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,…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Mandela Day is that time of the year where we reflect on one of the deepest forms of kindness we can engage in: charity. In a world dominated by hustle culture, where people are encouraged to make decisions by self-interest, charity remains a powerful way to align with the legacy of Nelson Mandela, whose life…

I stopped playing with dolls when I turned 18 years old. I know, you probably think that's pretty old to have still had toys. Many people, my friends and family, teased me for being an adult who played with toys. I didn't want to, but I gave my dolls away because adults don't play with…

We frequently hear, "What's the latest well-being trend?" The 'trend' definition of well-being implies a temporary movement that may wander due to external causes or swing along an uneven route. Well-being is feeling positive emotions like happiness and contentment, developing one's potential, having some control over one's life, having a sense of purpose in life,…

The 50/50 concept means that romantic partners split rent, expenses, and obligations equally. Although this is the first consensus, people have different opinions about how a partnership should look. Some believe that males should pay the rent and most of the bills while women should do the housekeeping. The 50/50 divided relationship conversation is one…

I was out last week for dinner, and during an intimate conversation about our lives and families, my friend asked, “Have you ever thought about IVF and freezing your eggs?” To which I responded, “I’ve never thought that far. I know about In vitro fertilisation (IVF), but I don’t know it like that.” According to…

It’s 2024 and relationships are more complicated than ever before. If you have ever heard the colloquial phrase, ‘Eish, mjolo, hey,’ or ‘Mjolo is not for the weak’, then you know the sting of having survived a terrible connection. “Mjolo” is a South African slang term referring to dating. While relationships are a minefield, immoral…

Every morning, we each have our unique way of getting out of bed. But sometimes, you might find it tough to get up because of things happening in your life. Feeling a bit down now and then is normal. But when it starts happening a lot and makes you not want to get out of…

“You need to obtain your degree by 22 if you have any hope of a long career in corporate.” “If you’re not married by 25, you can forget about having kids in your lifetime.” “You used to be so skinny when you were younger, what happened?” If you’ve heard any of the above statements, you…

"May you live in interesting times”: a blessing or a curse? The age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution is upon us, and never has a phrase crossed my mind so often as this one does today. In today’s technologically driven world, I often find stepping back and observing my place difficult. Never before have I…

Living up to societal expectations can leave one feeling lost and overwhelmed. The 'Let Them' theory, popularised by Mel Robbins, frees an individual from the anxiety of other people's opinions. It inspires people to live true to who they are, express themselves freely, and establish clear limits. This approach suggests letting people have their views…

"Two things are inevitable in this life: taxes and death." This quip, often shared with a mix of humour and resignation, underscores a truth we all face. Alua Arthur, a death doula, pushes this conversation further into the light. Through her work, including her widely acclaimed TED Talk, Arthur directly addresses the inevitability of death,…

Let's talk about something that's been on my mind lately. The year has just started, and we have set several resolutions and goals for ourselves. We set these to help us manifest and take control of our lives. But have you had that feeling where it seems like you're a passenger in your own life,…

What does romance truly entail? As I journey through life, I find myself challenging the stereotypical notions of romance ingrained in my mind from a young age. Back then, romance seemed confined to grand gestures between a man and a woman deeply in love—multiple bouquets, rose petals, Lindt chocolates, and silver jewellery. It was an…

In a world marked by technological marvels, individuals like tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson are leading the charge in unravelling the mysteries of ageing. Their goal is not only to extend life but to enhance its quality, prompting us to consider the question: Should we actively seek to prolong our lives, and what does this mean…

It’s the third week of 2024 and the perfect time to set goals for the rest of the year. If you’re a student, planning, organisation, determination, and time management will be key to your academic success. Whether you’re a high school or college/university student, approach this year with a fresh mindset and leave the burdens…

Toxic productivity grips you with the urge to stay busy, constantly chasing personal or societal standards. It can throw other parts of your life off balance. We live fast, and society often stamps a 'successful person' label on those who do the most, the fastest. As a coach, I see this mindset in my clients…

It’s a brand-new year, hello 2024! Can you feel the buzz of excitement in the air? People are shaking off that December holiday laziness and gearing up for the #NewYearNewMe vibe. Have you noticed everyone talking about their New Year resolutions (yes, yes, we get it, you’re going to start working out)? Maybe you have…

Every corner of the world buzzes with excitement on December 31st as the clock strikes midnight. It's a universal moment of unity as we all countdown to a fresh calendar year. It's electric, isn't it? The shared anticipation, the collective inhale before the plunge into January—this is the magic of New Year's Eve. For many…

The festive season is often painted as a time of joy and family gatherings. However, for many young people, it can be a challenging period, especially when faced with toxic family dynamics. This time of year can exacerbate stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil, making it essential to find effective coping strategies. Understanding the Impact Toxic…

It's the December holidays! Toss the schoolbooks away, and you'll see those next year; get your comfortable shorts and dresses out because it's summer, and prepare for a few good weeks with no work (unless December means more house chores for you!) I am humming a tune as I hang decorations all over the house…

Bullies? I’ve got zero tolerance for them and their behaviour. Period. I remember that day very clearly. I had just started high school as a Grade 8 learner, so naturally, I was eager and excited. I entered the girls' bathroom, and two girls stood almost as if waiting to see who would enter next. I…

I stopped talking to Zimbali because our friendship felt one-sided. I wanted to see what would happen if I stopped texting first or going over to her house to check on her, or calling to find out how she was. It is sad to say that’s that how it ended. I did not call, so…

Here is a little advice the world would rather you did not know: being shameless is liberating and, when done right, could be the best decision you've ever made. We live in a world where people impose their own expectations on you from birth. Even before you’re born, your parents already know how they hope…

Embracing mindfulness and meditation has been a transformative journey for me, and I'd love to share my thoughts and experiences with you. Let's start with a little background about me. I've always been someone who craved structure and control in my life. You could say I was the "uptight" type who meticulously planned my days…

I wish I could say that fear of rejection, or first-date nerves and failing to make the right first impression, or even meeting someone and discovering they are not who they presented themselves to be, are the reasons why I’ve been scared of dating for the longest time. But it’s not really been that. Trying…

As a young and aspiring TV writer and filmmaker, I need to look at what I say online and how I say it because this affects my future in the industry. However, if I am to have any future creating film and TV, I need to be honest about the culture this industry has fostered.…

It's Heritage Month with Heritage Day on 24 September, a day meant to recognise and celebrate the cultural wealth of South Africa. The first thing that comes to most people’s minds when thinking of Heritage Day is colourful outfits representing the different cultures, but one key aspect of heritage, language and linguistic diversity, is forgotten.…

When I was in high school, I went through a phase where I hid food or did not eat for a long period of time to see how long I could push myself. It took me most of my adulthood to realise that this was something I needed to have checked out and dealt with.…

I wish my family knew more about queerness when I was growing up. As a queer person, being seen goes two ways. A person may see you and find you disgusting and, through whatever means, will do everything in their power not to see you. It is sad and dangerous the lengths people go to…

She’s everything and everywhere An epidemic of hot pink seems to have infiltrated South African malls and shopping centers with the release of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie at the close of July. If your Instagram and TikTok accounts look anything like mine, the infamous doll has found its way into every corner of my social media…

I am a millennial mom raising two boys in the city. I am aware of the importance of teaching them their home language, which is isiXhosa. A while back I came across a Facebook post saying that black people with children that can not speak their home language should be ashamed of themselves. This has…

In a world driven by material possessions and fast-paced consumerism, the art of gift-giving stands as a testament to the power of thoughtfulness, personal connection, and heartfelt gestures. Beyond mere transactions, gifts have the ability to convey emotions, strengthen relationships, and create lasting memories. As we delve into the intricate tapestry of the gift-giving experience,…

“Ah Dalibhunga!” I remember this praise vividly from the December of 2013. This was SABC’s tribute to Nelson Mandela after his passing.  3 December, 2023 will mark 10 years since the giant passed, and today, 18 July 2023 will mark 13 years since we started celebrating International Mandela Day. Mandela Day is a global call…

This week has certainly been a very different experience when it came to my eating habits. I took the plunge and tried the Glucose Goddess food hacks for better mood and energy. Glucose Goddess was created by Jessie Inchauspé, a French biochemist who studies the importance of our glucose (sugar) intake after she discovered the link…

Oh yes, we are going to be discussing that. Sex. Like many people my age, my introduction to sex was an ambiguous “Birds and the Bees” discussion by my parents that came with a firm message of: We don’t talk about it. Only do it with a committed partner or when you are married.  As…

Reflecting on my first month as a dad, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the gift of fatherhood, the love that surrounds my partner and me, and the strength to overcome the challenges that come our way. It may not always be easy, but the rewards are immeasurable.  On the 29th of May 2023,…

I am a person that struggles with self-doubt and anxiety. Even in my writing, I doubt myself.  Sometimes I write a blog and start it over because I don’t think it is worthy, or that I did a good job. I also tend to cower away from important tasks once they prove to be challenging…

"To the outside world, we all grow old. But not to brothers and sisters. We know each other as we always were, we know each other's hearts, we share private family jokes. We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys." - Clara Ortega. I probably speak for many to say our sibling relationships…

You, the hit series on Netflix, has shed light on the dangerous intricacies of love. Relationships can be exhilarating yet challenging, often ensnaring us in a complex web of emotions. But what happens when the bond becomes so intense that we lose ourselves in the treacherous territory of co-dependency? Co-dependency isn't necessarily a bad trait…

Love and relationships occupy a significant place in our journey through life. They have the power to light up our moods and make our hearts dance—a concept known as mojolo. When the harmony of mojolo fills the air, couples joyfully sing, "Forever yena!" symbolising their eternal love. However, relationships can also come crashing down, leading…

I have spent my 20s searching for a partner who meets my specific criteria, and I can confidently say that I have found the person I want to spend the rest of my life with. Being an attentive observer of the dating landscape among my peers, I have come to realize the unique challenges that…

As a young person, it can be easy to get caught up in the fast-paced world of social media and constantly being surrounded by friends. But what happens when you're left with just yourself? For some of us, the thought of spending time alone can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. In fact,…

Almost everybody I know who grew up in the late 90s or early 2000s has at some stage or another watched porn online. It’s a rite of passage for digital natives and especially teens, especially when nobody is willing to explain the basics. Often teenagers will hear an uncomfortable adult giving an ambiguous Birds-And-The-Bees explanation…

I remember this boy from my primary school days who had a major anger problem. Like, seriously, even the smallest thing would set him off, and it was super intense! There was no way to calm him down when he was in one of his moods. He'd go ballistic, flipping chairs and even hurting people…

Autoimmune diseases like lupus are becoming more common, especially among young people. These diseases happen when the body's immune system attacks its tissues, causing chronic inflammation and damage. Lupus is one of the most common autoimmune diseases, affecting five million people worldwide. Celebrities like Selena Gomez and Nick Cannon have recently shared their lupus diagnoses.…

You thought you had found The One, the person who says all the right things and makes you feel like you're on top of the world. You see, he or she says all the things you want to hear. There’s passion, there’s fire and you can’t seem to get enough of each othe.  You're convinced…

South Africa's young people have always been at the forefront of fighting injustice.  Back in 1976, the youth of Soweto showed their bravery by standing up against the Bantu Education system, even in the face of violent repression from the apartheid government. And more recently, from 2015 to 2018, young South Africans led the charge…

Growing up, I thought my grandparents were my parents, but later on, I found out that my mom, who I thought was my sister, was my mom. She was away in Cape Town, working and sending money home to help raise me. While I understand now that it was necessary, it strained our relationship. I…

In recent years, there has been a growing push to challenge the idea of the "strong black woman" trope. This stereotype suggests that black women should always be strong, resilient, and able to handle any challenge that comes their way. However, as many people are now realizing, this idea can be harmful and even dangerous,…

What is Sex Work?  Sex work is the consensual exchange of erotic or sexual services between adults for money. Consensual means that the person is exchanging these goods willingly, without force or manipulation. And while sex workers are often marginalised and discriminated against in their communities, studies show that there are at least 2.5 million…

Happiness, a word that holds a different meaning for every individual, has been debated and discussed for centuries. Some people believe that happiness comes from material possessions, while others think it is a state of mind. Happiness has been measured by various parameters, including the famous Gallup poll, which attempts to quantify people's happiness levels…

Both my younger sister and my nephew, who are in high school, are potential first-time voters for the upcoming national general elections in 2024, "I am not into politics!" was my nephew's response when I asked him if he would be voting next year. My sister is equally uninterested, and sadly, this is an attitude…

Singleness after the “Sbwl” Do you know where the danger is when you “sbwl” a relationship? (Before I continue, let me explain: “sbwl” is a South African pop culture reference for something you desire or wish for yourself that you see in others’ lives.) I used to “sbwl” a relationship until I got into one…

You may have heard of ‘soft life’ on social media before. On TikTok and Instagram, videos show women living in luxury, taking international trips, doing expensive beauty treatments and wearing designer clothes. But where did the term ‘soft life’ initially come from? And do you think a ‘soft life’ is something that you want to…

Did you know that apartheid can be linked to eating disorders? One such eating disorder is called Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder.  Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder where people either avoid or restrict the amount they eat of certain foods. It can lead to persistent failure to meet one's nutritional needs and…

I can’t believe I will turn 25, a quarter century in March. A big yet small number. Many people tell you, “Your 20s are for enjoyment. Enjoy life and travel!” But what is there to enjoy when I think I’m having a quarter-life crisis?  What is a quarter-life crisis? According to Wikipedia, a quarter-life crisis…

For me, existing in 2023 means having lived through a life of political fluctuations. As soon as I reached university, I noticed my peers had a sudden change in mindset. Maybe it was just the Humanities students, or it was just the energy of a campus filled with thousands of kids with unspoken ideas brewing.…

"Cause if you liked it, then you should have put a ring on it," Queen B sings in her hit song single ‘Ladies’. This song is an anthem for all women looking to have secure relationships, and there's nothing wrong with that. But in reality, romantic relationships don't bring all the fulfilment: there are divorces,…

How many times a day do you say ‘Yas Queen’, ‘Nah King’, ‘Bruh’ or ‘Guuuuurl’? If you’re a Gen Z or a millennial, probably a lot. I know that I, personally, throw these terms around very often. When I use these nouns, they’re not absolute, meaning that I do not necessarily believe that the person…

Every time I went to a party, sat with my friends, or participated in a class or an event, the inevitable question would pop up. It was like an elephant in the room, and as soon as there was an opportunity to address it, all eyes would fall on me. “But what are you?”. That…