Uncut 97 - SA's #1 Youth Magazine

interview with wayde van niekerk - SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR 97

IT’S OUR

TIME

TO MAKE

HISTORY loveLife

G P U

UR

O Y E

D A R

F L SE w

o n p u n g i S

How cool is having a best friend in your pocket wherever you go?

Visit iloveLife.mobi to find out. Sign up today on iloveLife.mobi to start earning points and win cool prizes. Visit iloveLife.mobi or sign up by dialing *120*2121#

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About loveLife

Aweh,

#FeesMustFall #FeesMustFall #FeesMustFall I personally want to salute the young students who risked everything so that all South African children are able to imagine a world with no bounds. loveLife has always believed in the power and resilience of young people, so it comes as no surprise that the youth were able to mobilise such a powerful movement.

When I visited Austria last year, I met people studying their second or third degree because education there is free. It made me wonder why my mother had to work tirelessly – and developed a chronic illness in the process – so that I could finish my degree and live my dream.

The efforts of these students will impact the lives of every young person in our country… and I am so excited at the thought of it! That is why I chose to honour them with this issue of UNCUT (page 6).

But, an education is just one part of becoming successful; so we look at other ways that you can work toward your dream this summer (page 26), as well as how to ensure that you stay in good health (page 12).

With that said, I wish you all an amazing festive season and a life-changing New Year.

P

Y A L P SH

Whenever you see this TV, scan it with your cellphone and the video will automatically play!

All you have to do is check if your phone is compatible on www.aurasma.com and download the application.

Don’t worry if you can’t use the app, all UNCUT videos are available on www.youtube.com/lovelifemedia.

Go ahead, push play.

loveLife is a global youth leadership programme with its roots in Africa. Founded in 1999 to reduce the alarming rate of new HIV infections among young people in South Africa, loveLife arose out of intense collaboration between local and global partners, backed by extensive support from the South African government.

16 Years of loveLife

Our programmes are designed based on the best available evidence for positive social change. Our mission is building complete young leaders: young leaders who believe in their own power, develop resilience, respect equality, promote safety, live in optimal health and successfully connect with the resources of their society. We believe that a better future is powered by the energy and idealism of young people.

Major funding for loveLife is from the National Department of Health, the National Department of Social Development and Sport and Recreation South Africa. Additional funding is provided by Mpumalanga Department of Social Development, North West Department of Social Development, Anglo American, Berco Express, Royal Bafokeng Nation, Volkswagen, KfW, National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, 2010 FIFA World Cup Legacy Trust, The German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the National Youth Development Agency and Football for Hope.

Executive Manager: Media Tsakani Mabasa Editor Angelo C Louw Content managers Angelo C Louw Tanya Goodman Subeditor Tanya Goodman Staff writers Anelisa Matebese, Angelo C Louw, Mbali Maseko, Nomxolisi Malope-Rwodzi, Precious Magogodi, Reitumetse Twala and Thandiwe McCloy Contributing writers Charl Du Plessis, Chris Ellis, Hlulani Busisiwe Chauke, Katleho Sekhotho, Reitumetse Twala, Hayden Horner, Martin Headger and Sarah Widd Contributing photographers Katleho Sekhotho and Masimba Sasa Contributing videographers Phakamani Lisa Cover Angelo C Louw (concept & art direction) and Chapel Lane Media/Carolyn Raad (design) Layout & design Chapel Lane Media Printing PaarlMedia Gauteng

1 UNCUT - Issue 97

CONTENTS FEATURES 6.

#FeesMustFall: Free education for all!

10. Study alternatives: A gap in the market 12. Summer lovin’: The Big Days have arrived 18. Alumni on Board: Former gBs set up 24. Relationship goals: ZERO Lies 28. Writing the perfect cover letter

REGULARS 1.

Ed’s Note: @_MrLo salutes the #FeesMustFall youth

4.

Reader Writes: Letters from YOU

5.

UR SAY: Social Media’s HOTTEST topics

11. Global ID: Germany 14. LIFE Cheats: Quick tips for a fast life 16. UNCUT Debate: Is skinny healthy?

22. Ruby in the Dust: Former gB Azile Maka goes global 26. Work It: How to choose and land a summer job 29. Buwa: Keeping it riel (dans)!

30. #16Days Quiz: Are you in an abusive relationship?

32. Word on the Street: Can you have fun without booze?

33. Finance: Starting up your own business 34. loveLife Games: Sprinter Wayde Van Niekerk gets UNCUT 40. MizzB: Sex, love… and life

ENTERTAINMENT 20. Dbn Nyts pull-out poster 36. Real Song: Toya Delazy asks Why Hate?

38. Reviews: The latest releases for the festive season

REGULAR

Dear learned colleagues, As a fellow part time student from another university, I would like to state that I am immensely proud and 100% in support of your plight to overcome the system that has been designed to deter students and prohibit young minds from acquiring their constitutional right to education (higher education in this context).

As I digest what has transpired and what will continue to occur in the different South African universities, at this moment, it is worth stating how impressed I am with our fellow students from the different universities for standing up against a system that has been designed clearly to benefit a few. I salute you #FeesMustFall, as you have taken the first step to claiming what rightfully belongs to us – our education, our God-given right to acquire one. To the students who are encountering prejudice and ridicule from fellow students who are too ignorant and – to simply put it – “privileged” to comprehend the significance of the movement that has been established by #WitsFeesWillFall, I have the following to say to you: If the late Nelson Mandela, Steve Biko, Oliver Tambo, Chris Hani, Robert Sobukwe, Mam’ Winnie Mandela and other struggle heroes did not soldier on in the plight for black liberation and allowed the minority to deter them from achieving what they could already imagine in their minds, I as a young Black woman would not have had the opportunities that I have had. The #FeesMustFall movement is one of courage. It shall benefit all who reside in the Republic of South Africa. Your descendants will hear of your courageous efforts and carry the torch forward in their next battle against the System.

Kind Regards, Fellow student 4 UNCUT - Issue 97

Hlulani Busisiwe Chauke

UR SAY

REGULAR

We’ve never been shy about voicing our opinions – none of the loveLife fam’ have!

Check out what we’ve been speaking about on our social media pages this term

loveLife

F L E S

Faith Royalgal Masha on Siya NtshoNtsho Nosizwe Vaaltein iloveLife: on talking friends: ow in theto‘hood nstay iloveLife is fun. I love the Foxy I and here, from p u Chix drama; I think it should Sign 7:00am, there are brothers in each play on TV and me be one and every street just standing around of the characters. LOL! Just chatting, building one another socially. saying…

So today, I was part of those chats.

We spoke about international democracy.

Now, I’m waiting for school to be out so I can have more of these chats because word of mouth is a powerful thing.

This how we win.

R

D

A GR

UP

OU Y E

Watch loveLife on the Big Walk right here.

This could be you but you were not at the #SRSA #BigWalk. #loveLife #youthngo #likeaboss #youthdevelopment. See Page 1 to learn how to view this.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION JOINwww.facebook.com/loveLifeNGO THE CONVERSATION www.facebook.com/loveLifeNGO @loveLifeNGO

How cool is having a best friend in your pocket wherever you go?

@loveLifeNGO www.loveLife.org.za

Visit iloveLife.mobi to find out. Sign up today on iloveLife.mobi to start earning points and win loveLife cool prizes. Visit iloveLife.mobi or sign up by dialing *120*2121#

ilovelife.mobi

loveLife

www.loveLife.org.za ilovelife.mobi

Kholofelo Lebogang Kgaphola on what it means to #UpGrade Yourself: Community work and sharing knowledge... also learning new skills every day… keeping abreast with current trends... learning a different culture and language... embracing diversity and allowing others the platform to express themselves... helping young boys and girls reach their potential by helping them see available study opportunities and innovative ways of gaining access to rural markets... ensuring that each day HIV prevention initiatives are available to a diverse set of key populations... promoting healthy debates on gender based violence; sex and condom usage... this is how I #UpGradeMyself and others #UpGradeYourself.

5 UNCUT - Issue 97

FEATURE

#FEES MUST FALL

Not since the 1976 student uprising has South Africa seen such a marvellous demonstration of the might of youth. The UNCUT team explores the #FeesMustFall protests which advocates for free education for all

T

he #FeesMustFall protests saw thousands of university students standing together all over South Africa, advocating for free education.

What started out as a protest against an increase in tuition fees at the University of the Witwatersrand in October, soon became an ongoing call for the South African government to make right on its promise that doors of learning and culture shall be opened.

Despite a full-on media campaign closely following every development of the protest which spread

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quickly to various university campuses across the country, including the University of Cape Town and North West University students’cries seemed to fall on unwavering ears. But, the bold determination (and utter desperation) of the students propelled them to take their concerns to Parliament and the Union Buildings despite the threat of police brutality witnessed on the news and across social media platforms throughout the week.

Student protesters brought the country to a standstill. They got South Africans actively engaging on issues of access to education, race and a failing student financial aid scheme that has left many previously disadvantaged students in debt well after completing their studies (if at all).

Politicians, celebrities and even UNCUT’s editor-inchief showed support to the cause; but, it was the efforts of former students of these institutions who offered their professional services free-of-charge that truly demonstrated the importance of education in the struggle against oppression.

A major milestone came on 23 October when President Jacob Zuma announced to media that there would be a 0% increase on all university fees next year. While this is a significant victory for the movement, the struggle for free education is far from over and #FeesMustFall protests continue so every South African child can dare to dream of a future that may seem unattainable to many today. Here is to a brighter future for all.

FACT: Only about 5% of apartheid-category black and coloured youth succeed in any form of higher education. Source: Mail & Guardian

FACT: The percentage of students who drop

out even though their academic records are in good standing is about the same across all race categories, ranging between 7 and 10%.

Source: Mail & Guardian UNIVERSITY

2015

2016

North-West University University of Pretoria University of KZN University of Johannesburg University of Free State University of Cape Town Stellenbosch University

R40 750 R30 560 R45 860 R32 870 R26 015 R46 000 R32 534

R61 125 R45 840 R68 790 R49 305 R39 025 R69 000 R48 801

Source: The Star

BLACK AND BROKEN

UNCUT writer Anelisa Matebese relays a personal story about her struggles attaining an education.

Coming from a family of four children, having been the last born with parents who are pensioners, I got to see my parents’struggle paying for our high school fees and when my older siblings had to go to university, there was no money at all. I had to watch my intelligent sister become a security guard to pay for my college fees because she could never afford to pay for my university-preferred courses; she is just a security guard, after all. I had to deal.

Read Anelisa’s full blog on UNCUT Online (www.lovelife.org.za/UNCUT) 7 UNCUT - Issue 97

FEATURE

It takes a brave person to galvanise a movement. Katleho Sekhotho speaks to the four student leaders who launched this monumental campaign against rising university fees.

Nompendulo Mkatshwa

As the newly appointed president of the SRC (Student Representative Council) at the University of the Witwatersrand, this third-year student (BSc in Geography) has arrived at the student political scene with gusto and unapologetic fierceness.

Q: What do you hope to achieve in your personal career? How do you see your future?

A: Studying the discipline of Geography, I am interested in the manner in which the environment is governed. The African continent is rich in minerals and resources, so [we] must find a way to govern these resources in a manner which will be beneficial to the socio-economic development of our continent.

Q. How do you think #FeesMustFall will impact South African society?

A: The idea of #FeesMustFall was to challenge the institutions of higher learning and the government into making a commitment towards free education.

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Do we want to allow masses of young people to come into institutions that will reproduce minds that will perpetuate and feed into an economy and work space that is not reflective of the type of economic activity and development that ought to be taking place in Africa or do we want to create an African curricula, taught by African academia for African scholars?

Q:What has been the most promising thing about the #FeesMustFall demonstration?

A: The most promising element of #FeesMustFall is that the youth is not sleeping! abafuni aba lalanga... ba guqe ngama dolo.

Shaeera Kalla

Former SRC president at the University of the Witwatersrand, Kalla is currently undertaking her Honours degree in Political Sciences. Kalla remains a strong and determined young woman ready to create change in SA. Q: What do you hope to achieve in your personal career? How do you see your future?

A: Until we have free and quality education, quality health care for alland emancipation from the shackles of poverty for all that live on this beautiful land you will find me on the picket lines fighting.

Q:How do you think #FeesMustFall will impact South African society?

A: In 1994, a commitment was made towards free and quality education. We want it now. The 0% fee increase addresses the symptom and not the problem.

Q:What has been the most promising thing about the #FeesMustFall demonstration?

A: We have shown the power of active students, the power of a

mobilised youth, and this should not be treated lightly or with disdain.

There will be many who will say this victory belongs to them, but no, this victory belongs to the students and no one else.

This demonstration was a reminder that we are not free.

Vuyani Pambo Mcebo Dlamini

Mcebo Dlamini a postgraduate law student at the University of the Witwatersrand. Dlamini is perhaps one of the most recognisable student leaders in South Africa.

During the #FeesMustFall protest, Dlamini stood right in the front of the protest lines.

Q: What do you hope to achieve in your personal career? How do you see your future?

A: Well, I want to be a human rights lawyer. My heart is with the people.

I grew up in the townships and I was raised by, sometimes, people that I didnt even know. My major is law, so I want to return the favour back to the people.

Q:How do you think #FeesMustFall will impact South African society?

A: Since 1994, the African National Congress (ANC) has been in the honeymoon stage and they have distanced themselves from the people. We want free education so that we can empower ourselves.

Q:What has been the most promising thing about the #FeesMustFall demonstration?

A: If we are united we will achieve everything. This movement in just two weeks was able to mobilise.

Often described as the soft-spoken, quiet intellectual, Pambo of the People, Vuyani Pambo was part of the ferocious four at the #FeesMustFall campaign. Pambo describes himself as someone who will be wholly immersed in the struggle for black peoples liberation.

Q: What do you hope to achieve in your personal career? How do you see your future?

A: I want to be of service to black people, in all ways possible. A career is not what Im interested in. I would be happy to die knowing that I served my kin in all possible ways.

Q:How do you think #FeesMustFall will impact South African society?

A: #FeesMustFall is a powerful moment in many ways; [it] has sharpened contradictions and brought with it an awakening. That is why the ANC does not give free education, because it knows that you cant oppress a thinking man.

Q:What has been the most promising thing about the #FeesMustFall demonstration?

A: #FeesMustFall is very important; it reenergises, politicises and reorganises people who have in ordinary circumstances have not responded to injustice and inequality with as much enthusiasm and unity.

9 UNCUT - Issue 97

REGULAR

3 simple steps

It’s that time of the year when we all go crazy with varsity registration and last minute applications. But before you sign up with the first college or campus that accepts your application, there are a few things you need to look out for. UNCUT explores

D

irector of the Independent Institute of Education, Dr Felicity Coughlan, said that because the private higher education sector is highly regulated in our country, it is a lot easier to spot a credible institution if you know what to look for.

“All the key information about the registration of an institution is available in the Register of Private Higher Education Institutions kept by the Department of Higher Education and Training, and the information is also readily available from reputable institutions,” she said. “There are also a few key questions to ask to which there are some simple answers, and if an institution is able to respond appropriately, it is worth considering.”

WHAT TO LOOK FOR Step 1: Are they certified?

All private higher education institutions need to be 10 UNCUT - Issue 97

registered with the Department.

Any credible campus must be able to show you a certificate to that effect.

Step 2: Do they make the cut?

All higher education qualifications need to be accredited by the Higher Education Quality Committee of the Council on Higher Education. If they are not accredited they will NOT appear on the certificate referred to above.

Step 3: Do the numbers add up?

All qualifications must be registered on the National Qualification Framework (NQF) by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Students should ask for the SAQA NQF identity numbers and double-check them on www.saqa.org.za.

Dr Coughlan said that once you have established these three things you can be sure you are dealing with the real thing.

REGULAR

Katlego Mokoka (16) was one of the participants who got the awesome opportunity to travel to Germany through an exchange programme arranged by former Europwaerts groundBREAKER, Jabulani Nzimande, writes Mbali Maseko MY Experience in Germany

First things first, Germany is a very beautiful country. I experienced a lot of things like their learning ways, the educational programmes, how their education system progresses. I also got to learn a thing or two about their history, like how Dresden was before and how it is now. The best experience was how the people conducted themselves, never forgetting the good food as it is different from South African food. I basically experienced a lot of things.

My perception about Germany

Truly speaking, I had a negative perception because of a few things I had heard about Germany, for example, people still have racial issues. I got proved wrong during my trip as it was the best trip ever. I feel like I belonged there or I was family. I did not notice people with racial issues and I was treated like an egg.

How Germany impacted my life

Well, Germany impacted my life positively because it taught me how to motivate myself and how to organise myself. It also helped me view life from a different perspective.

What I learned from Germany

I learned a lot of things in Germany, like how to conduct myself and how to always be punctual and the value of honesty. I also learned how they get taught and the government system as it is different from the South African school system.

Overall experience

Overall this was the greatest experience ever because I really enjoyed the days we stayed in Germany and got to learn a whole lot of different things. The other great experience was the food.

It was so nice and I wish I could bring some home. Germany is indeed a green environment as it values nature and the people believe in cleanliness and protecting the environment.

WHAT IS A EUROPWÄERTS GROUNDBREAKER? Members of the group of alumni groundBREAKERs that partook in the 2013 Europwäerts exchange programme are called Europwäerts groundBREAKERs. They visited Germany for six months while a group of German youth

visited South Africa.

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FEATURE

Aweh! It is that time of the year again: summertime, a time to be merry . . . the “Big Days”; and much like our worries, we tend to leave our inhibitions behind.

Anelise Matebese explores the ways we spread the “love” during the festive season The summer season is a happy time for most, if not all. Students do not have to worry about school; companies, factories and work places all shut down; everyone is free and looking forward to doing nothing serious but, rather, having tons of fun with their loved ones… and those we choose to “love” for the season. You know: summer love!

Here’s what the youngins had to say about the summer holidays and, of course, summertime hook ups:

WHAT DOES THE FESTIVE SEASON MEAN TO THE YOUTH? Bulali Dazana: Time out with the guys, new environments like holiday destinations, meeting new people and every night is a new adventure.

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Mpho Louda Sithole: Having a good time, feeling invincible, not having to go to either work or school and going out and partying with friends.

Sinabo Ndawuni: It is family time with no school frustrations and just the enjoyment of December vibes and doing crazy things with friends.

Lwandile Maki: It’s all about having fun, getting drunk, getting high, passing out and waking up to do it all over again.

Hearing what the festive season means to young people, it was even more interesting to hear what they thought of summer love; finding new love, romantic get-aways and also the sour side of things, such as break-ups, clashes, one-nightstands and all else that comes with having fun in summer.

HOMECOMING LOVE “What is nice about summer love is hooking up with your partner who was away for school or work in another city/province; spending time together and just catching up on life. Going out, having braais with friends and having someone to kiss at the New Year count-down party; now that is super exciting!”

– Vuyolwethu Mnyamana

LUST >>> LOVE “The deception from young men to young women, making them believe that they love them just so they can have their sex supply for the holidays when out to a different city or town for vacation.”

– Andile Bonisani Dube

anything with girls; it is as simple as we buy booze, you drink and we go home to sleep. However, it all depends on you as a human if you will allow the festive vibes to consume you and get you indulging in the recklessness and start the New Year with regrets.” – Ntsika Scott

YOUTH SUMMER LINGO: The Big Days = Festive season Youngins = Youth Ziright ighelz? = Meaning: “Are the girls alright?”

Implying: “We have money to spend.”

Baps = To have sex AFTER EFFECTS OF THE FESTIVE SEASON

The downfall of this reckless behaviour during the festive season is that there can be serious consequences. Some girls end up disappointed after dating married men in exchange for money and goods, only to find out that they are pregnant and having the man deny the baby. Others sometimes consider committing suicide because they were raped after being out drinking with guys they do not know. Some people might get infected with HIV and not know how to tell their parents since they do not know who infected them.

ADVICE FROM A LOVELIFE COUNSELLOR THILIVHALI LIVHADI

A BROTHER/SISTER’S (PARTNER’S) KEEPER “This is normally a positive statement… but not in summer time. Most of the time, boyfriends are busy with friends, getting drunk at different parties and do not give their girlfriends the attention they normally give them during the year and this opens the gap for girls when they are out, meeting guys who give them attention and want to spend a lot of time with them and thus cheating occurs.” – Sinabo Ndawuni

COMMUNICATION VS ASSUMPTION “There is a lot of miscommunication in the festive season; things happen so fast… and the ladies always assume that it is love. We advise each other, as guys, to always carry and use protection every time you are out with a girl, be it your girlfriend or a onenight-stand. Beyond that, guys do not communicate

• Do not lose your sense of identity/be pressured to do things you do not feel comfortable in doing.

• Do not go anywhere with people you do not know; always have friends or someone you trust around.

• When you are out partying, always keep your drink with you to avoid poisoning.

• Carry condoms every time you go out (this applies to both males and females).

• Always inform your parents, siblings and friends about your whereabouts.

• Keep your phone charged at all times and have all your important people on speed dial.

• Lastly, always have your ID, license or medical aid card with you so you can be easily identified if you happen to get in an accident.

Send us a PLZ CAL ME on 083 323 1023 for more advice, or search “Miss B” on Mxit to text.

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CALLING ALL

Ex-groundBREAKERs

& mpintshis!

REGISTER REGISTER NOW! NOW! AND BECOME ALUMNI visit: www.lovelife.org.za

REGULAR

DON’T SWEAT ABOUT BODY ODOUR WORRYING ABOUT WET DREAMS? You’re growing, your body’s changing and pretty soon, you’ll start producing sperm. Sperm, like any other bodily fluid, can build up inside your body (well, if you don’t masturbate) and a wet dream is one of the ways your body releases that sperm.

If you are having wet dreams, don’t panic: they are completely normal. Similarly, if you don’t have them at all – chill – this is normal too. Everybody is made differently and so there is no scientific formula to the number of times your body needs to ejaculate per hour, day or month.

What should you do if you have a wet dream? Just get up and clean up. Wash your penis and your testicles with soap and water so that you limit your chances of infection. If you are uncircumcised, don’t forget the area under your foreskin.

We’re always there to talk about these things, if you want. Just send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023.

The sun has come out to play again and we’re all sweating a lot more than usual. Body odour can be quite embarrassing, so here are some easy ways you can combat it

KEEP CLEAN

Bath at least once a day with antibacterial soap to reduce the amount of odour-causing bacteria you carry. Focus on your armpits and feet as they carry the most odour.

SHAVE YOUR PITS

Underarm hair traps sweat and bacteria easily, so shaving will help eliminate bacteria.

USE ANTIPERSPIRANT INSTEAD OF DEODORANT Deodorant will simply mask the smell while an antiperspirant makes you sweat less.

WATCH WHAT YOU EAT

Try to avoid foods with strong aromas like garlic, alcohol, caffeinated drinks and heavily processed foods.

The aromas of these foods can enter your sweat glands and make your sweat more pungent.

QUICK FIX

If you need to eliminate odour as quickly as possible and can’t get to a shower, rub a small amount of hand sanitizer into your armpits. The sanitizer will help eliminate the bacteria causing you to smell.

15 UNCUT - Issue 97

REGULAR

BBW: Is there a double standard around thick women?

This is the era, as many would call it, of the ‘thick woman’, and maybe when Drake said that he likes his women BBW (Big Beautiful Woman) he was describing an already growing phenomenon around the world. But, what are the double standards around this shift?

What about the fashion industry, has it embraced the change?

Is it a healthy way of living? And more importantly, how do women themselves feel about it? Katleho Sekhotho finds out more

I

t’s not hard to see that ‘thick’ women are in, as far as ‘in’ is concerned. But not everyone feels that they fit the ideal ‘thick’ look.

Masego Panyane (22), a very vocal honours student at the University of the Witwatersrand, says, “I don’t see it as celebrating big women.

Firstly I don’t agree with this thing that thin women should disappear and die because they are not real women.

Women are women.” Panyane thinks that the craze is not really a genuine desire for big women.

16 UNCUT - Issue 97

In fact, she believes that what is ‘thick’ and ‘fat’ or what they would call a ‘big, beautiful woman’ are two different things.

“Thick is Beyoncé, thick is Lesego (Thickleeyonce), thick is ‘you are not skinny, you’re not fat either’ – that is what is in.”

Jessica Byrne, registered dietician at the Heart & Stroke Foundation of South Africa, seconds Panyane’s sentiments. Byrne explains that when it includes a fit body, slim waist and curves – think Beyoncé or JLo – then that body type should indeed be celebrated.

The Foundation does, however, emphasise that carrying excess weight can put one at risk for a number of health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease and strokes, certain forms of cancer, and it can lead to arthritis and joint problems as well as fertility problems in women. Women, in particular, need to be aware of the health implications of being overweight, as we see that more women suffer from heart disease and strokes than men in our country.

that despite this pressure, women should love themselves for who they are. “Love your natural self,” she says.

Loving yourself can be difficult in a world where some places refuse to change, like the fashion industry, often criticised for being unaccepting of bigger women.

Andile Cele, the Creative Director of Designer Original Products Enterprise (D.O.P.E) presented his work for the first time at this year’s SA Fashion Week. Asked about his approach to weight, Cele says, “I try telling a current, or past, or future story [with my clothes] and that sort [of] needs certain characters to tell it. Sometimes the characters will be thin and sometimes they will be curvaceous and then sometimes both, but the main thing is the story.”

f l e s l a r u t a n r u Love yo UNCUT spoke to young tweleb and photographer Lesego Legobane – more commonly known as Thickleeyonce – about the changing idea of what beauty is.

“Skinny shaming is just as bad as fat shaming,” she says.

Although she is not too obsessed about it, Legobane says she exercises regularly and highly advocates healthy eating. She says that society puts unnecessary pressure on women to be 36 at the bottom and 28 at the top, and

It might be because Cele is still new to the game, but, he says, “As a designer I’ve always wanted real people to model my clothes and personally I go with my gut when I’m presenting a collection. The people I put my clothes on are the best to tell the story; it’s never influenced by media.”

With the world saying one thing and women feeling another, it’s no wonder there’s confusion around what is beautiful. But one thing is for sure, no matter what you look like, healthy living and a positive outlook on life are sure things to take you further and give you peace of mind, whether you’re thick, thin, or somewhere in the middle.

17 UNCUT - Issue 97

FEATURE

groundBREAKER Alumni on (our) Board loveLife

The National Alumni Advisory Board was recently launched to help ensure that loveLife has the best possible impact all across the nation.

Nomxolisi Malope-Rwodzi, loveLife’s Senior Manager: Youth Leadership Development, fills us in on what it’s all about WHAT IS THE NATIONAL ALUMNI ADVISORY BOARD? The National Alumni Advisory Board (NAAB) comprises of nine select provincial representatives and key alumni who will guide and advise the nine provincial boards in each province by ensuring that the organisational strategy and programmes in the provinces are in alignment. This ensures the delivery of quality initiatives that have the greatest possible impact and reach in promoting youth leadership development.

WHO ARE THE NAAB MEMBERS? Membership in the NAAB will include all persons who are recognised by loveLife as alumni, including both groundBREAKERs and mpintshis, who have graduated from either of these programmes.

Essentially, the NAAB will consist of: • One Provincial Alumni Advisory Board (PAAB) representative from each province • Two Alumni who represent the NAAB on the National loveLife Trust Board

18 UNCUT - Issue 97

• Alumni who excelled in their year of service and in their current positions in industry • Office bearers: Chairperson, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer and Legal Advisor, etc.

The Alumni

Advisory

THE ROLE OF THE NAAB The key functions of the NAAB are to: • Attend quarterly advisory board meetings • Guide the provincial boards on the strategic, operational and financial plans for the provincial chapters and align them to the organisational strategy

Board

• Review and evaluate the performance of the provincial and international programmes • Identify and initiate collaboration with potential corporate/ government partners • Identify major opportunities with potential funders • Identify networking and other opportunities • Report to the loveLife Trust Board on the operations and report annually on the provincial chapter’s activities.

MEET THE 2015 NAAB BOARD MEMBER REPRESENTATIVES NAME

POSITION

PROVINCE

Nkosinathi Ngwenya Bridget Moopelwa Pershley Mokgawa Plass Phakgadi Zimkhitha Madonci Jabulani Makhubo Gloria Mmapha Sthembinkosi Junior Bikwa Pending* Pending*

Chairperson Vice Chairperson Secretary Vice Secretary Treasury Additional Member Additional Member Additional Member

KZN Northern Cape Gauteng Mpumalanga Eastern Cape Free State Limpopo Gauteng

Pending* Pending*

North West Western Cape

gB YEAR 2005 2008 2010 2010 2010 2012 2013 2006

19 UNCUT - Issue 97

PULL-OUT POSTER

Dbn

loveLife

nyts

REGULAR

This young man is generally described as the tall, dark guy with big crazy hair.

With a unique look and ambition for days, this former groundBREAKER is well on his way to gracing the catwalks of all the international fashion weeks, writes Anelise Matebese Who is Azile Elroy Maka?

Azile is a 23-year-old guy, who grew up in a township called KwaNobuhle in Uitenhage, Eastern Cape. As per his WhatsApp status, he is the “proud product of a domestic worker�. He is currently based in 22 UNCUT - Issue 97

Johannesburg, working as an intern doing content coordination in the Media Ys at loveLife while studying at Boston Media House. He is also a voice artist and a freelance model.

“As long as you think government/ family members owe you a free hand out, you will never get up and make use of your own hands.”

The evolution of a dream It all started from a childhood dream of wanting to be a “Mlungu” [white man], says Maka, basically implying that he wanted to be a boss one day. Later in primary school, he wanted to be doctor, and finally in high school, he knew he wanted to be an IT specialist… but that never happened! However, one thing is for sure, Maka wanted to be a success in this life game. Did he fail? Not even a chance!

Jack of all trades Growing up in a family of six people – which includes his mom, his brother, aunt and two uncles – Azile could not afford to go to varsity and in the free time that he had after matriculating he fell in love with fashion and modeling. He became a brand ambassador for a clothing label named Black COC in the Eastern Cape. Later in 2014, he was crowned winner of the East Cape Model Hunt by Sophisticated Model Management in Port Elizabeth.

This was in the very same year where he became a Media Ys groundBREAKER at the KwaNobuhle loveLife Y Centre, working as a citizen journalist producing content for loveLife. It is in this programme that he was chosen as Best Citizen Journalist in South Africa at the Vuselele Media

He was chosen to be one of the participants to travel to Orlando, Florida and New York in July 2016 to represent South Africa. There will be international modelling agencies, TV production houses and many other influential people from around the world to scout talent for their respective fields of work.

Struggles and strives Maka tells us the road to success is not easy.

Even though he has qualified to be part of the team, he still needs to get a sponsor to pay for his participation fees, which cost R61 980, excluding his traveling expenses. He also tells us that he has been applying for sponsorships from different donors but has not been successful yet.

Thinking forward When he makes it to Florida and New York, Maka aims to attend and participate in all major Fashion Weeks (Paris, Milan, New York, Dubai and London), saying that this is his ultimate dream. He also shares with us that he would take advantage of all acting opportunities, and will even consider doing adverts.

Maka wants to further his film production studies at the New Film Academy and says these things will be his main focus when he gets abroad.

Over and above all

Awards and awarded a bursary of R50 000 to further his studies at Boston Media House.

Hard work vs luck In his year of full-time studying and interning, Maka entered the Applause Rising Talent Showcase (ARTS) as a model and he got through to the nationals through his determination to achieve, his self-confidence and, of course, his unique hairstyle.

In terms of future plans, Maka says he wants is to acquire as much knowledge and skills as possible, such as entrepreneurial skills, youth leadership skills, career guidance and so on, so he can give back to his community in KwaNobuhle as he understands the struggles the youth from there face on a daily basis.

FIVE FACTS ABOUT AZILE ELROY MAKA • Very emotional, yet he’s a “Leo” • He has a small ready-to-wear clothing line called AE Maka • Favourite food: mphokoqo (African Salad) • He is a mama’s boy • He is a social media addict 96 23 UNCUT - Issue 97

FEATURE

#TOETSA

THIS WORLD AIDS DAY

1. STAYING HEALTHY AS A COUPLE So, whether you are HIVpositive or negative, or you are about to be sexually intimate for the first time, talk to your partner and establish goals to stay healthy and happy together. You won’t go wrong if you make these helpful tips part of your relationship goals:

The fight against HIV starts with you taking ownership of your life and relationships with your loved ones, writes Hayden Horner REMEMBER: One of the benefits of a successful relationship is that you encourage each other to grow and flourish. You can achieve this by always being honest and trusting each other.

• Listen to advice Regular visits to your health care provider are critical to staying on top of the virus.

• Always use condoms Use a male or female condom correctly to prevent the transmission of HIV. • Avoid risky sexual behaviour If you’re not swapping bodily fluids, there’s no risk of getting HIV. Oral sex is safer than anal or vaginal sex, while anal sex is the highest-risk sexual activity for HIV transmission.

• Ask your doctor about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)This is a pill that are 24 UNCUT - Issue 97

also used to treat HIV. By takingthe tablet every day it can offer good protection along with other prevention methods like condoms.

• Act immediately if there’s exposure to HIV See a doctor immediately if you suspect you or your partner may have been exposed. Your doctor should prescribe PrEP immediately to be taken daily for four weeks.

• Get tested, regularly!

Encourage your partner to get tested at least once a year.

•

Stay faithful Staying faithful to each other is still one of the best defences against infection

2. PROTECTING YOURSELF AND YOUR FUTURE Setting personal goals for yourself is important, whether it’s for better grades, relationships or just making the best of your life. In reality, however, there will be always obstacles in your way.

And, in a country like ours, with one of the highest rates of HIV, knowing how to plan for your future can help you avoid infection and live a productive life, even if you have HIV. If you are HIV-positive You should make these helpful tips part of your goals to live a long and healthy life: • Speak to a friend Find someone you trust and can talk to about your status or when you feel stressed.

• Get medical care Go for regular check-ups and stay in tune with your health.

Treat any illness immediately!

• Take your pills If you’re taking antiretrovirals (ARVs), set a reminder on your phone to remember not to miss a dose.

3. ADVICE FOR PARENTS

REMEMBER: Your mind is your greatest asset. If you continue to provide it with positive, inspirational thoughts and information, it can provide you with the power to design an amazing life.

• Always use condoms Protect yourself and your partner by always using condoms, even if you look and feel healthy.

• Avoid drugs and alcohol This includes cigarettes.

They not only affect your health but cloud your judgment.

• Stay fit and eat healthy Moderate exercise, such as walking 30 minutes each day, and eating lots of fruit and vegetables will keep you physically and mentally healthy.

It seems like just yesterday that you were changing their diapers, seeing them off to school for the first time, or putting a plaster on their bruises. And then they tell you they’re “in love”. Ok, so no one said being a parent was going to be easy. But you won’t go wrong with these tips when you need to have that allimportant talk, again:

• Know your position You are the most important educator for your children.

Rather you teach them than their peers or strangers.

talked with their parents about sex are more likely to postpone sex and use birth control when they do begin.

• Cover all bases Tick off the following topics to focus on: • Male and female reproductive systems • Sexual intercourse • Pregnancy • Abstinence / postponing sex • Ways to show affection without having sex • Birth control • Safer sex • Sexual orientation (heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transsexual, etc.)

• It’s not the birds and bees T - TAKING This is different to the talk you T O - OWNERSHIP had with them when they were E - EVERYDAY toddlers. Read up about it first so you get the facts right. T - TOWARD

S - SELF • Don’t avoid it A - AWARENESS Some parents believe that talking about sex will lead #TOETSA: Check iloveLife.mobi to teens having sex. Research or send us a PLZ CAL ME on shows that teens who have 083 323 1023 for more information 25 UNCUT - Issue 97

REGULAR

SUMMER TIME When the Earning Ain’t Easy

It is that age old dilemma: you are told you need experience in order to get a job. And you need a job in order to gain experience. Catch 22, or not? Chris Ellis explains why it is critical that a summer job becomes part of your long-term career strategy 26 UNCUT - Issue 97

L

et’s take stock. What is it that you know that might persuade an employer to look at you at this stage of your young life? Do you know how to convince their clients to sign on the bottom line of a R1 million deal? Not likely. Can you produce state-of-the-art technological wonders that will change the future of humanity? Even less of a possibility.

What you do have is your youth and an untold future potential! Yes, you can be each and every one of all the things a prospective employer might wish to train you to do, and that is precisely what you use to land your very first summer job. Show youthful exuberance and great enthusiasm to learn and to listen and you’ll be set.

10 STEPS TO FINDING A SUMMER JOB 1. Decide (more or less) what you would love to do when you are big and grown up. And get clear in your own mind what it is that attracts you to this career, apart from the money.

2.

Visit career sites and job sites on the internet.

Research your future career choice, giving very particular attention to what skills and attributes are recommended for this career.

3.

With your list of skills and attributes in hand, look yourself squarely in the mirror and ask yourself which areas you think need work.

Can you become better at people-to-people communication, for example?

4. The low-skilled summer job market is remarkably tough to break into, so it is likely better to focus on family contacts than on impersonal job advertisements. Make a list of close friends and relatives and find out where each of the adults work.

5.

Do not exclude ANYBODY. Just because your friendly Aunt Rose works at the funeral parlour does not mean she might not know someone in an accounting firm who could help you.

6.

Practise how to approach people with your needs.

It always impresses when you are respectful, considerate of other people’s time, and when it shows that you have done your homework thoroughly. There is no quicker way to the exit than looking unprepared. (For example: using last week’s letter to another company again this week and forgetting to change the name of the old company to that of the new company you are speaking to.)

7.

Set up informational interviews where you can ask questions about the company and work opportunities. And never EVER be late. If you need to rely on public transport, make sure you get going super early in case of disruptions.

8.

Dress neatly, low-key and hygienically. Err always on the side the conservative side, as you never know how people may perceive you. No low cut blouses or super short skirts. And young men, suck it up and get that tie around your neck.

9.

Prepare your necessary documents. Do a short curriculum vitae (CV), using a template of which there are plenty on the internet. Keep it short and to the point. When applying as a bookkeeper assistant, nobody needs to know whether you have a Code 08 driver’s license.

10. Sit down with friends and prepare one another for interviews. Draw up ten typical interview questions and work through them. Learn to speak slowly, clearly and with authority. Look the interviewer in the eye. Sit up straight and practice not to fidget with your hands. Be modest, but learn how to make sure that none of your achievements or talents are overlooked. Find a way of telling your story in such a way that people can quickly grasp why you would be an asset to the firm.

Do not worry. Your summer job is a worthwhile investment in your future. Work hard, be diligent and respectful and, most of all, be enthusiastic and sociable. You may earn a permanent position with this employer when you are ready to enter the work force.

27 UNCUT - Issue 97

FEATURES

Introducing ME: the cover letter

It's vital to give your best effort in writing a good cover letter to boost your chances of landing THAT job. Check out these tips on writing an effective cover letter to impress any prospective employer, writes Mbali Maseko

A

cover letter can be simply defined as a letter for a job application.

Cover letters play the role of introducing the job applicant and must clearly state who the applicant is, what she or he has accomplished, why the company should hire him or her, his or her work experience as well as the skills they have obtained through their work journey.

A cover letter is the first thing an employee sees without personally meeting the applicant.

First impressions last; therefore, the applicant should use a cover letter as part of positioning themselves as the best candidate for the position they’re applying for. In a cover letter, the applicant should clearly point out their goals and values as well as how they are aligned to the organisation.

Cover letter formats and content differ according to the company and position being applied for. It is highly important that the applicant conduct research on the organisation and its mission. This will then allow them to clearly understand which tone of communication is appropriate.

If you are:

Unemployed Graduate with no experience First job (non-graduate) Career changer Career ladder climber

TIPS ON WHAT TO INCLUDE AND EXCLUDE IN YOUR COVER LETTER: • Open your letter with a confident and professional tone • Clearly state the position applying for • Address your letter to a named individual • Always use simple language and correct sentence construction • When using emailed cover letters, keep them short and simple to read • Avoid summarising your cover letter with the thought that the employee will go through your CV • Avoid using outdated content and wording • Don’t copy someone’s cover letter; make it your own and personalise it • Avoid using long poetic sentences; be short and to the point • Never be rude, arrogant and exaggerated, but don’t underplay your capabilities It is vital to always remember that a cover letter determines whether you receive a call to come to an interview or not.

Check out the following link for a few cover letter samples: http://www.totaljobs.com/careers-advice/cv-and-cover-letter/ Happy job search!

28 UNCUT - Issue 97

Photo: Bushmanskloof

REGULAR

The Rieldans seems to be the hottest thing out of South Africa right now, but this traditional dance has been around for centuries, explains Anelise Matebese

R

eminiscent of pantsula, the rieldans is a cultural expression stemming from the Khoi and San tradition, where they would dance around the fire at their ceremonies. It is called rieldans to reflect the storytelling aspect to the dance. The movements require fast and fancy footwork and often incorporate imitations of animals, like the ostrich. The stories told through the dance are traditionally about love and courtship.

The rieldans has found its way back into popular culture and is making international waves, too. “Die Nuwe Graskoue Trappers”, a rieldans group from Wupperthal the Northern Cape, brought home a gold medal from the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles earlier this year. We also see the rieldans in the newly released movie Abraham, a film about a coloured labourer who uses the dance to attract people to buy his craft work.

“Die Nuwe Graskoue Trappers” is a group consisting of 17 young people and was formed in 2012 by Floris Smith, the project coordinator and choreographer of the group. They’ve won various awards, including the grand championship award for “Best Group Performance” and a gold medal in the “Ethnic Folk Dance” category in the South African Championships of the Arts in 2014. This qualified them to attend the World Championships in Los Angeles where they bagged a gold medal in the “Ethnic Folk Dance” category, three other gold medals and one silver.

Watching the “Die Nuwe Graskoue Trappers” dance, you will see their faces light up when they are performing and how proud they are of a culture passed down for generations.

Watch them perform: https://youtu.be/oQ77NBuL8So 29 UNCUT - Issue 97

REGULAR

DOES YOUR PARTNER: 1. Break or hit things to intimidate you?

Yes

Sometimes

No

2. Threaten to hurt themselves or others if you break up?

Yes

Sometimes

No

3. Forbid you to talk to certain people because they are jealous?

Yes

Sometimes

No

4. Force you to do things you don’t want to do by saying, “If you really loved me...”?

Yes 30 UNCUT - Issue 97

Sometimes

No

5. Want you to stop doing the things you like so that you can spend more time together?

Yes

Sometimes

No

6. Go through your SMSes/WhatsApps/Facebook messages?

Yes

Sometimes

No

7. Never take responsibility for their actions by blaming them on other people or their past?

Yes

Sometimes

No

8. Force you to choose between being with them and your friends or family?

Yes

Sometimes

No

Are you in an abusive relationship?

A healthy relationship should improve the quality of your life and make you feel happy, overall. If your partner is constantly doing things that make you feel bad, you may be in an abusive relationship.

Take this test to see whether your relationship is healthy or not.

RESULT 9. Tell you that no one will ever love or treat you better than they do?

Yes

Sometimes

No

10. Insult and criticise you, especially in front of other people?

Yes

Sometimes

No

11. Have trouble controlling their temper?

Yes

Sometimes

No

12. Hit, choke, or kick you?

Yes Sometimes

No

If you answered “yes” or “sometimes” to ANY of these questions, you may be in an abusive relationship.

Abuse does not only happen physically, it can also be verbal, emotional, psychological and sexual in varying degrees. Anyone who resorts to this kind of violence towards you does so as a form of exercising power and control over you.

It is not healthy to be in this kind of relationship because your partner will always want more power over you and the abuse may become worse. We recognise how hard it can be to leave any relationship, no matter how unhealthy it may be, so just send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023 to speak to a loveLife counsellor.

31 UNCUT - Issue 97

REGULAR

Babalwa Khonza: Umm… Yes. You can have tons of fun without alcohol. There are a lot of fun activities to do around December time, like going to theme parks, game drives, quad biking, water parks, bungee jumping, bowling, ice skating, etc.

Athi Cele: My answer is yes, there are many things to do during December that don’t involve alcohol. Maybe I’m talking from a perspective of a person who doesn’t drink and others would argue otherwise. But the fact is that not everything revolves around alcohol.

Ntokozo Dukeya: Fun doesn’t necessarily involve alcohol. There are other ways of having fun without alcohol, like chilling out with familyand friends.

Marlene Madi: Yeah, I think a person can have fun during December without alcohol, depending on what the person is doing to entertain themselves.

Chipo Maphanda: Yes, you can have fun without alcohol. I don’t need to get tipsy to have fun, or be drunk to be happy.

Neo Nyaka: Having fun is a natural thing that every human can experience without being intoxicated.

32 UNCUT - Issue 97

Ndumiso Ncube: Yes, you can have fun without alcohol in December.

There are things you can do without alcohol like playing or watching sports, and watching movies. I think alcohol isn’t needed for fun.

REGULAR

A business starts with an idea; but, an idea on its own is hardly enough to make a business out of it. Sarah Widd considers all the other pieces of the puzzle when it comes to starting your own business

THE IDEA:

All businesses are geared towards servicing some need or some demand. Wherever you go and whoever you meet, ask questions. What do you not like about school and how would you change it? What bothers you in your neighbourhood? What do you miss most when visit ing family? How could your day be better? Each of the answers you get will tell you about something that is perceived to be important by the people around you and somewhat lacking in their everyday lives. Find the one thing that has the biggest gap in meeting expectations and where you may have a special talent or passion. Avoid a business or industry where everybody is already busy doing the same things.

THE RISK:

Are you planning to go to university?

Will you have to give up some dreams or some jobs when you start your business? If you are unemployed, you have little to lose by starting that business. And should the business fail, where will it leave you? With lots of debt, or time lost where you could have pursued other opportunities?

GATHER RESOURCES:

You cannot make something out of nothing. You may need a place of work for the business, some furniture or machines, or raw materials. In the beginning, everyone will expect you to pay cash until you have proven you are solid and here to stay, when you can start relying on regular credit lines to support your growth. Use parts of your house, share equipment, and keep your costs down for the first two years. Ask for help and offer a share in the business to

people who can assist but who are too expensive for your available budget. Keep your eyes open for funding opportunities.

START TRADING:

Say goodbye to sleep. Get working and do so obsessively. As a rule of thumb, reinvest at least 10% of your revenue back into marketing and future growth. Listen to your customers and make the necessary adjustments in price, products and places where you promote. Cash is king and the customer is too.

Do not worry if you start very small.

Once you are in the game, you will at some stage spot the larger opportunities. But, you have to be in the game to be able to be called a winner.

Good luck. We’ll be looking for your name on the Fortune 500 list.

33 UNCUT - Issue 97

REGULAR

loveLife Games:

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR:

After a monumental win at the Beijing IAAF World Championships earlier this year, it was no surprise that sprinter Wayde Van Niekerk would take Sports Star of the Year at the Department of Sports and Recreation awards. Reitumetse Twala zooms in on the champ

A

s with every discipline in life, athletes are constantly being tested, both physically and mentally. Their bodies get pushed to their limits with every pace, helped by their minds to push harder and avoid injury each time their feet make contact with the ground. While most people view injury as a necessary evil, the way sprinting sensation, Wayde Van Niekerk (23), overcame the hurdles that came with a serious hamstring tear opened our eyes to who he is, both as an athlete and as a person.

Born in Cape Town, Van Niekerk moved to Bloemfontein with his mother when his parents separated. It is very apparent that he was born to be an athletic superstar, with the sport literally coursing through his genes.

“I have a sporting background. My grandfather was in sport, my uncle was in sport, my father was in sport, my stepfather was in sport … I guess it came naturally to me. When I got to school, I just started participating

34 UNCUT - Issue 97

in every sport. You can say that I am carrying on my family’s legacy,” says Van Niekerk.

Van Niekerk first came into the spotlight in 2010, as a Grey College matriculant, when he qualified for the 200m at the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Junior Championships in Moncton, Canada. From then on, he began training to get where he is today.

“It was the best feeling representing South Africa wearing the green and gold uniform. All my life, I’ve seen athletes on TV wearing the uniform and here was my opportunity to do the same. It was exciting and it reassured me that athletics was where I needed to focus all of my time and energy,” recalls Van Niekerk.

The athlete went on to win his first national senior title in 2011, where he tore his hamstring. While this stalled his progress for two years, his mental strength helped find a way to

keep pushing. It was then when his 74-year-old coach, Anna “Tannie Ans” Botha, really invested in a programme which would rehabilitate him and see him winning gold at this year’s IAAF World Championships.

“We had a meeting with his parents and planned how we were going to manage this – our situation, our goals and our ideals. The main thing is we listened to what his body said to us. If the body said stop, we stopped, or went a little softer,” she said to Sport24.

“For me, it was another challenge over, another check-off. I mean, I am only 23. I need to focus and achieve more. I want to overcome barriers and limits as a South African athlete and inspire others to take on the best in the world and become world-class champions,” Van Niekerk says.

Anna P ittini

Photo:

The runner went on to take three awards at the Department of Sports and Recreation, including Sports Star of the Year. “It was humbling.

The guys I was up against are legends – they are the guys I looked up to growing up. It motivates me to only do better.”

Even though Van Niekerk has a world championship under his belt and is now the 4th fastest 400m runner in the world, he acknowledges that his work is not done yet, as he sets his eyes on “achieving something great” at the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.

BIG WALK A BIG SUCCESS Bus-loads of people from all over Tshwane showed up early at the Big Walk sporting their best running shoes with one goal in mind: a healthy good time. This event was hosted by the Department of Sports and Recreation at Fountains Valley, Tshwane in October.

“The atmosphere at the Big Walk was festive.

It was lovely to see families and friends getting active regardless of size, age or race. South Africans should take the opportunity to incorporate healthy habits into their urban lifestyle,” said Phakamani Lisa, loveLife Marketing & Social Media Manager The event focused on a range of walks from a 2km walk for children and disabled persons to a 5km walk, and then longer distances. loveLife supported the event (as always) by helping with logistics, setting up our mobile Y-Centre and, of course, by participating in the walk.

“The Big Walk is an initiative by the National Department of Sports and Recreation in support of its vision of an active nation. We support this vision too, as participation in sport help tackle social ills and also assists in the career development of many young people,” said Kavi Naidoo, Executive Manager: loveLife Games. loveLife’s participation in the Big Walk also benefited our groundBREAKERs, by helping them develop their event management skills.

35 UNCUT - Issue 97

ENTERTAINMENT

REAL SONG

Toya Delazy

We’ve all, at some stage in our lives, fallen victim to the prejudice, ignorance and misconceptions of someone else. Martin Headger recently caught up with one of the most forward thinking local musicians, Toya Delazy, to talk about her song “Why Hate”, a song she wrote with only tolerance in mind.

Life is difficult enough, why should we find reasons to hate others?

36 UNCUT - Issue 97

“I would love for people to think of alternative ways to live, which could help us all unite and live together in harmony, where people are not judged for things that form part of the fabric of their existence,” says Toya Delazy.

“It's cheesy, but it's very necessary. Spreading the message of a unified nation is important, especially with this kind of message, a message of acceptance.”

T

his message comes across strongly in this song from her album Ascension. “Why Hate” was inspired by Delazy’s friend, renowned lesbian photographer Zanele Muholi, who was telling her of the grotesque killings of African female lesbians in townships, as well as the xenophobic attacks which hit earlier this year in South Africa and the raciallymotivated crimes happening in the US. “So, in short, it’s about hate crimes,” she says.

“Social issues are struggles as well, but they are not recognised as much as in the past because they affect minorities or small communities. There is no money in fighting for the safety of the LGBT community in Africa, so it doesn't get the attention it deserves. Once it starts affecting someone in the pocket things start getting more attention.”

Delazy says that the youth of South Africa were left with a heritage that needs to be changed. “I don't want to be remembered as being part of the oppressive and segregated generation, like the one before. We are different; diversity is our strong point and in a diverse society you respect everyone. In this generation each person has something to share, and that's become the new catalyst for productivity.”

A “better tomorrow” is a life full of possibilities which can be made a reality, says Delazy. “Life is nothing without progress and change, and to stop hate we need to be closing the last chapter and opening the new one.

But we must stop judging people. The more rules you put on yourself the more judgmental you are towards others. In the 21st century, people cannot plead wilful ignorance; it's time to know the world you live in and stop running from it.”

loveLife’s LGBTI project

loveLife is taking steps to better cater to the marginalised LGBTI community. While always pushing an agenda focused on healthy sexuality and gender equality through its media campaigns and modular programmes, South Africa’s national youth leadership development organisation recently launched an LGBTI campaign to raise awareness among its staff and the communities it services nationwide.

This mainstreaming project comprises of special training for all loveLife psychosocial support staff around issues pertinent to this community, as well as a print and digital Z-Card creating awareness of gender-based violence (GBV) and discrimination of LGBTI persons, including how to deal with these issues.

Send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023 to for more information on the project and LGBTI.

Why Hate Lyrics

I speak because Silent the killer Before he strikes Humble the winner

[Chorus]

Before he fights Simple is the knot Before it’s tight And wrong is the answer Before it’s right Darkness and hatred Before the light You messed up before Now make it right One for all no more fights All for one Rainbow rights

Why keep hating folks When life’s so colourful We all in it together Searching for A better tomorrow We are all shapes and colours Some are dreaded like a rasta Some have a same sex lover We are star dust and electrons, we bleed in the same hue All tears are salty too A smile means I love you We know it’s dusk before it dawn.

[Chorus] Oh oh oh oh oh oh (x4) We gotta talk about it, On hating each other I gotta speak,

Soon as we brought to birth We fill the void on earth They say that love Comes first Through joy and tears Through cold and warm I’m grateful that I’m loved Thank you mama above Thank you Lover so much I’ll carry on cheering along [Chorus]

37 UNCUT - Issue 97

ENTERTAINMENT

E R A S T Y N !

N E B R D E H

Dbn nyts

Artist: Dbn Nyts Album: Believe

D

bn nyts is the latest music group hailing from the South Africa’s playground. It is made up of five young men, namely: Cebo Ngcobo, Samukelo Maphumulo, Lazi Yokwana, Wanda Tshabalala and Kabelo Bekile.

Label: Universal

After being rejected by big recording labels such as TS Records, Afrotainment, Lvovo, Dj Ganyane (just to name a few), the Dbn nyts were signed by Kalawa Jazzme after Osikido went looking for them in Yeoville, giving them the opportunity to work with the likes of Uhuru, Bob Star and Black Motion.

– and I’ll admit, it always gets me dancing. But the rest of the songs are a bit stale, and they sound a lot like Big Nuz and the rest of the Durban “gqom” music makers circa 2009. Plus, I’m not sure about the yellow-boneness on cover photo; what’s that about? In fact, that’s one of the things that really put me off; you open the CD and Dbn nyts #NoFilter looks nothing like that.

Their music is not bad at all but they can definitely do better. They must be themselves and come up with their own young and fresh style of making music instead of trying to be everything that they are not.

Their hit song, “Shumaya”, has quickly become a dance floor anthem

– @Anelisa_M

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CD Review Rating:

MUZ

RT

DVD: ANT-MAN

Rating:

Distributor: The Walt Disney Company Africa Movie: Ant-Man Starring: Michael Douglas, Paul Rudd and Michael Peña Many comic book collectors have argued that this film doesn’t quite do the ant-sized superhero justice, but from the point of view of someone who hasn’t heard about Ant-Man until the release of this movie, I must say, this is one of the better superhero movies I’ve seen in a while.

Not only are the special effects #OnFleek, but there is a great mix of action and comedy that keeps you hooked throughout the film. I watched this one at the theatre, but I will certainly be adding it to my DVD collection.

– @_MrLo

CD: THE MOOD KILL

Rating:

Artist: Candice Pillay Album: The Mood Kill Label: We Are / Candice Pillay Music The Pietermaritzburg-born singer and song writer, Candice Pillay, who is currently based in Los Angeles, recently released her second album, The Mood Kill. Pillay has written songs for the likes of Rihanna, Rita Ora and Christina Aguilera, to name a few, and she has also featured on two of Dr Dre’s songs –“Medicine Man (ft Eminem) and “White Lightening”. Apart from her beautiful face and body, Pillay had an equally amazing voice. Her album is a very interesting collection, with songs like “Poor Girl”, “Inthe Wind”, “Fall In Love”, and my ultimate favourite, “Stand Silent”.

– @Anelisa_M

Rating:

Author: Robin Malan Publisher: Jacana Media This is the story of Lucky Simelane’s search for this true identity. Lucky has been brought up in a small rural black community. But is he really black? The others tease him because of his light brown eyes and blond hair. He has vague notions of having been abducted from his white family, and there are remnants of Afrikaans words in his head. So Lucky sets out on a quest to discover who he really is. This is a story about identity and what it means to be African.

– Charl du Plessis 39 UNCUT - Issue 97

REGULAR Dear MizzB

z Miz

B I have a boyfriend who is generally a very depressed person and doesn’t like to talk about his feelings. I love him so much but I don’t know how to reach out to him because he’s very closed off – and at times pushes me away only to come back days later to apologise. I really don’t know how to approach this situation or how to reach out to him. He often turns to alcohol and is very violent when he is drunk. – Concerned It is good to hear how much you care for your boyfriend and want to see him being well and in good health. But, it seems he has built a wall around himself which shows that he is not ready to open up about whatever it is that he’s battling with.

People choose to deal with issues differently, and more often it’s because they are afraid of exposing their vulnerabilities and being seen as being weak; hence him pushing you away. It is important, though, to make it clear to him that using alcohol to express anger and become violent is unacceptable as it will make matters worse – which could put the relationship at risk. Reassure him that you care about him but feel left out and ask him what he expects from you as his girlfriend.

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There’s a girl I was in love with, and she hid that she was HIV-positive. After one year and three months, I found ARVs and she confessed that she’s positive and I had to test and my results were negative and they told me to come back after three months to test again. The main problem here is this girl has broken up with me and is with another boy. She’s spreading the disease because she did what she did to me to other guys before me. Will I be wrong to warn that guy? – Confused It must have been a shock to you to find out that your girlfriend is HIV-positive after being with her for over a year; however, it is not your place to disclose her status to anyone. It is illegal and she can take legal action against you for disclosing her status without her permission.

It seems you are angry at her for not having disclosed her HIV status and for breaking up with you after you found out.

Being in a relationship means both partners need to understand the responsibilities that come with having sex; that means using protection and going for HIV Counselling and Testing. This way your relationship is founded on mutual trust and better understanding of your sexual health. Difficult as it may be, ask yourself what would you gain from holding on to what happened in this relationship.

REGULAR

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