Status Update Edition 19

An HIV/AIDS Unit Initiative

DECEMBER 2021 | EDITION 19

Cput Alumna continues to inspire and empower the youth

By Amahle Kubheka PR Intern

On August 7th, 2021, the CPUT HIV/Aids Unit hosted a webinar with guest celebrity, multi-award-winning chef, culinary extraordinaire, entrepreneur and author Siba Mtongana. A woman who continues to inspire the youth of South Africa one recipe at a time.

The questions curated for the interview were based off her being a businesswoman, her career in the culinary arts, her experience in television as well as how her past shaped who she is.

Therefore, having myself the PR Intern granted the opportunity to interview this incredible was not only an honor but an experience that I will forever be proud of.

The webinar was hosted as part of the Young Women’s Empowerment Programmes annual event and part of Women’s Month, thus having a woman such as Siba Mtongana, a CPUT Alumni, come share her experience and advice with the young men and women she inspires was an incredible opportunity.

The purpose of the webinar was to encourage and empower young women and men from CPUT and neighboring institutions on how to build selfconfidence, to trust in oneself and your abilities and to ultimately reach for the stars and work hard to achieve your dreams and aspirations,

DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS | HOSTED BY CPUT HIV/AIDS UNIT

in conversation with Siba Mtongana International multi-award winning chef and culinary extraordinaire, author & entrepreneur.

Join us for an interactive session on young women empowerment & personal and leadership development Date

Saturday 07 August 2021

Time 10h00 until 13h00 kubhekab@cput.ac.za RSVP HERE

by 04 August 2021

Venue via Zoom

REGISTRATION IS ESSENTIAL

Join Zoom Meeting

S ee y ou th er e!

https://zoom.us/j/96619691425?pwd=TGZsOHk5WnhnQjlpT3I1VnpnVS9Ndz09 Meeting ID: 966 1969 1425 Passcode: 702974

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DECEMBER 2021

Message from THE HEAD OF THE UNIT Melanie Marais Dear Students We’re almost at the end of 2021 and I want to congratulate you for making it this far!

If you have to look back at what the past two years offered you, what would you reflect on? I guess one would want to see what we’ve gained, perhaps what we’ve lost and most of all, what it took of us to be here today. I’ve certainly learned about the importance of taking care of our mental health and listening to our bodies and responding to it, in other words, when we were exhausted, thirsty, hungry, cold, or warm, respond to those needs. When we feel overwhelmed by academic pressures, respond, and seek support that is available right at our doorstep on campus.

My encouragement for you is to use every development opportunity that you get here at the

institution. Determine what values are necessary to help you grow in your respective courses and in many cases careers as graduates.

Life is a gift, life is precious. Seize every moment, every day. I wish you well for the rest of the year.

Remember a fourth wave of the pandemic is in our hands. We can determine the impact thereof.

I hope many of you will get vaccinated against Covid-19. Vaccines are safe and it surely save lives. Continue to wear your masks, sanitize and practice social distancing. Take care!

Continued from page 1 as demonstrated by Siba herself. Her drive and tenacity and strength of being able to reach the success and milestones she has, encapsulates what we want our women in the programme to strive be.

meals on a budget and shared what she used to do to navigate cooking balanced meals when she was a CPUT student on a tight budget. Another boss moment from the boss lady, being relatable to our audience.

The topics touched on during the webinar focused on some home truths that participants appreciated. These included discussions around Gender-based violence where Siba earnestly shared her views on the matter by stating “We as women need to value ourselves. Your background should not be a dictator of your life and it must not determine where you are going.”

Siba continued by directing this statement to our young women, “No sugar daddies, you are your own bank account, create your own money, work for yourself.”

“We as CPUT are proud to be associated with a woman of Siba Mtongana’s caliber, an international multi-award-winning chef and culinary extraordinaire author and entrepreneur.”

Said HIV/Aids Units HOD Melanie Marais. These words reiterate the pride we must have a woman like Siba come on the platform and grant us the opportunity to be a part of an event where she imparts her wisdom all while retaining relatability with her fans and audience and remains humble.

Siba also shared ways on how to make delicious

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As an organization we hope to have the opportunity to have Siba again as a guest again as her presence was truly unforgettable.

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TACKLING GENDERBASED VIOLENCE SOCIAL CONSTRUCT AMONGST MEN WITHIN HIGHER EDUCATION Having to be part of the presenters at the CPUT 2021 Research Festival was a great honour for me and the CPUT HIV/AIDS Unit, at the time I was the Coordinator of Amajita’s Men’s Programme & Peer Education Officer Assistant in the Unit. And the topic was very much welcomed as we wanted to record the Statistics on gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa and how we are tackling GBV amongst men within Higher Education.

This was needed to be done because there was an urgent need for RADICAL and PERSISTENT responses focusing on educating young men to become socially responsible participants. As young men should play an active role in preventing GBV in our society. The CPUT Amajita’s Men’s Programme then serves as a platform to bring together young men from CPUT and other higher education institutions to be responsible and be at a forefront in the fight against GBV in their institutions as well in the society. Which allowed us to be able to capture the programs which were in place to help tackle Gender Based Violence through compiling the research document for the festival.

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AMAJITA’S FOCUSSED INTERVENTIONS- STARTING WITH STUDENTS IN LEADERSHIP & GENERAL STUDENT POPULANCE During the Research Festival I highlighted the interventions we took to educate one another about things that are normalized by our societies but are a criminal offence by law, and that we seek to unlearn what was entrenched in us as males by our communities and household we grew up in.

Encouraging male students’ involvement in promoting responsible and healthy behaviors and be exemplary in their campuses.

Responses of the Programme include the increased mobilization of men to be part of the Amajita’s Men’s Programme. The hosting of discussion groups, Silent Protest, GBV Dialogue to address GBV in a high education institution. The research presentation also highlights the gap of not having continuous programs for men and recorded the reintroduction of the Programme to equip, connect and broaden our horizon as young men by motivating, educating and to transform young men. Also, by unlearning the past, societal dialect.

Overall, this experience was great as it inspired me to even have confidence for my personal research paper because we highlighted the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of ensuring this program reaches a large number of men.

Hence the way forward/recommendations would help anyone who seeks to contribute towards the fight against GBV to be able to use those points as reference tools to the benefit to more young men and societies.

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DECEMBER 2021

ALCOHOL ABUSE SERIES Series 1 | Alcohol and Drugs There were 4 discussions conducted for alcohol and drugs awareness. I can say it was enlightening experience.

We did not only educate other students, but we also learnt from them. Although the discussions were about alcohol and drugs addiction, the experiences that my peers shared showed that there are also negative effects even if you take these substances occasionally, like having hangover, being involved into fights or violent situations, being involved in unprotected sexual intercourse, acting funny and doing strange things, forgetting what happened whilst they were drunk or high.

By Nadia Welsh

from the good crowd, getting addicted. We also explored types of alcohol and drugs, all sorts of drugs were mentioned but to my surprise some peers also mentioned legal drugs used for medical reasons as drugs, drugs like ARV’s which are made for control HIV infection, but people smoke them, other drugs were mentioned like cannabis which can be prescribed by a medical practitioner, can be used to just get high.

of consuming these substances frequently, our peer educators mentioned negative effects such as memory loss, mood swings, distancing yourself

We also discussed the effects

The discussions were fun, educational and worth the time.

We can always conquer if we stand together and educate each other, I’m sure each person who was a part of these discussions learnt something.

Series 2 | Effects of alcohol and drug use/abuse on personal health

By Siphosethu Vikemntwini

Alcohol and drug abuse is something that we are facing every day, it is more common especially among tertiary students. In my understanding alcohol and drug abuse often occurs when the person has a huge consumption of alcohol and drugs and is unable to determine when “enough is

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enough”.

My experience about series 2 that we previously conducted, I have learnt that drug misuse, abuse and addiction can lead to both short-term and long-term health effects. I have learnt that sometimes people do not drink because they love alcohol,

BE WISE, CONDOMISE

instead they are trying to run away from their problems.

Overall, I had a great experience as we broke down the topic, the whole conversation about effects of alcohol and drug abuse on personal health made me realize that there is a solution to each and every problem.

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Series 3 | When is enough, enough?

It is always a privilege to find myself making a change in someone’s life. Passing on information and equipping people about life concerning issues makes me feel like a responsible citizen. Being involved in the alcohol and drug abuse: When

is enough, enough session was great as also I was involved with a great team. We helped each other gather information and prepare for this discussion through it all. Engaging with students about this sensitive matter was easy as they were

Series 4 | When to seek help Alcohol use and misuse account for 3.3 million deaths every year, or 6 percent of all deaths worldwide. The harmful effects of alcohol misuse are far reaching and range from individual health risks, morbidity, and mortality to consequences for family, friends, and the larger society. This reflection reviews a few of the cultural and social influences on alcohol use and places individual alcohol use within the contexts and environments where people live and interact and my experience as a leader of the team on how it was in making sure we come up with fruitful information to the people attending our series.

On the 24th of July I created a group for my teammates where we discussed everything with regards our upcoming series- 4 which was alcohol and drug abuse prevention. I shared my ideas on the group and advised that anyone may also share ideas because we want to make this interesting to the people

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By Nthabiseng Maake

engaging throughout and sharing their thoughts as well. They really exceeded our expectations, and we ended the discussion knowing that the information we shared was heard and will be applied accordingly. The whole experience made me feel lively.

By Lihle Mhloba

attending. They shared their thoughts and I advised everyone go and do research on the topic and come up with feedback.

A few days later people came back with feedback, some did not, and some did ask me for help. I helped because that is why we are peer educators. We work as a group/ team. I tried to cut things short and wrote a list of all relevant sources, asked the group to choose what they wanted to do during discussions. Either way we couldn’t facilitate all as we only had 45 minutes to finish our discussion.

no questions left for them.

The 14 August at 14h00 was the day and time of our series4 discussion on alcohol and drug abuse prevention. The introduction was done, and I was thinking perhaps since it was on a Saturday, we did not get more interaction with the audience as expected maybe they were tired from Friday since it was the weekend or maybe we answered everything so the was

To conclude I can say Alcohol research should also be more actively acknowledge new social contexts among youth culture. A better understanding of the influence online social networking sites and new media have on alcohol use is particularly important among adolescent populations, and this should be explored more fully in future studies.

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One of our teammates was supposed to do a closing and did not pitch and she did not tell why, as a leader I had to make sure I interact and keep the discussion going regardless of any thing happened. And I can say it was a good experience having to finally meet and interact with your peer educators, the planning of everything and the brainstorming and try to give back to our peers with a fruitful information and be a good example as a change agent.

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DECEMBER 2020

E-PORTFOLIO TRAINING E-portfolio training being a wonderful experience

By Lerato Ntantiso

Leading the E portfolio training alongside my colleague, has been a wonderful learning experience, for both me and the Peer Educators. Just like some of the Peer Educators I wondered why there was so much emphasis on having an E portfolio and got the answer to that question when I actually did it. An E portfolio is a detailed CV, where people get to know

who you are and what you have to offer. It is a way to give people a sense of who you are especially potential employees or investors. It is essential especially when you want to get out into the world and explore, meet people, network, etc. Because then you have an E portfolio that gives people an idea of who you are, in just a few pages and words, and the even more fun part is that its

online so it can be accessed anywhere at any time, by who you choose to allow access to. It’s one of the great tools that has come with being part of the HIV&AIDS Peer Education Program.

My experience in tutoring

By Ntabiseng Maake

My name Is Nthabiseng Maake, a 21-year-old 3rd year student in Business and information Administration and serve as a Senior Peer educator at HIV/Unit. I was

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given the opportunity to tutor peer educators form June-July on E-portfolios.

An E-portfolio is a digitized collection of resource/ evidence that serve as an administrative tool to manage and organize work created, and experience had. My experience with the peer educators was one of the best because they were easy to understand the importance and they delivered the best E-portfolios. Before taking

engagement in the tutoring process, I have always been a good communicator but the whole process has helped me improve my communication process, my engagement skills, and the hidden passion I had for teaching/equipping people.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity that I had to help my fellow students as I am also getting empowered in the process.

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the ability to perform such difficult duty. Because it was a development webinar, I saw it fit that I am also training and developing myself which made me understand and make much more sense from the event.

DECEMBER 2021

this pandemic and bringing up a young founder of an organization was a great way to incorporate into the theme of young women and men personal development.

I am inspired by graduates and students of the same institution I am in. From the webinar and speakers, I have learnt that personal development is not only about academics but also include self-awareness, building confidence, gaining knowledge and skills, and most importantly increasing your individual proximity of knowing people as networking is essential in this era.

I attended the Personal Development webinar as a Senior Peer Educator and facilitator of the session. I was honored to get another opportunity to facilitate the Webinar. My main goal was to develop myself in terms of being MC/facilitator/director of an event. My desire was to attain the confidence and

I learnt a lot from the panel members as well as all participants of the event.

During the webinar, as we got responses from our panel, I came to realize that regardless of age, gender, or any biographical distinction we all need to go through personal development. The speakers encouraged us to participate in student development programmes and explained the benefits that come with that.

As a third year HR student and about to go to in-service training, I knew that it is not about the money but the experience that comes with it.

The speakers also emphasized on that matter. Entrepreneurship is currently the way to go during

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT JOINT WEBINAR

Reflections on YWE/Amajita’s Men’s Programme Personal Development Webinar

By Liyabona Ginya

Attending a webinar is one thing but participating or being a facilitator is another.

Development webinar. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and all one can hope for is to give it your all.

By Kaylin Adams

When I first agreed to participate in this webinar, I had no idea what to anticipate. It was much more nerve-wracking to be a member of a front like the one I was in for this Personal

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In a nutshell, this webinar was enthralling. And I’m always open to learn new things and are always willing to share what I know about specific subjects. Personal development is a broad issue, and when people talk about it, they could be referring to anything from boosting their profession to living a better and more fulfilling life. Personal development, for starters, broadens your horizons by requiring ongoing learning.

Whether you like it or not, things are continuously changing. And if you keep doing the same thing or refuse to develop, you

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It was an amazing experience.

I also want to encourage my fellow peers to participate in student development programmes. To those going for in-service training, use the opportunity to your advantage and perform to the best of your ability.

will be replaced by someone else sooner or later. Personal development is essential since it broadens your horizons. You may improve your skills by reading, learning, and networking more.

And it’s because of situations like this that I’m becoming more confident. And it became even more impassioned when our keynote speaker, for example, emphasized on the topic on hand.

It personally gave me a sense of direction. I am excited for the future! I’m honored to have been a part of such a prestigious group of people.

“Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom.

Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power,” said the wise Lao Tzu.

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in conversation with Siba Mtongana

By Aphiwe Boyce

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DECEMBER 2021

Our own alumna talks self-worth

By APHIWE BOYCE

The fact that CPUT alumna and celebrity chef, Siba Mtongana, opened her restaurant during Covid-19 gives students hope and encourages them to work hard, and to remember “that anything is possible”.

Reflecting on the event, Mtongana said: “I had such a fantastic time! It was excellent.

It felt very impactful. I could feel the excitement of the students.

This was said by Central dictator of your life and it must It really warmed my heart. Thank Student Representative not determine where you are you so much. Thank you... I Council Secretary-General, going,” Siba continued. really enjoyed it and it looks like Nonele Ganyile, following the what I shared really resonated Young Women Empowerment “No sugar daddies, you are your with the students and they programme’s interactive own bank account, create your really took it to heart. So, I’m conversation with Siba via own money, work for yourself,” very hopeful that in future I will Zoom recently. “The event she warned young women. have pops of youngsters who was motivational, Siba related quote this day or mark this day well with our students, her “You need to take care of your as the turning point in their lives experiences as a student body so that it can carry you. or a pinnacle or penny drop resonated well with our Have a holistic feel, find a way towards the right direction or students, the advice she gave to grow holistically so that you thinking in the right direction.” for our students were spot on”. don’t have regrets. Invest in yourself, read books and don’t On her Instagram page, “She is a humble, beautiful feel unworthy” Mtongana posted: “It was woman who has made a mark just time meaningfully spent not only for herself but for many Touching on the issue of GBV, with the university students women who look up to her,” she emphasized that the issue and lecturers which happens Nonele remarked. starts when people don’t to be my alumni too… Talk This interactive webinar which respect themselves and end up about closing the loop… was attended by students doing gruesome stuff to women. What a rewarding experience and staff members including “It’s high time to call each other it was with future innovators, the Dean of Students, Prem out.” leaders and future captains of Coopoo, touched on topics industry.” such as young women She also encouraged the empowerment and personal students to find a way to get One of the participants, development. The event was a balanced diet while they Kgaohelo Gaborone said: hosted by the Young Women are studying, based on their “Thank you so much Siba.

Empowerment Programme, monthly budget.

Such an empowering and an initiative of the Division of insightful conversation. Been Student Affairs, championed by Head of the HIV/AIDS Unit, advised very well, you’re such the HIV/Aids Unit.

Melanie Marais said the an inspiration.” occasion was outstanding, Mtongana spoke passionately very motivational and “exactly Marais added: “We as CPUT about the importance of gender what our students needed”. are proud to be associated with equality, personal growth, Siba was also thrilled about the a woman of Siba Mtongana’s self-respect, and gender-based event, “I’m super excited as caliber, an international violence (GBV). “We as women this is my first engagement with multi-award-winning chef and need to value ourselves. Your CPUT at large. So well done to culinary extraordinaire author background should not be a your team”. and entrepreneur.”

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DECEMBER 2021

WOMEN’S DAY SELFIE FRAME CAMPIAGN

By Amahle Kubheka

August 9th, a special day for women in South Africa. A day where women are celebrated for their strength and immense contribution to society. This year, as the HIV/AIDS Unit we wanted to celebrate women by sharing their pictures and personal quotes that spoke to them as women and paid tribute to all the other strong, resilient, and incredible women of CPUT. National Women’s Day continues to shine a light on many issues women face every day such as equal rights, Gender-based violence and discrimination. Therefore, having months, like August where society is reminded of just how quintessential women are to society’s success ad growth is to be recognized and appreciated every year.

We introduce to you, these incredible women we continue to celebrate.

“As women we face many challenges. See these challenges as the bricks that you use to build your character, your future, your mansion, your career. You are beautiful, courageous, and strong! Use every possible development opportunity that comes your way. Cling to that which is good and that which add and multiply to your life. Happy Women’s Day Queens!”

Melanie Marais

“We must not forget to cherish women every day, not only on Women’s Day! They are amazing! Happy Women’s Day!!”

Nonkosi Tyolwana

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“You can do almost anything you put your mind to, you can swim the deepest ocean, and climb the highest mountain, You can face adversity and still walk dauntless, You are strong, beautiful, compassionate in more ways than words could ever say.

Today is yours, as any other day, Happy Women’s Day“

Shellmie Hendricks

“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.”

Bokamoso Matsawane

“As a woman, always carry the spirit of your destiny”

Sinovuyo Gada

“Dear women.

You are more powerful than you know, you are beautiful just as you are. You were born to do great things, so believe in yourself “

Siphosethu Vukemntwini

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DECEMBER 2021

Higher Health Training “I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it”

By Kwena Mapuma

The is always a first time of everything, the curriculum training offered by the Higher health together with All universities in the Western Cape and its TVET colleges brought about change in my personal development and acquiring of new skills like presenting and participating in group planning discussions. As we peer educators are the ones taking center stage on holding peer to peer discussion groups where we spread the word guided by the Higher health manual, we were taught to seek more information with strong reference that is forming part of the discussion to accommodate everyone and for one to gain more interest. It gave me sense of community psychology where in most case I’m involved in community development the power of addressing people in groups was manifested at the training.

REFLECTION ON HIGHER HEALTH TRAINING 13 - 14 of October 2021

By Lufuno Ratshitimba

To be a peer educator is a great think and wonderful work. All I can say is that all my years in this field of work I was enjoying, and I gained more experience in everything we were doing.

What I can say is that working with other people in diversity and changing teams it builds confidence and much of gaining knowledge from different people we meet in our discussions.

The training which was on the 13th and the 14th of October 2021 under the HIV/AIDS unit trained by the Department of Higher health, it was a well-organized and professional one. I felt so privileged to me be chosen to be part of the training and being so special to be with different Universities and Colleges.

The training was so very much formative and summative to me. On this Higher Health training I learnt a lot, the trainers were professional experienced, and they were making all of us to participate as we were students and staff, everyone was engaging on the training equally and the feedback on the groups we were doing we were presenting well and giving each other chances so we can all participate and give our knowledge of understanding in all topics. I gained much experience on this training, to be with different faces of people who have different qualifications on this peer education work has challenged me socially and mentally to can also see myself being.

As I can say everyone was happy and showing that they gained a lot on this training, even though the days were not so much but they did to cover most of the Manual topics. Not to forget to thank the chefs and training organizers as the food was well prepared and were eating on the way we want from breakfast to lunch.

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DECEMBER 2021

2021 Peer Educators Awards of Division of Student Affairs Ceremony A projectPicture (i): Some Winners of 2021 Peer Educat

By Dr Neli Maleka

Some winners of the 2021 Peer Educators Special awardsPeer Educators Audience during the ceremony Picture (i): Some Winners of 2021 Special Awards Picture (ii): Audience during the ceremony

CPUT students about holistic Rewarding the outstanding health, wellness, and social voluntarily work of peer justice issues. She further educators, the virtual commended peer educators for evening Awards Ceremony their creativity in using various was hosted on 22 October virtual platforms and videos to 2021 under theme deliver peer-peer activities. #ProsperousChangeAgents.

This was a collaborative Mr. Tumiso Mfisa, Assistant, auspicious event attended by CPUT Centre for Diversity, 2021 peer educators, student Inclusivity & Social Change leaders, CPUT staff members delivered a keynote address from Division of Student Affairs Picture (ii): departments Audience during thanking the ceremony peer educators for and academic their outstanding work. Mr. including guests from University Kwena Mapuma, junior peer of the Western Cape. Our, educator reflected on his vibrant Programme Director, journey as a peer educator Mr Clive Brown, CPUT Senior Lecturer in the Education Faculty in 2021. Both Mr. Mfisa and Mr. Mapuma shared did a sterling job by coordinating the same sentiment about well the programme and kept the positive influence peer it at 2 hours as per plan. A education Programme had in collaborative welcoming was their leadership and personal done by Ms Melanie Marais, development. Dr Amanda Head of the HIV Unit, Mr Athule Ismail, CPUT Disability Unit Sifingo, Mr CPUT and Ms HOD reminded us about our Nonele Ms Nonele Ganyile, collaborative efforts in the CSRC Secretary General. This implementation of student was followed by a message development programmes. Mr. of support from Dean Prem Sammy Elie, CPUT Governance Coopoo, CPUT Division of Department HOD encouraged Students Affairs. Dean Coopoo peer educators to continue “be acknowledged peer educators the Change that they wish to for their dedication to educate

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see” as was said by Mahatma Gandhi.

A total of 54 peer educators received Certificate of Participation and a wealth of experience to take with their future careers. Mr. Zandile Jacobs, CPUT Residences Department HOD and Ms. Melanie Marais presented 8 Special Awards in the following Award Categories: Peer Educator of the Year; Senior Peer Educator of the Year; Peer Mentor of the Year; Change Agent of the Year; Condom Distributor of the Year; Role model of the Year; COVID-19 Warrior of the Year, best performing campus: Certificate (For all Peer educators of the winning Campus). In closing, Ms. Melanie Marais gave words of encouragement to peer educators and thanked all the stakeholders involved.

We wish to acknowledge Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Higher Health and Michael & Susan Dell Foundation for generously supporting 2021 Peer Education Programme.

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DECEMBER 2021

PEER EDUCATors Special Award Winners Top 3 Winner for each category are: Peer Educator of the Year (Junior Peer Educators)

1. Kwena Etmond Mapuma

2. Chulumanco Madikwa & Glory Opeolu

Senior Peer Educator of the Year

1. Lihle Mhlola

2. Lerato Ntantiso

3. Kgohelo Gaborone

Peer Mentor of the Year

1. Lufuno Ratshitimba

Best ming perfor campus

3. Asanda Mcoyana

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SIX DISTRICTUS CAMP

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DECEMBER 2021

Change Agent of the Year

1. Sinoxolo Zide

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2. Nthabiseng Maake & Lufuno Ratshitimba

3. Lerato Ntantiso

Condom Distributor of the Year

Role Model of the Year

Covid warrior of the Year

1. Kgaohelo Gaborone

1. Zine Promise Mvuni

1. Aqeelah Petersen

2. Glory Opeolu

2. Nthabiseng Maake

2. Kwena Etmond Mapuma

3. Siliziwe Nomnqa

3. Kwena Etmond Mapuma

3. Zine Mvuni

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DECEMBER 2021

2021 Heritage Day Peer Educators celebrating Heritage Day in their traditional attire “Culture is an important aspect to our heritage that contributes towards the manner in which we go about things in life. Culture provides individual with a significant interest.

Culture is created by a beautiful set of norms and beliefs. Culture is important to me as it provides a great diversity to our nation. It is who we are, come from and where we are heading to in future. Therefore, a nation with a heartful warm cultural diversity touch each individual’s heart.

Today we celebrate our heritage which is formed by different cultures and makes up our nation. Together we all embrace our different cultures and celebrate our HERITAGE.”

The HOD of the HIV/Aids Unit Melanie Marais proudly celebrates her diverse heritage that stemmed from the heart of Cape Town.

She shares the quote by the late Tata Nelson Mandela.

“On the occasion of Heritage Day, let us promise ourselves that we will do our bit to preserve our heritage.”

Nelson Mandela

#WeAreCPUT #HeritageDay #HeritageMonth 16

- Aqeelah Petersen “I am an African. We who claim this great continent as our home vary like the colors of a rainbow. Our cultures, religions, races, and languages differ greatly.

I am sure you are wondering why I say I am an African.

I am an African because My skin is black My hair is black, I am black I take pride in my blackness for my color is not a badge of shame but an identity. I am African because my heart is shaped like a question mark just like Africa. I am African because my umbilical cord is buried under the majestic mountains of Africa. I am African because my soul is at home in Africa.

Ndiyintyatyambo yakwaXhosa UMatshezi.”

- Sinoxolo Zide

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DECEMBER 2021

“I’m very proud of my heritage and the blood that runs through my veins. I take a lot of strength from that.”

- Anamandla Mzamo

“Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu” - Zulu proverb - Zine Mvuni

By culture I am a Lobedian girl from Bolobedu Ga Modjadji who is proud of her khelobedu roots and embraces who she is under the ruling of the rain queen. My culture is the result of my behaviour, identity and morals. My culture, My Identity.”

- Nthabiseng Maake

“Amasiko amirabhi yalokhu esingikho namhlanje.”

- Mumsy Mahlangu Ndiyakhala ma-Africa amahle Silahlekile isizwe esihle Ma Afrika amahle Ibuyambo ndiyacela, ndibongoza kakuhle What happened to the “I AM AN AFRICAN CHILD” say? What happened to the “MY CULTURE,YOUR CULTURE,ONE NATION” say? Some Africans have lost their ways Some Africans nowadays can’t even praise. It’s like thee “African blood “ no longer runs in our veins African child [...] own your culture.

“Let us learn to love and embrace or diverse cultures.”

- Siliziwe Nomnqa

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For the next generation, can we build a new structure? Can we all embrace who we are?

- Namba Sange

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EDITION 19

DECEMBER 2021

COVID-19 VACCINATIONS IN CPUT

By Melanie Marais

Vaccines save lives!

As an institution we are very fortunate to have our own Vaccination Centre. This is a critical step towards mitigating the impact this devastating pandemic may continue to have on many lives. It is clear that if no decisive interventions were taken, this pandemic would have wiped away many more lives than what it has thus far. Close to 90 000 lives have been lost, many of us know of people who died because of this pandemic. In many cases multiple families in one household have lost their lives.

We still see the socioeconomic and mental health impact of Covid-19 on people and none of us have been spared.

As a student at an institution of higher learning, you have the opportunity to bring that change, by simply getting your Covid-19 jab and by influencing your peers and loved ones to get theirs and remain safe by wearing a mask, sanitizing and social distancing.

Like in the case of HIV infection, this virus needs a host where it can multiply. Your lungs happen to be that host. All you need to do is to breath in the Covid-19 virus. Once it enters your lungs it starts multiplying leading to lung infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia. This infection as it progresses, reduces your lungs’ capacity, causing you to become short of breath. Your lungs then start to lose its ability

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to provide your vital organs with the amount of oxygen it needs to function optimally. You must have heard of Covid-19 positive people having difficulty to breath and needing oxygen? Not having any antibodies to fight off this virus, your body attempts to fight it back, in many cases causing more damage to your body.

Covid-19 also causes blood clots which is one of the primary manifestations of the disease.

But when you are injected with the Covid-19 vaccine, your immune system immediately gets triggered to develop antibodies against Covid-19 placing your body in the best possible position to fight it off, preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

All you need to do is simply register on the OPA system and book your spot to get vaccinated and someone will get in touch with you.

Common side effects that you can experience with 3 days after your jab include sore arm, tiredness, body ache, nausea, headache, or slight fever for which you can take a Panado or paracetamol. Fortunately, these symptoms are mostly mild and disappear after 3 days. Many students have come for their jabs, and they’ve had a positive experience. It is now your turn.

Be a change agent today and get your jab. Make vaccinations fashionable.

BE WISE, CONDOMISE

EDITION 19

DECEMBER 2021

Experiences with Covid-19

By Mmeli Gaqa

From student s

What made me to get vaccinated was: 1. COVID-19 can have serious, life-threatening complications, and there is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you. If you do get sick, you could potentially spread the disease to friends, family, and others around you without knowing. I decided to take COVID-19 vaccine that will help to strengthen my immune system and create a protective antibody response without me having to become seriously ill with COVID-19 or land in hospital due to Covid.

2. As usually vaccines have side effects, but I have not experienced any.

3. As youth, student, and peer educator, I encourage everyone to be vaccinated as to save the nation.

#weareCPUT #VaccinesSaveLives Taking the vaccine is obviously not an easy decision to make but I have no regrets. In fact, after taking my first dose of the Pfizer vaccine I felt so relieved knowing that not only am I saving myself, but those around me as well. I first thought the jab would be given with a huge needle as I don’t like injections and later realized it’s just a normal needle that was used. I did not feel the pain at all. The following day I felt a bit of pain on my arm, that is expected. After that I have been perfectly fine. At the vaccination center the line was very fast.

I got my jab and waited for 15 minutes to check for any reactions. The total time I spent at the vaccination center was between 30 to 45 minutes. The sisters (nurses) there were the best. I applaud them for the great work they are doing serving the community, serving with love, kindness, and laughter.

Overall, it was a great experience. I would encourage my peers, especially the youth to go and get vaccinated, as we can get negatively influenced by incorrect information we find in the media.

I told myself that I would never go for a vaccine unless I really had to. Well, I decided to go because I will be writing my final exams soon and need to take every safety precaution necessary to ensure I do not get sick and will be able to pursue my future career. I was very sceptical about getting vaccinated but when I arrived at the Vaccination Centre at the Bellville campus, it was not what I expected at all. Everyone at the Centre was warm and welcoming, which took some of the anxiety away. I received my first dose of the Pfizer jab. The process was quick, and the jab was not painful at all. Everything about the jab was explained to me in detail - side effects, the second dose that I must come back for in 42 days and the importance of the vaccine. All of this made me feel more relaxed to get vaccinated. Fortunately for me, the only side effect was a little pain on the arm where I received the jab, but it only lasted for a day. Like many, I was against the vaccine but now I want to encourage my peers to get vaccinated because it betters your chances of not getting severe covid-19 and protecting those around you. I would suggest we get as much knowledge and information from medical professionals about the vaccine and then get vaccinated.

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Visit us today to know your HIV Status!

By Liyabona Ginya

By Lerato Ntantiso

EDITION 19

DECEMBER 2021

10 000 Vaccine Milestone

By Amahle Kubheka PR Intern

The CPUT Vaccination Centre celebrates 10 000 vaccinations!

A milestone the institution is proud of. The efforts of the staff are greatly appreciated, and this milestone would not be achieved without them.

“Although many students are going to other centers closer to where they stay, we do believe that there are still many students who have not accessed vaccination. They are welcome to register on the OPA and we will book them an appointment within seven days.

Alternatively, they can just come to the center, and we will assist them when they arrive.”

The Vaccination Manager, Benjamin De Waal said more than 1 000 students had been vaccinated at the center with an additional 700 booked for the week.

He also went on to say “Although many students are going to other centers closer to where they stay, we do believe that there are still many students who have not accessed vaccination.

They are welcome to register on the OPA and we will book them an appointment within seven days.

Alternatively, they can just come to the center, and we will assist them when they arrive.”

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BE WISE, CONDOMISE

The vaccination center is based at the Richard Sacco Building on the Bellville campus, and all you must do to receive your vaccine, is register on either OPA if you are CPUT staff or a student or you can register on the Electronic Vaccination Data System or EVDS. Help us reach a new milestone of 20 000 vaccines all while saving lives and keeping yourself and those around safer.

EDITION 19

DECEMBER 2021

TIK TOK VAXX CONTEST

By Amahle Kubheka PR Intern

The CPUT Vaccination Centre in collaboration with the HIV/Aids Unit, a Division of Student Affairs, held a TikTok Vaxx contest where students were encouraged to get their Covid-19 Jabs. And wow, the competition was well received. From the judging to determining the final 4 contestants which was tough as all entries were splendid, to the nailbiting race between the final 4 on social media.

On Sunday the 17th of October the race concluded, and our winner was determined, chosen by our social media followers (mostly our students) on Facebook and Instagram. A big congratulations to our Vaccination TikTok winner Zine Mvuni for winning the awesome prize valued at R3000, the biggest prize being a R1000 voucher to dine at Siba The Restaurant, her win coming in with 788 LIKES, 433 COMMENTS AND 91 SHARES, to our 1st runner up Nolwazi Zulu who came second with 760 LIKES, 225 COMMENTS AND 153 SHARES, and then From the two runner ups: “It was quite an intense competition I must say, we both fought hard for that number 1 spot! Other than that it raised awareness on the importance of getting the vaccine and I’m so glad it could reach such a wide range of people. As much as it was fun, it was also insightful” - Nolwazi Zulu

Ingithandile Ngcobo and Saneeq Jacobs who kept the race stiff and kept us all tight in our seats.

You’ve made us all proud with your creativity, tenacity, and social responsibility.

One of the comments our winner received was quite heart-warming: “You’re a good example of SA youth Zee, we love you and we will keep safe” Zee added that: “This is what I wanted to see based on my video that even if we got the jab, we still need to follow the rules and regulations by continuing doing the right thing and keeping everyone around us safe” Go check out these TikTok Vaxx video clips and see for yourself. You’ll find it by following the HIV/ AIDS Unit Facebook page.

To all those who are still unvaccinated, make your way and get your jab before the upcoming festive season!

s WinnekTr ok Vaxx Contest of the Ti

“I’m just really glad to be on the safe vaccinated side. If it wasn’t for this competition, I wouldn’t have rushed to get my vaccination”.

- Ingithandile Precious Ngcobo

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Visit us today to know your HIV Status!

EDITION 19

How can I get my Covid-19 jab?

By simply registering on the OPA system at https://opa.cput.ac.za

DECEMBER 2021

on i t a n i vacc

Where is the PROTECTING YOURSELF Vaccination Centre on PROTECTS OTHERS campus?

It is at Bellville Campus at the Richard Sacco dining hall close to the main entrance Is there transport to the Centre?

Yes, there is a regular shuttle service between campuses What do I need to bring along?

Your identity document and student card What time do you open?

We open at 08h30 until 14h00 Mondays to Fridays

Send the word “REGISTER” to 060 012 3456 on WhatsApp, or dial *134*832*ID number#.

For support to register call 0800 029 999.

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BE WISE, CONDOMISE

EDITION 19

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Visit us today to know your HIV Status!

DECEMBER 2021

EDITION 19

DECEMBER 2021

Are you feeling

anxious

SAD

DEPRESSED

You DON’T have to deal with this alone.

We are here to help you.

unselling Contact the Department of Student Co Request counselling support by sending us an email

student-counselling@cput.ac.za

INCLUDE: Name and surname, Student number, Contact number & Campus

We will allocate you to a counsellor for online counselling support

REMEMBER WE ARE HERE FOR YOU

24 Hour Counselling Support at Higher Health Helpline

0800 36 36 36 Suicide Helpline

0800 567 567 +27 (0)21 959 6767 info@cput.ac.za www.cput.ac.za AT H L O N E

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B E L LV I L L E

@cput @wearecput www.facebook.com/cput.ac.za DISTRICT SIX

BE WISE, CONDOMISE

GEORGE

G R A N G E R B AY

M O W B R AY

WELLINGTON

WORCESTER

EDITION 19

DECEMBER 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

011 725 2001

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.

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

0800 012 322

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

Are you interested in joining an HIV support group?

Contact Melanie Marais maraisme@cput.ac.za

Compiled by Bonga Amahle Kubheka Design by Bridgette Hunt

+27 21 460 4253

Reception

are you interested in joining the HIV Peer Education Programme?

Hivunit@cput.ac.za