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?
4 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
4 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
a month 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
a year 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…
Gents
From Late Texts to Fatherhood
2 years ago
Safe sex is great sex, so better wear a latex if you don't want to get that late text, telling you, 'I'm late' text." Lil Wayne may have rapped these lyrics in his song Lollipop, but they hold more truth than some people realize. I didn't take this advice and received that dreaded late text…
Gents
Breaking the Mold: SA Men Redefine Masculinity and Challenge Gender Stereotypes
2 years ago
Have you ever stopped to think about how masculinity is portrayed in South African society? From TV shows to sports, we're bombarded with images of tough, dominant men who never show any weakness or vulnerability. This can lead to toxic masculinity. Toxic masculinity refers to harmful and limiting beliefs and behaviours associated with traditional societal…
Gents
Hood 007
2 years ago
For years James Bond fans have wanted a black James Bond, with many suggesting Idris Elba be given the role. I mean, it’s Idris – he has the charm, the charisma, and the voice to nail the famous “The name’s Bond, James Bond” line with ease.  I think I would play that role better than…
Gents
Let’s shake on it
2 years ago
I grew up with my grandma and she used different phrases from what I knew for everything. She used izihlonipho in isiXhosa – respectful, traditional phrases, not the more modern,  sometimes slangy ones I used. She called hands, “Izamkeli”, which loosely translates to gestures of welcome.  “Bamba indwendwe izamkeli Thandile,”  she would say. For my…
Gents
School of hard knocks
2 years ago
IKasi is said to have lazy youth, but I think the lack of job creation has more to do with it. Young people have shown time and time again that they aren’t lazy; they just need resources, role models and opportunities to lift themselves. This is something youth development activist, Mboneleli ‘Mbo’ Gqirana, can attest…
Gents
Puff N Pass, away?
2 years ago
“Baby, pass me the hookah!” This Young Thug lyric from 2014 is still very much doing the rounds today, as the hookah pipe sets Mzansi alight. The hookah pipe is a Persian invention from the 16th century. It made its debut in Southern Africa by the late 1900s, but it was only in the mid-2010s…
Gents
Podcasts and misogyny
2 years ago
A Twitter user, Flossyjay tweeted: “Why do men start podcasts instead of going to therapy?” I was confused about what the one has to do with the other. Until I went into the thread and really understood what prompted the question. Various women were talking about men who have started podcasts or are co-hosts and…
Gents
Hosting our girlfriends
3 years ago
Majita, I know we think that some women complain about almost everything about us. If you are on social media, then you should know the “indoda must…”, which is basically a way of some women trying to dictate to men how to act and behave. Often the things some women say we must have are…
Gents
Cleanliness is close to Godliness
3 years ago
Ola majita! It’s time to talk grooming and personal hygiene. Men are sometimes considered to have lower grooming and personal hygiene standards than women, oops – we’re taking Ls. An American Cleaning Institute study found that men are less likely to wash their hands after petting an animal, before and after handling food, and coughing…
Gents
“Men, You Are On Your Own”
3 years ago
WARNING: This piece refers to suicide. Emergency and counselling contact details are provided at the end of the article. The passing of rapper Riky Rick shocked many people, including me. I have been close to that edge a number of times and thought of jumping. I never did – but I understood him and other…
Girl Talk
PATTY
2 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
2 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…
Girl Talk
My Body, My Choice
3 months ago
An unplanned pregnancy can be very overwhelming, especially if you have no intention of keeping the pregnancy full-term. If you are afraid that you may be sitting with an unwanted pregnancy and in need of an abortion... Do not worry, you have come to the right place. This can be a scary time, you may…
Girl Talk
Fighting for Gold and Respect: Imane Khelif
3 months ago
Many of us watched with bated breath as Imane Khelif took part in the gold medal welterweight boxing match at the French Olympics – clinching victory on 9 August, South African Women’s Day, and making her supporters proud. The Algerian 25-year-old won her first gold medal by beating China’s Yang Liu, crying excitedly and thanking…
Girl Talk
Women's Day Rocks!
3 months ago
Growing up, my mother always made me wear my brightest and boldest outfit for Women’s Day. It was as important as our “Christmas outfits.” I didn’t fully grasp why until one sunny Women’s Day, sitting on the edge of my grandma’s cosy, well-worn couch, she shared her experiences of living in apartheid South Africa. I…
Girl Talk
Women’s Day Squad Goals
3 months ago
August marks Women’s Month in South Africa, a time where women and their successes, plights, heroism, and tragedies ascend into the limelight and are given additional salience. This Women’s Month, I propose uniting two forces; fems (feminists) and trads (traditionalists). Fems are individuals who advocate for women's rights on the basis of equality of the…
Girl Talk
Adulting. My unconventional Cinderella Story
4 months ago
You know how, in the fairy tale, Cinderella’s wicked stepmother makes her cook, clean and take care of everything around the house? My foster mother did the opposite, she hated having anyone else with her in the kitchen, so she never taught me how to cook. Besides doing the dishes every now and again and…
Girl Talk
Innocence Denied: The Adultification of Black Girls
5 months ago
Adultification (noun): the process or fact of treating or considering a child as if they are an adult, usually in a way that is wrong or harmful. For Black women, this concept is not just a word; it’s a lived experience that begins well before they reach adulthood. Black women have a rite of passage…
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
3 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.…
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
a year 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…
Mindspace
Beat Exam Stress: Your Guide to Surviving Finals
4 days 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
a month 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
2 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…
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…
People on the move
Godiragetse Mogajane: The young entrepreneur serious about impact
2 years ago
Entrepreneurship is about tackling challenges head-on, and that's something Godiragetse Mogajane knows a thing or two about. He's the mastermind behind two thriving businesses that address real-world problems. With Delivery ka Speed, he’s revolutionizing food delivery in townships by catering to a market that is overlooked by bigger players such as Uber Eats and Mr…
People on the move
Getting to know Nomzamo
2 years ago
Nomzamo Portia Ntombela is a PhD Candidate in Sociology at Stellenbosch University from Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal. She was also the first black woman student body President at Stellenbosch University in 2017 and continues to be involved in student organising efforts. She holds an MA in African history from Michigan State University, Hons in Social Anthropology…
People on the move
Shaping South African Hip-hop Sound
2 years ago
From the bustling streets of Johannesburg to the vibrant townships of Cape Town, hip-hop has become a platform for the people, a voice that addresses social issues and empowers those who have been silenced for too long. Hip-hop in South Africa is more than just music; it's a way of life, a culture that has…
People on the move
Meet Cyril Zuma
2 years ago
Cyril Zuma is a famous South African photographer known for his recognisable brand, including commercial and lifestyle photography. He's also an entrepreneur and the founder of  Colour Space. Zuma's interest in photography began during childhood, thanks to his mother, who frequently bought him Kodak cameras. After quitting his job to pursue photography full-time six years…
People on the move
Lovelyn Nwadeyi - Trailblazing Activist
2 years ago
In this interview, trailblazing South African-Nigerian activist Lovelyn Nwadeyi answers questions about what it means to live out social justice through her work and ethos. Touching on themes of reconciliation, feminism, and what we can do in small ways to make significant changes. Lovelyn Nwadeyi is a young, vibrant Nigerian-South African woman from Queenstown in…
Politics
DIPUO TSA SEAFORIKA, THUTO, LE TSEOKAROLO SEMORUO YA BASHA
yesterday
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.
5 days 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…
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
2 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
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…
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…