhance your knowledge. I like that you can play around with it and be creative. It is very important because it can be an advantage when applying for a job because you would have recorded everything you have done. We were also informed about the Amajita’s Men’s Programme and Young Women Empowerment which are great initiatives as both groom young leaders and we
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
can motivate each other, discuss challenges and give input on how to overcome them. The staff members are very friendly and open, answer your questions fully and are very understanding. Even the senior peer educators and mentors are very patient when it comes to explaining everything. I have enjoyed the training; it was so informative, and I look forward to working with everyone to make a change.
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
It always seems impossible until it’s done Nelson Mandela
BY SIPHOSETHU VUKEMNTWINI Peer Educator
Peer Education Programme is one of the best things I have ever chosen for myself. My experience with the online peer educator activities was not bad at all. I know at first, we were conducting our activities physically, which was fun because we got a chance to engage with peers in person. However, since the covid-19 pandemic took place a lot has changed. No gatherings were allowed, we had to do most of our things online. The peer education activities had to be conducted online with respect to the government rules, honestly when I heard this news, I was sad, but when these activities began to happen, it was easy, and the most exciting part is the opportunity it brings through the development of global connections. These online activities provide safe spaces that allow our peers to exchange views and share ideas with people from different places, background etc. It allows everyone to speak freely, have the freedom to learn whatever you want, the comfort of learning from your own home. These online activities help to reach more people as we know that people are always on social media. Peer activities being conducted online is kind of hindrance for me because it happens that sometimes people face connection/network problems. Or it can be that not everyone has smartphones so they cannot participate. But overall a good learning experience.
Condom distribution during Covid-19 o’clock BY CHULUMANCO MADIKWA Junior Peer Educator
The exertion of sustaining the dispensing of condoms during Covid-19 becomes an outlook encouragement to modify among the environment of students. The overall impact of the pandemic has made essential condom distribution not be the main perspective focus. As students keep adapting their way of life under Covid-19 conditions, it is important to always create availability and access to condoms. As newly inspiring peer educators, it has become a challenge to fully interact with our fellow peers on a daily basis. The aim is to make sure 9
that Covid-19 does not distract from condom distribution. The distribution master plan is to ensure adequate prevention measures are followed when distributing condoms. With students not frequently being on campus, condom dispensers on campus have become impractical. One favourable advantage a re condom dispensers at residences. The impact is to remind students to make use of condoms. To be hightoned, fashionable and leads them to openly declare useing them and not to be shy.The magnitude of creating the level of acceptability can only occur through motivating students to use condoms. The culture of promoting condom awareness should not fail due to the pandemic. Despite overwhelming uncertainty of the world, the educational campaign of ‘SAFETY FIRST,
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
IF YOU CONNECT PROTECT’ is one journey that can never end. To uncover the attitude towards condoms and the dispensers. Condom distribution therefore result in low risk of transmitted sexual behavior. The main challenge of not interacting on full time basis with fellow mates has created opportunities to interact and promote condom use on social media to provide the message of ‘SAFE SEX, NO REGRETS’. More surely promoting condom demonstration tutorials through videos and making use of the most relevant social media platforms. It is one of the fundamental aspects to ensure that the activeness of condom distribution programme does not shift focus due to the Covid19 amongst CPUT students. The grounds of condom distribution will surely be an existing procure in educating students about keeping calm and condom ceaselessly.
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
PEER EDUCATORS OF THE MONTH
FEBRUARY PEER EDUCATOR OF THE MONTH Dominica Nadia Walsh
MARCH PEER EDUCATOR OF THE MONTH Liyabona Ginya
APRIL PEER EDUCATORS FOR THE MONTH Kaylin Adams and Lerato Ntantiso
Motivation Corner Message by D6 Local SRC Chairperson Wendy Kondlo From me to you It is a pleasure to be addressing fellow students in this platform, sharing words of encouragement as the D6 LSRC Chairperson. To all fellow students, I hope that this short note motivates you to never stop trying. Following the completion of June exams, to some these results will determine progress to the next level and for others it will be a signal to pull up their socks. In the mist of it all, I want to encourage you to never forget the WHY? Why you registered, why your higher power has brought you this far. I want to encourage you to continuously work towards self-discovery. Self-discovery is a daily duty that brings you closer to answering the WHY. All the best to all my fellow students.
10
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
YWE Rise and Shine: Imbokodo Poems by Bokamoso Matswane I was 7 when I felt the need to be a supermodel. I figured that I could catwalk myself into the heart of the masses. I figured that if I could vibrantly caress the ramp in designer shoes I will then get the respect I know I deserve I mean don’t we all admire flawless skin and a remarkable body At age 11 I realized that being a supermodel had a perfect Resemblance to that Jean one falls in love with at first sight all To find out that it only comes in a size 26 I bought the jean anyway because I can get rid of the savage remain of all the sweet treats that made My heart pump nothing but beats of lonely satisfaction I was 14 when I gave up on my dream I guess that was when reality kicked in. It was then when I had to pass jean On to the skinny descendants of my family. It was then when I found out that I had been a ripe harvest of a family of Real-life giants who could never be a size 30. “Thick thighs save lives” Here I was trying to console myself. At age 18, I decided to be my own kind of model. I mean it was that era where a thick woman Learnt to love herself I learnt to love myself regardless of: My thick thighs that always go to war Before fitting in perfectly. My lump upper body fat that twerks at veery Fast beat my limbs play. And y chubby, adorable face that suggest that I have stuffed two burgers in my cheeks I learnt to love myself.
11
As I am my own kind of model. To the girl who’s constantly haunted By the echoes of negativity and despair. Let your strength glisten On your beautiful skin Like that of a model bathed in oil. Let your crooked smile Warm the surface like It has been ordained by the sun That reminds you to shine bright When everyone else tries to dim your light. Your mirror captures your essence and The scent that your nose hides from the reflection. The thoughts running after perfection Because of the misconceptions Right in society’s perceptions. Your mirror is captivated By the smile you see as overrated. She’s the girl who wears masculinity In its rare permutation of femininity. She’s the Medusa amidst all the negativity Structured against her being’s productivity. She is bliss Beautiful Strong Powerful She is you.
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
We rise as Women The webinar turned out to be way better than I expected. It was a great experience for me personally. I learnt that I need to know my “whys” and my purpose. And I must always remember my “whys” regardless of the different obstacles, trials, and tribulations. We are fertile seeds planted in the roots of the world, which means that we as women need to go out in the world and occupy spaces because we are powerful. I loved every part of the webinar. From the beautiful message of support from our D6 LSRC Secretary, Zimasa Pama, where she gave us some encouraging and empowering word on women occupying spaces in influential positions. To our Junior Peer Educator, Bokamoso Matsawane, who shared beautiful and inspirational poems about body positivity and empowering women. To our keynote speaker, Zizipho Mtyobile, who is a Student Pilot at Bluechip Flight School and One-Day Leader Runner up: Season 8.
There is no force powerful than a woman determined to rise. Our keynote speaker, Zizipho Mtyobile, focused on personal development and how young women can empower themselves, and building confidence in young women. Our Junior Peer Educators, Nadia Welsh & Sinoxolo Zide, facilitated a questions and answers session, where people asked insightful questions and comments that they had on the various topics that were discussed. And our Peer Mentor, Sjozi Bhengu, then did the closing remarks and thanks. Like Dorothy Dandridge said, “there is no force powerful than a woman determined to rise.” This webinar was an embodiment of that sentence. BY GLORY OPEOLU
12
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
LET’S END RAPE CULTURE BY TUMISO MFISA Coordinator of the Amajita’s Men’s Programme and Peer Education Officer Assistant (Intern)
We kicked off the year with a bang, after holding our first Amajita’s Men’s Programme build-up event on Friday, 23 April 2021 Hosted by CPUT HIV/AIDS Unit via Microsoft Teams on a topic of LET’S END RAPE CULTURE. Its Purpose was to educate young men from our own institution and neighboring post-schooling institutions within Western Cape with skills and knowledge on the following: • How young men can empower themselves to influence other men to change their conduct • Role of men in our societies & where we missed the plot • End Rape culture – Unlearning normalized norms The discussion during the Webinar allowed us to reflect on many things we tend to window dress and not talk about. As nothing can be used as an excuse root cause for men’s bad conduct, even though some say it stems from background and community normalized norms. The participants
“Are we missing the plot?” outlined the need to breaching the system which is used at households and by societies to be able to re-educate young boys and men in general about the conduct ensuring that ideas, customs, and social behavior of particular people which makes rape normalized is breached and stopped at an early age.
13
The program director for the Webinar was Mr Xolani Jafta, Mr Sikelela Sinethemba Msizazwe did the welcoming remarks and context highlighting the effect of patriarchal mannerism and that we need to unlearn the structural setting and abolish gender roles that dictate how men are superior to females. A message of support was shared by
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
“Are we missing the plot?” Continued from page 13 the CSRC President Mr Nanga Codana, spoke on building a community of helping one another and reiterated the role CPUT needs to do in order to champion this as we really need to prioritize the education of men conduct and provide support from the top management staff. And that is to lead to the involvement of all students targeting first years and exit level students through departmental dialogues. Our Junior Peer Educator and Amajita’s Programme Ambassador, Mr Kwena Mapuma, spoke on issues that are overlooked, and that we need to continue making such awareness a regular thing in order to have more men on board. Mr Alex Noman who is our former peer educator made emphasis on the role of men in our societies and where we missed the plot. Which became our key point of discussion as we really missed the point on how to conduct ourselves and through the Amajita’s Men’s Programme we will be able to champion that and bring about change as the new man of CPUT. Our keynote speaker Mr Clive Brown who is an Intermediate Phase Studies 2nd Year Coordinator, Intermediate Phase Studies Teaching Practice Coordinator Faculty of Education highlighted the
problem and spoke. The high rate of rape and other forms of sexual violence in South Africa has sparked concern and outrage, leading to law reform, parliamentary debates, marches, and campaigns. It has also led to a range of policy interventions intended to reduce the number of people who fall victim to these crimes (Vetten, 2020). He then spoke of the Bronfenbrenne’s Ecological Theory which outlines the ecosystem and whereas an individual we are put in a societal level. He then mentioned that Schools & Universities need to implement the following: • Inculcate a culture of awareness into their respective programmes (FYE) • Schools and HEI’s need to instill a sense of Ubuntu & Social Cohesion learning in the learners. • Awareness of the cause gives scope to remedying the situation. • A community of practice should be established within HEI’s. The success of this webinar came to a clear direction of continuous engagement and mobilization of potential Amajita’s Men’s Programme Ambassadors. Since we need to have themes which speaks to educate and develop men to have the best conduct, elaborated by Mr Tumiso Mfisa who is the coordinator of the programme when doing Closing remarks. We would also like to acknowledge Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Michael and Susan Dell Foundation and Higher Health for the continued support towards the programme.
14
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
YWE PERSONAL AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT BY APHIWE BOYCE CPUT Communications Officer
in conversation with Rachel Kolisi The HIV/AIDS Unit recently hosted an interactive hour-long online conversation with Rachel Kolisi, who shared her experiences and challenges as a young woman.
Kolisi also touched on the racial discord in South Africa and how people need to be more educated about these topics. She said systematic racism needs to be discussed more in schools so that young people are more educated and can therefore think critically about the world around them and thus how to behave in a society that is so diverse in race and culture.
A brilliant Public Relations Intern, Bonga Kubheka interviewed Kolisi and after the interview, Kolisi “Her humbleness and openness remarked by saying “You nailed about her own experiences and challenges it”. Head of the HIV/AIDS Unit, Melanie Marais said the event as a young woman was commendable was an insightful conversation and it was clear that her intention was and many young women were able to relate to Kolisi’s to build young women during this experiences. Kolisi also shared conversation.” how she and her husband, rugby star Siyamthanda started their foundation and that it was aimed at Kolisi reminded the guests that there was a need reaching out to communities in need. “Her to continue with programmes aimed at developing humbleness and openness about her own and empowering young people. She said this experiences and challenges as a young woman could be through sports programmes and reaching was commendable and it was clear that her out to those young people living in rural areas and intention was to build young women during this ensuring them that nothing can stop them to fulfil conversation,” says Marais. their dreams. Kolisi said that it could also be done by using “our own real-life experiences” to make “The questions really helped in steering the young people understand mental health issues, conversation to topics that Rachel was clearly advantages and disadvantages of using social passionate about such as the Kolisi Foundation media and the importance of making informed and the work they do related to contributing to decision in everything “that we do”. the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) and helping victims, as well as global social The humble Kolisi also spoke openly about her issues such as poverty.” own mental health challenges as a young girl,
15
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
“Social media is accessible to everybody all the time and it is also a decision that you make so if you feel like you can handle what goes on in social media, then, by all means, go for it, but if you feel like it is affecting you in a bad way, get off and stay off”. when she wanted to end her life at the age of 15 years. She also reflected on how important it is to have faith and hope considering how far she came in life. In terms of addressing GBV, she said that at the Kolisi Foundation, they adopted principles by which everyone in their organization lives by. “We will definitely draw on this suggestion and apply it to our own programmes including the Amajita’s Men’s programme,” said Marais. Kolisi said: “It gives you so much joy, you know to see South African beauty [Zozibini Tunzi,] being celebrated…I have chosen to expose myself to learning and a lot of unlearning as well and to challenge the idea of a beauty standard. What is
16
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
that even? What is normal? Who decides what the beauty standard is Who decides what a societal norm is?”
She also reflected on the use of social media. “Social media is accessible to everybody all the time and it is also a decision that you make so if you feel like you can handle what goes on in social media, then, by all means, go for it, but if you feel like it is affecting you in a bad way, get off and stay off”. Marais said this was an important piece of advice because “we know how important it is to have a healthy balance between social media and your mental health”. Towards the end of the conversation, Siya Kolisi came to surprise the guests and greeted them. Marais asked if Siya would consider talking to our Amajita’s Men’s programme and they are open to it, so having Siya at one of Amajita’s webinars is definitely on the cards in the near future.
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
Backing Our Boys BY MELANIE MARAIS
So our Boys made us super proud by bringing back the Varsity Shield. Whoop Whoop!! And supported by none other than a little fluffy adorable yorkie named Panda who cheered our boys on into victory! Panda was SO
excited for the win that she refused to take off her blue T-shirt, specially made by our very own Head of Unit, Melanie Marais. Of course our Boys were kept up to date with special messages all the way from Panda and even thanked her for her support. So guys, let’s go for the Varsity Cup. Panda is right behind you!
Well done guys!
17
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
EDITION 18
18
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
AUGUST 2021
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
What are vaccines? BY MELANIE MARAIS
There are however a lot of myths and fake news being spread about the Covid-19 vaccines. That is unfortunate because those fake news and myths create unfounded fears in those who qualify to be vaccinated and in the general society. Best is to take advice from healthcare professionals or your doctor. There is clinical evidence that the Covid-19 vaccines were researched for its safety, that it can protect you from severe illness, hospitalization and death.
Vaccines have been around for many generations and it is a fact that it save lives!
We will still encourage you to HOD of the HIV/AIDS Unit, busy vaccinating at the new wear mask, sanitize and practice Vaccination Centre social distancing after being vaccinated because you still stand a chance to contract mild Covid-19 and you can still transmit Covid-19 to others who have not yet been vaccinated. They are at risk of getting very sick should they contract it from you. For the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, you only require one dose that is effective within 2-3 weeks after taking it. Remember to keep in mind that if you received the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine, you are NOT fully covered from contracting severe illness. You need the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine for you to be fully covered, effective 2-3 weeks after your second dose.
Below are links to some video clips from reputable sources to assist with answering any question you may have. Remember, safety first! https://youtu.be/CrsnwQZIak8
19
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
https://fb.watch/6nb49aiVOR/
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
CPUT the first university to launch a COVID-19 Vaccination Centre! BY AMAHLE KUBHEKA PR Intern
CPUT launched its COVID-19 Vaccination Centre on 14 June 2021. This Centre is not only open for students and staff but also members of the public who are eligible for vaccination. In addition to this great milestone, CPUT was visited by
20
the Minister of Higher Education, Dr Blade Nzimande as part of the 2021 Youth Day, where he released and shared the results of the Covid-19 study on done the impact of Covid-19 on youth in the PSET sector. The study was conducted by Human Science Research Council in partnership with Higher Health. After that, the Minister along with Professor
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
Ramneek Ahluwalia and the Vice Chancellor, Professor Nhlapo, visited the Centre and handed out certificates to our Covid-19 warriors, our own Peer Educators. Our Peer Educators were called out to lend a helping hand. And they did a splendid job. Meeting the VC was a major highlight for them.
EDITION 18
21
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
AUGUST 2021
EDITION 18
COVID-19
WORD SEARCH
PUZZLE COVID-19 WORD SEARCH
giveaway
22
Antibodies Hygiene Immunity Isolation Lockdown Mask Outbreak Pandemic
Pfizer Quarantine Restrictions Sanitize Transmission Vaccine Ventilator
BE WISE, CONDOMISE
AUGUST 2021
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
Are you feeling
anxious
SAD
DEPRESSED
You DON’T have to deal with this alone. We are here to help you. Contact Student Counselling during the day at 021 460 3237 or 021 959 6182 or send us an email to arrange an online consultation with a counsellor
student-counselling@cput.ac.za
or contact the 24 hour emergency numbers at Suicide Helpline WhatsApp Lifeline
0861 322 322
0800 567 567
063 709 2620
REMEMBER WE ARE HERE FOR YOU +27 (0)21 959 6767 info@cput.ac.za www.cput.ac.za AT H L O N E
23
B E L LV I L L E
@cput @wearecput www.facebook.com/cput.ac.za DISTRICT SIX
GEORGE
G R A N G E R B AY
M O W B R AY
VISIT US TODAY TO KNOW YOUR HIV STATUS!
WELLINGTON
WORCESTER
EDITION 18
AUGUST 2021
IMPORTANT CONTACT DETAILS As the HIV/AIDS Unit, we are committed to ensuring that our readers know where to seek help when needing assistance with daily life challenges. Below is a list of important contact details. HIV/AIDS UNIT
DISABILITY UNIT
CAMPUS CLINIC
Cape Town +27 21 460 4252/3
Bellville +27 21 959 6964
Bellville +27 21 959 2868
Cape Town +27 21 460 9071 disabilityunit@cput. ac.za
Cape Town +27 21 460 3405 Administration Building, Level 2, Room 2.900
Wellington +27 21 864 5268
www.cput.ac.za/hivaids
Bellville +27 21 959 6403 New Library Extension, Ground floor
STUDENT COUNSELLING Cape Town +27 21 460 3237 oliveran@cput.ac.za Bellville +27 21 959 6182
National AIDS Helpline
YOUR HIV/AIDS UNIT
Lifeline
We are here to ensure that students and staff members make informed decisions on their holistic health care and lifestyle. We are committed to providing a safe learning and working environment to protect you from becoming infected with HIV, STI & TB while studying at CPUT.
0800 012 322 011 725 2001 SANCA
Melanie Marais
Head of Unit
+27 21 460 4252 MaraisMe@cput.ac.za
086 17 2622
Rene Williams
Administrator
williamsr@cput.ac.za
Makhonza Boyce
Mobile Wellness Unit Driver
BoyceM@cput.ac.za
Nelisiwe Maleka
Peer Education Officer
malekae@cput.ac.za
Lusanda Naki
Counsellor
mangelel@cput.ac.za
Amahle Kubheka
PR Intern
kubhekab@cput.ac.za
South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Depedence
Rape Crisis
021 447 1467 SADAG
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group
0800 567 567
Reception
+27 21 460 4253
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN JOINING AN HIV SUPPORT GROUP?
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN JOINING THE HIV PEER EDUCATION PROGRAMME?
Contact Melanie Marais maraisme@cput.ac.za
Contact Dr Nelisiwe Maleka malekae@cput.ac.za
Compiled by Bonga Amahle Kubheka Design by Bridgette Hunt
BE WISE, CONDOMISE