BRUTUS March Edition 2020

BRUTUS NERINA RESIDENCE

respect | integrity | ubuntu | potential development

LIFE HACKS Louise and Sarah share some top tips and recipes.

LOOK-A-LIKES! Take a look at how successful the Newcomer-NCC welcoming swap was

NERINAS OF THE MONTH

NERINA CROSSWORD How well did you pay attention during the first term?

NERINA QUOTES MARCH 2020

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 Letter from the Editor An ode to Nerina

LIFESTYLE 1. Life-hacks with Louise 2. Sarah's Re(s)cipes

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. Stellies Student Specials

PERSONALITIES 4. The 'King' of Nerina: Jacobus 5. You look like a(nother) Nerina!

HAPPENINGS 6. IBN 2020 7. Molassesêr

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.

NERINA NARRATIVE 8. The Wonders of Welcoming 9. Nerina as a Microcosm 10. Blue Bicycle Adventures

STUFF THAT MATTERS 11. Style and Sustainablility: Nerina Merch

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.

Nerinas of the Month Crossword Puzzle Nerina Quotes

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

THANK YOU TO THE WHOLE BRUTUS 2020 EDITORIAL TEAM: m e r a k i d é - m a r i l e h a n i

m a t t h e e

|

k l e y n h a n s

s k e i n

|

m a r i

l o u i s e |

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 c a r n i a

n a u t a

|

f o u c h é a d a m s j e s s

| |

a n é l a r a

h o l i n g

|

h a v e n g a

|

o p p e r m a n k a r m e n

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w i i d

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, Uncertainty.

Fear.

Panic.

These are the feelings that I have experienced and also observed around me over the last week. The early closing of the University amidst the Covid-19 crisis, left us all a bit bewildered and unsure of our next steps. Everyone rushed home or to the airport, leaving Stellenbosch a ghost town. As I walked the empty streets of our student town on Tuesday, I was acutely aware of the absence of youth-filled laughter and heavily conscious of the silence. This silence, however, is not filled with dread. On the contrary to what I expected, I found something else in the silence.

SKETCH BY MIA MEYER (@MIAMOOI_HANDMADE)

I found peace.

Perhaps – and bear with me for a moment whilst I lunge into my philosophical thoughts – but perhaps, this is the breather that we’ve all been yearning for. Perhaps amidst of all the turmoil and uncertainty, we will finally come to focus our minds again on what matters. Perhaps the slowing-down of the rat-race, the shutdown of our busy lives and the halt to our selfish existence will lead us to peace.

In my limited 20 (almost) years of life experience, I have learned a very important lesson: your thoughts and words control your life. Whether you surround yourself with negativity or positivity will greatly impact your ability to cope during this global crisis. That being said, ignorance is never bliss – therefore, be practical, be mindful and be responsible. Our actions now more than ever, should be governed by a sharp awareness and great compassion for the people around us. To put it simply: IT IS NOT ABOUT YOU. The real threat of this virus is not the impact that it has on one but the impact that one reckless person can have on society as a whole. In some sense, this pandemic is forcing us to act selflessly – however, as always, we have a choice in the matter.

We live in very exciting times but some will chose to overlook the opportunity and only focus on the horror. Some will stare at the dark cloud, while others will wink at the silver lining. Some will be so overwhelmed by the silence in the streets that they completely overlook the Stellenbosch mountains – whom, amidst all the chaos, still stand boldly as a sign of strength and hope.

We are facing a very difficult challenge: to unite as a student body, as a nation, as a human race, whilst being in complete isolation. I deeply believe that the opposite to fear is love. Love is the only thing that can make you feel safe. Love is the only certainty in a tumultuous world that is everchanging. So love your neighbours, love your sisters and your brothers, love your parents and the strangers on the streets. Love them deeply and truly. Love them in a way that transcends physical touch and breaks the barriers of isolation. Love them with your whole mind and know that they love you too.

Even though this recess is tinged with uncertainty and even though our hearts were not prepared to say goodbye for so long, I want to urge you to keep on searching for the light in all this darkness.

A n d I

w h i l e

s i n c e r e l y

All my love

i t

w i s h

c a n t h a t

b e

s o

e a s y

d u r i n g

t o

t h i s

m a k e

t i m e

d e s p a i r

y o u

c a n

y o u r

f i n d

e n s l a v e d

h o p e ,

l o v e

n e s t , a n d

r e s t .

a

n

o

d

e

t

o

N

e

r

i

n

a

L I F E S T Y L E

LIFE HACKS w i t h

l o u i s e

Dearest Nerina For some reason I got assigned to share useful life tips with you. Don’t get me wrong, I am extremely excited about writing this recurring column, but I do not consider my life nearly ‘figured out’ enough to share wisdom with you. While contemplating on what I should tell you to make my life seem more organised and thought-through, I realised that I should use my lack of life perfection to create a few tips that are real, honest and based on lessons I have learnt.

P H O T O

B Y

H E I K E

o v e r

y o u r

E D E L I N G

So here goes…

N

e v e r

u n d e r e s t i m a t e

t h e

p o w e r

o f

y o u r

w o r d s

l i f e .

Toby Mac’s song Speak Life articulates this way better than I will ever be able to: "Yo it's crazy, amazing We can turn our heart through the words we say Mountains crumble with every syllable Hope can live or dieSo speak life, speak life To the deadest darkest night Speak life, speak life When the sun won't shine and you don't know why"

E R

a t i n g

i n

e a d i n g

r e s

f o r m s

c a l m s

t h e

m a n y ,

l a s t i n g

a c a d e m i c

f r i e n d s h i p s .

s t o r m

Here is a list of a few good books (in my opinion): Storyteller - Morgan Harper Nichols The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho Circle series – Ted Dekker

Invest

y o u r

t i m e

r i g h t !

You only have 24 hours in a day.

Spend it with people who encourage you, love you and bring out the light in you!

No

c o f f e e

s h o p

i s

a s

n i c e

a s

S c h o o n !

Visit Schoon in Church street and buy yourself a pasteis de nata (Portuguese milk tart). I promise you it will be the best R20 you have ever spent!

Art

i s

a

w o n d e r f u l

s t r e s s

r e l i e v i n g

m e c h a n i s m

Whether you are the next Pablo Picasso or struggle to draw a proper stick man, try to find some form of art that will help you to relieve stress. It can be painting, doodling or writing poetry (the possibilities are endless).

Lots of love, Louise

L I F E S T Y L E

SARAH'S RE(S)CIPES Sarah Fouché

“There is no love more sincere, than that of the love for food”

(Yes, the above quote is cheesy; and yes, you can expect other quotes (just as cheesy) in the preceding issues of Brutus this year).

All jokes aside, the reason I chose to introduce my column with such a statement is because, I believe that food is a universal love language- whether or not you understand the methods of preparation behind the meal, know the ingredients within it or even enjoy cooking yourself, everyone loves and appreciates good food. Food fuels our bodies, feeds our souls and unites us all- and if you ask me- that is something pretty darn special.

Breakfast is said to be the most important meal of the day, so what better way to start your week than with a hearty microwave “omelette”?

T W O M I N U T E SCRAMBLED-EGG O M E L E T T E INGREDIENTS:

2 eggs 2 tablespoons milk 2 tablespoons shredded cheese Mushrooms/bacon/ham/spinach/feta (basically whatever your heart desires in an omelette) salt, pepper and any other dried herbs DIRECTIONS:

PHOTO BY SARAH-LEE DE GREEFF

1. Add eggs and milk to a microwave-safe coffee mug [or bowl depending on your hunger level] and beat until blended.

2. Microwave on HIGH for 45 seconds; stir.

3. Add all other omelette ingredients.

4. Microwave until the eggs are almost set (roughly 30 to 45 seconds longer).

5. Season with salt/pepper/herbs before eating and enjoying.

6. Be proud of yourself for eating something other than cereal #prochefindthemaking

L I F E S T Y L E BURGERS

1. Trumpet Tree: R160 for 2 gourmet burgers. (Tuesday all day long).

2. Craft: Burger with beer special. (Monday to Friday 12:00-16:00) 3. Happy Oak: 2 for 1 burger. (Monday all day long) 4. Tiger’s Milk: 2 for 1 burger. (Monday all day long) 5. Bootleggers: ½ price burgers. (Any day, all day long) 6. Julian’s: R55 burger special. (Monday all day long) 7. Bossa: R60 burgers. (Monday all day long) 8. Spur: R55 burger. (Monday all day long) 9. Delheim: 2 for 1 ostrich burger special. (Tuesday and Thursday all day long) 10. Java: Burger special. (Tuesday all day long) 11. La Pineta: Burger + cooldrink for R95. (Thursday all day long) 12. Weltevreden: Burger special R95. (Friday all day long)

PIZZA

1. Trumpet Tree: R75 for any pizza. (Sunday and Monday all day,, Tuesday - Saturday 11:00-17:00) 2. La Pineta: R95 for pizza + cooldrink. (Monday all day long) 3. Flame and Ash: R65 for pizza. (Monday to Friday 12:00-17:30) 4. Colcacchio: ½ price pizza or pasta. (Tuesday all day long) 5. Tiger’s Milk: 2 for 1 pizza. (Wednesday to Friday 12:00-16:00) 6. Julian’s: Pizza R55. (Thursday all day long) 7. Aandklas: Pizza 2 for 1. (Sunday all day long) 8. Bossa: Pizza 40% off. (Sunday 16:00)

STELLIES STUDENT SPECIALS Ané Havemga DRINKS

SOMETHING ELSE

1. Trumpet Tree: R120 for 2 chicken strips. (Thursday all day long) 2. Courtyard Café: Free tapas with pizza/nachos. (Every day all day long 12:00-16:00) 3. Java: Wrap special 2 for 1. (Monday to Friday 8:00-18:00) 4. Java: 2 for 1 pasta special. (Thursday all day long) 5. Craft: Flammkuchen ½ price. (Monday to Friday12:00-17:00) 6. Bossa: Trinchado R60. (Every day all day long) 7. Bossa: Chicken Stack R100. (Every day all day long) 8. Bossa: Nachos R60. (Sunday 16:00) 9. Birdcage: Breakfast special R45. (Monday to Friday) 10. Oude Werf: Lunch specials R70. (Every day 12:00-15:00) 11. Spur: Breakfast special R35. (Every day all day long) 12. Marcel’s: 2 for 1 medium tub frozen yoghurt. (Tuesdays all day long) 13. Tiger’s Milk: 2 for 1 Tacos. (Tuesday all day long) 14. Julian’s: Wrap R55. (Tuesday all day long) 15. Julian’s: Nachos R60. (Wednesday all day long) 16. Julian’s: Pasta 2 for 1. (Friday all day long) 17. La Pineta: Schnitzel + cooldrink for R95. (Tuesday all day long)

1. Balboa Balcony Bar: Happy hour. (Monday to Friday 16:00-19:00) 2. Hudsons: Happy hour. (Monday to Friday 16:30-18:30) 3. RocoMamas: Happy hour. (Monday to Friday 16:00-18:30) 4. Suki: Cocktail Specials. (Every day all day long 16:00-19:00) 5. Green Goose Eatery: Happy hour. (Every day) 6. Trumpet Tree: Half price cocktails. (Monday to Friday 15:00-18:00) 7. Tiger’s Milk: Happy hour. (Every day 16:00-18:00) 8. Bootleggers: Happy hour. (Monday to Friday 16:30-18:30) 9. Bossa: Cocktails R40. (Sunday 16:00)

These specials were right at the time of print. However, to avoid disappointment phone the restaurants just to double check.

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

THE 'KING' OF NERINA:

s u b o c Ja

Lara Opperman

This 4th Year Industrial Engineering student, who is smiling wide on our sacred swing, has been granted a trmendous honour - and he has also been a great addition to our Nerina family. meet

our

Jacobus P H O T O

B Y

E M B E T H

D U

MALE

ADVISOR

for

2019/2020:

King

T O I T

Jacobus admits that he is usually shy before a group of new people but once he climbs out of his shell, he is a busy body. He has thoroughly enjoyed his experience at Stellenbosch

and

is

excited

about

all

the

challenges

that

comes

with

this

new

position.

He is very keen on working hand-in-hand with the NCC on all the ins and outs of Nerina but he realises that along with all the fun, there is also some responsibility. He has to compose a document with all of the duties that this position entails of him. His presence at NCC meetings is also required as he brings a new perspective to the table.

Furthermore,

he

has

to

keep

the

NCC

members

accountable

for

their

respective portfolios and ensure that everyone’s work is up to date. He is also there to lend a helping hand to anyone who perhaps needs help with their portfolio’s events or engagements.

Jacobus's

favourite

memory

with

Nerina

so

far,

is

the

Morning

of

Hope

during

Welcoming this year. It was a perfect conclusion to a great Welcoming and he enjoyed being part of the event with all the newcomers. But his history with Nerina actually Vensters

goes 2019

back when

further Nerina

than and

this

experience:

Dagbreek

His

joined

other

forces.

favourite He

loved

memory the

Committee huddle right before the HC dance at Nagbreek’s last performance.

We are honoured to have Jacobus as part of our NCC. Thank you, Jacobus, for serving Nerina!

PS: you can sit with us ;)

is

House

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

YOU LOOK LIKE A(NOTHER) NERINA! Lisa Nauta During Welcoming 2020 the Nerina Newcomers had many social interactions with other residences and PSOs. And once again, they had the pleasure to see quite a lot of the “manne van die Pieke” (as their song goes). On one such an occasion Nerina turned the tables on Pieke and decided to play a little trick on them. The NCC members newcomer

swapped

roles

group.

Blazers

with

their

were

Newcomer

exchanged,

look-alikes

names

were

that

were

drilled

in,

democratically backgrounds

decided

were

on

being

by

told

the and

characteristic tips were taught in the short time leading up to the arrival of the unsuspecting Pieke men.

The Nerina Newcomers were excellent at acting like the leaders of the residence while the real NCC got a second taste of being a newcomer and getting to meet a multitude of new students at once. The Nerina lookalikes thoroughly fooled the Pieke men and there was much confusion and fun as the real NCC revealed themselves at the end of the social interaction.

Mari de Lange took on the position of our Executive leader, Charlize Herman, and felt that the Pieke first years completely fell for her acting as they frequently came to her

with

challenge

questions her.

even

though

Everyone

the

enjoyed

Pieke

House

watching

as

Committee

two

first

tried

years

their

tried

best

their

to

luck

unwittingly chatting with the Executive Leader of Nerina and finding out the truth too late. It was clear that everyone bought into the scheme wholeheartedly and for Charlize the hardest part of the trick was to remember to introduce herself as Mari.

Apart from both being very committed to the house and involved in many aspects of Nerina life, Charlize and Mari agree that sweet tops savoury, except when there’s coffee or pizza in question.

For Masego Moloto the identity swap experience was slightly different as she remembered the awkward feeling

PHOTO

BY

LISA

NAUTA

of interacting with strange people using the few basic “newcomer topics of conversation”. It was entertaining watching Masego receive advice on coping in first year from a Pieke mentor – if only he knew who he was talking to! Danusha Abrahams was relieved that she and Masego have similar personalities so that she could almost just be herself when being peppered with tricky questions about the House Committee caucus for example.

OUR UNRELATED IDENTICAL TIWNS Danine van Niekerk and Jani Truter are both bubbly Nerina Newcomers who have confused more than one fellow Nerina with their similar looks and personalities. They attended the same high school but were never as close as they have become now in Nerina. They are an almost inseparable pair who share a love for memes, dancing and brightening the days of their fellow Nerinas with their big smiles!

S O M E

Mia and Dané

O F

O U R

N E R I N A S

Mari and Jani

W I T H

Nina and Lila

R E A L

T W I N S

Annelize and Nico

T RH UA LP PY E N NI N E GR SI N A

IBN 2020 | STAY-IN-WEEKEND E

A

S

T

,

W

E

S

T

H

O

M

E

I

S

A

L

W

A

Y

S

T

H

E

B

E

S

T

Lehani Skein Do you also sometimes feel that you haven’t seen your best friends who stay under the same roof as you in ages? Yep, that is the hard reality of a trying to be a successful academic and have a balanced social life – you always neglect something a little bit and with our demanding to-do lists it’s impossible to be balanced every single day of our lives.

Luckily for us the IBN committee provided us with an amazing opportunity to catch up with everyone in res and spend quality time. IBN (Stay-In-Weekend) 2020 was filled with exciting times and well as time to rest and laugh with your Nerina sisters.

IBN kicked off with a bang on Thursday, the 20th of March, when the Nerinas flooded Vic street and the rest of campus with our Nerina Merch. As you walked through the Neelsie or over the Rooiplein you could spot Nerinas from a mile and we all felt like a beautiful unit. It is heart-warming to know that you form part of something larger than yourself – such a special family.

Later that evening it was time for section table tennis. The teams were ready to fight for the title of the IBN Table Tennis Champions of 2020 and the supporters were ready to cheer on their section with all their hearts.

The tension could be felt as the sections began to drop out one by one and the competition became stronger and stronger. After an endless battle between Rodeo and Champs, Champs were indeed the CHAMPS and walked away with a goody bag sponsored by Heike Edeling Photography and Rain SA skincare. After section table tennis the newcomers were informed that

“the time is right” and

it was not only the Afrikaans singer,

Appel, who was going dorp toe (to town)!

PHOTOS BY LEHANI SKEIN

Nerinas again dressed to impress the next morning with their tekkies and tiaras. The whole of campus could feel the Nerina IBN spirt. After class everyone rushed to get ready for House Fund Dance. Few things are as fun as getting ready with your Nerina squad before a dance. Curling irons, straighteners and mascara flew through the air as they were being passed on from one room to the next. The evening at the House Fund Dance was spectacular and everyone went to bed with beautiful new memories.

PHOTOS BY CURATE

T RH UA LP PY E N NI N E GR SI N A . . .

The

I B N

next

c o n t i n u e d

morning

we

woke

up

from

our

dreams

to

an

even

better

reality

–

with

My

Brew

coffee

in

the oopsitkamers (open living rooms). Next on the IBN programme was volleyball! The volleyball match was not only for those with ball sense but for everyone who enjoy watching the sport and anyone with GEES (this also provided for some entertaining mishap-moments). It was surely the best workout that most of us ever had – combing fun and fitness. The rest of the day everyone used their time to catch up, chill in each other’s rooms and doing some ceramic art in the dining hall.

The evening we had a pyjama party and movie night in the Rec Hall, complete with Gino’s pizza and s’mores!

We watched the old classic, Pretty Woman, which teaches us the true meaning of Nerina’s house value: Respect. Every single person deserves the same respect, no matter what they do for a living or what they look like. The movie night was exactly what we needed to get rid of the academic stress.

Sunday morning started very actively with a Zumba class in the Rec Hall. It was so much fun! Combining dancing and laughter with exercise is a top recipe for fitness-made-fun. Our stunning residence head, Joy , also took part in this activity and it was a pleasure to see her enjoy it just as much as the Nerinas did. Next time you dance , don’t hold back, you are burning calories while you’re doing it!

IBN ended the way it started – on a high note. We bonded over brunch and reflected on an amazing weekend, while preparing for the week that lied ahead. Nerina’s first Quad Market was an additional dash of joy to the weekend. Nerina showcased their entrepreneurial skills and supported other local businesses as well. Kirsty du Preez and Biancke Wessels were the winners of the IBN social media competiton!IBN was a definite highlight of the first term and an amazing way to spend time with the people close to our hearts. I now know for sure: there is no place like home.

H A EP V P EE N NI N T GS S

WHO RUN THE WORLD? GIRLS! M

O

L

A

S

S

E

S

Ê

R

2

0

2

0

Mari de Lange

Nerina their held

women

fierce from

and

the

were fire

once at

25th to

the

the

again

showcasing

annual Molassesêr

27th of

Ferbuary.

With lots of hard work and dedication, Nerina performed a Molassesêr of note! In order for any basic system to run smooth, it is extremely important to have the right people in charge. Credit must be given to Francis Olivier and Tadiwanashe (Tadi) Zororo for writing the Molassesêr script. Both of them also assisted the girls with the choreography of the dances and the characters with the executing of their scripts. Not only did Francis help with the choreography, she was also the drummer on

the

night

of

performance.

Chané

Swanepoel

played

the

clarinet.

Both

these

instruments

contributed to the lively atmosphere Nerina was radiating.

The 26th of February was upon us and the girls were extremely excited. Dressed in all black and red lips, each Nerina stood proud and confident in front of Metanoia residence. The first performance took place there. With much excitement and a little bit of pressure from the judges table, the girls knew exactly what to do.

This year the theme of Molassesêr was “Video killed the Radio Star”. Nerina clearly conveyed the message that a woman does not need a man to be happy or to fulfil her life since you are your own hero.

Smiling from ear to ear and singing their hearts out, all the Nerina girls were having a blast. The importance of a Molassesêr performance is connecting with the crowd, and that is exactly what each Nerina did. The crowd joined in on all of the dances and the songs, especially on the chorus of Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”.

The night did not end at Meta. After the first performance, the girls marched to Dagbreek where they will be performing for the last time. A slightly bigger crowd was present at Dagbreek and even though it was getting late, the girls were still dynamic and energetic.

Unfortunately, Nerina did not make the finals. The girls, however, still did an outstanding job! The energy of each Nerina was contagious and the crowd loved them.

Molassesêr 2020 can, without a doubt, be seen as a highlight of the year. The bar is set extremely high for the next group to take over the reigns and make Molassesêr 2021 another memorable one.

N E R I N A

N A R R A T I V E

wonders

THE WONDERS OF WELCOMING

Karmen Wiid

Welcoming truly is what the word entails – a ‘welcoming’ into your new life, a rebirth of sorts. Lately I have been thinking a lot about the meaning of ‘home’ and how it differs for each of us. For some it may be the heart of the person they love, their family or a childhood place that will always be reminiscent of sunshine and innocence. But I think one thing that Nerina, and especially Welcoming has taught me, is that ‘home’ does not have a definition, for defining something is the act of taking away its capacity to evolve and adapt. In the couple of months living in Nerina, I have realised that one’s home is constantly growing and accumulating new meaning, because the older we get the more people and places come into our lives that make us feel alive, safe, loved and essentially at home.

I remember thinking at the end of Welcoming that it seems impossible I have only known Nerina for a mere ten days, since this beautiful house has already taken up a large piece of my new meaning of home. I know that when I think of home from now on, I will inevitably think of warm red colours billowing in the late afternoon breeze of a balmy Stellenbosch evening. I will think of laughter in the quad under our Jacaranda tree and of the vague sense of being young, free and part of a sisterhood. How does one describe the unfathomable feeling of running through a tunnel of seniors who are chanting “Nerina” or wearing hope in your hair in the form of a white flower-crown? How could a Nerina ever truly put into words the sensation in one’s heart when walking through a dark residence along with other uncertain, yet eager newcomers, guided only by flickering lights, warm smiles and the sense that for the first time in your life you are not alone.

The thing with Welcoming is that it teaches you to look beyond the week of early mornings and little sleep, and to see the undeniable fact that you are now a part of something much larger than yourself. You now form part of a long history of women who have fought for education, supported each other and essentially helped each other grow into the people they knew they always could be. Yes, Welcoming is without a doubt tumultuous, tiring and unpredictable, but I know it will always hold a unique place in each Newcomers memory, heart and understanding of home. At times it was loud, vivid and effervescent. We would run through the streets chanting in unison or laugh too loudly too late at night. We sang old songs together on the bus ride home from Tygerberg – soaring, flying - as the sun set and left everything in a haze of pink. I will always remember how our unity

in

that

moment

made

us

feel

untouchable, like

there

wasn’t

a

star

in

heaven

that

we

couldn’t

reach. Another moment that truly unified us, was our rage against Pieke for stealing pancakes and our exhilaration when cheering for Charlize at the Prim Bike race. Afterwards, with flashlights, we joined her in her room to learn the house song - a beautiful tradition that ensured many goose bumps and proud hearts.

Yet, other times the quiet signified a certain holiness, a respect. Light Night stood out for me because of its soft silence. It was not only a night where we discovered the youth-drenched town, but it was also a night that helped us to internalise the weight of our new memories and experiences. A tangible bond was formed as we stood in silence holding our fireworks, and in essence, our dreams. Welcoming was not just a series of events, but rather a series of emotions and memories so intertwined that one would never be able to distinguish the tired from the tears, or the elation from the laughter. It truly was a time of rediscovery and rebirth. Who knew it only took ten days to make ninety newcomers a family?

So, owl,

perhaps a

‘home’

Jacaranda

prologue.

does tree

not and

have all

a the

definition, little

bits

but of

rather life

it

has

that

a

Welcoming,

happens

after

an the

N E R I N A

N A R R A T I V E

NERINA AS A MICROCOSM Carnia Adams

Nerina might be the place we come back to when we need to cry after a long day and a well-known UberEats delivery destination but it’s also the place that morphs into our own little world when we’re away from the world we’re so used outside.

It’s almost instant. You feel it when you step into the quad for the first time and see the jacaranda tree. The space becomes a world of its own, in which reality morphs into a new one inside the residence. Just like the outside there is a vast amount of people with different views and backgrounds, but within Nerina, there is a space for each of the ladies to occupy; carved out in stone.

At Nerina we are contributors to society. These available spaces are visible through the implementation of various committees such as Critical Engagement, Brutus, Merch Comm, Woman Empowerment and various others. There are also many opportunities for residents to be involved in sports and cultural activities if desired. The options are endless; all that’s needed is a little bit of gees (spirit).

Just as conflict arises as a result of those different experiences, so can conflict arise in an enclosed space like Nerina. The difference is that when conflict occurs in Nerina, it’s in a space where there is a conscious effort to ensure it is resolved, so that all parties involved feel heard and is satisfied. If that doesn’t work, buy the person a packet of 2-minute noodles and all should be well in the hallways.

Method 100% recommended… We all know what it

feels

like

to

be

a

broke

student,

who

forgot

to book for res food in time.

Yes, Nerina as a society is different to the real thing but quite honestly it might be better.

You are never alone and can deal with the problems you face outside with the help of your friends that are a few doors away. How nice is it to finally be in a space, where there is always someone if you need them?

We also have the NCC who are like our mini-functioning parliament minus the hectic politics; and every single woman in Nerina is a spokesperson in ‘government’: the more we speak up for what is true, the more we embody what it means to be a Nerina. This is our own little world where not only our wants but our necessities can be met. At Nerina, those selected to ensure that these needs are met, are consistently aiming to create positive change and ensure that the difficult topics remain engaged with so that we as a house, are constantly progressing with the world around us. Being certain about those in charge of our living space, allows us to focus on the other aspects of life; freeing up a little clutter. Most importantly, just like a country that aims for total equality, that’s what Nerina allows for all the residents.

We’re all equals, with equal opportunity to flourish. We came in different and from Nerina we will leave different, but one thing is certain: You can sit with us. We all have a seat at the table.

N e r i n a l i t t l e

i s

a

r e f l e c t i o n

w a r m e r ,

a

l i t t l e

o f

o u r

e x t e r n a l

s w e e t e r

a n d

a

s o c i e t y , l i t t l e

b u t

a

t i g h t e r .

N E R I N A

N A R R A T I V E

Blue bicycle adventures PART

ONE

|

NERINA

STRIKES

BACK

Jess Holing The air was crisp, and the wind perfectly still. A wave of purple dusk began to close its hand over the town, chasing out any light left behind, minute by minute. The trees down Victoria Street whispered to each other as they saw us coming. “Here comes Nerina,” they rustled, “here they come.” We sang. We sang louder and louder, our collective voices slicing through the air and echoing into every corner of the street. Students hung out of windows, our songs pulling their curiosity right out of their rooms. We were on a mission. A member of Nerina was missing. Our ride or die. Our bike. And we were going to get it back.

We stood fearless outside, hearts beating louder than the drum we kept in time to, standing only a few doors away from our prize. We waited, energy flowing from every fingertip. An unstoppable force, that’s what we were, a pack of lionesses waiting for their chance to strike. I looked to my right, and my eyes met those of the lioness next to me. We couldn’t suppress a giggle – this was crazy.

A sudden movement from the unfortunate, unknowing little buck, also known as a Dagbreek boy, that opened the door to our hunt, and we were off. A stampede of girls with a passion for their home bombarded through a door meant for one, knocking boys off balance left right and centre, and laughter pouring from their lips. Inside the arena, we joined hands, hearts already intertwined, and chanted songs of power, love, success and strength.

Our

claps

echoed

into

every

room

surrounding

us,

drawing

half-asleep

faces

to

their

windows and reminding them that they had lost. “Waar’s ons fiets?” (Where is our bike) we shouted, chanting ourselves into a hysterical whirlwind of voices and clapping, distracting the watching eyes from what was really going on underneath the covers. A few of us snuck off behind all the action, brushing staircases and locked doors out of our way to complete our task, to find the hiding place. We knew it was there.

And then there was a glimpse of blue – Rusted handlebars and the creak of tyres that know they will always be brought back home. She was back. Emerging from around the corner, we all caught a glimpse of her, back in our rightful hands, on her journey to her quad-home.

Roaring with excitement and completely surrounding her, we began our walk home with voices and hearts soaring through the now dark Stellenbosch streets, but with the brightest lights I’ve ever seen glistening in our eyes.

S T U F F

T H A T

M A T T E R S

STYLE AND SUSTAINABILITY:

N E R I N A

M E R C H

Zoë McCathie We live in a time where young people are taking more interest in the issues facing our world, where they are fighting to bring change by being more sustainable and informed on ecological issues. The world is changing, we’re beginning to think twice about how the decisions we make affect the planet we live on. But luckily for us at Nerina we don’t have to think twice about buying from the new 2020 merchandise collection.

No one can deny that Nerina’s new merchcollection is incredibly stylish and is filled with great pieces that we can be proud to wear around campus. That’s why it's no surprise that its project manager, Heike Edeling, was one of our February Nerinas of the Month. What is perhaps even more impressive than this, however, is the focus the collection has on sustainability.

This focus was implemented from the very beginning of the year as the first years received their own reusable smoothie straw made by local company Natustraw in their welcoming packs. The straw being a great Nerinabranded item they can carry around with them daily to represent this house and save the turtles at the same time!

The newly introduced legacy items (which include the “Nerina Tee”, the visor, and the supporter jersey) were created to make sure that everyone in Nerina has a couple items which we can all wear together, promoting belonging and unity. These items also help to promote sustainability in that they can be worn and used for many years and, as they are made to be worn by Nerina’s well into the future, could one day be sold secondhand and more affordably, to be used again by others who haven't even begun their time at Nerina yet.

But sustainability through the clothing alone is not the only way that the new merchandise is helping the environment. Two items, the tote bag and the ribbon, were released in collaboration with local organisations who work to help the world and those who live in it. The tote bag is an eco-friendly item made in collaboration with Sakgeld, a local business that promotes sustainable, handmade tote bags that are water-resistant, fashionable, and the perfect size for carrying all the books, stationary, and odds and ends you need to throw in for class each day.

The second collaboration is with 60 cycles, a charity which began here in Stellenbosch and works to help supply young women in South Africa with sanitary kits which will help enable them have a more successful school career without having to skip so for one week per month due to something they can’t avoid. The collaboration happened through the creation of a stunning lilac hair scarf which is a lovely accessory to add to any outfit and can also be worn with the pride of knowing that your purchase helped towards providing someone like you with a reusable, washable (and completely sustainable) sanitary kit!

The new merchandise collection promotes unity, inclusivity, and through its partnerships with local businesses helps to boost our economy. Each of these things partnered with the wonderful way it supports sustainability means you can remember each time you wear one of your new merch items that by supporting this collection you’re not only supporting Nerina, you’re supporting the planet.

OF THE MONTH

NERINA CROSSWORD PUZZLE Meraki Matthee

Across 3. A diverse space for dances, meetings, exercise and studying in res 5. Nerina’s sacred hideout where men aren’t allowed.

9. A spot where you can get the best view of the mountains 10. Welcoming Leader 2020 11. House Fund and Dance is a true …15. What do we feel when we dream together and climb Coetzenberg in white?

16. What do you get when you mix wool and music at House Fund Dance 2020?

17. If you can’t go up or down, and you can’t go left – the time must be …

18. An intense emotion of happiness and an important person in res

Down 1. The section who won the table tennis during IBN are true 2. Hearing “Nerina. Vat aan my …” every morning is …

4. The University of Stellenbosch implemented this policy in January 2020 6. The res from which our newcomers went to steal back our bike 7. Nerina’s Mascot 8. Our partners for Nerina’s hair merch 12. Our majestic winged friend.

13. Who danced the Vensters stage on fire?

14. The best song for a dinner party.

N E R I N A

Q U O T E S

Dé-Mari Kleynhans

“Alles vir die fiets!”

This is one of the most common sayings that are being shouted at the top of your lungs when excitement levels are rising in Nerina with an eventful activity. Sayings and phrases like this are just part of who Nerina is. There are some things that just trigger a certain saying and take you back to all the memorable times in res. This is what makes Nerina special: The people, the chats, the moments, the excitement for snitchel day, the hype for Nerina week, the pride gleaming out of people’s faces when the house song is sung and of course, the random quotes:

“I feel like I have the best

“No, it is not a skakel, it is called a social

time when I am asleep.”

interaction.”

- MONDE

- YVANÉ

“I choose

“The quicker you are behind, the more time

happiness but it

you have to catch up.”

doesn’t choose me

- CARMEN BOWLES

back.”

- SURIKA “Shihara is the housewife of Broadway.”

“Don’t be sorry, be

- NADIA

better.”

- ZANÉ AND LARO “What happened to Sunlearn?”

- ELRETTE

“Five minutes early is on time, on time is late and 5 minutes late is unacceptable.”

- THE NCC

"YOU CAN SIT WITH US"

“Get keeennnnn!"

- EDNA, always.

“Let's go tan

“Wilcocks IS that far.”

on the

- DÉ-MARI

stoep”

“Enroute slushie a day keeps a

- CARLA

mental breakdown away.”

C R O S S W O R D

A N S W E R S

1. Champs

10. Zahn

2. Metannoying

11. Dynamic Duo

3. Rec Hall

12. Owl

- ANNELIZE

4. Alcohol Policy 13. Merkerina 5. Quad

14. Yodel

6. Dagbreek

15. Hope

7. Pancakes

16. Red Sheep

8. 60 Cycles

17. Right

9. Balcony

18. Joy

“The best res chats happen whilst standing in the bathroom wearing nothing but a towel.”

- EDNA

the End!