Culture
My unique Heritage Day
2 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
5 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…
Did you know?
Get to know the duo behind Matric Live!
6 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…
Digital Literacy
Turning Pages with Your Ears
2 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
2 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
7 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
a year 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
5 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
2 days 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
3 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
3 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
10 Things to Know About Your Vagina
3 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
5 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
7 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
8 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
10 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
10 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
11 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…
How to
Write Right
2 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…
How to
How to stand up for yourself
2 years ago
If you’re shy and timid, standing up for yourself can seem like something out of your comfort zone and may seem unfamiliar. However, in certain situations, if you don’t stand up for yourself, people can walk all over you. Being assertive, which is simply being more confident, and standing up for yourself may take time,…
Life Advice
Help me, I’m changing!
4 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
5 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
a year 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…
Life Advice
Parent Power
a year ago
Parenthood is a remarkable journey that many of us may embark on someday, and as teenagers, it's essential to reflect on the profound impact parents have on our lives. On the occasion of the Global Day of Parents, we celebrate and honour the incredible dedication, love, and sacrifices that parents around the world make to…
Life Advice
Romance on a Budget
2 years ago
Hey there, budget-conscious lovebirds! Who says you must break the bank to have a good time with your partner? Here are ten budget-friendly date ideas that will help you spark joy in your relationship without spending a fortune:​​ Go for a walk  As cliché as this may sound, taking a walk on the beach or…
Life Advice
What schools fail to teach you
2 years ago
As with many young people in the country who grew up impoverished over a decade ago, the prospects of me pursuing a higher education qualification post my matric year were quite slim due to limited funding opportunities This was before the free education era, I knew there and then that my saving grace would be…
Life Advice
Forget The Facts
2 years ago
I met my best friend in kindergarten when I was two years old. Over the years, she and I went to different schools and universities, became friends with entirely different groups of people and followed different life paths. She became more conservative and religious; I became more liberal and agnostic. However, whenever we came together…
Life Advice
Side Hustles to Make Your Wallet Happy
2 years ago
Have you ever heard the saying, 'money's too tight to mention'? I am familiar with it because I have personally experienced financial struggles like many other young people. I have faced difficulties in affording data, airtime, or simply hanging out with friends. In light of this, I have created a list of job suggestions to…
Life Advice
Why fast fashion is hurting the planet and your wallet
2 years ago
We all enjoy watching our faves on YouTube when they do those Shein and Superbalist clothing hauls parading the latest fashion trends and reminding us how cheap they are and how quickly you can have them in your wardrobe. Many of us secretly have our online shopping bags on these sites filled with every item…
Life Advice
Hypernudging: How Social Media Manipulates Our Behaviour
2 years ago
Have you ever felt like your social media feeds are tailor-made just for you? Maybe you keep seeing ads for the latest video game or fashion trend you've been talking about with your friends. Or maybe you keep scrolling and scrolling, even though you know you should stop and do your homework. There's a reason…
Life Advice
Staying sane in a changing climate
2 years ago
As the threat of climate change looms large over the world, it's no surprise that many individuals are feeling anxious about the potential impacts on their lives and the planet. This growing phenomenon, known as eco-anxiety, has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. In South Africa, the effects of climate change are already being felt,…
Life Advice
How to be a capetonian: A thread
2 years ago
IKapa lodumo as my people call it means the Cape of fame. It's a beautiful city known for its beaches, mountains and diversity in languages, cultures and people. It is, after all, called the Mother City, as it was the first place where Europeans settled. Like most architecture in the country, you only have to…
Life Advice
Our first home - things to look out for before moving in together
2 years ago
We’ve just celebrated Valentine's Day, love is in the air, and if Cupid didn’t miss you, you’re madly in love with your partner and are considering moving in together. Moving in together can be seen as the next step to solidifying your relationship, but if not done right it might be the catalyst to your…
Mindspace
How to Mend a Broken Heart: Surviving the First Month of Heartbreak
13 hours 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
3 days 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 week 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,…
Money Matters
How to Start Your Start Up
2 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
6 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…
Money Matters
350 Degrees or R350: The Heat is On in South Africa
8 months ago
In an intriguing twist of fate, the question of "350ºF or R350" slices through two vastly different worlds - the kitchen and the economic reality of young South Africans. On the one hand, the culinary advice from a 2015 article, “What’s so special about 350 degrees Fahrenheit (350ºF)?” reveals that while baking at 350ºF is…
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…
People on the move
Dorcas Emelia – Fashion Designer
a year ago
Dorcas Emelia, 24, is a fashion designer who was born in Congo but moved to Cape Town, South Africa in her teens. She graduated from fashion design school, Elizabeth Galloway Academy of Fashion Design. Dorcas has launched three collections, including knitwear which is her specialisation, and has her own online store, Emelia D.  Fundza had…
People on the move
Dapper Shooz - Utlwanang Mmeti
a year ago
Meet Utlwanang Mmeti, an awesome 18 year old who kicked off his own sneaker brand called Dapper Shooz in August 2022. Born and raised in Luka, Utlwanang finished high school last year with flying colours. Instead of rushing into a post-school institution, he made the bold choice to take a gap year and put all…
People on the move
Get to know Mr Technology
a year ago
Thembelani Zondo, known affectionately as Mr Technology, is a remarkable self-taught robotics inventor who is making waves with his innovative creations. Despite facing challenges, such as leaving school in grade 11, Thembelani's God-given talent and unwavering determination have propelled him forward. Located in KZN Bergville, Woodford, he dreams of becoming a qualified engineer and establishing…
People on the move
Chase’s Creativity
a year ago
We have the incredible honour of chatting with the talented Chase Rhys, a dynamic individual breaking barriers in the world of literature and storytelling. At just 30 years old, Chase has already made waves as a novelist, scriptwriter, and playwright. But what makes Chase truly unique is their unwavering commitment to self-expression, choosing the pronoun…
People on the move
Celiwe Shivambu: Climate Justice Activist
a year ago
Meet Celiwe Shivambu, a fierce and passionate climate justice activist. At the young age of 23, Celiwe is already making waves in the fight for a more sustainable and equitable future for the youth of her country. As the Project Lead of the South African Youth Climate Action Plan (SAYCAP), she has been at the…
Politics
DIPUO TSA SEAFORIKA, THUTO, LE TSEOKAROLO SEMORUO YA BASHA
7 days 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.
2 weeks 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
3 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…
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…
Snapshots
But What Does It Meme?
2 years ago
Have you ever been going through something, and you just didn’t know how to explain it? Then, when you’re scrolling online, you find a meme that is so wickedly funny, so *relatable* that you finally feel seen? Finding the right meme helps you confirm that other people have experienced something similar to you. It’s like…
Snapshots
“Let’s go all out.”
2 years ago
We arrived at Waterfront for a night of good food and amazing company. My boyfriend asked me to choose the restaurant that we’d go to that evening. I felt under so much pressure because I know I’m so indecisive, so I got a recommendation for a restaurant at Waterfront for a place called Sevruga. I…
Snapshots
Come with us: The Mother City Edition
2 years ago
Cape Town has so much to offer. There’s Table Mountain, the Waterfront, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch, and so much more. If you’re planning a trip to Cape Town or if you’re a local already, then there’s no better way to travel than by the City Sightseeing red buses. It was a sunny Wednesday morning; we ubered…
Snapshots
My ticket to freedom
2 years ago
I have always been too embarrassed and ashamed to admit this: When I see this train, I am reminded of a time when I had to forge train tickets in order to go to school. The ticket below has a QR code. So it would be impossible to forge now. Below is the what I…
Snapshots
Gugu’s Gogo Demands Respect
2 years ago
Soaking her sore swollen feet and enjoying a hot cup of tea was all that was on Gog’ Vatiswa’s mind as she sat in the Venture taxi. At 79 years of age, standing in a queue for most of the day to receive her Sassa grant was no fun. “This government really doesn’t care about…
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…
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
a year 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…
Word Of the Week
The city girls are up!
2 years ago
A win for one is a win for all. That is especially the feeling when the phrase “City girls are up” is used. Women hype each other up all the time; if you go to their comment sections on social media, it would most likely be filled with other women complimenting each other. Comments like…
Word Of the Week
Fitna
2 years ago
This week’s word of the week is fitna. According to the Dictionary of Loanwords in the Cape Muslim Vernacular, written by Mogamat Alexander, fitna means gossip. Fitna is an Arabic word and is used throughout the Cape Muslim culture.  Example scenarios: You and your neighbour are sitting outside, and you both see someone you know.…
Word Of the Week
Maaf
2 years ago
We all have been in a rush and run into someone by mistake, stepped on people on the train, or made a simple mistake that requires us to apologise. Do you want a new word to use in those situations besides the same old “sorry”? Maaf is that word. According to the Dictionary of Loanwords…
Word Of the Week
Yebo
2 years ago
I’m sure you’re all too familiar with the term “Yebo”? Directly translated, you’re saying “Yes.” Dictionary.com defines yebo as a “Southern African informal expression of affirmation.” Yebo comes from the isiZulu language, and like with many other South African languages, it is easy and fun to use certain words, despite not being able to speak the language…
Word Of the Week
Oh, please!
2 years ago
You know that moment when your head goes back in laughter, and you’re like: “Oh, please”? As in, please stop talking nonsense. According to Urban Dictionary, reacting with “Oh Please” is typically used  “… when someone doesn't believe something another is saying.” Another way that Oh Please can be phrased is by saying, “Please, girl.”   Example scenarios:…
Word Of the Week
Qha
2 years ago
Done speaking and someone asks if you have something to add, but you are definitely finished speaking? Well, we have just the word for that in IsiXhosa. Qha in direct translation to English, means ‘only’. But it can be used differently in different contexts as well. Qha – used as only. “I went to buy…
Word Of the Week
Grootman
2 years ago
The term grootman has various meanings; it could mean older brother, but it is mostly used in townships as a term of respect for an older man or a leader.  How it is used: “My grootman was the best soccer player.” This means: “My older brother was the best soccer player.”  “Grootman is the organiser…
Word Of the Week
Bismillah
2 years ago
This week’s word of the week, Bismillah, explores a word taken from the Dictionary of Loanwords in the Cape Muslim Vernacular, written by Mogamat Alexander. It is an Arabic word that means “… in the name of Allah”. The dictionary further states that, “Bismillah is uttered before you begin something, especially before eating and/or drinking”.…
Word Of the Week
Haibo/Bathong
2 years ago
“Haibona! what’s your problem?” “Bathong lona! What’s wrong with people?” “Haibo, why are you so pretty?” “Bathong… people do that??” Bathong! how many times as a nation have we had haibo moments? Black Twitter even nicknames South Africa as a country that laughs through shocking hard times. We show a state of shock or surprise…
Word Of the Week
Mogirl/ Moghel
2 years ago
Mogirl or moghel, a word popularised by the gorgeous and ever-flamboyant, South Africa’s very own, Queen B, Bonang Matheba, AKA Ausi Dorothy. Mogirl or moghel, simply means “girl”. Ausi Dorothy’s heavy usage of the word made it one of South Africa's beloved words. Usage: “Moghel batlo hurda – girl they will hurt you.” or “Moghel…
Work-Wise
Her Name is Mbali Nhlapho, and She’s a Housekeeper
5 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…
Work-Wise
YES for Youth Employment
a year ago
Youth unemployment is at an all-time high, with 62,1% of the youth unemployed in South Africa. To help address this issue, the Youth Employment Service (YES), also known as Yes4Youth, was established in 2018 and has created over 107 355 jobs. YES is an non-profit organisation funded by the private sector. The YES programme aims…
Work-Wise
Student creates job-seeking app
2 years ago
Looking for a job has never been easier in today’s age of technology, but finding a job is becoming increasingly difficult. A report by StatsSA stated,  “According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the first quarter of 2022, the unemployment rate was 63,9% for those aged 15-24 and 42,1% for those aged 25-34 years,…
Work-Wise
How to teach English in Korea: A guide for South Africans
2 years ago
Have a student loan? Need to find a job using your degree? Dream of traveling? Teaching English in South Korea suits all three.  South Korea (AKA: The Republic of Korea) is a small East Asian country with a population size similar to South Africa, even though its geographic size is closer to KwaZulu-Natal. Since the…
Work-Wise
Workplace 101: The importance of a strong work ethic
2 years ago
For some of us, 2023 is the year we begin our journey into the working world. Whether part-time or permanent, a packer or cashier, a call centre agent, in-service training, or your first job post-graduation, all these roles have something in common: employers require a committed, trustworthy employee with a strong work ethic. But what…
Work-Wise
Career Spotlight: Coding
2 years ago
Have you ever wondered how our phones or computer work, or even how to build an app? The technology behind is called coding (developing) and it’s a computer language. According to Computer Science Degree Hub, “Coding is basically the computer language used to develop apps, websites, and software. Without it, we’d have none of the…