Celebrating Youth Excellence
JUNE
2021
What’s inside... Pg 3: New young SA artists make their mark Pg 5: Uncovering the generation divide of Gen Z vs Millennials Pg 6: Toya Delazy Pg 7: MTN Pg 8: Young entrepreneurs demonstrate how to develop and embrace local brands Pg 9: Youth Month: Benny Afroe’s genre-fl uid music Pg 10: The rise of young tech leaders Pg 11: Youth participation in elections Pg 12: Youth unemployment must be a priority Pg 14: The return of the Y2K aesthetic Pg 16: Meet South Africa’s 10 sport stars under 25 Pg 17: Five bucket list destinations for Gen Z’s Pg 18: Five SA hotels to visit to strengthen your Instagram game Pg 19: Young and healthy? You still need medical cover Pg 21: How to start a ‘side hustle’: 3 ideas for young people Pg 23: Youth Month: Culinary trends on the rise with young consumers Pg 24: Mzansi’s record-breaking skateboarder helps saves lives (SABMR ad) Pg 25: Donate stem cells to save a life and give someone a second chance
Lead Co-ordinator: MaryAnne Isaac Content co-ordinators: Michelle Lorber and Thembelihle Mkhonza Layout and design: Floyd Matlala and Robyn Fynn Editor: Linda Zakas linda.zakas@inl.co.za
New young voices make their mark in the music industry LIAM KARABO JOYCE CRACKING it in the entertainment industry is no easy feat. Doing so in the music business is even harder. We could list a number of singers who burst onto the scene with a smashing single and tons of potential who simply remained one-hit wonders, but we won’t. As long as the list of one-hit wonders is, so is the list of stars who shine through with their first single and go on to create multiple hits and win awards. Their music is consumed by the masses and in their own way, they change the face of music. In South Africa, there is no denying that we have some of the best musicians and even producers in the world. Exports like Black Coffee have proved our talent knows no borders and a new age of musicians is hot on the heels of stars such as Coffee, Busiswa, Muzi, Bongeziwe Mabandla, Nakhane, Jeremy Loops, Moonchild, and others. One such rising star is Tyla. After racking up nearly two million views independently and receiving glowing early praise for her hit single Getting Late and receiving praise from i-D, Paper Magazine and more, the singer and songwriter has inked a global deal with Epic Records. Born and raised in Johannesburg, Tyla grew up listening to American RnB triple-threats like Aaliyah and Cassie. It is these MTV TRL staples of the day, mixed with a curation of homegrown sonics like SA House, Gqom and Amapiano that shape Tyla’s sound. Meshing the richness of South Africa’s diverse music scene with international influences, she is part of an active new generation of African creatives proudly sharing their culture with the global community on social media. “I’m proud of being South African and I want to take Africa everywhere I go. It’s amazing how social media connects me with the world. TikTok allows me to express myself and show the world our South African dance moves like Pouncing Cat and the Gwara Gwara,” Tyla said. “I actually have a challenge for this video that combines some SA moves, so it’s like a little window into our culture. You have the Harlem Shake and we all know that, so you must also know how to ‘Vuli Gate’.” This concept of worlds colliding is nothing new to Tyla. It’s in her blood, with a diverse heritage that stems from Indian, African and Mauritian roots, to name a few. With Getting Late steadily making waves around the globe, Tyla now sets her focus on building a career as a multi-hyphenate entertainer and shining a spotlight on Africa. “I’m a singer first and foremost, but I love acting, dancing, drawing, and writing. I just love to express myself in all these different ways and I hope to explore all of these paths as I grow as an artist. I want to build a legacy for my family and South Africa. I see myself involving a lot of African people wherever I can just to build the continent and bring the world’s attention to us,” she said.
The future of music – the new voices you will be hearing more of this year
Continues… Another new voice on the scene is Nomfundo Moh who just released the latest single, uMthwalo, which is off her upcoming album, Amagama. Nomfundo describes her music as authentic to who she is, from its sound to visuals. Nomfundo delivers passionate vocals and consuming harmonies in Zulu, over a sparse Afropop instrumental with strong elements of trap soul. “Umthwalo is a song about hope. It talks about the difficulties of life, how everyone has got a burden on their shoulders. Most importantly, it encourages people to talk about things that bothers their soul as someone is always willing to listen. Depending on how you feel, the meaning of the song can be religious, where you get to pour your heart out to God, so you feel lighter. Listening to it as an Afropop song, it’s more of confiding in someone you trust instead of bottling all the negativity inside,” said Nomfundo. “I would like people to pay attention to my lyrical content. In every song, there’s a story, and that story is a gift from me to them. And the sound, that sound is unique, I’d like people to treasure it and let it be one of the things that remind them of being an African.“ Building street cred with his cult-like fan base, Blxckie is a breakout artist who is also leading the pack of new wave musicians as an acknowledged rapper, vocalist and producer. Born Sihle Sithole, Blxckie, who is also known as Somnyama Yena Yedwa, is a Durban-born artist who has broken the internet with hit after hit, placing him at the forefront of SA hip hop and trap soul. Capturing the essence of being a new wave artist, his debut album B4Now is one that boldly narrates his rising music career. “I think it’s important as an artist to tell your story through music and, more importantly, I’m about community and I love people. South Africa won’t grow or change with just one person, the music industry won’t grow by doing things alone,” said Blxckie.
Sacha van Niekerk
Uncovering the generational divide of Gen Z vs Millennials
THERE’s a war being waged against millennials by Gen Z, and it goes much deeper than whether side parts and skinny jeans should remain in style or not. In a similar fashion to how teenagers wake up one day to the realisation that their parents aren’t actually cool, but are instead really cringe, so have this group of tweens, teens and young adults accepted the fact that millennials are no longer relatable to them. From how they wear their hair to the slang they use and the movie quotes they’re able to recite on demand, there’s a very obvious generational divide growing between them that seems to become more evident with each passing day. The most obvious display of this is freely available on social media. As much as we all tried to put it off, most people over the age of 25 joined TikTok around March last year, even though the app launched over three years prior. Filled with 15 seconds to one minute long videos, the video-sharing app was initially dominated by Gen Z, aged between 6 and 24 years old, before everyone and their mom’s decided to join too. A leisurely scroll through social media will open you up to the virtual disses filmed in 4k quality and insults hurled through screens as a result of Millennials being on Gen Z turf. The online conflict started with videos of the younger generation poking fun at Millennials for their quirks. Whether it was mocking their obsession with coffee or their tendency to post their struggles with #adulting, screenshots of the comments these videos spawned have repeatedly gone viral on Twitter, showcasing that Zoomers (another term used for Gen Zers) have officially replaced Boomers as the number one roast master of Millennials. Of course, Millennials have their own ammunition to use against Gen-Z. They’re the first generation raised by tablets and smartphones and their greatest claim to fame will always be that they made headlines back in 2018 for eating laundry detergent pods. Things really ramped up around February of this year when the younger generation tried to cancel fashion trends that have firmly been embedded in Millennial culture for more than a decade. One TikTok user, a musician named Sarah Hes-
ter Ross, posted a diss track last month expressing her qualms with this using the lyrics:, “Hey Gen Z you can suck it, you can’t tell me what to wear / ‘Cause I’ve been rocking this side part since you had Kermit on your underwear — so cute!” (sic). The comment section of that video has since been turned off, but before it was, it garnered a lot of backlash from many Zoomers who questioned what they had to do with the cyclical phasing out of these fashion trends. Pulling the ultimate Uno Reverse card one us all, the sound has also become a very popular way to further mock Millennials by using the song as a soundtrack for transforming themselves into older Millennials – deep side parts, skinny jeans, long camisoles, infinity scarfs, knee-high boots and all. The most interesting aspect of this online spat is that Gen Z seems to be winning. Not because either insults are wittier or their argument have more of a factual edge, it’s simply the fact that everyone from the media to small businesses and corporate giants are presently emulating ideologies of the group. Although Gen Z are young, they are a massively diverse generation and a rapidly expanding group of employees, customers, and voters set to spread their influence in all sectors ranging from film and television to fashion, politics and everything in between. This is precisely what puts them at such an advantage. They are steadily moving into a position of having significant buying power, making brands and businesses very willing to hear them out and cater towards their every need and demand. In an interview with Jason Dorsey, the leading Gen Z and Millennial generation keynote speaker and researcher, who wrote the book, Zconomy: How Gen Z Will Change the Future of Business – and What to Do About It, Forbes published an article on how this group is expected to impact business for next 10 years or longer. In the article, Dorsey said: “Gen Z is the number one generation to write positive things online, to recommend brands and so forth. If you win them, you win them and their friends. It’s a huge opportunity.” So, whether the world is ready for them or not, the reality is that for the time being, they’re going to be ruling the trend market for years to come, and guess what? We’ll all be hanging on to every word they say.
Toya Delazy resurrects the fighting spirit in youth in her new album Afrorave Vol. 1
“The album represents hope for a South African youth that seems to be in deep trouble,” says Toya Delazy. Kedibone Modise MULTIFACETED artist Toya Delazy will be dropping her new album Afrorave Vol. 1 soon. What’s interesting about the album is that it is recorded in isiZulu and it features Young Mbazo, a local band that’s made up of the sons and grandsons of the Grammy award-winning Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Delazy admits that while her sound has evolved over the years, her music still has elements of JEHP (A fusion of jazz, electro, hip hop, and punk). This time around, she added Afrorave to the mix. “As I grew, I found an even better way to express and connect and that is through Afrorave where I can celebrate my culture while also communicating and connecting with others. It is the meeting of my traditional and modern world in harmony,” says Delazy. She adds: “The world sometimes makes us feel that it’s not possible to be black, educated, and still fiercely proud of one’s culture as if it’s something to be embarrassed about once you are educated. “Afrorave, which celebrates our indigenous languages in a rave, can strike a balance, and reconnect us to our culture and to others.” The London-based musician recently gave fans a taste of what’s to come from her forthcoming album by releasing the lead single, Resurrection. Co-produced by South African record producer Mxshi Mo, Resurrection is about rebirth and reclaiming who we are as African people in a global society. “Resurrection is about redesigning yourself.
You have to die to your old self and embrace your truth, to die, you have to let go of the ego and only then you will taste the sweet waters of resurrection. Life is all about the power of transformation,” says Delazy. Directed by Cape Town-based Kyle Lewis, the music video is a wild, expressive and surreal conceptual music video that works in African tribal motifs, and zombies. Born Latoya Nontokozo Buthelezi, the granddaughter of Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the Zulu princess says her sound is inspired by her heritage and rich culture. “Knowing your history is an empowering thing. When I travelled overseas I noticed that a lot of POC (people of colour) did not know their history,” said Delazy. The multi-award-winning artist says it is significant that she is releasing her album during Youth Month. “This album represents hope for a South African youth that seems to be in deep trouble. Seventy-five percent unemployment, many graduates and others with doctorates are sitting at home unemployed. “This is cancerous to the young black consciousness, it feels like we’re worse off than the youth of 1976 and it may take a revolution as intense to balance out the scales,” says the star. She adds: “This album is to wake up the fighting spirit of the youth so they realise that no saviour is coming to help us. It’s
time to take life by the scruff of the neck, taking care of mental health and aligning and activating our true purpose.” Delazy also touched on some of the challenges the youth of today is experiencing and how these can be overcome. “The youth of today are facing unemployment, homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, toxic religious psychological abuse, sexism, racism, mental health issues, lack of financial support, being orphaned and a lack of access to education. “To overcome these challenges we need to address them and then put systems in place to resolve them, like ensuring that all youth get free mental health care would be a great start. Once the mind is sorted out and there is a support system, life can change. “That is all we need﹘just a little bit of support. They complain about the youth drinking and doing drugs, but imagine inheriting the trauma South African black youth have, and not having anaesthetic for the wounds.” Toya’s latest hit single Qhawe was nominated for Best Produced Music Video at this year’s annual South African Music Awards. She was recently featured as one of 17 Women Shaping African Dance And Electronic Music in MixMag, the world’s biggest dance, music, and clubbing destination. Resurrection is currently available on all streaming platforms, while Afrorave Vol. 1 is available for pre-order. The album officially dropped on June 18.
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Young entrepreneurs demonstrate how to develop and embrace local brands
Wesley Diphoko SINCE 1998, South Africans have been called upon to support local products. Proudly South African was established in 2001, born out of the 1998 Presidential Job Summit which was convened by the late former President Nelson Mandela to promote the Buy Local campaign. The challenge, however, was that when it came to some products, there was almost nothing locally made which was available to buy. Enter South African young entrepreneurs who are making it possible to purchase South African sneakers, luxury leather bags, and fashion wear which celebrate South African culture. These young South African entrepreneurs include Inga Gubeka, Theo Baloyi and Laduma Ngxokolo, among others. When Inga Gubeka tweeted: “I’m just a boy from the village of Engqeleni (Eastern Cape) with a dream that some day my brand will be recognised internationally as one of the best luxury leather goods brands to come out of Africa. Watch this space... And this is where I started in 2018”, the response was remarkable as he ended up selling the entire range of his luxury leather bags. Finally, South Africans had an alternative to French and Italian luxury leather bags. On the Inga Atelier product website, Gubeka is described as a boy who grew up in an underprivileged and marginalised village in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, where people live below the poverty line and are not exposed to fine things. It goes on to describe him as someone who grew up making wire cars and little clay cows and
houses. His background story is similar to so many other young South Africans, and yet he rose above those circumstances to create a product worthy of national recognition. He is part of an unofficial club of young South Africans who are developing products that South Africans who now have options other than buying European and American products with little relevance to them. Another of this group of youthful local entrepreneurs is Theo Baloyi. He is the young man behind the Bathu label which has been named by Brand Africa as one of 2021’s most admired African brands. According to Theo, one of his motivations is that during his travels he noticed that something was missing – an African sneaker brand, portraying an authentic African story. As they say, the rest is history and, today, South Africans can finally feel free to heed the Proudly South African call when it comes to their sneaker range. Another award-winning designer, entrepreneur, and creative artist who has elevated homegrown South African fashion to another level, Laduma Ngxokolo is the founder of the MaXhosa brand. Upon starting, Laduma had a desire to explore knitwear design solutions that would be suitable for amakrwala (Xhosa initiates). His initial vision was to create a modern Xhosa-inspired knitwear collection that would be suitable for this market. As a person who has undergone the process, Laduma felt that he had to develop premium knitwear that celebrates tradition-
al Xhosa aesthetics. His designs capture the hearts of South Africans with their strong cultural links to his heritage. The MaXhosa brand is now considered as one of the locally developed fashion brands that qualifies as a luxury in the sea of international brands. Through the MaXhosa brand, South Africans can now wear a Proudly South African brand with confidence. Inga Gubeka, Theo Baloyi, and Laduma Ngxokolo are shining stars among young entrepreneurs who made it possible for South Africans to truly embrace the idea of buying local products. What they have achieved is critical for the South African economy and should receive the necessary recognition. The design and quality of products developed by these young entrepreneurs are responsible for their success. South Africa struggles to encourage locals to buy local products as they compete with products from other parts of the world which are perceived as seemingly better. What these young entrepreneurs have accomplished should serve as a case study in developing local products that can be embraced by society. This is important as it is one thing to develop a local product, it is another to encourage people to embrace them in favour of other products competing for attention. South Africa needs to develop more local products if it is to stimulate the local economy. Inga Gubeka, Theo Baloyi, and Laduma Ngxokolo are blazing trails in showing the nation how it can be done.
YOUTH MONTH: Benny Afroe’s genre-fluid music
STANDS OUT FROM THE REST
Benny Afroe’s genre-fluid music is making him stand out from the rest. The 26-year-old creative from Mpumalanga is not allowing anything to dictate what his music should sound like. VTH SEASON’s young and fresh music artist, Benny Afroe is flying the South African flag high as he expresses himself with his genre-fluid fusion of African sounds and feelings. Growing up in two small towns, Benny Afroe, whose real name is Benny Riba, was surrounded by music from his bass guitarist father. The “Yohh” hitmaker said he always knew deep down that music would be a big part of his life. By the age of 13, he had already produced his first full song and has never looked back since. “Music has always been around. My childhood was surrounded by a lot of music, so a part of me always knew. I knew I was onto something when I produced a full song by myself. I’ve never stopped making music since that day,” said the star. While the ever-changing music industry is a tough place to be in, with many challenges for upcoming artists, this young musician says he most battles with the internet, and calls it a curse and blessing at the same time. “The internet can be a blessing and a curse at the same time.
There are so many musicians online that it makes it hard for one to gain recognition. That will forever remain a challenge for young musicians in the internet age,” he says. With hits like Know My Name, Goodbye and a collaboration with award-winning vocalist Ami Faku titled This Feeling, this youngster shows no signs of slowing down, just like his role models, Kanye West, Sjava and Drake. And staying focused and grounded is his ultimate goal. “I always try to remember why I’m in the industry. It’s because of the music, so I try to focus on music as much as I can. My love for music is unexplainable. I’ve made so many sacrifices to get to this point. Everything else comes second,” said Afroe. He strongly believes that the future belongs to the youth, and that Youth Month is a reminder of this. “Youth Month is all about celebrating the youth and reminding them that the future belongs to them. It is also a time to inspire and nurture young minds. Youngsters should never stop working on their craft. You’re not good enough until you’re good enough,” said the singer.
THE RISE OF YOUNG TECH LEADERS SOUTH Africa’s unemployment rate reached 32.6% in the first three months of 2021. This was revealed in Statistics SA’s (Stats SA) Quarter Labour Force Survey (QLFS) released by statistician-general Risenga Maluleke on June 1. The data shows that the number of employed persons remained almost unchanged at 15 million. A majority of those unemployed are young people. There’s a group of young people, however, who are tackling unemployment head-on by not waiting for a business to employ them. They are creating work for others by setting up companies that are changing the status quo. One of them is Vutlharhi Donald Valoyi who founded Zulzi, an online grocery delivery start-up. His app had just over 80 000 users before lockdown. Since the beginning of April, it has signed up 75 000 new users and employed 450 more shoppers and drivers. On behalf of customers, Zulzi’s army of personal shoppers visits Woolworths, Pick n Pay, Dis-Chem, Clicks, Spar and, when not restricted, alcohol retailers. Another young entrepreneur, who is enabling other young people to be employed, is Victor Chaitezvi. He established a logistics company that is an Uber for the trucking industry. His company was recognised as one of the Most Innovative Companies by Fast Company in South Africa. Victor and Donald are among a group of young entrepreneurs who are doing something about the state of unemployment in South Africa. They are part of a revolution taking place across the continent, where young people are establishing tech compa-
nies that are taking Africa forward. Recently, two companies by young entrepreneurs from the continent have reached unicorn status (a privately held start-up company valued at over $1 billion). One is Flutterwave by Iyinoluwa Aboyeji and Olugbenga Agboola and another one is Paystack by Shola Akinlade. Paystack has now been acquired by the leading fintech company Stripe, in Silicon Valley. Paystack is one of the few companies in the continent that is transforming the financial infrastructure of the continent. Paystack currently has around 60 000 customers, including small businesses, larger corporates, fintech, educational institutions, and online betting companies. During the pandemic, online commerce has also proven to be another area of opportunity for many businesses started by young entrepreneurs. In absolute numbers, Africa may be smaller right now than other regions, but recent studies have shown that online commerce will grow about 30% every year. And even with wider global declines, online shoppers are growing twice as fast. The success experienced by young tech entrepreneurs in the sector has proven that it’s possible to create employment opportunities in this sector. The experiences of these four young Africans show that there are other avenues to consider to deal with the unemployment challenge. The tech start-up ecosystem has proven to be an avenue, where chances of success are greater although very difficult. The financial technology sector has proven to be a thriving sector, where young tech entrepreneurs are succeeding. Yoco is the
shining example of a tech start-up founded by young tech entrepreneurs, led by Katlego Maphai, who is in the process of creating employment opportunities for others by enabling them to start their own businesses or by employing them directly. The rise of young technology leaders in the continent is a positive development that will enable the African continent to move forward. Senior African leaders have tried to change the state of the African continent with limited success. The current group of young technology entrepreneurs is making an impact without making too much noise. The challenge facing young African tech leaders, however, is access to funding. Lack of funding limits the ability of African tech founders to keep their businesses within the continent. In the case of Paystack, although the company was born in Africa, it has now been acquired by a US-based company and has therefore technically become a US company. For young tech entrepreneurs to build local companies that will remain in the continent they need financial support. In the absence of such support, we are likely to see Africa becoming just an incubator of tech companies by local young tech entrepreneurs and thereafter will lose them due to acquisitions. Local young tech companies are showing what it takes to build businesses and services for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and need all the support they can get to create local employment and economy. It is often said that Elon Musk would not have succeeded had he built his company in the African continent. There’s a need to change that narrative for many young tech entrepreneurs in the African tech ecosystem.
Youth participation in elections Siseko Maposa and Philile Dlamini
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Indeed, it is not that young people are disinterested in participating in policy making, but rather that they choose to use methods of participation that are not appreciated by the current law-making process.
YOUTH participation is an important underlying premise of democratic governance. Active youth participation allows young people to cement their voice within politics and the legislative making process. This is imperative in creating long-lasting democratic virtues and outcomes. Despite the importance of youth participation in democracy, empirical evidence globally indicates that young people are becoming more and more disenchanted with political and electoral processes. South Africa has not been an exception to this. Although civic participation cannot be reduced to electoral voting alone, elections are a good indicator of the willingness of citizens to actively participate in the democratic system. Regrettably, youth voter turnout in South Africa remains low. In this way, the current relationship between young people and politics in South Africa, characterised by political apathy and non-participation on the part of the young, can be considered a contemporary crisis of democracy. Several notional factors, which are not mutually exclusive, explain low voter participation among young people. Firstly, the habit formation explanation argues that one of the reasons for the prevalence of low voter participation among young people is that they have had fewer opportunities to develop the democratic habit of voting. Those who have voted have not yet reaped the rewards of voting as still there remains a huge divergence between electoral promises and socio-economic outcomes. Secondly, the opportunity cost explanation states that it is difficult for young adults to find the time to register and vote due to livelihood security demands which drives them to structure their activities towards financial security rather than voting participation. Lastly, the alternative participation argument postulates that low electoral participation among the youth is as a result of the rise in alternative forms of democratic participation. The major reason for the youth opting for alternate methods of participation is that elections are arguably slow and incompatible with addressing matters that require immediate attention.
Ultimately, low political and civic participation among young people in South Africa points to the fact that youth find formal political processes not only frustrating and alienating, but also less likely to yield desired results. This, then, warrants government intervention through appropriate legislative mechanisms to support youth participation. The recent proposed amendments to the Electoral Bills Act are aimed at reinforcing free and fair elections, the protection of voters and the security of personal information. The bill also intends to enhance the entire legislative process and make it easier for citizens to participate. For all its notable intentions, what the bill has failed to recognise is that the legislative process lacks the proper inducements to encourage youth participation by underappreciating technologies, which are employed by young people for political participation. Indeed, it is not that young people are disinterested in participating in policy making, but rather that they choose to use methods of participation that are not appreciated by the current law-making process. In our current dispensation, government, civil educators, and political organisers need to take note that technology is one of the most important tools that grab the attention of the youth. The Electoral Knowledge Council has found that globally “technology is being used more and more as a tool to assist voters to cast their votes”. Given the calamitous challenges faced by young persons, such as unemployment, inequality and a stark rise in unsecured debt, the government needs to quickly realise that a pivotal way it can rebuild its relationship with the youth is by altering the legislative process in ways that appreciate evolving youth interests and technological developments. A re-imagined public policy making process which caters for youth needs, however, will require careful consideration to prevent potential exclusion due to inability of access and socio-economic status. Dlamini is a public policy analyst. She holds a Bachelors in Political Science at Pretoria University. Maposa is a political economist. He holds a Masters in International Relations at the UCT. He writes in his personal capacity.
Youth unemployment must be a priority for political parties
Nkosikhulule Nyembezi YOU can tell that South African youth will once more be betrayed by politicians by the way they promise to look after them in the run up to the local government elections scheduled for October 27 this year. The election manifestos are not out yet but, in this year that marks the 45th anniversary of the 16 June 1976 student uprising in Soweto, the vital question that will persist all the way to the inside of voting stations is: what strides has the ANC-led government and all other political parties in different municipal councils made in ensuring the youth have better opportunities for employment in South Africa in the face of glaring hardship resulting from chronic unemployment and poverty? With this year’s government focus on the youth under the theme: “The Year of Charlotte Mannya Maxeke: Growing youth employment for an inclusive and transformed society”, it will be hard to convince voters that the glass is half-full in the face of the recently released Statistics SA’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey of the first quarter of 2021, which confirms that young people are still struggling in the South African labour market. The official unemployment rate is 32.6%, while in an increasing number of municipalities, it has constantly stood in the region of 70%. No wonder there is a loud chorus of political parties demanding the postponement of the elections, even to the extent of criticising the Electoral Commission
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The official unemployment rate is 32.6%, while in an increasing number of municipalities, it has constantly stood in the region of 70%.
for proceeding with the statutory mandated preparations. They must be finding it hard to imagine campaigning on hollow promises in an environment, where one in every two young people in the labour force did not have a job in the first quarter of 2021 and where conservatively those aged 15–24 years are more vulnerable in the labour market, with an unemployment rate of over 63%, an absorption rate of about 7.6% and, a labour force participation rate of 20.6% under most precarious circumstance. Even for those who are lucky to be employed, the income is irregular and unpredictable. At this rate there are very few, if any, young people who will get a job in the next five years. Instead, many will have to wait until they are above 40 years before getting a chance to participate in the labour force and by which time the politicians they are expected to vote for will have long forgotten about them. What is also concerning is that the unemployment rate among the youth continues to be high irrespective of education level, as the graduate unemployment rate is 40.3% for those aged 15–24 and 15.5% among those aged 25–34 years, while the rate among adults (aged 35– 64 years) is 5.4% despite promises of government investment in intervention schemes targeting the youth. Such stresses are a routine feature of electoral politics in South Africa. Candidates, both independent and those who are party members, will be expected to convince voters that they can change the unemployment situation at local level without being steeped in arguments about who is to blame for the situation. This inescapable responsibility of convincing voters will only feel new to some opposition parties whose presence and conduct as coalition partners in various municipal councils has contributed to the persistence of the old-time but worsening picture told by the unemployment statistics because, for a generation, the action was in Luthuli House and its command to ANC-led municipalities. If voters had better understood what was coming their way by either boycotting the elections because of disgruntlement with the corrupt ANC, or by voting for other parties with no prospects of commanding the majority in municipal councils, they might have fought harder for powers of scrutiny of progress, or lack thereof in the coalition-led municipalities, amendment and veto annual budgets and integrated development plans as well as switched support when voting in by-elections. The electorate has vast leverage over politicians in such matters, even though it has not been demonstrated – not even by the bulging young profile of voters that bear the brunt of unemployment.
While by-elections remain useful as a national indicator of the likely outcome of the 2021 local government elections, the heavy weight of chronic unemployment on the economic, social, and mental well-being of the electorate will most likely change the political landscape by precipitating the rejection of established political parties and their replacement with realigned coalition partners that does not resemble those formed to unseat the ANC in the 2016 elections. President Ramaphosa and the ANC should take responsibility for the lack of improvement of the situation. The underlying tension is between the electoral tactics that delivered the ANC-led government in all three spheres of government and its ideological genesis. Ramaphosa’s appeal to his party and the general public is rooted in the illusion of co-operation among ANC factions and its alliance partners in implementing an agenda that repeatedly brought it into office. That is an agenda focusing on economic growth, reducing poverty and unemployment, as well as weeding out inefficiencies in government bureaucracy while embarking in a buccaneering adventure on the high seas of globalisation. Whatever is left of the ‘Ramaphoria’ hype must appeal to voters whose economic and social demands point inwards towards a strong government role in unlocking economic opportunities through aggressive implementation of policies that result in economic growth underpinned by massive job creation. It must be packaged as one coalition that will bring together government, business, labour, and civil society. However, the government requires choices that pull it apart in order to do away with narrow political interests. This is the kind of reality witnessed in the many missteps in response to the coronavirus pandemic as disunity and infighting in the ANC continued to contaminate government policy decisions and actions to the detriment of the unemployed. Unfortunately, none of the political parties have been able to effectively challenge this damaging situation. Instead, their agenda is more parochial than they like voters to imagine. They do not weigh election promises in terms of urgency to create jobs or economic growth, but as rhetorical props in their great internal party power struggle showcase. Who will pay for the production is an issue for later. For now, keeping personal privileges at all costs is a performance put on for a domestic audience by politicians with their backs turned to the general population blighted by unemployment and poverty. *Nyembezi is a policy analysts and a human rights activist
The return of the Y2K aesthetic THE year 2000 is one of the most memorable years because of the iconic cyberpunk fashion trends, the rise of technology and the fact that people thought the world was going to end. It can be compared to the year 2020 as many thought the world was coming to an end, thanks to the global pandemic and even though things are slowly going back to normal, there is no promise that the future is going to be any better. This may be why Gen Zs have been gravitating back to fashion trends from the year 2000 (Y2K), which was a simpler time, full of promise, if you did not believe the world was going to end, of course. The Y2K aesthetic started around the late 1990s, when people were both terrified and excited about the rise of technology. While some were looking forward to the new era, others feared that the year 2000 would be the end of the world due to a “computer bug” that was projected to create so much havoc in computers and computer networks, that the world would cease to exist. Luckily, this did not happen, but instead people got to experience new gadgets and futuristic fashion trends that included coloured sunglasses, velour tracksuits, and tiny baguette bags. Thanks to that very same technology, young people have been able to use the internet to go back in time and get some inspiration from the era that some of them are too young to remember living through. It is common in the fashion industry to see a ‘blast from the past’ and the return of the Y2K aesthetic is exactly that – the reappearance of clothing and aesthetic trends from the late 90s and the year 2000. You can see it today in the fashion influences. Take the transparent heels and accessories trend and the translucent make-up we see in editorials. It’s prevalent in video games, design and also, music. It’s an amalgam of the best bits of the 2000s – grunge, animé, pop, and a lot of tech. When Apple launched its new iMacs, they paid homage to their original iMacs, which were translucent and colourful. The many reboots of iconic 2000 era films, such as The Matrix, have also re-ignited our interest in the Y2K aesthetic. The trend is more prevalent in fashion, where we are seeing the return of low-rise jeans, wide-leg jeans, bedazzled shirts and cardigans. The sneakers have translucent soles and psychedelic colours.
The reason why 2000s fashion is so popular with Gen Zs can heavily be credited to the rise in thrift shopping, which refers to buying second-hand clothes. The thrifting market has grown 21 times faster than the retail market over the past three years, according to the analytics firm, GlobalData. Access to pre-loved clothes has exposed Gen Zs to well-knownstyles from the past such as, low-waisted jeans and baby tees. Another reason is the growing interest in making more sustainable fashion choices. Due to the negative impact of fast fashion on the environment, some people are looking into alternative ways to stay fashionable without contributing to the world’s waste problem. Thrifting is a good way to do this, but it might not be for everyone. There are plenty of clothing brands around the world that have been embracing the Y2K trend just as much as Gen Zs are. Movies and television shows from the 2000s like, Mean Girls, Clueless, Legally Blonde, Lizzy McGuire and Cheetah Girls are also huge inspirations for the Y2K look. What are the staples? To avoid fear of missing out (FOMO) there are a few must-have staple pieces that will help you ace the Y2K aesthetic. Low-waisted jeans People were a little sceptical about the return of low rise jeans at first, but they were the epitome of Y2K fashion, making them a must-have for the aesthetic. Baguette bag The classic French bread purse is here to stay. They rose to fame around 2005, and are usually too small to fit anything more than your phone and some cards. Velour Tracksuits Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie were big fans of velour tracksuits in the 2000s. They are comfy and perfect for both running errands and lounging around at home. Bright colours Think purple, a lot of pink, yellow and blue - bright colours ruled the 2000s aesthetic. The Bratz dolls are the inspiration here. From the eye popping make-up, to the bright coloured streaks in hair. Butterfly hair clips Adding butterfly clips to your hairstyle is the easiest way to embrace the Y2K aesthetic because hair accessories were very popular back then. A bandana, claw clips or colourful scrunchies are must-haves as well. Mini-skirts and baby tees Small clothing was a hit back in the 2000s, celebrities would even wear baby tees to the red carpet. That is why they are a staple when channelling Y2K fashion. Coloured sunglasses Nothing completes the Y2K aesthetic like a pair of colourful sunglasses.
Meet South Africa’s 10 sport stars under 25 SportS reporter
Sport is definitely something that is valued and esteemed in South Africa, and has a significant role in our country’s culture and diversity. Let’s take a look at some of the most unforgettable and outstanding young sport stars, who are role models for the new generation. these young sports stars have flown the South African flag high. 1. Phepsi Buthelezi (Rugby) the 22-year-old was recently named as the captain for the Sharks ahead of the upcoming Currie Cup. the looseforward was rewarded following his impressive form in the recent rainbow Cup after number eight Sikhumbuzo Notshe suffered an injury. 2. Kgaugelo Chauke (Soccer) the english-South African midfielder is a product of the Southampton youth development system, which is regarded as one of the best in england. While he is a member of the england U18 side, he remains eligible to represent Bafana Bafana by virtue of having South African heritage.
Sharks captain Phepsi Buthelezi. photo: Gerhard Duraan/Backpagepix.
5. Luther Singh (Soccer) the 23-year-old SC Braga player is likely to be the heartbeat of the Bafana Bafana attack for the next decade. If Bafana Bafana is to start achieving consistency, good form from the portugalbased star will be vital. 6. Laura Wolvaardt (Cricket) With a one Day International average of 43.87, the 22-year-old is regarded as one of the best players of the cover drive in international cricket. the best is yet to come from the righthanded proteas woman batter.
Thando Ntini bowling against the Dolphins in the Momentum one Day Cup.
7. Zenéy van der Walt (track and field) the 21-year-old 400m specialist has won gold medals at the 2017 World Under 18 Championships and 2018 World U20 Championships. expect more big things from her. 8. Linda Motlhalo (Soccer) the 20-year-old was one of the younger players in the Banyana Banyana squad that played in the 2019 Women’s World Cup. She currently plays for Djurgardens IF in Sweden.
3. Lloyd Harris (Tennis) In the last decade, 24-year-old Kevin Anderson was the only South African tennis player that South African’s could look forward to watching play in the latter stages of big tournaments. It looks like the premier South African men’s tennis player for the foreseeable future will be Cape town-born Lloyd Harris.
9. Bongeka Gamede (Soccer) Finding a long-term replacement for Banyana Banyana captain Janine Van Wyk is not going to be an easy task but the 22-year-old University of Western Cape defender would have learned a lot by travelling to the 2019 Women’s World Cup. She has the skills required to succeed Van Wyk.
4. Thando Ntini (Cricket) the 20-year-old is one of the best up-and-coming fast bowlers in South African domestic cricket. Unlike his father, Makhaya, he also looks like he can make a contribution with the bat a bit.
10. Nonkuleleko Mlaba (Cricket) the 20-year-old left-arm leg spinner has quickly adapted to the demands of international cricket and will form part of the core of the proteas women’s team for the foreseeable future.
Bongeka Gamede photo: Sydney Mahlangu/ Backpagepix.
Proteas Women spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba. photo: richard Wainwright/Backpage pix.
Five bucket list destinations for Gen Zs Clinton Moodley
WHen the world is ready to reopen, here are five destinations Gen Z travellers should visit: United States none can compare to the vast offerings that the US offers travellers, from national parks to endless road trip options. Spend some time in lA or shop until you drop in new york. or explore Chicago, Miami and las Vegas, each brimming with culture, cuisine and endless entertainment. When you need a break, hit one of the sun-kissed beaches. Brazil Brazil is home to sandy beaches, rainforests and diverse ecosystems. let’s not forget legendary cities like Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Salvador that is teeming with history, culture, cuisine and endless adventure. Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, head to a favela party and kick back with some caipirinhas. China the climate, cuisine, terrain, endless adventurers, and buzzing cities make China one of the most diverse countries around. you can ski in the snow-capped mountains of tibet or get lost in the history and shopping of Shanghai. the food options and landscapes are perfect for the gram. Italy italy is a bucket list destination for many travellers, boasting irresistible food, stunning architecture, art and grand scenery. With the art-filled cities of Rome, Venice and Florence, the wine region of tuscany and the stylish sophistication of Cinque terre, Milan and lake Como, italy really does have an abundance to offer. travellers should rent a car and explore the small towns on offer. France the cuisine, unique culture, sights and stunning beaches of France make it one of the most iconic destinations for Gen Z travellers. With beautiful architecture, some of the best food and wine around and a certain sophistication, there’s no wonder the coastlines, countryside and cities of France are so appealing. if you are an emily in Paris fan, visit the 17th century Château de Cruix in the Champagne region. Here, you can soak in the gorgeous vineyards of one of France’s most famous and picturesque wine-producing regions.
Five SA hotels to visit to strengthen your Instagram game GONE are the days when a traveller’s only requirement for a hotel is a comfortable bed and a few basic amenities. Most travellers now book hotels that have “Instagrammable” spaces, luxurious décor and chic natural areas. Besides, according to most, “If it was not on the gram, it probably did not happen.” Here are five hotels you should visit to strengthen your Instagram game: The Silo Hotel, Cape Town Known as Cape Town’s most exclusive luxury hotel, The Silo Hotel boasts some of the finest decor. The Silo is described as a “celebration of art, style, architecture and design” and makes the perfect backdrop for your Instagram images. Located at Silo Square, V&A Waterfront. The Oyster Box, Durban The Oyster Box overlooks the Indian Ocean and Umhlanga lighthouse. The five-star-property is famed for its curry buffets, high teas and its dramatic decor throughout the hotel. Snap a pose at its grand pool overlooking the Indian Ocean. Located at 2 Lighthouse Road in Umhlanga. Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg While located in one of South Africa’s busiest cities, Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff feels like a retreat. Located high up the Witwatersrand, the hotel is surrounded by lush greenery and tastefully decorated with chic furniture and art. You are bound to find somewhere to capture your next viral Instagram shot. Located at 67 Jan Smuts Ave, Westcliff in Johannesburg. Gorgeous George Hotel, Cape Town Created out of two restored heritage buildings, Gorgeous George is not your typical five-star hotel. Gorgeous George is the first hotel in Cape Town to join the Design Hotel stable. That’s not all; Gigi Rooftop offers the best views of Cape Town coupled with excellent food and drink. Located at 118 St Georges Mall in the Cape Town City Centre. Royal Malewane, Hoedspruit With a string of awards under its name, Royal Malewane in the Greater Kruger National Park is nothing short of a luxury escape. The lodge, located in Thornybush Private Game Reserve, on the Western Border of The Greater Kruger National Park, offers plenty of wildlife wandering around. You may even get to snap a selfie with an elephant drinking from your plunge pool. Located at Avoca Road at Thornybush Private Game Reserve in Hoedspruit.
Young and healthy? You still need medical cover Tony SingleTon
MAny people are struggling with reduced income as a result of the pandemic, and when budgets are tight, it is easy to think that things such as insurance are not a necessity. Furthermore, the South African gDP saw its biggest contraction in a century, highlighting the devastating effect of the virus. When it comes to medical aid and health insurance such as gap cover, however, this thinking could not be further from the truth. While illness and dread diseases such as cancer mainly affect those age 66 and above, they do occur in all ages, and Covid-19 is unpredictable, with more than 200 deaths in South Africa in 2020 occurring in people under the age of 40. Medical expense shortfalls could financially cripple young people who do not have savings built up, especially families just starting out. Disease affects young and old While the majority of those who have been severely affected by Covid-19 have been older or have had existing comorbidities, the reality is that young and seemingly healthy people have also ended up in hospital and even in intensive care. Although Covid is a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition, not all treatments are covered as such, which means that those affected could end up with related medical expense shortfalls.
Cancer is another disease that affects young and old, including children. Treatments are typically expensive, may not be covered as PMBs and, even if they are, could be subject to co-payments. The shortfalls from cancer treatments can be significant and will have to be covered by the patient or their family. Pregnancy and childbirth are also areas that could lead to significant medical expense shortfalls, with complications, intensive care stays and even congenital defects being real possibilities. Illness and disease are stressful events, and worrying about finding the money to pay bills only adds to the strain. Having a gap cover provider to lean on can ease the pressure and remove a significant financial burden. Late joiner penalties imposed Another important factor to consider is that both medical aid and gap cover providers impose waiting periods for cover, as well as late joiner penalties, which have been approved by the Council for Medical Schemes, for those who join after the age of 35. This penalty takes the form of a higher monthly rate for membership for joining at a later life stage, when you are more likely to need expensive treatments. For medical schemes, this penalty is calculated using your age as well as the number of years a person has not had medical cover since the age of 35 – between one and four years is an additional 5%, five to 14 years an additional 25%, 15 to 24 years an additional 50% and more than 25 years over age 35 is 75%. Gap cover penalties are calculated differently depending on the provider, but members who join after age 65 will have higher premiums. Protecting your financial future When you or your loved ones are ill, the last thing anyone needs is to be choosing treatments based on what you can afford. Financial stress places a huge burden on anyone, and it can make you sicker and cause mental health issues. Planning for the future and covering what you can is the smartest move you can make. While many young people cannot afford comprehensive medical scheme cover, they also cannot afford the medical expense shortfalls that would result from serious illness or dread disease. Reducing your medical scheme cover and supplementing it with an affordable gap cover solution might be an option. However, it is always best to consult your financial advisor to ensure you have the best solution to protect your health and financial wellbeing, today and in the future.
How to start a
‘side hustle’: 3 ideas for young people
WHILE the side hustle may have found its place firmly in our pandemic-era lexicon, it has in fact been around a lot longer than you might think. The phrase was first used during the recession of the 1950s, when people had to find additional ways to supplement their income in order to make ends meet. So it stands to reason that as the world enters another recession, the side hustle has regained our collective attention. And the numbers clearly demonstrate the rising interest in alternative revenue streams: A recent survey reported that as many as one in three South Africans earn income from an extra job, while social media platform Twitter recently revealed a staggering 295% rise in the number of mentions of “side hustle” on its platform. And while making ends meet might be a key driver in the meteoric rise of the side hustle, it is by no means the only reason, says Litha Maqungo, social media and communications specialist at Metropolitan GetUp. “Another contributor is access – thanks to the acceleration of the digital economy, it is easier than ever start a business or leverage your talents for monetary gain, and the opportunities are now but a mouse-click away.” The other – and arguably most significant – factor is personal fulfilment; something we may not always get from our 8 to 5 job that pays the bills, says Maqungo. A 2020 report in the Harvard Business Review underpinned this sentiment, revealing that 73% of those surveyed began a side hustle to enhance their overall satisfaction in life, stating that “side hustles empowered individuals so that they feel they are the agent in charge of their work, which led to being emotionally and cognitively invested in the side hustle”. Whether it’s funds, fun or fulfilment you’re after, if you’re thinking about starting a side hustle but don’t know where to begin, Maqungo shares three potential avenues that you might want to consider. Blog yourself a business Influencing is big business – but be warned, establishing the kind of following that leads to financial gain doesn’t simply happen overnight. “It takes dedication, creativity, authenticity﹘ and most importantly, passion, says Maqungo. “Those who’ve started the most successful blogs or social accounts﹘more common these days than long-form blogging﹘have typically done so through finding their unique voice, which resonated with a like-minded audience.
Once you have established your niche, Maqungo suggests that you start reaching out to brands that you personally love, and which connect with you and your lifestyle. “Find out who the right person is to speak to at the company, and then pop them a brief but friendly introduction email, giving them an overview of your platform and highlighting the value it could offer their brand. “More and more brands are looking to work with micro-influencers as they are considered credible and trustworthy within their communities﹘so don’t think that you need to have thousands of followers to spark a brand’s interest,” she adds. Hustle yourself into hospitality The hospitality industry was one of those that were hardest hit by the pandemic, with eateries and bars all across the world forced to close their doors. Yet, it is also anticipated to be one of the quickest sectors to recover, says Maqungo. “After the last year of social distancing, people are craving human interaction﹘and the simple act of connecting over a meal has become more significant and special. “As past economic crises have shown us, as soon as the situation starts to improve, tourism will return﹘and with it, a subsequent boom in hospitality. Consider taking up a part-time position as a hostess, waitress, bartender or shop assistant, specifically in an establishment known to be attractive to tourists, and you will find yourself in a great position once the vaccine roll-out gains traction and economic recovery starts,” says Maqungo. Skill-savvy for success Are you great at graphic design or a wizard with words? Maybe you’re a natural with children or well-known for your cakes and cookies. Whatever your talent, there are ways to make money from it. “If you’re not sure where your skills lie, start by asking those closest to you – it might be that they can help you identify something you’re good at that you’ve always taken for granted.” Once you have identified your talent, assess whether it needs to be practiced or honed, she suggests. “It might be, for example, that you are great at doing your own make-up, but you don’t have much experience working on other faces. In this case, a make-up course will help you learn the basics, and guide you in the products you need to get started.” Social media provides a low-cost way to market yourself to others, but when starting out, referrals are often the best way to get your hustle out there. Ask your network of friends and family, who can attest to your skills, to share the word about what you offer. “Take it one step further by offering a complimentary or discounted service to new customers or those who refer others to you, and you will start to see the enquiries come in,” says Maqungo.
Youth Month: Culinary trends on the rise with young consumers Out with the old and in with the new Lutho Pasiya
WhiLE predictions are always uncertain, there are definite culinary trends that have emerged during the Covid-19 lockdown that point to where we are going and what young people are interested in eating. We spoke to s Pellegrino young’s Chef Middle East africa region winner, Paul thinus Prinsloo, and chef de partie at the Restaurant at Waterkloof, Nelmari Zandberg, about culinary trends on the rise with young consumers right now and their observations follow. Zandberg’s top trends • Less wastage and support for the locals Chefs will be more cautious about their wastage and try to reuse as much as possible. also, supporting local producers for ingredients rather than importing to be more cost-effective and help each other out. this initiative will last for a while, until the industry is back to normal. • Fermentation and artisan cooking one of the most trending topics on social media is artisan bread, especially sourdough. as a trend, fermentation cooking has been growing in the past few years and will still be part of the food trends for many years. it’s something that not everyone understands, but the basic steps can be done at home. Many people have been doing research and trying out fermentation cooking and baking their own bread. • Private cheffing and upmarket take out Restaurants have introduced an option to fine dining that being catering for the people who want to support them but don’t want to sit in the restaurant and eat. another option is private chefs who are prepared to cook your three to four course meal in the luxury of your home. it may be a trend that sticks around for a short period of time, but it will certainly be part of the food trends. Prinsloo’s top trends Prinsloo said we can expect a lot of new trends to come and go while people are out and enjoying themselves again.
• Everything fish (fin to tail) Ever since Josh Niland released his book, The Whole Fish Cookbook, people have been inspired by his methods on how to use the whole fish, such as ageing and fish charcuterie. one of Cape town’s local fisheries, southern Cross seafood Deli, started aging their own fish and it is something that south africans are not used to. so for young consumers, i think it’s something worth trying and a trend that’s here to stay for a long time. • Plant-based and healthy eating People are going to be even more careful about what they eat than ever after the pandemic is over. so healthy eating and substituting animal products for plant-based products will be stronger, especially among the younger generation who are already so cautious when it comes to eating. and it will become a lifestyle, rather than a food trend shortly. • Simplicity is key and expect the unexpected this can go two ways: either bold flavours, crazy combinations, and interesting pairings or classic food with a twist. however, keeping the plate as clean as possible will be a key factor for both, using a few ingredients and perfecting them rather than presenting a big full plate with many flavour profiles. Either way, there are many chefs who are happy to be cooking again, and those talented minds have had a lot of time to think of new dishes. how long of a trend this will be i don’t know, but eating out will be one of the many social activities that people are relishing.
Mzansi’s record-breaking skateboarder helps save lives! South African skateboarding icon Jean-Marc Johannes is the newest youth ambassador for the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR), a nonprofit organisation that helps match stem cell donors with critically ill patients in need of a bone marrow transplant. At just 30 years old, Jean-Marc has broken seven Guinness Book of World Records. He’s South Africa’s first international skateboarding gold medalist, and in 2017, he was inducted into the World Records Academy. Now, he’s joining forces with the SABMR to help give hope to South African children and adults with blood disorders and cancers like leukaemia, who are searching for their lifesaving stem cell donor. In South Africa, if you’re between 16 and 45 years old, you can register to be a stem cell donor. Currently, only 6.8% of registered donors in South Africa are under the age of 25—and because younger donors are often associated with better survival rates for patients post-transplant, it’s especially important that more South African youth sign up. A registered stem cell donor himself, Jean-Marc will be traveling to schools and sporting events across South Africa to raise awareness about blood disorders and stem cell donation, with the goal of getting 10 000 more young people signed up as donors by the end of 2021. Diagnosed with chronic asthma as a child—at one point so severe that he spent many days in the hospital and doctors even recommended he avoid sport entirely—Jean-Marc has a heart for those affected by medical illness. Jean-Marc also lost his beloved grandmother to cancer. “She was my beacon of motivation in life and always told me that anything was possible, and I believed her,” he says. And now an Olympic hopeful, having just returned from the renowned international Dew Tour event in the United States, it certainly seems like anything is possible for Jean-Marc! “This cause is close to my heart,” the skateboarding champ says. “I hope that through my efforts, more youth will help to realise the dreams of others that deserve a second chance at life through the simple act of stem cell donation.” And stem cell donation really is that: simple. Similar to donating blood platelets, donating stem cells isn’t difficult, and typically can be completed in four to six hours at a nearby hospital. Donors are asked to take an injection a few days before their donation to stimulate the production of extra stem cells, but the side effects are mild and temporary. That’s a small price to pay to help save a life! Are you ready to sign up? All it takes is a simple cheek swab and the completion of an online health history questionnaire. Visit the SABMR website at www.sabmr.co.za, call (021) 447-8638 or email donors@sabmr.co.za to register now.
Donate stem cells to save a life and give someone a second chance Viwe NdoNgeNi-Ntlebi FiVe-MoNtH-old baby girl Mackenzie Friedman was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AMl) in May. She requires regular blood and platelet transfusions in between her rigorous chemotherapy treatments. Affectionately referred to as “Mighty Mack”, Mackenzie’s mom has sent out an urgent plea for a donor, who could save her baby’s life. McKenzie’s story has galvanised South Africans from different parts of the country, leading to long queues at the dKMS offices countrywide. in Johannesburg alone, the organisation registered more than 100 people. As the country celebrated Youth day on June 16, there is an urgent request for young South Africans to mark the day or month by donating stem cells to save a life. Alana James, Country executive director at dKMS Africa, an international non-profit bone marrow donor centre, says, “if we can build the registry with younger potential donors from 18 years upwards, there is an increased chance that they will remain on the registry for a longer period of time. “this means that there is more of a chance that they will be matched with a patient in need, such as five-month-old baby girl Mackenzie Friedman who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AMl) on May 12, 2021.” Hundreds of South Africans of all ages and races are diagnosed with diseases such as leukaemia, aplastic anaemia or some rare genetic disorders. in some instances, their only
hope of survival is a blood stem cell transplant from a donor who shares the same tissue type. their chances of finding a match are about one in 100 000. James points out that stem-cell transplants are a treatment option for more than 70 blood diseases. “However, it is important to note that many factors come into play when finding a match for a patient, especially as many patients do not match with their families. “As such, they often rely on unrelated matches in the hope to find a matching donor. essentially, this Youth day is an opportunity for us to encourage the youth to register as they have an opportunity to give someone a second chance at life.” James explains that to find a compatible donor, they need to have matching Human leukocyte Antigens (HlA). “However, should the patient have more than one match, studies have revealed that the survival rate of patients who receive a transplant from a younger donor is significantly higher.” dKMS Africa appeals to South Africa’s youth to take action and register to become blood stem cell donors this youth month to help the organisation save lives. “we encourage communities to register not only to increase the registry, but to also create a more ethnically diverse donor registry and subsequently save more lives.”
Take action to save a life today and register as a stem cell donor by visiting: dkms-africa.org/be-a-donor/
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