Culture
A Stage for Violence? South Africa's Response to Chris Brown’s Upcoming Concert
a week ago
Chris Brown is coming to South Africa. Let's sit down and talk about it. The Live in Johannesburg, Breezy in South Africa event, presented by Big Concerts and Y, will be held on Saturday and Sunday, December 14 & 15, 2024, at Johannesburg's infamous FNB Stadium, Africa's largest stadium. This will be Brown's first time…
Culture
My unique Heritage Day
3 months ago
South Africa is a rich and diverse land, with many cultures making up our beautiful rainbow nation. Heritage Day, commemorated on 24 September each year, is a perfect way to celebrate the wealth of customs and cultures of our people. Each year, South Africans from all walks of life enjoy the public holiday by dressing…
Culture
TikTok Love Tests: More Harmful Than Helpful?
5 months ago
Do you ever question if your partner truly loves you? In the past year or so, there has been a massive increase in TikTok trends that "pretend" to "test" a partner's devotion or the quality of a couple's relationship. Generally, TikTok relationship tests are done with their partner while making a video and posting the…
Culture
Content Copycat: The Culinary Clash Between Chefs Onezwa Mbola and Nara Smith
6 months ago
TikTok and Twitter have been burning for the last week or so with absolute drama, remarks, and FIRE because of South African Eastern Cape-based chef and content creator Onezwa Mbola and US-based chef, model and content creator Nara Smith. Smith is a Lesotho-German fashion model who was born in Bloemfontein. Both chefs have amassed sizable…
Culture
Good Teacher Bad Teacher
6 months ago
Have you ever encountered a lecturer or teacher who was so unkind that the mere thought of seeing them during class would give you anxiety? Have you ever shaped your opinion of your capabilities and how your educator perceived you? Have you ever been so inspired to excel at your studies and future career milestones…
Culture
Girlfriend Proposals: Love Upgrade or Total Hype?
6 months ago
In the spotlight of social media, where every photo and story is broadcasted to the masses, there's a fresh trend on the block—girlfriend proposals. Yep, you heard that right. Proposals aren't just for popping the big marriage question anymore; they've stylishly slid into the dating scene, igniting all kinds of buzz about their meaning and…
Culture
Claremon-Mobri-Kaap!
8 months ago
Step into the bustling streets of Cape Town, and you're stepping into a world where the taxi culture isn't just transportation; it's the city's lifeblood, an ode to the spirit of its people. For those setting foot in the Mother City for the first time, be prepared for an immersive experience, a dive into the…
Culture
Amapiano: From South African Beats to Global Debates
8 months ago
The main event at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations wasn't the match between the South African and Nigerian teams; the real showdown occurred on Twitter with the Amapiano wars between South Africans and Nigerians. Not me logging in after the match and seeing a tweet saying, "Dear South Africans, Amapiano belongs to Nigerians now"…
Culture
Situationships
8 months ago
“We’re seeing each other but we’re not ‘together’.” “We don’t like labels, but we’re definitely more than friends with benefits.” “There’s an emotional connection but I don’t know where I stand or how to introduce them to my friends.” If you’ve ever said or heard any of these phrases uttered before, you’ve likely either been…
Culture
Echoes Through Time
9 months ago
At the core of oral tradition is the goal of preservation. It is why, through the power of our voice and gestures, we tell stories of the past to preserve our cultures, identities, and customs and pass them on from one generation to the next. It is important to acknowledge and examine how storytelling and…
Culture
Whispers from kwaGogo: The Magic of Oral Storytelling
9 months ago
Picture this scene: You're 5 or 6 years old and visiting kwaGogo for the holidays. All your cousins and siblings are there, and you're seated on the dining room floor waiting for breakfast or lunch to be served. UGogo and your Aunt arrive and give you all a meal and promises that if you finish…
Culture
From Maan Kyking to Boeber Night
9 months ago
Ramadaan is around the corner, and Muslims worldwide are preparing for the auspiciousness of this wonderful month. With Muslims following the lunar calendar, Ramadaan is the ninth month of the Islamic year, with its commencement moving forward by eleven days annually. Ramadaan is an important month for Muslims because it was during this period, 1445…
Culture
Rhythms of Unity
10 months ago
While travelling to school on the busy roads of Cape Town, navigating the sea of taxis, buses and the occasional cyclist riding the wave of early morning traffic, you may see the countless posters hung up. Registreer en Stem! Bhalisa, away vote! Register and Vote! As we near thirty years of democracy, one cannot help…
Culture
Echoes of Identity: Embracing Our Mother Tongues
10 months ago
International Mother Language Day always strikes a deep chord with me. It's a day that celebrates the rich tapestry of languages that form the very backbone of our diverse cultures and identities. Let me share a bit about how this day came into being and why it resonates so profoundly with me as a Black…
Culture
Love in the Digital Age: Unpacking Valentine's Day 2024
10 months ago
It's that time of the year again when love seems to be in the air, and every storefront is decked out in red and pink. But as we dive into the heart of February, let's hit pause and ask ourselves: is Valentine's Day still relevant for us, the young and restless? Should we even contemplate…
Culture
What the heck, Grammys?
10 months ago
We spoke about snubs at the Oscars, and next up, we have snubs at the Grammys! If you haven't seen it yet, on Sunday, during his acceptance speech for the Dr Dre Global Impact Award at the Grammys, Jay-Z stood on business and called the Recording Academy out for not giving his wife credit where…
Culture
Barbie at the Oscars: Feminism or Faux-Pas?
10 months ago
Barbie has made headlines again. The lack of recognition of the work of Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie in the Director and Best Actress category nominations for the film Barbie at the upcoming 96th Oscar Academy Awards has caused an uproar with the internet regarding it as 'anti-feminist'. However, the nomination of their co-star, America…
Culture
Netflix Dreams
11 months ago
Hailing from Samora Machel in Phillipi, 24-year-old performer Bonani Ngamlane proves that dreams come true with his inspirational journey that started from his adolescent dreams in Samora and took him to the world with his role as Qhawe Jobodwana, a football team member in The Queenstown Kings, which premiered on the 17th of November on…
Did you know?
Get to know the duo behind Matric Live!
7 months ago
Matric Live, is the flagship product of SAADC (Pty)ltd, an EdTech-focused software startup founded by Lesego Finger and later joined by Kagisho Masae. The company is on a mission to level the playing field for under-resourced children in South Africa. Finger's inspiration for starting an EdTech company came when he finished his final (Matric) year…
Did you know?
Why we dream
a year ago
Have you ever woken up in the morning after the most perfect date night on top of the Eiffel Tower only to become disappointed to realize it was just another dream? Or perhaps you’ve experienced the reverse, waking up in the middle of the night with your heart thumping and sheets wet with sweat, only…
Did you know?
Did You Know? Jay-Z is Hip-Hop's first billionaire
a year ago
From a controversial past, to releasing multi-platinum albums, winning multiple awards and marrying Beyonce, Jay-Z can now add being a billionaire to his ever growing list of achievements. Shawn Corey Carter, known by his stage name ‘Jay-Z’ has officially become a billionaire, according to an article by Forbes magazine. Jay-Z grew up in the Marcy…
Did you know?
In A Pickle: The Fascinating History of Cape Town's Beloved Pickled Fish Dish
2 years ago
Picklefish, a beloved dish in the Cape for Good Friday, has a long and fascinating history. As the name suggests, pickled fish combines fish and spices, creating a unique and flavourful dish. But where did this iconic dish originate, and how did it become a staple of Cape cuisine? From its humble beginnings in the…
Did you know?
Rev Up Your Confidence: Navigating the World of Driving Lessons and Tests
2 years ago
Have you seen that post on social media that says, "I'm not sure who needs to hear this but get your driver's license"? If not, let me be the one to tell you that getting your driver's license is a game-changer! It gives you the freedom to go anywhere you want and do anything you've…
Did you know?
A parasocial relationship: BTS and Army
2 years ago
The danger of being a fan, no matter what type, has to be the relationship they think they have with the person they look up to. This is how parasocial relationships develop, especially during these times of social media, where so much information is publicly available. According to the Find-a-Psychologist website, parasocial relationships are one-sided,…
Did you know?
Why Your Favourite Foods Are Going Extinct
2 years ago
Global rising temperatures are making food more difficult to grow. Some foods disappearing due to climate change include coffee, chocolate, wine, and almonds. Even staples like rice, corn, chickpeas, beans, and wheat are being impacted. Foods Impacted Coffee will need to be grown further north as higher temperatures in the tropics have  led to more…
Did you know?
Yay or nay: Making friends online
2 years ago
Making friends in public spaces can be tricky if you are socially awkward. It can feel easier making friends online. Many people these days have formed friendships with people from all walks of life that they have never met before that don't require awkward small talk.  'Looking for friendships in hopeless place…' Siphesihle (23) met…
Did you know?
Christmas Traditions and Origins
2 years ago
"Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store… maybe Christmas means a little bit more." – Dr Seuss Christmas is almost here, and I’m sure some of you cannot wait. Christmas festivities bring along a lot of fun and cheerfulness, and we’re all here for that. Along with all the good food and fun times, have…
Did you know?
The dying star
2 years ago
The year 2022 is coming to an end in a month, and the festive season always brings a time of reflection. The highs, the lows and the gutters of the year. What we did wrong, what we could change and what we hope to bring into a new year.  It is also a reminder that…
Did you know?
Vegan vs Carnivore diet
2 years ago
The modern world is changing, especially when it comes to what we consume on a daily basis. People are opting for organic options or, even more so, for options that would personally improve their health. Vegan diet I’m sure you’ve heard of a vegan diet before; the diet where you only eat plant-based foods. So…
Did you know?
You can advance literacy through sport
2 years ago
Fat Cats Book Club is a Joburg-based book club whose members are mostly recreational athletes. The book club has 35 core members based in different provinces around the country. It has been running for five years and boasts a number of socially-impactful initiatives. Most close to my heart is the recent memorial run done in…
Did you know?
Cause of death: Cancer
2 years ago
Did you know that cancer is the leading cause of death globally? Statista states that lung cancer caused 1.79 million deaths worldwide in 2020. The second most deadly form of cancer is colon cancer, followed by stomach and liver cancer. What is cancer? According to an article by Healthline, cancer is a group of diseases…
Did you know?
Africa Every Day
2 years ago
The book Africa Every Day: Fun, Leisure, and Expressive Culture on the Continent, published by Ohio University Press, shows the people of the mother continent going about their lives, in both ordinary and festive ways. Here we interview award-winning African-American author Kemi Balogun - co-editor - about what motivated the project.  What inspired the creation…
Did you know?
We need to eat!
2 years ago
Food is a fundamental human right. No person should ever have to go a day without access to healthy, nutritious meals. But we all know this is not the case and that there is a lot to do to reach the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal of “zero hunger” by 2030.  Human beings evolved to…
Did you know?
Facts about Alzheimer's and dementia.
2 years ago
Do you have someone in your family or in your community who has something called dementia? Some people also call it Alzheimer's disease, one of the many types of dementia. Lots of people know someone who has this problem. If you know someone who has dementia: They may act or talk funny sometimes They may…
Did you know?
Elizabeth Holmes – The lies that made her
2 years ago
Imagine a world where with one prick of a finger, followed by a drop of blood, analysed by a tiny little machine, you’d be able to find out whether you suffer from any medical conditions in an instant, so to speak. Sounds like a far-off dream, doesn’t it? Well, one woman, Elizabeth Holmes, thought she…
Did you know?
isiXhosa names for the months of the year
2 years ago
Before the arrival of Europeans, and modern scientific knowledge, Africans used their indigenous knowledge, gained over thousands of years, to navigate their existence. Astrology and the study of nature have always been part of us.  Did you know what the seasons and months are called in isiXhosa; and why? There are four seasons in a…
Did you know?
The mysteries of the ocean
2 years ago
The ocean, so vast and beautiful, yet also treacherous and mysterious. We barely see the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the ocean. Although the earth is about 70%  water, around 95% is still unknown to us.  It is said that more is known about outer space than about the ocean. For instance, 12 men have…
Did you know?
How to start a movement
2 years ago
Recently we chatted to the inspiring community activist Henriette Abrahams from Bonteheuwel.  She described how the Bonteheuwel Development Forum encouraged the youth to run their arm of the group, the Bonteheuwel Youth Development Forum. ‘The youth have their own meetings around their own issues, such as their security and safety when playing sport on the…
Did you know?
Beyond the hashtags
2 years ago
Since the beginning of time, women have generally had the short end of the stick when it came to career advancement, societal privilege, and education. Like the women of ’56 said, “Wathinta abafazi, wathinta imbokodo.” Women fought then,  and are still fighting for what they rightfully deserve -  a fair and just society that allows…
Did you know?
It’s not all in your head
2 years ago
Has someone ever hurt you and then made you feel like it was your fault? Have you ever spent time wondering if that bad thing that happened was something you caused? Do you sometimes think that you’re just making it all up or question what you remember? You’re not alone. This has happened to me…
Did you know?
More than your lucky number
2 years ago
I fully believe in spiritual signs. For example, my late Gran and best friend were both born on January 1st. Every time I see 0101, which is rare, I feel it’s a reminder that they will always be here. There are plenty of signs I associate spirituality with guidance but first things first… Wondering what…
Digital Literacy
Turning Pages with Your Ears
3 months ago
In recent years, the world of reading has changed. Where once physical books were the dominant medium, audiobooks are now rapidly becoming the go-to choice for many. This shift from the traditional to the auditory is more than a trend—it reflects our fast-paced, multitasking world. But what about audiobooks makes them so appealing, and could…
Digital Literacy
AI in Africa
3 months ago
Artificial intelligence has grown immensely popular in the last few years, heralded as both the threat to our humanity and the answer to our most basic problems. But is it truly here to solve our issues, or is the hype clouding our judgement? Narratives surrounding this technology are threefold. Firstly, AI is posed as a…
Digital Literacy
Smart Clicks
8 months ago
I know what you’re thinking. “Here we go again, another post about not giving out my bank pin”. As someone who has navigated the internet since childhood, I understand how digital privacy can feel instinctive to us – the young digital natives. We know the drill: don't share personal info with unknown callers, guard your…
Foodie
From Bubble tea to Corn dogs
2 years ago
Have you noticed how Korean culture is everywhere right now? From K-Pop to skincare, it seems like everyone is obsessed with all things Korean. So, I decided to jump on the bandwagon and try some popular Korean food to see if the hype is real. Now, let me tell you, Korean food is not for…
Foodie
Owami Mhlongo: Putting your heart on a plate
2 years ago
Twenty-year-old Owami Mhlongo grew up in Pinetown KZN. She describes her childhood as having been “rocky” and this resulted in her spending a lot of time with her aunt and grandmother. It is from here though that she traces her love of food.  Now a practitioner in a fine-dining establishment, her earliest food memories are…
Foodie
Some yummy chocolate facts
2 years ago
As a child growing up chocolate used to be such a luxury to taste or buy. The only time we could have it at my house was on the social grant day. My granny would wake up early to avoid the long lines and on her way back home she would buy the biggest chocolate…
Gents
The Gentleman's Renaissance
6 months ago
“gentleman” noun (pl. gentlemen) a man who is polite and well educated, who has excellent manners and always behaves well Thank you—you're a real gentleman. He's no gentleman!” Oxford dictionary What are the core qualities of a gentleman? A gentleman is respectful, he’s confident and embraces his imperfections. He carries a mindset of equality, he's…
Gents
Navigating Men's Body
2 years ago
Hey guys, let's talk about the pressure to look good for men. We all know how it feels to scroll through social media and see images of guys with abs for days and chiselled biceps. But then, we're told that it's okay to have a #dadbod and not worry about our physique. So, what's the…
Gents
Breaking the Silence
2 years ago
The recent shooting of South African rapper AKA has spotlighted the pervasive levels of violence in the country, particularly towards young black men. The shooting dredged up memories of my experience with gun violence a few years ago. I remember feeling scared, confused, and powerless at that moment, and the emotions have stuck with me…
Girl Talk
How to Kiss
4 weeks ago
The first time I kissed someone was on a dare. We were in grade 7, and all my friends had already had their first kiss. I really didn’t want to go to High School, never having been kissed. One day after class, my best friends, my crush and I were sitting outside on the field…
Girl Talk
PATTY
4 months ago
Ek haal my sunglasses af om vesieke te maak ek sien reg. Daai's mos Patty wat soe innie vlak branders rol. Nogals in ‘n zebra print bikini. Ek dog sy’s 'n never-nude. Sy’s gewoonlik toegekap. Sy’s altyd gelayered met jerseys, jackets en doekies, even oppie waremste dae. Patty moet sieke my gaze gevoelet wan sy…
Girl Talk
Embracing the Cycle
4 months ago
The menstrual cycle (or period) is a beautiful stage of life that every woman experiences. It can be quite scary at first but you are not alone. I remember my first period. It was at the end of Grade 8. Early one morning at school I felt strange cramps in my stomach. I carried on…
Health
Sleep is Health
yesterday
Many of us have heard that sleeping too much is a sign of demotivation. American actor, comedian, and television host, Steve Harvey, famously said that one cannot sleep for eight hours a day and hope to be successful. The media mogul is not alone in his sentiments. I recall one of my master’s lecturers once…
Health
Does it hurt when I put it in here?
2 weeks ago
Have you ever heard of Vaginismus? Me neither, well, not until I dated someone who may have been living with it. My partner at the time, struggled with their relationship to sex due to several things, but mostly due to the kind of household they were raised in. This would cause us to have many…
Health
10 Things to Know About Your Vagina
4 months ago
When I was a toddler, we lived in a yellow painted house in Steenberg, Cape Town.We had a neighbour who was about my age, and he would come over to play. On one of these occasions, he uttered the inevitable toddler words: 'show me yours and I'll show you mine'. After a quick calculation of…
Health
The Gold Inside a Plant-based Diet
4 months ago
So what foods should we eat on a daily? Health nutritionist, wellness coach and Nurse, Kellie Bowman. The daughter of the late renowned herbalist Dr Sebi (the man who cured diseases by using plant based foods) carries on her father's legacy by educating people about the importance and health benefits of a plant-based diet. Through…
Health
From Pain to Peace: A Fibromyalgia Survivor's Guide to the Now Moment
6 months ago
When I was 30 years old, I felt like my life was just starting to thrive. I was happy in my career as a B.Ed. Foundation Phase Teacher. I am a mother of two wonderful children and have a loving husband. I had everything I ever dreamed about. Then, my doctor diagnosed me with Fibromyalgia.…
Health
Balancing Act
8 months ago
In an era obsessed with wellness, isn't it wild that chasing health can crank our stress levels? The wellness industry, booming with its promises of mental peace and physical health, sometimes overshadows the simple truth: striving for wellness should not cost us our peace of mind. This blog delves into stress in the wellness journey,…
Health
Caught Napping
9 months ago
In today's fast-paced world, where the pressure to constantly perform and produce never seems to let up, napping emerges not just as an act of self-care but as a powerful tool for mental and physical rejuvenation. Taking our cue from the Nap Ministry, founded by Tricia Hersey, this movement champions napping as a form of…
Health
Boost Your Wellness
11 months ago
Being healthy can be a challenge, but being unwell because of poor choices is even worse. Start 2024 off the right way and kick into gear. 2023 was a challenging year for many of us, but there’s no better time than now to leave the heartbreak and pain behind and start the new year in…
Health
Hung up on Hangovers
11 months ago
Waking up on the first day of the new year, I felt a sense of relief and clarity, having said goodbye to alcohol. But as I looked at my friends and down the street, I saw a different story. Eyes red and tired, everyone seemed to be showing off their hangovers like trophies. Why has…
Health
10 tips for Bouncing Back After the Holiday Feast
12 months ago
The holiday season's epic feasts have come and gone, leaving us with full hearts, even fuller stomachs, and maybe a bit of a food hangover. If you're looking to get back in the groove without the stress, here's your laid-back guide to bouncing back. 1. Stay Hydrated: Water is your lifeline after all the holiday…
Health
Crunch, Sip, Chill
a year ago
When faced with looming deadlines or the pressure of exams, our bodies often yearn for something. "Whenever I feel stressed, I always find myself craving salty snacks like chips ", confesses Nita, a 17-year student. However, what if the foods we turn to for solace worsen our stress levels? The truth is, indulging in greasy…
Health
The Unfinished Fight
a year ago
1 December is World Aids Day – and certainly a time for us as South Africans to ask ourselves some tough questions. Well, two questions, mainly. - Does the availability and effectiveness of antiretroviral medication (ARVs) make young people born between 1995 and 2005 (GEN-Z) feel that HIV/AIDS is no longer a real threat to…
Health
The importance of sleep
a year ago
Sleep. It’s something we all do and need and (if you’re like me) complain the most about not getting enough of. Despite this, I can never seem to switch off Netflix or pull myself out of the never-ending rabbit hole which is YouTube despite how many times I’ve told myself I need to get an…
How to
How to Have Difficult Conversations
3 weeks ago
What do you do when you fear conflict and dread tough conversations? As difficult as they are, it's important to have them. Even when it hurts, speaking our truth and setting boundaries are essential for growth and flourishing in our lives. Below, I will take you through some tips that have helped me navigate tricky…
How to
Write Right
3 months ago
Just under a year ago, my blogging journey with Fundza began - a journey that transformed my understanding of writing. Initially, I had a basic grasp of putting words together, but the art of crafting a compelling blog was still a mystery to me. Each day, I dedicated myself to refining my writing skills, diving…
How to
Immune-boosting natural remedies
a year ago
It has been cold, really cold, and now more than ever we experience symptoms of flu or the common cold. So, how do we combat them? Going to the doctor can be expensive and sitting for hours at the day hospital is no one’s idea of fun. If you are not seriously ill, and just…
Life Advice
Help me, I’m changing!
5 months ago
Puberty… What is it and why is it so confusing? You have probably heard your teachers or parents throw this word around so casually that it feels like a joke to them, therefore they do not have to take your feelings seriously. But the fact is, that’s not true. In easily understandable terms it is…
Life Advice
The Price of Silence - Why We Must Speak Against Human Trafficking
6 months ago
As Blue Campaign defines, human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labour or commercial sex act. While traffickers might use different methods, the most noticeable methods to lure victims into trafficking situations are violence, manipulation, false promises of well-paying jobs and romantic relationships. Like many stories shared…
Life Advice
What Comic Characters Teach Us
2 years ago
When I was just a young comic book enthusiast, I was captivated by the awe-inspiring heroes and their unwavering dedication to using their extraordinary powers for the greater good. Like Uncle Ben wisely told Peter, the iconic Spider-Man, "With great power comes great responsibility." Witnessing these heroes embrace their responsibility ignited a deep admiration within…
Mindspace
Year-End Fatigue Has Us All by the Neck
3 days ago
Are you having a hard time concentrating lately, or keeping up with your thoughts or time management? Does your body feel like you’ve just been hit by a bus, so much so that even the smallest tasks feel choresome? You’re not the only one. It’s that time of the year when people are anxious and…
Mindspace
Glow Up Before Your Breakup
a week ago
The concept of "post-relationship growth" is widely recognized, where people become the best versions of themselves after going through tough breakups. I once had a friend who, after a guy broke her heart, went on to earn a master’s degree and saved enough money to buy a new car.   But what is it about…
Mindspace
What Is 16 Days of Activism?
2 weeks ago
Gender-based violence is one of many social scourges we are constantly dealing with and fighting against as a country. It is a pressing issue that affects women, children and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Every year for the months of November and December, social and human rights activists like the UN Women and Amnesty International…
Mindspace
How to Mend a Broken Heart: Surviving the First Month of Heartbreak
4 weeks ago
The first month after the end of a relationship may seem impossible to get through. After having recently gone through a breakup myself, those initial four weeks are some of the hardest days to get through. Here are three core approaches you can implement immediately into your life to keep yourself afloat amidst the all-consuming…
Mindspace
Why Being a Relationship Virgin is Nothing to Fear
a month ago
The term "relationship virgin" refers to individuals who have never been in a romantic relationship. When it comes to romantic relationships, there are two kinds of relationship virgins: voluntary and involuntary. Voluntary relationship virgins deliberately avoid romantic commitments, often due to reasons like being selective, valuing independence, or other personal factors. Involuntary relationship virgins, on…
Mindspace
Beat Exam Stress: Your Guide to Surviving Finals
a month ago
The year 2024 is nearly at its conclusion, with high school, college, and university students burning the midnight oil in pursuit of their best possible grades. For many, especially matriculants writing their National Senior Certificate exams, this time represents a challenging yet pivotal moment in their academic journeys. The pressure to succeed can feel overwhelming,…
Mindspace
#BookTok Buzz
2 months ago
Have you heard of #BookTok? It is a sub-community within TikTok specifically for readers and book lovers. It features short videos in which users talk about their favourite books, recommend titles, authors, and genres, and theatrically make inside jokes about literature. Additionally, #Booktokers discuss recently released books and promote novels they've read and either really…
Mindspace
Beyond Words
3 months ago
Over the past twenty years, social media's impact on society has increased noticeably. Social media has become an integral part of our lives, influencing how we communicate, consume information, and tell stories. For people of all ages, platforms like Instagram and TikTok, amongst others, aren't just for staying connected anymore; they are powerful tools for…
Mindspace
World Literacy Day
3 months ago
Every year on September 8th, the world comes together to celebrate World Literacy Day, a tradition that started way back in 1967. But why is literacy—just being able to read and write—such a big deal? If you're reading this right now, you’re one of the lucky few in South Africa who can. Our country’s literacy…
Mindspace
Journaling your Journey
3 months ago
We are constantly bombarded with information, expectations, and challenges that can overwhelm us. Amidst the chaos, one simple yet powerful tool is often overlooked: journaling. This age-old practice of putting pen to paper can be a sanctuary for the mind, offering numerous mental health benefits. Writing about your feelings can bring clarity and perspective. When…
Mindspace
Thuto ya Basha le bokamoso ba kontinente ya Aforika
5 months ago
Ka kakaretso, mosola wa thuto ke go ruta batho gore ba kgone go nagana ka mokgwa o o tla ba kgontshang go lebana le go samagana le seemo sa loago, bobakapuso le ikonomi jalo jalo. Thuto eno e tshwanetse go ba letla gore ba kgone go lemoga mathata a a leng gone, go a tsharolola…
Mindspace
The Quarter Life Crisis
5 months ago
A quarter-life crisis is a period of significant doubt, anxiety, and uncertainty that typically occurs in a person's mid-20s to early 30s. Usually brought on by comparing oneself to other peers, internal pressure, transition and change, social media and fear of failure. With my 25th birthday just four months away, the pressure of societal expectations…
Mindspace
Making Every Day a Mandela Day
5 months ago
I'm sure you know the importance of the 18th of July. We celebrate this day to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, one of our former and most valued presidents. Nelson Mandela spent 67 years fighting for our rights and the eradication of apartheid. Symbolically, we take 67 minutes on Mandela Day to…
Money Matters
How to Start a Startup
3 weeks ago
What is a startup? According to investopedia, a startup is defined as a company in its early stages of operations. Founded by entrepreneurs who want to develop a product or service they believe is in-demand and hopefully underserved.   What does it do? Basically it's a new company working to solve a pain problem or…
Money Matters
How to Start Your Start Up
3 months ago
What is a startup? According to investopedia, a startup is defined as a company in its early stages of operations. Founded by entrepreneurs who want to develop a product or service they believe is in-demand and hopefully underserved. What does it do? Basically it's a new company working to solve a pain problem or do…
Money Matters
Job-hunting is whack
7 months ago
“We regret to inform you that you have not obtained this job.” “We will keep your résumé on file should a similar position open up.” “Thank you for taking the time to apply, but we will not be moving forward with you for the recruitment of this job.” If you have received any of the…
People on the move
Curator Phokeng Setai
a year ago
Phokeng is a name to be reckoned with in the art world in South Africa. Hailing from Bloemfontein and at 31 years old, he is a curator in Cape Town and has worked at Zeitz MOCAA, the world-famous art museum in Cape Town. His work is multi-disciplinary, as he recently completed his PhD in Anthropology…
People on the move
Get gaming with Tshepiso
a year ago
Meet Tshepiso Malema, the visionary entrepreneur on a mission to close the technology gap for young people in townships, all through the enchantment of gaming. It all started when he first laid his hands on an Xbox at a friend's place. "I was whisked away to different worlds. Gaming showed me that it can transport…
People on the move
Get to Know Yandisa Peko, Astrophysicist
a year ago
Get ready to swoon over Yandisa Peko, who set Twitter on fire with her jaw-dropping graduation photo and an oh-so-cool caption that read, "UCT Astrophysics and Science Space graduate." We may not all be astrophysicists, but one thing is crystal clear: this field demands some serious brainpower, especially when it comes to subjects like math…
Politics
Will We Ever Stop Talking About Black Tax?
3 weeks ago
Social media was abuzz some weeks ago when lifestyle influencer, Sabelo the Kreator shared a vlog of his home renovations. In the video, with Thinah Zungu’s testimonial song Thandiwe serenading the viewers, the content creator can be seen through different phases of seeing the renovations come to life—from sourcing the material and crafting what he…
Politics
DIPUO TSA SEAFORIKA, THUTO, LE TSEOKAROLO SEMORUO YA BASHA
a month ago
Nngwe ya dintlha  tsa botlhokwa tse di amang bokamoso  jwa basha ba maAforika, ebile di tshwarelelang lefatshegadi (kontinente) la Aforika morago mo maitekong a lone a go bona kgololosego ya tota ke gore batho ba lefatshegadi leno ke bangwe ba batho mo lefatsheng ba ba sa diriseng dipuo tsa  bone mo ikgolololong le itlhabololo ya…
Politics
“Ban? I Thought You Said Burn!” On Censorship in the Modern Age.
a month ago
Many of my favourite books are banned in several American states. The conversation is about children’s safety, parental paranoia, and the problem of censorship in the modern age. I believe that parents have already had their young years. As much as we are grateful to have them in our lives to impart gems and nuggets…
Politics
Miss SA 2024 and the Xenophobia Storm
4 months ago
Welcome to yet another episode of South Africans being Xenophobic. Surprise surprise. This time, the spotlight is on Chidimma Adetshina, a withdrawn finalist for Miss South Africa 2024, who became the target of xenophobic attacks due to her Nigerian heritage. Oh, South Africans, what will I do with you? Xenophobia, defined as the "dislike of…
Politics
Women’s Day- More Than Just a Public Holiday
4 months ago
Women’s Day in our country is the commemoration of the women who marched to the Union Buildings in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women on 9 August 1956. Sixty-eight years later and their works have been reduced to passing mentions in speeches and an Instagram post if they’re lucky. Worst still, the…
Politics
We Are Dying Here eKapa
4 months ago
The life of a child is cheap in South Africa, and in the Western Cape it means almost nothing. This year alone, 79 children have already been shot dead, and the count continues. Gangsterism and its effects are not new in Cape Town and so you might be thinking, ‘we already know about this’. A…
Politics
Let Mandela Rest this Mandela Day
5 months ago
As Born-Frees, we are often scathing in our critique of the Rainbow Nation and those who ushered it in. We bemoan and callously deride the works of Nelson Mandela, particularly. "He sold us out. We achieved political freedom but not economic freedom," we say. While these sentiments remain true and are important in our quest…
Politics
GNU: Government of National (Dis)Unity
5 months ago
For the last two weeks, we have been inundated with news and speculation about the proclaimed Government of National Unity, led by the ANC (African National Congress) and nine other political parties. In this article, I will break down some key points you need to know about what this means (and doesn't mean) for us.…
Snapshots
My matric ball
a year ago
The matric dance was a chance for me to make beautiful memories. It's something I will take with me to University or College. It's something I can use to remember my friends, my classmates and my school. At first I was really nervous when I thought about the matric ball. I've never worn a formal…
Snapshots
Tiktok slang for 2023
2 years ago
What makes TikTok aka the clock app unique? It has to be the sense of familiarity as it recognises the smallest of things that we do daily, from skincare to chores or even mannerisms.  TikTok can be both general, but can also be quite niche, which helps people not feel like outsiders or weird for…
Snapshots
Is flirting cheating?
2 years ago
Imagine being on Instagram and seeing a certain post that your partner liked and commented on. The comment is something along the lines of  ‘Beautiful (heart emoji)’. You confront your partner and they don't see anything wrong with what they did, to them it was just harmless flirting with a friend. Was it harmless flirting…
Student Life
Stress, Sleep, Study
2 years ago
As a student and a full-time employee, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to balance the demands of school, work, and personal life. Sometimes I feel like I'm drowning in deadlines and responsibilities, and it can be hard to find the time to just breathe and relax. But I've learned that with some…
Student Life
Tips for Crushing Your University Applications!
2 years ago
Are you ready to kickstart your journey towards higher education and crush your university applications? Whether you're the first in your family to consider university or seek guidance, fear not because we've got you covered. In this article, we'll dive into all the practical tips and resources you need to prepare for university applications like…
Student Life
Unleash the fun: Holiday Activities To Make the Most of Your Time Off School!
2 years ago
It's that time of the year again - school holidays are finally here! It's the perfect time to take a well-deserved break from studying and focus on exploring new interests and learning new things. School holidays are an excellent opportunity to recharge, bond with friends and family, and engage in activities that promote personal growth…
Student Life
The High Cost of Higher Education: Exploring the Student Debt Crisis in SA
2 years ago
On the 1st of March 2023, the students' representative council (SRC) at the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) announced a campus shutdown to protest against financial exclusion and ongoing housing issues, and it is still ongoing. As a former Wits student, I could not help but think back to the 2015 #FeesMustFall protest movement that I…
Student Life
The Matric Bucket List
2 years ago
Matric is the last year of school; after going to school for 12 years, it feels like your entire life. Matric year is as much a year of hardcore exams determining your future as it is a year of closing a chapter. Making memories during this time is essential because you will never get that…
Student Life
Can you balance successful studies and self-care?
2 years ago
Most of us know how stressful studies can be. We have assignments due, tests that has to be studied for, group work, etc. All of these things pile up, and we end up losing ourselves in the process at times.  One way to combat all the stress and burnout is to really focus on self-care,…
Student Life
Back to school: Tips to ace the new school year
2 years ago
Now that Christmas has come and gone, we turn our attention to the new school year. The new school year almost always evokes a mixture of excitement and anxiety. We are excited to take on new challenges in a new grade. Still, at the same time, our anxiety kicks in because we have a new…
Student Life
Live your best life in res
3 years ago
For some students, a really big step when starting at university is deciding whether you will be staying in residence. For others who come from another province or country, there is no other option but to move out of the family home for the duration of their studies. Either way, living away from home propels…
Student Life
Fitting in and hanging out in high school
3 years ago
Wanting to fit in makes you human; as much as people preach that we should embrace our uniqueness, it’s hard when we live in environments that tend to exclude you for being unique. High school is one of those environments. You are surrounded by cliques that form because of the rampant desire to fit in.…
Student Life
Matric Ball
3 years ago
One thing that I always looked forward to and dreaded at the same time was my matric ball. I looked forward to it because it was the only time that you’d really get dressed up, besides your wedding – if you’re into that. I dreaded it because I was incredibly shy and knew that all…
Student Life
Email etiquette 101
3 years ago
One of the things we begin to understand as a student is professional etiquette. This prepares us for the world of work and covers various imperatives – from what we wear to the way we communicate. Email forms part of work communication, and while it might seem a relatively unimportant component, believe me when I…
Student Life
Creating relationships in university
3 years ago
So you’ve gotten into varsity, you’ve figured out your mode of transport or you’re finally in residence. You’re settled; but only you’re not. Now it’s time to build relationships; time to create new friendships. I mean you’ll be in university for the next three or four years and doing it solo won’t be any fun.…
Student Life
The undocumented matriculant
3 years ago
Born and raised in the Mother City, Zoleka* has never thought that she would one day have to prove her South African citizenship, or face being restricted from writing her matric exams. Zoleka’s parents are both South African, but problems began when her mother didn’t register her birth and receive a birth certificate for her…
Style Secrets
Skin Cycling
a year ago
In the vast world of beauty and skincare trends, a recent buzz has been around skin cycling. Popularised by dermatologist Dr Whitney Bowe on TikTok, this nighttime skincare routine focuses on using fewer products in a specific way to achieve healthier-looking skin. Let's delve into the routine and explore what experts have to say about…
Style Secrets
Having your best Glow up
2 years ago
Have you ever experienced a glow-up? You know, that amazing process of positive personal transformation that involves changes to your appearance and style and even boosts your confidence? It's all about embracing who you are, making healthy changes physically and mentally, and being happy in your own skin. I had the chance to chat with…
Style Secrets
Thrifting or Vintage Shopping?
2 years ago
As a teen or young adult, you might be wondering how you can make a positive impact on the environment while still enjoying fashion. The good news is that there is a growing trend of thrifting and vintage shopping in South Africa that allows you to do just that! One of the biggest benefits of…
Word Of the Week
New year, new me
2 years ago
So it’s that time of the year again. You know, the time when you hear many people say, “New year, me.” It is very common to start a new year's resolution on this day. This can be to give something up, like sweets or chocolate, so you can be healthier. Example scenarios: “This year is…
Word Of the Week
Ukwaluka
2 years ago
It's that time of the year when boys become men, this traditionally happened between the ages of 16 and 26, though for health and safety concerns the South African government made it illegal for a boy under the age of 18 to go to initiations school. The ceremony is when mothers can show off their…
Word Of the Week
Slay, not sleigh
2 years ago
I’m sure you’ve heard or even read in the comment section on social media when girls or women praise each other by saying, “Slay, queen!” According to Dictionary.com slay, in this particular context, means, “to do something spectacularly well,” especially when it comes to fashion, artistic performance, or self-confidence.” Example scenarios: When your bestie posts…
Work-Wise
Her Name is Mbali Nhlapho, and She’s a Housekeeper
6 months ago
With her sweet catchphrase, “My name is Mbali Nhlapho, and I’m a housekeeper”, captivating audiences, the charismatic 40-year-old uses TikTok and other online networks to share cleaning tips with audiences. In her videos, Mbali often uses everyday household products, such as vinegar, lemons, toothpaste, and bicarbonate of soda, to remove stains, get rid of bugs,…
Work-Wise
Work Etiquette
a year ago
Starting a new job can be stressful, and once you’ve gone through the interview process, things can seem a little bit easier. But you should be mindful of how you conduct yourself at work. There are some things that may not be wise to share at work, there are some things that may not be…
Work-Wise
Young and Unemployed
a year ago
In the challenging landscape of youth unemployment, Tasneem Eckardt, a 23-year-old from Mitchell's Plain, finds herself among the countless young individuals grappling with the daunting task of securing employment, particularly with no prior work experience fresh out of high school. According to the latest data from StatsSA's Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for the first…