Culture
a month 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
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
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?
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?
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?
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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…
Girl Talk
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
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
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…
Health
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
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
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
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
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
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,…
How to
2 years ago
More than ever before, people of all ages and walks of life are choosing to lead a heathier lifestyle in terms of their physical wellbeing and daily nutrition. Having the internet at our fingertips means we’re more conscious of the nutritional value of the food we put into our bodies. Unfortunately, the wealth of information…
How to
2 years ago
Fitness can be seen as a luxury in a country where many people don’t know what their next meal will be. Perhaps this is why, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), almost 40% of South Africans are physically inactive. But fitness is an important part of health, which is why in this blog we…
How to
2 years ago
It's that time of the year when we spend, spend and do some more spending. It's the festive season; we look forward to the best clothes and food. It's a time to celebrate Christmas, the new year, with the ones you love the most. But Januworry is also around the corner, a season for food,…
How to
2 years ago
There is something primeval about mielie pap. Well, there is something ancient and basic and satisfying about all starches that serve as the backbone of meals in cultures around the world. That which accompanies whatever sauce or stew or condiment being served in most ordinary homes, is what fills the tummy and leaves you with…
How to
2 years ago
The exams are around the corner, and you are feeling stressed out. You can't seem to concentrate enough to study, or sleep properly, or think of anything else. What if you mess up? What if you fail? And is it just you getting stressed out by the thought of exams, or does everyone feel this…
How to
2 years ago
Enjoy this recipe for Amanda’s you-betcha-it’s-just-butternut Butternut soup! One winter, when my now-husband and I were still getting to know each other, I invited him to my place for supper. On the menu was butternut soup. I had at that time only recently perfected the dish and was confident and keen to demonstrate my skills…
How to
3 years ago
In an ideal world, a relationship is not something you should stress about. It is supposed to bring you warm feelings of support, love and happiness. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Each relationship faces its own challenges. As a result, it is normal to feel stressed out, worried or anxious when you spend…
How to
3 years ago
If you are reading this, then you probably suspect that your partner may be cheating on you but do not yet have concrete proof to back up your suspicions. When the truth about an affair comes out, it is simple to see that the warning signs were there all along—you just did not notice them.…
How to
3 years ago
Doing your driver’s licence test can be a stressful experience. I was one of those people who failed in the yard. I actually cried that day. Learning to drive is an emotional journey, it takes a lot of time, finances and even emotional strain. I cannot begin to tell you how much anxiety I had…
How to
3 years ago
For the longest time I’ve been trying to lose weight in my stomach area and I was just not managing it well. I was exercising often, but I wasn’t yielding the results that I expected. So, in my bid to become fit, I decided to lead a healthier lifestyle. I started my healthy journey by…
How to
3 years ago
People often say, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” which means outward appearance shouldn’t be a factor when you’re trying to know someone. But if you are someone who suffers from skin problems like acne, that’s the first thing people look at. As if the dark spots and pimples define who you are as…
How to
3 years ago
What is Robbery? Robbery occurs when a person unlawfully takes property from another person or place by force, or by threatening to cause harm if they are not given what they demand. Robbers are normally armed with deadly weapons that they won’t hesitate to use to harm or kill a person that they are robbing.…
How to
3 years ago
“Hello and welcome to my YouTube channel!” is a phrase we’ve all gotten acquainted with over last few years. YouTube is a free online platform that helps you watch videos. You can also create your own video content and upload it to share with others. A YouTube channel is a space where you upload your…
How to
3 years ago
So, you had this dream that woke you up midnight and you couldn’t wait to tell your family when everyone woke up in the morning. But now it’s the morning and you can’t seem to recall anything, how is this possible when it was all so vivid at 1am? If this is you, then this…
How to
4 years ago
I have very thin hair, due to overuse of a flat iron. I’ve been trying for years to grow it. I recently found a study that showed using rice water actually helps with the thickening of your hair and hair growth. Women in Asia have used rice water as a hair treatment for centuries, and…
Life Advice
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
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
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…
Mindspace
11 hours 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
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
a month ago
Over the past twenty years, social media's impact on society has increased noticeably. Social media has become an integral part of our lives, influencing how we communicate, consume information, and tell stories. For people of all ages, platforms like Instagram and TikTok, amongst others, aren't just for staying connected anymore; they are powerful tools for…
Mindspace
2 months ago
Every year on September 8th, the world comes together to celebrate World Literacy Day, a tradition that started way back in 1967. But why is literacy—just being able to read and write—such a big deal? If you're reading this right now, you’re one of the lucky few in South Africa who can. Our country’s literacy…
Mindspace
2 months ago
We are constantly bombarded with information, expectations, and challenges that can overwhelm us. Amidst the chaos, one simple yet powerful tool is often overlooked: journaling. This age-old practice of putting pen to paper can be a sanctuary for the mind, offering numerous mental health benefits. Writing about your feelings can bring clarity and perspective. When…
Mindspace
3 months ago
Ka kakaretso, mosola wa thuto ke go ruta batho gore ba kgone go nagana ka mokgwa o o tla ba kgontshang go lebana le go samagana le seemo sa loago, bobakapuso le ikonomi jalo jalo. Thuto eno e tshwanetse go ba letla gore ba kgone go lemoga mathata a a leng gone, go a tsharolola…
Mindspace
3 months ago
A quarter-life crisis is a period of significant doubt, anxiety, and uncertainty that typically occurs in a person's mid-20s to early 30s. Usually brought on by comparing oneself to other peers, internal pressure, transition and change, social media and fear of failure. With my 25th birthday just four months away, the pressure of societal expectations…
Mindspace
4 months ago
I'm sure you know the importance of the 18th of July. We celebrate this day to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, one of our former and most valued presidents. Nelson Mandela spent 67 years fighting for our rights and the eradication of apartheid. Symbolically, we take 67 minutes on Mandela Day to…
Money Matters
a month 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
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
7 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
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
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
a year ago
Get ready to swoon over Yandisa Peko, who set Twitter on fire with her jaw-dropping graduation photo and an oh-so-cool caption that read, "UCT Astrophysics and Science Space graduate." We may not all be astrophysicists, but one thing is crystal clear: this field demands some serious brainpower, especially when it comes to subjects like math…
Politics
yesterday
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
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…
Politics
3 months ago
Women’s Day in our country is the commemoration of the women who marched to the Union Buildings in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women on 9 August 1956. Sixty-eight years later and their works have been reduced to passing mentions in speeches and an Instagram post if they’re lucky. Worst still, the…
Snapshots
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
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
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
a year 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
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
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
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
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
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…
Style Secrets
2 years ago
I think it’s time we take a trip down memory lane. Do you remember the popular trends of our day, and I’m talking about the early 2000’s here. When we relished jelly pumps – I remember I had a grey one. Where we pranced around in pumpkin skirts – I owned a pink one and…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
I am sure you will agree that the perfect outfit is a game changer and confidence booster – but what’s an outfit without the perfect pair of kicks? Well gents, I come to you kicking like Jackie Chan! The classic Nike Air Force 1s are the perfect shoes for any occasion, and any outfit, and…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
Let’s be honest, maintaining curly hair is expensive and that’s why I thought I should compile a list of curly girl products I approve of that won’t stretch your budget. I hope this list makes your natural hair journey a tiny bit easier. Budget friendly brands: The Perfect Hair Curl Chemistry Iwori Afrodite Organics…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
As A and B we have discussed a lot about hair, from the curly girl method to different hair textures. One thing we have not talked much about is the biggest event of our lives when it comes to hair and that is washday. Plans need to be cancelled, phone calls need to blocked; it…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
The pandemic has changed the idea of what a workplace is supposed to look like, people are now working from home. Working on zoom means we don’t have to dress up as we used to when going into the office, you can attend a meeting in sweats as long as they look presentable no one…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
Welcome back to Style Secrets with A & B! We know that we’ve been gone for ages but we’re back in full swing and can’t wait to share our hair and fashion journeys with you. Since starting this curly journey I’ve come across the term Curly Girl Method (CGM) and I wasn’t sure what it…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
Welcome back to Style Secrets with A & B! Since starting my curly transition journey I’ve learnt that hair actually has a type, which I never really knew before. I’ve always just either thought of my hair as curly, wavy or damaged; I now know otherwise. Here is a simple hair type breakdown: - Type…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
Welcome back to Style Secrets with A & B Food for thought: Style is not fashion, style is not a trend, and style is personal to you. I know it’s been a minute since we posted our last blog, but we promise to be consistent from now on. We will be posting after every two…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
So let’s talk about natural hair. Let’s be honest, the entire natural hair process can be very daunting and tiring, but don’t worry, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Please do remember that I’m no expert, nor is Busie, we are simply sharing the knowledge we have gained over time to…
Style Secrets
3 years ago
“Busi why on earth do you need to buy five bags all at once?” my friend, Amber asked. “Five bags is not even enough, sis,” I said laughing. *** Hi there, Welcome to Style Secrets. My name is Busiswa Mahonono, some of you may be familiar with my work from blogs like Did You Know…
Word Of the Week
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
Have you heard of the saying “Anie brand”? Well, anie brand is translated as “On fire.” According to Cape Flats Dictionary anie brand is, “said of someone who is very good with something.” However, anie brand can literally mean that something is on fire, but you will naturally know in which context to use it! …
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
South Africa is known for its rich diversity in languages and culture. So to celebrate Women's Month, we are featuring the word ‘woman’ in South Africa’s eleven official languages. Mosadi – sePedi, seSotho and seTswana Umfati – siSwatii Musadzi – tshiVenda Wansati – xiTsonga Vrou – Afrikaans Woman – English Umfazi – isiNdebele and isiXhosa…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
A Surah is the equivalent of a ‘chapter’ in the Qur’an. There are 114 Surahs in the Qur’an, each surah has its own meaning and benefit and the reciter of the surah reaps those benefits. Surah Yaseen is for forgiveness. Surah abasa or Suratul’Abaasa is for success in all endeavours and safe journey. There are…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
According to the Cape Flats Dictionary, versin is described as “crazy, stupid”. Versin is Afrikaaps and can be used in various contexts. Example scenarios: “Are you versin?” – You could ask this to anyone who may be doing something a little too stupid. “Don’t be versin.” – Saying to someone that they shouldn’t be dumb.…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
Who is Nelly M? The current social media generation would tell you: “Nelly M was a South African anti-apartheid influencer who spent 27 years in jail and former president of the country.” From that description you can tell that Nelly M is the late, great Nelson Mandela. How did he become Nelly M? The Nelly…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
Life is not short of surprises or incredible events. But sometimes these events render us short of conventional words to express our shock or dismay. Cape Afrikaans or Afrikaaps comes to the rescue, with “jassas!” / “jassou!”. According to the Cape Afrikaans, Kaap Afrikaans dictionary this is an exclamation of disbelief or shock. Uses of…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
In South Africa, like in many other African countries, age is a very important factor that guides social relations, especially when it comes to making sure that young people are respectful to older people. Depending on your age there is always a word, formal or informal, to describe a youngster, no matter the language or…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
Have you ever felt far away from someone or something and just didn’t have the word to describe the feeling? Mzansi once again came to the rescue, with “alostro”. Though alostro sounds like an exotic Italian meal, it isn’t. Alostro is the word that describes the feeling you have when you’re badly craving something –…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
I’m sure you’ve heard the slang term “Understood the assignment”? If you haven’t, where have you been living?! According to Urban Dictionary, understood the assignment is “a phrase used when someone is giving it 110 %. Whether it’s what they’re doing or what they’re wearing, this is someone who is really on top of their…
Word Of the Week
2 years ago
One thing we have in common as Africans is respect. We are taught from a young age to greet even strangers, and to give up seats for the elderly, and always to say thank you when someone assists you. Our continent has many languages, and we say thank you in different ways, but the intention…
Work-Wise
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
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
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…