BRUTUS September Edition 2020

BRUTUS NERINA RESIDENCE respect | integrity | ubuntu | potential development SEPTEMBER 2020

womxn empowerment

Our Story Nerina’s name comes from the indigenous South African flower, Nerine Filifolia. This delicate, yet enduring pink flower brings colour to the open grasslands and humid areas in the Eastern Cape, Transkei, Swaziland, Mpumalanga and the Free State.

It takes three years for this bulbous to bloom for the first time during autumn – and likewise most Nerinas are rooted here at our home in Stellenbosch for about three years before they need to exit into the world and start blooming in their separate careers.

C O N T E N T L e t t e r

f r o m

o u r

N C C ,

R o z a a n

L e t t e r

f r o m

t h e

E d i t o r

LIFESTYLE 1. Sarah's Re(s)cipes 4. BREAD ROLLS AND GENDER ROLES

2. Support Nerina Local with Louise

Nerina hosted our first residents in 1968.

The residence was only completed in 1972 and for the first four years the residents had to use the back entrance next to the bicycle stands, as the front door was not yet complete. Mrs Rabie was Nerina’s first residence head. Her dog, Brutus, was a beloved resident of the house and unfortunately passed a tragic death. He is layed to rest in Nerina’s soil where he still lies in peace in the purple shade of our beautiful Jacaranda with our resident owls reminiscing over his memory.

3. HOW TO... with Ané 4. Get up, dress up, show up!

4.

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH FASHION

PERSONALITIES 5. From Men to Women 6. New Leaders for a New Normal 4. MEET THE NCC 2020/2021

7. Nerinas of the Month

Mrs. Kritzinger joined Nerina as residential head in 1995 and had to bid us farewell when she got married in 1999. Tannie Annette du Plessis has been deeply planted in our hearts as residential head and House Mother since July 1999. Although greeting Aunty A. IN 2019 was a difficult and heartfelt goodbye, we are overjoyed to welcome our new residence head, Joy Petersen. Her name is true to her joy-filled spirit and within the first few weeks she managed to capture our hearts.

WHO RUN THE WORLD? 8. The Power of a Woman's Words 9. The Power Within

STUFF THAT MATTERS 10. Anti-GBV 11. Prove them Wrong. Again.

NERINA NARATIVE

Today Nerina’s heart blooms with pride for our residence – a progressive and innovative home-away-from-home in the beautiful town of Stellenbosch.

We stand for respect, integrity, Ubuntu and potential development.

12. I am a woman...

11.

a collective poem

NERINA CREATIVITY: poems | art | photographs

In this house, true to the roots of our name, Nerinas prosper and flourish.

I n s p i r i n g W o m x n

Q u o t e s

C r o s s w o r d

P u z z l e

THANK YOU TO THE WHOLE BRUTUS 2020 EDITORIAL TEAM: m e r a k i

m a t t h e e

d é - m a r i l e h a n i

|

l o u i s e

k l e y n h a n s

s k e i n

|

m a r i

|

z o ë

d e

b u h r m a n n

|

m c c a t h i e

l a n g e

|

l i s a

s a r a h |

f o u c h é

c a r n i a

n a u t a

|

|

a d a m s j e s s

a n é |

h a v e n g a

l a r a

h o l i n g

|

|

o p p e r m a n

k a r m e n

|

w i i d

L E T T E R

F R O M

O U R

N C C ,

R O Z A A N

Dear Brutus team, This every

is

a

massive

one

planners,

of

writers

thank you and

you

to

creative

each

and

thinkers,

executors.

Creativity takes courage and I stand in awe of how you rose to the occasion and stepped up every single time. Covering a wide selection of relevant topics – joyful, hearty, weighted and everything in between - you ensured that every Nerina could belong,

believe and become whilst

reading

your

publications.

SKETCH BY MIA MEYER (@MIAMOOI_HANDMADE)

Even a global pandemic did not prevent this team from thriving, but rather enabled you to bring a piece of Nerina to each Nerina, wherever in the world Brutus was read.

To our extraordinary editor, Embeth, thank you for leading this team with fire, grit and grace. Thank you for hours of hard work and dedication. Thank you for guiding your team out of comfort zones, into growth, always towards the light.

In three years of being involved with Brutus I can safely say that Brutus keeps evolving, cultivating and flourishing. I am excited to see the next team build on this foundation and continue to inspire Nerinas with every Brutus page.

Thank you for providing Nerina with the most wholesome content. You are seen and you are appreciated.

All my love, Rozaan

L E T T E R 2019/2020

|

F R O M

EMBETH

DU

T H E

E D I T O R

TOIT

Dear Nerina, As

I

am

sitting

Pretoria, as and

typing

Editor

of

cross-legged out

my

Brutus,

very

my

on

last

heart

my

bed

words is

full

in

to

you

of

joy

gratitude.

What a crazy journey this year has been! I am amazed by all that has happened during the “standstill” of 2020 – the silent growth, loud anger, weeping sadness and ecstatic joy that we as women of Nerina, Stellenbosch and South Africa have felt.

SKETCH BY MIA MEYER (@MIAMOOI_HANDMADE)

As I followed news stories (and Instagram stories) throughout this year, I was repeatedly inspired, challenged, informed and encouraged by other women – by YOU, my dear Nerinas. You are the inspiration for this, my final edition of Brutus. I want to say THANK YOU for your courage, kindness, strength and grace. If I can give back even a little piece of what you have given me, my heart will be content.

In

honour

of

Women’s

Month,

this

edition

is

all

about

womxn

empowerment a n d potential development .

As a team, we have pushed our own limits to grow in both our writing skills and our understanding of womanhood. And on that note, my dearest Brutus team: Thank you for leaving your hearts on the page, for writing with passion rather than ink, for your dedication and creativity, for never letting me down and above all, for making me fall in love with writing all over again. This year and the light you inspired through your words, will forever be part of your legacies. And to you, dearest Rozaan, thank you for guiding me through this process with your kindness, wisdom and patience.

I would also like to give a special thank you to every reader - especially you who are actually reading my editor’s letter ;) You are the reason we write, and I sincerely hope that you have found joy, hope and light in the pages of Brutus 2020.

May these pages and the heart behind every word inspire, uplift and empower. May you learn, grow and find comfort in our shared experiences. It is with a heavy heart that I let go of the reins, but I trust that Brutus will continue to prosper and flourish as an integral part of the Nerina community.

Nerina, it has been an absolute pleasure to share my thoughts, creativity and love with you.

T o

q u o t e

o n e

o f

m y

f a v o u r i t e

b o o k s ,

T h e

B o o k

T h i e f :

"I have hated words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right."

All my love

L I F E S T Y L E

SARAH'S RE(S)CIPES Sarah Fouché BREAD ROLLS AND GENDER ROLES “Women belong in the kitchen. Men belong in the kitchen.

Heck, everyone belongs in the kitchen - the kitchen has food!”

Ahh don’t you just love the smell of freshly baked bread early in the morning? Hours spent mixing, kneading, rising and baking, all culminating into the most delicious carbohydrate. The aroma wafts through the house, filling each room and begging the residents to wake up and come grab a warm roll from the kitchen.

She (yes, majority of us would have automatically assumed that the person baking such, was a “she”) has been up since 5am, preparing breakfast for her family, but not because it’s her duty as a woman and she’s obligated to do so, but because she WANTS and loves to do it. Subsequently, the roll which I am trying to highlight is in fact not a ‘roll’ at all, but rather a role – more specifically gender roles.

One would think that by 2020, such issues would be outdated and the idea that only specific genders should perform specific tasks would be ludicrous – as it is common knowledge that talent in a particular activity is not directly proportional to one’s gender i.e. men can cook just as well as women, and women can drive just as well as men for example. Thus, there is no need to box one another into pre-defined roles based on biological sex. These principles are embodied by pioneer female chefs, such as Nigella Lawson and Maggie Beer – who, confronted originally with the label “women belong in the kitchen”, used this to its greatest advantage and have built up food empires worth hundreds of millions of Rand. They transformed the food/cooking industry and paved the way for future generations of chefs by promoting the fact that being able to cook is a valuable and powerful skill – not only limited to women. They are business women, are strong and independent, and they are proof that women in the kitchen can be a force to be reckoned with.

Women belong wherever they choose; men belong where ever they choose – and that choice is not only limited to one place either. The kitchen is the “Heart of the Home”, it is where the food is made – food which enables growth, provides nourishment and brings everyone together. It is the place to be, so why should only one gender be ‘allowed’ to (or want to) belong there?

I don’t know about you but after all this talk about roles, I feel it only apt to share an actual bread roll recipe with you (since most of us are still at home and have access to an oven).

DINNER ROLLS INGREDIENTS:

½ cup lukewarm water 2 cups warm milk 3 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp sugar 1 Tbsp salt 2 ½ Tbsp active yeast 6-7 cups all-purpose flour

DIRECTIONS: 1. Add yeast into warm water along with 1 tsp of sugar. Stir to combine and allow to sit for 6-8 minutes.

2. Mix together milk, butter, remaining sugar, salt and yeast.

3. Add in 5 cups of flour and mix until dough forms, continue adding flour ½ a cup at the time until dough becomes smoother and a ball forms.

4. Spray a large bowl with cooking spray and place dough in the bowl, cover with a tea towel and allow to rise (roughly 30 minutes).

5. Press and roll dough into balls, place on greased baking sheet and let rise again for 20-25 minutes.

6. Brush rolls with butter and place rolls in oven to bake for around 20 minutes until golden brown.

L I F E S T Y L E

S U P P O R T w

i

t

h

l

o

u

i

s

L O C A L

e

“Support local” became one of the most used phrases due to Covid-19. It is a wonderful initiative that has the goal to encourage South Africans to buy South African products, made by South African residents.

We, as Nerinas, can put this phrase into action by supporting other Nerinas with their own businesses.

Yes, we have MANY Nerinas who owns and started their own businesses! Here are just a few: P H O T O

B Y

H E I K E

E D E L I N G

Louise Buhrmann

AMADUKU BY NELISA @amaduku.bynelisa

Nerina owner: Nelisa Mabaso Nelisa sells the most beautiful afrocentric headwraps and scarves.

These can even be styled as a top!

MOOI GETOOI @mooi_getooi_stb

Nerina owner: Helette du Plessis Helette makes her own scrunchies, hair scarves and bow ties and sells it at very affordable prices! Be sure to check out her page if you are looking for a stunning accessory.

MIAMOOI @miamooi_handmade

Nerina owner: Mia Meyer Mia makes her own handmade cards and line drawings. She is living proof that Actuarial Science students can be super creative and artistic!

Contact her for a line drawing of your favourite picture.

EMBROIDER ME @embroider_me1

Nerina owner: Elrie Jansen van Rensburg Elrie makes customized bags which can be used as pencil bags or makeup bags. She embroiders and paints it herself and then her grandmother stitches the bag. Every bag is truly a unique masterpiece!

WEGGOOI GEDAGTES @weggooi.gedagtes

Nerina owner: Karmen Wiid Karmen sells gorgeous tote bags, coffee cups and her own anthology of poems (yes, she indeed wrote her own book of poems!).

PS: Karmen’s poetry anthology is in Afrikaans, but be sure to check out

MADLY

her English poetry account (@karmenwiidpoetry) on Instagram!

@madly_annamade

Nerina (alumni) owner: Ankia Hoffman Ankia sells fashionable artisan clothing. Be sure to check out her beautiful clothing range or even browse on her website: www.madly.shop.

Covid-19 has caused financial trouble for many South Africans and Nerinas, so do consider supporting local and show some love to our Nerina entrepreneurs! Happy shopping!

IF YOU ALSO HAVE YOUR OWN BUSINESS PLEASE SEND US A DM @NERINARESIDENCE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE ;)

L I F E S T Y L E

HOW TO.... w

Ané Havenga

i

t

h

a

n

é

Each year I admire all these older people in my life because they know so much about being an adult. Now it seems it is our turn to be the adults, and I don’t know about you, but I honestly don’t know what is going on… Where can we learn the craft of adulting?

Don’t worry! I’ve compiled list on HOW TO develop our potential, become successful adults, fierce women and well-rounded people.

1. BE A FINANCIAL WIZ

Make sure you can draw up a budget. Just follow the basics to make sure your expenditures are not more than your income. For more on financial skills, take a look at this website: www.practicalmoneyskills.com. Here they teach students a few basics like how to work with banking apps, evaluate your finances and so much more.

2. DOMESTICATE LIKE A QUEEN

Some time or another we all have to figure out how the washing machine works… Follow this link: https://thefinancialdiet.com/11-domestic-habits-everyone-mastered-30/. Here they list a few basic things to master in and around the house.

3. CHANGE A TIRE

Once my car tire burst but I was fortunate enough to actually be at a gas station where handy men were ready to help. But luck is not always on our side and there is no reason we should rely on a man to rescue us from the simple case of a flat tire. Make sure you watch this YouTube video to equip you for that unfortunate day: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AT_pPlJTiyE.

4. SAVE A LIFE

By learning the basics of first aid, not only can you save your own life but also someone else’s. If you’re interested in doing a first aid course, make sure you book your spot: http://medicaleducation.co.za/first-aid/occupational-level-1.

5. SAVE TIME AND REACH GOALS

Women are capable of so much and sometimes we just need a nudge in the right direction to make sure we achieve our goals. Download the Management App for that push in the right direction.

6. STITCH WITHOUT A HITCH

All my favourite sweaters have a little hole or a loose string somewhere that I always leave for my mom to fix. But I guess someday I’ll have to be the mom. The following website shows you a few sewing tricks: https://lifehacker.com/five-basic-hand-stitches-you-should-know-for-repairing-1723233194

7. FIGHT LIKE A GIRL IN SELF DEFENCE

Make sure you can do a few basic moves because you never know when you will need it. Here is a quick video you can watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORAOkP1h3R0

8. COOK LIKE A BOSS

No one expects you to be the new Nigella Lawson, but it is always handy to have at least one top meal up your sleeve. Here are a few easy recipes: https://www.knorrwhatsfordinner.co.za

L I F E S T Y L E

G E T U P , Ddress R E S Sup UP, SHOW UP E

M

P

O

W

E

R

M

E

N

T

T

H

R

O

U

G

H

F

A

S

H

I

O

N

Mari de Lange

True beauty in the fashion industry is so much more than “dressing the part”. It means empowering women to feel confident.

Imagine yourself walking into a room full of people feeling confident, fashionable and comfortable. Your head is held high and you know you are giving the perfect impression. Your makeup is flawless, clothes are fabulous and the perfect shoes are completing your look. All eyes are on you. You feel empowered.

There's no denying that the power of dressing has evolved since the days of relying on shoulder-pads and pinstripes for a little chutzpah. We no longer need a flashy outfit to communicate confidence, but anyone with a love for fashion will tell you it can help boost the spirit, talent and skills within.

Many believe that empowerment can lead to a world where women do not live in poverty, and are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Women are the heart of our communities. Helping and empowering women are vital steps in the movement of improving the quality of life for families, the community and future generations.

Fashion and clothing can lead to confidence and empowerment. Every woman deserves to feel strong, confident, beautiful and empowered.

Around the world, the fashion industry is too often a driver of exploitation and inequality. Research suggests that nearly one in three female garment workers has faced sexual harassment in the workplace. Yet, we also know that consumers want fashion brands that they love to empower and uplift the women in supply chains.

Indeed, fashion tells you so much about people: how they live, how they conceive life and society, how they perceive themselves, as well as their philosophy and beliefs. On the other hand, we also need to take all the economic factors - the branding and manufacturing process of the fashion industry - into account. This gives us so much to talk about – good and bad.

When it's used to impose a one and only canon of beauty, when it exploits poor workers (mainly uneducated women) in unsafe factories, when it dictates what looks good and what doesn’t, when it causes ecological calamities, “that Fashion”, indeed, has nothing to do with women empowerment nor does it have any positive impact on society.

“Fashion provides fair and equal pay. It enriches the livelihood of everyone working across the industry, from farm to shop floor. Fashion lifts people out of poverty, creates thriving societies and fulfils aspiration.”

– Arizona Muse

So be bold, step out of your comfort zone and let your personality shine through.

Dress like a superhero, make your own rules and make fashion YOUR expression, because YOU ARE already strong, beautiful and empowered. Get up, dress, up, show up and never give up!

P E R S O N A L I T I E S FROM MEN TO WOMEN Embeth du toit

“When women are empowered, they immeasurably improve the lives of everyone around them—their families, their communities, and their countries. This is not just about women; we men need to recognize the part we (men) play too. We need to treat women with dignity and give them the respect they deserve.”

- Prince Harry

Many girls, unfortunately, grow up to believe that men are the answer to their problems. I think it is safe to say that this lie keeps women in bondage of victimhood, suffering and the sense of unworthiness. If anything, men are very often the start of a woman's problems.

However, just as important as realising that YOU are in charge of your own life, is acknowledging that the people around us can either help, empower and protect us - or hurt, oppress and break us.

This article is a message of encouragement and hope. Because buried and disguised under heaps of misogynistic junk, patriarchal abyss and masculine toxins, are true gems. Men who see our value, acknowledge their privilege, respect and love the women around them. Men who are allies and friends. Protectors and encouragers. Leaders and followers. Men who have something to say to you.

Here are but a few of them.

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHAT MEN ADMIRE MOST IN WOMEN? HERE ARE A FEW HIGHLIGHTED ATTRIBUTES.

"Their ability to be unashamedly themselves and to stand up for what they believe in."

" Self-respect and respect for others."

" Perseverance."

" I'm not sure if I can attribute any one characteristic to all womxn, but I can comment on the consistent theme of overwhelming

"Their ability to be strong and resilient

empathy and compassion that all the important womxn in my life

whilst using their capacity to nurture."

seem to exude.."

IT IS SO ENCOURAGING TO HEAR MEN TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR ROLE IN THE FEMINIST FIGHT. MAY THEIR WORDS BE ECHOED IN THE CAMPUS HALLWAYS AND THROUGH THE STELLENBOSCH MOUNTAINS.

H O W

C A N

M E N

D O

A

B E T T E R

J O B

O F

S U P P O R T I N G

W O M E N ?

TIM MALINZI

CONNOR BAM

NYIKO NKETANE

JACOBUS KING

EDUAN BEUKMAN

MALIQUE UKENA

Helderberg

Simonsberg

Pieke PSO

Dagbreek

Eendrag

Metanoia

Men can do a better job of listening to the women in their lives instead of just dismissing what they have to say because of their gender. Not to say everyone must agree on everything, but everyone should at least be willing to listen and learn.

From my experience, men often do a poor job of this.

By not shying away from difficult conversations and being more active participants in the ongoing conceptualizing of feminism, masculinity and patriarchy.

Ensuring that our PSO members understand that they need to educate themselves on issues such as patriarchy and all its associations. It would also be to challenge and confront toxic behaviour in order to dismantle systems that marginalize Women

Motivate women to not shy away from their goals or dreams for any reason.

It's all about respect. Men (especially in this time) must take an active stance for respecting women, individually for who they are - their believes, boundaries and circumstances. As well as respecting women as a whole, the great beings they are and all the mystery they entail.

I am grateful to live in a time where womxn are actively seeking change. Whether it be the Anti-GBV movement, or on a more systemic level, like equal pay and abortion rights, womxn have been doing the hard part of telling their stories, hoping that things will change. Now, men have to do the much easier job of listening. Not just to listen, but to understand. If one remains aware of the fact that you are more privileged, it becomes much easier to spot the inequitable nuances in society. Men need to start taking on the responsibility of enacting change, not only their personal lives, like eradicating toxically masculine tropes, but in society in general. We should not just leave the job of changing abhorrent injustices towards womxn, to womxn, merely because it does not include or influence us directly.

P E R S O N A L I T I E S “The more I have spoken about feminism the more I have realized that fighting for women's rights has too often become synonymous with man-hating. If there is one thing I know for certain, it is that this has to stop.”

- Emma Watson

SOME OF THE EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN THEY LOOK UP TO:

"There are a lot of women who helped shape the world we know today, to exalt one would be an injustice towards every other woman out there.

Although, it’s quite profound to remember that Mary gave birth to Jesus."

"My mom. She works so hard to support five children, never complains about it and always shows unconditional love."

- Tim

- Eduan

"A cliché, but it has to be ‘Mommy’. She is extremely supportive and loves without reason. She also puts me in line when I need it."

- Nyiko

"Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a fearless politician who has repeatedly shown her willingness to represent and fight for disadvantaged or oppressed communities."

"Katherine G. Johnson was a physicist and mathematician that made calculations for the first man to fly to space and the moon. She is a role model to me, because even though she battled to get the necessary recognition for her work, she was the only person that could do the calculations and persisted to do so. (If you haven’t watched the movie Hidden Figures, you should.)"

- Jacobus

- Connor

" Two womxn inspire me on the daily. Firstly my mother, which I know might sound cliché, however, there is a reason everyone who receives an award always thank their mothers first. Never has there been and probably will there be, a person who has my back more than my mother. Whether I want to take on my school because of their unjust hair rules, or I decide to go on my 17th diet for the month, her fervent support of me has no bounds. The great thing about this support is that it is perfectly balanced by her pure grit, tenacity and strength. She is never just the background character or the "wife in kitchen" type as is stereotypically and wrongfully thought of when referring to a womxn as your fiercest supporter. If I ever got in trouble at school (Which I didn't, because I was an angel), I knew that I could call her to stand up for me no matter what the story was.

She is so sure of her belief in the person I am, that she knew that if I were to get in trouble, it wouldn't be my fault. That unyielding trust that she has in me, to never falter in the belief that I am the best I can be, is what inspires me daily to turn that image into reality.

Secondly, Beyonce, because...Beyonce." - Malique

" You're all rock stars and awesome people that deserve the world and more!"

"Love (respect) your neighbour as you love yourself, and seek wisdom in who you truly are and if it is in line with who you truly want to be. A woman who knows what she wants in life, and pursues it despite the status quo, is very impressive and attractive. In short, love yourself and be courageous. Dare to dream beyond that which is expected from you.".

EDUAN BEUKMAN TIM MALINZI

Eendrag

Helderberg

" Get up, exude positivity, and have a great day!"

CONNOR BAM Simonsberg

"You are fierce and able to change the course of history."

"Even though history moves forward, it doesn't always move forward linearly. It can be easy to lose faith in our progress as humans because of the many wrongs we witness, in res, on campus, or the world in general. It is important to remember that your efforts are not in vain, we notice you, we are listening and I will personally do my part to further society into a time where me going to write a Private Law test in my slippers is viewed with the same nonchalant attitude by everyone as a womxn going to write with rollers in their hair.

JACOBUS KING Dagbreek

MALIQUE UKENA Metanoia NYIKO NKETANE Pieke

" You’re strong, bold and intuitive. We may not always say it, but we all know that everything would fall apart without you."

P E R S O N A L I T I E S MEET THE

COMMUNITY COUNCIL 2020/2021

Tameesha Mitchell

Shihara Senaratna

Nerine Koopman

Hellen Mmile

Jacolene Brand

Louise Buhrmann

Edna Rossouw

Embeth du Toit

Danielle Louw

Leané Grey

Elham Shaik

Francis Olivier

P E R S O N A L I T I E S NEW LEADERS FOR A NEW NORMAL Lara Opperman The

newly

election territory

elected

NCC

process. would

be

To an

conquered

say

this

the

was

understatement.

first

new

virtual

unknown

Gone

was

the

usual in-person caucus, replaced by an uploaded Zoom caucus for the whole house to watch at their own time.

It was announced that our Executive Leader 2020/2021 is Elham Shaik.

One of the valuable lessons that Elham has learned over the past few months and from her previous term as Vice-Executive Leader 2019/2020 is how to be flexible. To expect and plan for the unexpected makes her adjustable to any change. When looking to the future, Elham sees Nerina as a home for everyone. A place where people belong and where thoughts of diversity and inclusivity are second nature to us, already forming part of our daily lives. She hopes to encourage fellow Nerinas to engage with one another and learn about our differences in culture, language, religion and sexuality.

Our two Vice-Executive Leaders 2020/2021 are Francis Olivier and Leané Grey.

The two of them served together on the NCC during the previous term and will with no doubt serve Nerina with the same vigor and enthusiasm again. One tradition that Leané would like to introduce is the presence of the entire house at a Nerina sport game – everyone in supporters’ jerseys cheering for their fellow Nerinas. She encourages participation and would personally love to see more seniors back for Welcoming. She testifies that it’s okay to ask for help - everyone makes mistakes and we will rise again by learning from others.

Francis reassures us that even within these uncertain times, the future of Nerina is in our hands.

We determine what Nerina is to us. By admitting that every part of our journey isn’t easy and embracing the whole journey with its ups and downs, she wishes that every Nerina will thrive and not just survive. Francis echoes Leané’s advice by emphasizing the lesson that she has learned this past year: to accept a willing helping hand and grow together in the process.

Shihara Senaratna has stepped fully into her new role as Head Mentor. She hopes that new and old Nerinas will always look to Nerina as a place of belonging and prosperity. As part of the NCC, she wishes to facilitate conversations and interactions between Nerinas of different groups to bridge the gap between them. Friendship has taught her so much over these past few months.

The amount of effort put into the friendship, rather than the distance between people, determines the strength of a relationship Shihara Senaratna

The

Nerinas

that

will

be

leading

us

into

these

uncertain

times

as

the

newly

elected

NCC

alongside Elham, Leané, Francis and Shihara are Hellen Mmile, Louise Buhrmann, Embeth du Toit, Tameesha Mitchell, Edna Rossouw, Jacolene Brand, Nerine Koopman and Danielle Louw.

P E R S O N A L I T I E S

Hellen, whose day is never complete without a short nap to recharge, wants to introduce a new tradition of greeting fellow Nerinas in a third South African language that you’re busy learning.

Hellen,

Louise, who always has coffee in her hand and a Describing herself as a bacon-avo-feta pizza, Louise smile on her face, strives towards bringing as much joy to people as this all-time favourite treat.

Embeth While keeping her days interesting with daily ‘in-her-head’ dance performances, Embeth wishes to keep honouring various Nerinas monthly through the Nerina of the Month initiative.

Tameesha, always with coffee in her hand, proposes the idea of a yearly Section Awards where each section has their very own version of Garden Party. Also an avid avo-lover, she strives to bring that little something special to life, just like avo does to a pizza.

Tameesha,

Edna also wants to reinforce the section bonds in Nerina through intersection sport, with the variety of categories ranging from physical sports, like netball, to mind games.

Edna

Jacolene, stealing Dagbreek’s cricket bat and dancing on the Rooi Plein should be According to Jacolene, on every Nerina’s SU bucket list. She would also love to start a tradition of celebrating Nerinas on their birthdays.

Nerine states that every Nerina should at least once hear Closing Time playing in the library - and a DCM doughnut every once-in-a-while is also a must for her.

Nerine

Danielle schemes that a new tradition of playfully pranking our Vensters partners would be a great addition to the hype of Welcoming.

Danielle

A s

y o u

N e r i n a s e r v e

c a n

g a t h e r

l e a d e r s t h e

d e f i n i t e l y

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P E R S O N A L I T I E S

june RESPECT

INTEGRITY

UBUNTU

POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

Hellen Mmile

Zandile Tabata

Ané Havenga

Karmen Wiid

UBUNTU

POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

Shihara Senaratna

Danielle Louw

july

august UBUNTU

Juanita Botha

Jessica Nhlapo

POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

Wilmien van Biljon

Zahn Rijnen

R UE NV

W H O

ET HN ET SW O R L D ?

THE POWER OF A WOMAN'S WORDS 8

W O M E N

W H O

H A V E

H E L P E D

C H A N G E

T H E

F A C E

O F

L I T E R A T U R E

Zoë McCathie Despite the difficulties female writers face in an industry that has historically been predominantly male, the women who have fought past this have transformed literature and opened readers' minds through their wise words. This list outlines just a few of these inspirational women, describes what they have brought to the world of literature, and, at the same time, gives you a few more books to add to that ever-growing reading list!

Jane Austen A pretty blue and gold sheathed collection of Jane Austen’s six novels sits on a shelf above my bed. I haven’t read them all, but judging by those I have read, it is clear that any list of female writers would be incomplete without her. Austen helped move women into the role of protagonist before this was common practise in fiction, or life itself, and the strong, intelligent characters she created, such as Elizabeth Bennet and Emma Woodhouse, have been inspiring women for centuries since.

Read This: Emma

The Brontë Sisters The male dominated world of 19th century literature didn’t discourage Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë who, to ensure their novels' success, published under the pseudonyms of Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell. Yet, the Brontë Sisters still used their works to challenge the world’s perceptions of women, in the hope that their works could bring some change to the society they lived in. Emily’s Wuthering Heights illustrates the narrow perspective Victorian society held of women, and the physical imprisonment of Bertha in Charlotte’s Jane Eyre represents the societal imprisonment faced by Victorian women.

Read This: Wuthering Heights

Virginia Woolf Virginia Woolf’s lifelong struggle with mental health issues crept into her writing through its focus on the inside, on thoughts and feelings, instead of on the outside world. Through this she helped push society further towards understanding the importance of the mental side of a human being in a world where inner thoughts and strong feelings, stereotypical female attributes which were thought to make women weak, were thought unsuitable for public discussion. What her novels lack in plot substance they make up for in rich characters and complex relationships developed through providing insider views into what each character thinks of the others.

Read This: To The Lighthouse

Toni Morrison As the first African-American women to win the Nobel Prize for Literature, Toni Morrison broke barriers both in the success her writing brought her, and the lessons it taught. Through the character of Sethe in her novel, Beloved, Morrison explored the psychological barriers formed through the legacy of slavery, arguing that only by confronting the past can freedom be found in the present. As such, she fought against the censorship of history, helping society understand that discussing the past helps with healing in the future, and leaving a legacy of fighting for the truth.

Read This: Beloved

Margaret Atwood The works of Margaret Atwood aim to draw attention to prevailing issues in our world, such as oppression, and equality for all, through depicting the darkest aspects of human nature. Her fictional world of Gilead in The Handmaid’s Tale paints a picture of the oppression women could face in an authoritarian society. Published in 1985 at the height of the Cold War and the authoritarianism of the USSR, the book served as a warning of what the future could hold. Sadly, while the need to fight for equality for women continues, the message of the book remains applicable, as shown by the continued popularity of the novel.

Read This: The Handmaid's Tale

Zadie Smith

Zadie Smith’s talent becomes apparent when considering that she was offered a quarter million pound advance on her very first novel, at only 24 years old. What really makes her works impressive, however, is their take on English culture as comprising of the individual cultures of each subgroup of people drawn to the country through years of imperialism and colonisation. Her debut, White Teeth, redefines what it means to be British and encourages each reader to make an effort to understand those around us.

Read This: White Teeth

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Despite the English language’s position as a universal language, English literature has always been dominated by the West.

Even here in South Africa, the novels of British and American authors make up the majority of the bestseller shelves in our bookstores. Through her writing, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is working to stop this pattern by bringing African writing into the mainstream. Her novels focus on Nigerian history and provide rich descriptions of life in this country, creating pieces of literature that are both exceptional and educational.

Read This: Purple Hibiscus

Jhumpa Lahiri A Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times bestseller, Jhumpa Lahiri spent years struggling to find a publisher for her short story collections which focus on the lives of first- and second-generation Indian immigrants in America. In this era, immigrants are being portrayed more and more regularly as unwanted outsiders, particularly in the USA, and in this situation the importance of giving this overlooked group a voice grows. Lahiri’s works unmask the struggles faced by immigrants and hope to teach the world, through empathy, to see immigrants as more than outsiders.

Read This: Unaccustomed Earth

W H O

R UE NV

ET HN ET SW O R L D ?

THE

power WITHIN A

C E L E B R A T I O N

Karmen Wiid O F

I N S P I R I N G

W O M E N

One would often hear things like, “Women need to find their voices,” but I fundamentally disagree with this concept. Every woman already has a voice; however, it is how the world perceives that voice that needs to change. Today’s society is filled with dualistic dialogues for men and women. Successful females are often portrayed as heartless, cold and money-driven, while female vulnerability is labelled as over-sensitivity, weakness and an inability to lead. These exact characteristics in male counterparts would be observed with a much less critical eye. The fact is, our patriarchal society will always find a way to try and push us back into the box that our mothers and grandmothers has tried so hard to escape. Just look at the modern view of feminism as an example. Feminism is purely grounded in the search for equality, yet the movement is plagued with patriarchal labels to the extent that many young girls do not want to call themselves “feminists” for fear of seeming angry or anti-men. It is sad that something which is supposed to unite and empower us, creates a divide.

Maya Angelou said that every time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women. I want to take this further and emphasise that every achievement by a woman is an achievement for us all. The competitive culture amongst females creates a toxic loop, which eventually enlarges the divide. We should celebrate each other, rejoice in the success of our sisters and support each other’s endeavours. Success is never achieved alone and it is always sweeter when shared. To quote Taylor Swift, an amazing woman who has already achieved incredible success: “Women like hunting witches too, doing your dirtiest work for you.” It is time to stop comparing, stop apologizing for your ambition and surround yourself with other women who inspire you, hold you accountable and rejoice in your wins.

I strongly recommend following @bossbabe.inc on Instagram. They are so much more than a female empowerment quote page. They are a community of strong, unapologetically ambitious women who support each other on the way to achieving big goals. Their podcast is amazing and their blog is inspiring.

The CEO, Natalie Ellis, had a difficult upbringing. Her mother did not have a stable income, and was thus dependent on an abusive partner for a living. Natalie believes that the world can be changed if more women become financially independent. This would mean calling the shots in your own life and having the freedom to choose what is best for you.

Another incredibly inspiring woman is Rupi Kaur. With an immigrant background she rose to fame with her beautifully illustrated poems. She has sold more than eight million copies of her two anthologies. Her work touches on love, loss, trauma, healing, femininity and migration.

If you are interested in the business scene, you should visit Allyson Byrd’s website. She is known as the Profit Accelerator. She is also the first and only small business owner to create an international production house for thought leaders to be produced in publication, online platform expansion and offline sales strategies. Her podcast is all about entrepreneurial mentorship and female empowerment.

So, it is time to start celebrating each other! Your womanhood is your greatest asset and your sisters are your biggest support system. The fact is – girls compete with each other, but women empower one another. I challenge you to take the time today to thank the women in your life that have believed in you and invested in your growth.

May you define your own version of success and may you make an impact while doing what you love.

S T U F F

T H A T

ANT IGBV

M A T T E R S

“18 GBV protesters arrested in Cape Town.”

Jess H oling

“Heartbreaking

tales

of

rape

at

anti-GBV

during

COVID-19

protest ...”

“Violence

against

women

lockdown.”

Somehow, we find ourselves here. Again.

As I scrolled through these headlines, my heart was pulled back to the 24th of August 2019. The day of Uyinene Mrwetyana’s death. A death that set ablaze the flickering, timid blaze in the heart of women all over the globe.

I remember sitting at my desk, studying for one of my first mock matric exams – one tab was open on an academic website, the other open on any news platform I could find to see updates on Uyinene’s case. I followed her story from the first day she was announced missing until the day the truth sunk into my bones. Our bones. The feeling is as clear as if it were yesterday – an ache, an uncontrollable pulse of loss and despair and frustration and anger and heartbreak. I couldn’t work for days. I cried.

My mom held me. I cried more. The loss of her life felt like my own. It was the start of the rise of a fight that has its roots deep in history, and one that threatens to bear even more poisoned fruit in the future. Uyinene was not the first victim of the poison. And somehow, we find ourselves here. Again.

In the midst of Covid-19, a global pandemic that took the world by storm, an even deadlier pandemic thrives behind the doors that Corona virus has forced shut. Gender based violence and violence against women and children is at an all-time high, and we’re no closer to finding the cure. Women all over the globe, more specifically in South Africa (a crucible of GBV) have taken matters into their own hands, organising protests, singing petitions, spreading awareness, telling stories. The victims are using their voices, but are the oppressors listening? This is a movement. Definition: a change or development. Action. We’re calling for a move towards change. Protection. Consequences. A movement towards victims that aren’t blamed, stories that aren’t disregarded, and oppressors whose actions aren’t justified.

This is a topic that has been taking up more and more space in conversations, on Instagram stories, in the media, and in many many hearts. It’s something that has become ingrained into our lives as women, into the way we move and where we go and how we dress and what we bring with us. But sometimes, reading the statistics about the reality we still live in brings the weight of this war right back down to the ground. After the national lockdown was implemented at the beginning of the year, SAPS recorded 2300 calls related to gender based violence over just 5 days (27th to 31stMarch). 5 days. Monday to Friday. 120 000 calls were recorded in the first three weeks of lockdown. For 2017/18, a woman is murdered every 3 hours – and it’s only worsened in the previous years. These statistics are hard to digest – but even so, this is reality. We live in a country where this is a daily occurrence, and a world where it is becoming an increasingly prominent issue. The recent protests in Cape Town over the last week have shown that we can’t even always trust the people the claim to protect us – and it’s terrifying. But, there is power in unity, and there is power in speaking up. And that is exactly what we need to continue to do until we see the change that we’re fighting for.

This is not politics. These are our lives.

Lives are not to be begged for.

Lives are not to be feared for.

In fact, we were created with quite the opposite intention– and until women are given space

and

potential.

security

to

exist

safely

in

society,

humanity

will

never

reach

its

full

S T U F F

T H A T

M A T T E R S

Following is a list of some useful resources in educating, informing, understanding and providing some essential contacts in case of emergency or need:

Petitions to sign: Sign the petition for parliament to address GBV at https://www.change.org/p/south-africanparliament-parliament-needs-to-address-gender-based-violence-in-south-africa.

Harsher prison sentences for rapists and sexual abusers: chng.it/vFXnbtZZQk· Make the sex offenders list public: https://awethu.amandla.mobi/petitions/make-the-sexoffenders-public Helplines: Rape crisis: 021 447 9762 Stop gender violence: 0800 – 150 – 150 (toll free helpline) SAPS: 10111 SMS HELP to 31531 Gender based violence command centre: 0800 428 428 Videos to watch: TRIGGER WARNING! My death audition tape: https://www.instagram.com/tv/CEPnCKwjdqQ/ Interview that MatieMedia had with some leaders of the Anti-GBV SU movement: https://www.instagram.com/p/CCA_64xj1Ma/· Dear Men by Maremo Matlou : https://www.instagram.com/tv/CEHLNT2p3iK/ Instagram pages to follow: @whydontwediscuss· @letstalkaboutactivism· @keeptheenergy· @antigbv_su· @jessfoord· @girlsagainstoppression· @womenforchangesa· @we.will.be.heard.za Organisation to follow: Crime Against Women in SA Reoprt (Stats SA) The Jess Foord Foundation The Frida Hartley Shelter Rape Crisis Centre Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children (SBCWC)

Anti-GBV Movement Memorandum to Government Officials: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_D1sFQU_ihNBj8nAAUo2Pe BrsIvWbL96aPIPZPvH9Wc/edit

S T U F F

T H A T

M A T T E R S

PROVE THEM WRONG. AGAIN. Carnia Layla Adams

Stereotypes.

We know of it, we’re tired of it but yet it’s still pretty much a silent dictator in how we relate to each other in society and how we relate to our own experience of gender. This implies that women are not exclusive in the experience of being forced to turn our limbs into malleable objects in order to fit into a tiny box that determines who we are and what we are capable of. This is true. Both men and women experience being stereotyped according to our genders, but what I want to talk about is us; because it is usually the stereotyping of women that permeates institutions and systems. Priorities, right?

I think often times, the arguments used to undermine our experience of tired stereotyping are that ‘women have rights, pay gap doesn’t actually exist if you look at all the factors, feminists hate men and that men get stereotyped too’. It’s as if ‘it’s not that bad anymore’ is thrown in our faces as to say that ‘not that bad’ is something we should be happy accepting. No-one needs to tell us what we’re capable of, we’re strong, adventurous, committed, compassionate, opinionated. The most successful world leaders are women. Look at Jacinda Arden, Prime Minister of New Zealand, managed to beat Covid-19 in the butt all through intelligent and compassionate leadership, Greta Thunberg, Malala Yousafzai, Winnie Mandela AND OUR OWN NERINA leadership.

There are too many women in the world breaking stereotypes that should not exist in the first place. In the modern age where there is a dulling façade of complete equality, it seems that the biggest stereotypes women face, is that of our capabilities of leadership and individual success. Research shows that when women collaborate with men on male stereotyped tasks, male peers are more likely to be credited for joint success and women are more likely to be blamed for joint failures. There are also fewer women in top leadership positions and a lot of it has to do with the perception that we are ‘too agreeable’ and too sensitive for tough jobs. When a women is not ‘agreeable’ in the workspace, then it is considered a bad attitude as opposed to men being go-getters. These are just a few examples of the stereotypes that women have to face, which ultimately affects the equal opportunity on the ground.

Breaking gender stereotypes benefits everyone. Not just women but women will benefit even more from the destroying thereof. It’s not impossible, like I said, we break the stereotypes everyday just by existing, BUT, the ball is in our court and we need to be ready to defend that ball. How do we beat these stereotypes that suggest we are not capable of being more than help? Well, firstly… be prepared to react and explain. It is our responsibility to ensure that tolerance for offensive, limiting beliefs about our capabilities does not prevail. We cannot expect the world to change it’s view if we let everyone think they are right. So do not hold back, even if your opinion is not easy to hear.

Secondly, move into male-dominated areas and be confident in doing so if that is what you choose.

There is nothing wrong with a women being an engineer or a teacher. The world wants us to believe that we are more suited for the latter since we are supposed to be more ‘caring’. Do what you want and do it well. There is nothing wrong with the traits we have that are used as a way to discredit our strengths, but if you are called to perform in spaces that are already male-dominated, go in with no apologies. A dangerous misconception is that to work as a CEO or an engineer or in government, as a women, we have to take on ‘male-qualities’. No. Do not be afraid, to bring contrast. Just do you and thirdly, educate yourself. To know where the problem lies and to know how the problem functions means that you can solve the problem. The more we learn about how female stereotypes prosper, the more equipped we are at dismantling them.

There is nothing wrong or less about us; so let’s remind the world why it’s wrong. Again.

N E R I N A

N A R R A T I V E

I am a Woman. a collective poem by

I am a Woman. It is who I’m meant to be and being a woman means everything to me.

It is never being hesitant to think freely and be independent - strong and fierce, brave’s who we are, courage and wisdom, burning like a star.

I am a Woman as calm as the ocean, but the strength of my waves is seen in my emotion.

Women know it is strength to feel; perhaps a great part of their ever-lasting zeal.

It makes me want to burn with pride may we always fight side by side.

I am a Woman.

A Woman that bleeds and births.

It is beautifully messy it is beautifully stressy Top of creation in God’s imitation.

I am a Woman: The perfect flaw, but they will watch me win in silent awe.

Being a Woman means being strong and saying sorry even when you’re not wrong.

Turning something cold into something warm and inviting blooming flowers follow where you’re walking.

I am a Woman.

A Woman that gives and mourns life.

I am uniquely me, only the one I was created to be.

My heart is covered with thousands of scars and still I dance, among the clouds and stars.

I am a Woman.

A Woman that gives and mourns life.

I am uniquely me, only the one I was created to be.

My heart is covered with thousands of scars and still I dance, among the clouds and stars.

I am a Woman in every sense of the word; your biggest asset – a double-bladed sword.

Being a Woman is to always cherish your pride, but also to never ever lose your humble side.

Through times of adversity she keeps her chin up high, though her strength may waiver, she never allows herself to be pushed aside.

I am a Woman and I will not be silent.

I am kind-hearted, true and strong, not violent.

Let us flourish like a flower and you will see our gentle power: I am a Woman through and through, even battered, broken and bruised, my soul still shines its brilliant hue!

COMPILED BY

1 8

N e r i n a s

c o n t r i b u t e d

t o

t h i s

c o l l e c t i v e

Lisa Nauta

p o e m .

N E R I N A

C R E A T I V I T Y

“One of my favourite things about women is the way we celebrate each other. During this women’s month we as Brutus would like to celebrate Nerina Creativity and encourage each other to be creative and express ourselves through all forms of art. May you feel inspired and moved through these beautiful pieces!”

- Lehani Skein

Karmen Wiid

Jess Holing

Heike Edeling

N E R I N A

C R E A T I V I T Y ZanĂŠ Prins

Caitlin Leigh Sampson

Gabi Horn

Lehani Skein

D´é-Mari Kelynhans presents

W•O•M•X•N "Strong womxn - may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them."

HERE ARE SOME INSPIRING QUOTES BY SOME PHENOMENAL WOMXN.

W O M X N

Meraki Matthee

C R O S S W O R D

P U Z Z L E

Across

Down

3. One of the 4 women who lead 20 000 women against the

1. The writer who said, "There is no gate, no lock, no bolt that you

proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act, on 9 August 1956.

can set upon the freedom of my mind.”

5. She said, “No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the

2. She said, “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without

potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of

knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all

half of its citizens.”

women.”

7. Catholic nun and missionary who dedicated her life in service

10. She was an author and lecturer who was born deaf and blind.

12. Founder of Women Investment Portfolio Holdings in 1993, which

revolutionized

the

participation

of

women

in

the

14. The feminist writer who said, “Feminism isn't about making women stronger. Women are already strong. It's about changing the way the world perceives that strength.”

16. This millennial UN Women representative said, “Both men and women should feel free to be sensitive. Both men and women should feel free to be strong.”

the ‘Hundred Years’ war in 1429.

18. She said, “We’ll never solve the feminization of power until we solve the masculinity of wealth.”

19. An escaped slave who lead enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad. She was also a nurse, a Union spy and a women's suffrage supporter.

20. The Oscar winning actress who. said, “You could make a case with

the

technological

6. The COO of Facebook who said, "In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders."

proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act, on 9 August 1956.

9. One of the 4 women who lead 20 000 women against the proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act, on 9 August 1956.

11. One of the 4 women who lead 20 000 women against the proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act, on 9 August 1956.

13. The first female pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

15. Physicist, chemist and a pioneer in the study of radiation. She

17. She led French troops into battle against the English during

along

this time we will do it by ourselves.”

8. One of the 4 women who lead 20 000 women against the

economic landscape of South Africa.

that,

4. The youngest Nobel Prize laureate who said, “There was a time when women activists asked men to stand up for their rights. But

of others in the slums of Calcutta.

revolution,

the

most

provocative upending destabilizing thrilling change in the course of human history is that we’re finally in it. … We're here now, women are in the world, and we will not be bullied."

was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize.

the end!

Crossword Answers: 1. Virginia Woolf 2. Maya Angelou 3. Sophia Williams 4. Malala Yousafzai 5. Michelle Obama 6. Sheryl Sandberg 7. Mother Teresa 8. Helen Joseph 9. Lillian Ngoyi 10. Helen Keller 11. Rahima Moosa 12. Wendy Luhabe 13. Amelia Earhart 14. GD Anderson 15. Marie Curie 16. Emma Watson 17. Joan of Arc 18. Gloria Steinem 19. Harriet Tubman 20. Meryl Streep