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ED’S LETTER
Tit Bitz
KASITIMES K FREE
Vol.. 8 V Vol
JUNE 2011
Motivate, Inspire and Empower Youth Y
BABALWA B ABALW L A LW RASANE g in Dreambig
Props to…
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evident that our revolution won’t be on the streets, but within. It’s a revolution that requires us to shun ignorance and to be the seekers of knowledge and understanding… to embrace curiosity, chase inspiration and be obsessed with ideas.’ These lines by Chuma Kave in the article The Walking Generation, which is up on the Kasi Times website, have stuck with me. It captures the spirit of many young people’s current mindsets… The Hustlers, the Dreamers, the Innovators. Feeling stuck in an unfulfilling career not too long ago, I could relate to Katlego Kekana’s article, The Dream Deferred (on page 6). After my employment contract came to an end, I suddenly lost the false comfort and security of a guaranteed pay cheque – my very excuse for not ‘being.’ I quickly realised that it was the most opportune time for me to dare go for my dreams. I’d had a deep desire to be an entrepreneur. Fast-forward a little while longer, and Kasi Times has been around for over a year and I’ve never looked back! Sometimes we allow ‘life’ to overwhelm us. We come up with all kinds of excuses for not taking the leap. We over-analyse, and our excuses give us comfort. Believing in yourself is the most liberating feeling. It’s so fulfilling! I often get the opportunity to meet inspiring young people through Kasi Times, and I can’t help but be in awe of this country’s next generation of leaders. In this issue, we list 8 young power movers in the entertainment industry... they’re living their path and making a mark in their careers.
o The Kasi Times team – it’s been over a year since we started. We have a very talented team that believes in what we set out to do… to motivate, inspire and empower our young people. o Teargas for their BET nomination. Bring it home boys! o VuzuTV for believing in local talent and tapping into the new youth culture. You get it! o Terry Pheto for her new role in the daytime drama, the Bold and the Beautiful
Favourite Local Shows o Class Act 2 on SABC 1 - Top quality production and talented contestants; I have my favourites already! o Running with the Reps on VuzuTV – I never missed an episode. I’m looking forward to season 2 in September o Top Shayela on VuzuTV – one of the hottest shows right now!
In my Playlist… o Born For This by HHP, Teargas and Liquideep o Lento by Professor featuring Speedy
Loving… My Diva Divine hair pieces! You’ll see me rocking them in the next issue
Reading… The Saint, the Surfer and the CEO by Robin Sharma The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
Sweet Temptation… Handcrafted from the highest quality
Young Minds in Entertainment
A LEADING VOICE OF YOUTH IN SOUTH AFRICA
Founding Editor: Nonhlanhla Nxumalo Beauty, Fashion & Lifestyle Editor: Alexis Tshangana Design Team: Design and Layout Guru: Sihle Madlala Art Direction: Blue Media Photography and Video Productions www.bluemedia.co.za Contributors: Poppy ‘Pops’ Vilakazi Kutloano ‘Da Kruk’ Nhlapo Motheo ‘Movutta’ Khoaripe Peter ‘P.Mash’ Mashabane Linda Mbuso Natasja ‘Diva’ Madinda Lerato Makgobatlou Faith Mabandi Makhosini Sihlali Fisani Nyandeni Keitumetse Segoai Thokozani Msimanga Ashley Mokwena Katlego Kekana Chuma Kave Vusi Khoza Sboniso Mzelemu Published By: Star Hero Chairman: Lebo Gunguluza
the essential South African handbag is all about. I’m spoiling myself with a bag or two as a belated birthday gift!
Chief Executive Officer: Sibusiso Mahlangu
Place of the Month
Managing Director: Nonhlanhla Nxumalo Contact Details: Tel: 011 039 1244 Fax: 086 586 0687
What’s your story? What drives you? What’s your big give? How are you making a mark in the world?
Advertising Enquiries: sales@kasitimes.co.za
If you’ve fallen into a rut, dust yourself up; your tomorrow lies in how you handle your today. Don’t let any situation rob you of your dreams. Stay motivated, inspired and empowered.
Editorial Enquiries: editor@kasitimes.co.za
Sincerely,
Find Us On: Facebook Page: Kasi Times Twitter: @kasitimes LinkedIn: Kasi Times
General Enquiries: info@kasitimes.co.za
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BEAUTY By: Alexis Tshangana
WINTER BEAUTY EVERY WOMAN WANTS TO LOOK RADIANT AND CONFIDENT THIS WINTER, AND HERE ARE SOME PRODUCTS THAT WILL HAVE YOU SMILING IN NO TIME.
INNOXA ALL-IN-1 TISSUE OIL
- this is the purest form of moisture, a must for winter
NIVEA MY SILHOUETTE! RESHAPING GEL CREAM
– it’s easy to apply and works like a charm
IMAN CREAM TO POWDER FOUNDATIONS
- for a beautiful matte complexion REVLON COLOUR STAY FOUNDATION
IMAN LUXURY LIP SHIMMERS
- covers really well and lasts very long on the face
- for beautiful glamorous lips
SKIN DOCTORS STRETCH AWAY CREAM - I
JUSTINE STRETCH MARK CREAM
- this cream is thick and also moisturizes the body
love the fact that it works on deep scars too
YARDLEY CLUMP FREE MASCARA - who
says one has to have dull lashes this season?
DKNY Be Delicious perfume and lotion
– I love the warm apple fragrance
Products are available at selected Clicks, Edgars, spas, salons, Pick’n Pay and Dischem stores/retailers
ADVERTORIAL
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We are the only hair supplier in the world that offers a one month guarantee on our hair. If there is a factory defect it will be picked up within the first month. All the top Celebrities in South Africa wear our hair i.e. Bonang Matheba, Tatum Keshwar, Lala Hiriyama, Pam Andrews, Primrose Crouse, Matapa Maila , Lerato Kganyago , Jamali, Nne-vida, Sophie Ndaba and many others appearing on the local soap operas.
We offer the highest quality Real hair in South Africa. No other supplier offers the variety and quality that we do and at an affordable price.
FOR MORE INFO, CONTACT DIVA DIVINE SOUTH AFRICA: 162 CORLETT DRIVE, BRAMLEY, JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA TEL: +27 11 786 5675 / 011 786 5086 WWW.DIVADIVINEHAIR.CO.ZA FACEBOOK: DIVA DIVINE
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YOUNG MINDS
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BOITUMELO THULO
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Ma^ L:F: ;^lm G^p\hf^k ghfbg^^ bl fZdbg` Z ehm h_ ikh`k^ll bg Abi Ahi% maZgdl mh abl pbmmr erkb\l Zg] ing\a ebg^l' Dp^lmZ bl ÛgZeer `^mmbg` ma^ k^\h`gbmbhg a^ ]^l^ko^l Zg] pbma abf ghp lb`gbg` Z \ehmabg` ]^Ze pbma ;nmZg P^Zk% a^ bl k^Zeer fZdbg` `hh] ikh`k^ll' Ikh[Z[er bg ma^ mhi . fhlm mZe^gm^] kZii^kl% Dp^lmZ bl `hbg` mh [ehp ma^ kZi l\^g^ ZpZr' Dp^lmZFk<hhe ?heehp abf hg Mpbmm^k3 9
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PHAKAMIS’ iFLAG
BLUE COLLAR HOUSEHOLDS RAISE WHITE COLLAR MANSIONS!
P
hakamis’ Iflag is a platform to praise the positive in the hood, to celebrate the people that make it the beautiful place that it is, and to constantly challenge the powers that be, to make it a safe and enjoyable environment for all who live in it. This article is dedicated to all the sons and daughters of the soil that make it such a life altering experience to grow up and be successful ekasi. To be born into the organised chaos that the township is, goes a mile in building strong characters and personalities that make up today’s leaders of industry, inspiring artists and spearheads of our beloved country.
DREAM DEFERRED By Katlego Kekana
G
rowing up, I was told that we live in a world of infinite possibilities; a world where if you wanted something badly enough, the universe would conspire in your favour just to help you achieve a part of your destiny. That philosophy has been at the forefront of turning my dreams into reality.
situations may not allow them to happen? When reality comes with all its challenges, rollercoaster rides and when the lows seem to endure much longer than the highs, it becomes so easy to just pack your dreams neatly away “until further notice.” Looking at myself today being a young, dynamic and ambitious woman, filled with so much potential and having achieved so much in my 23 years of existence, I wonder what really happened to those dreams. Not wanting to sound ungrateful for the opportunities life has afforded me, I just want to ensure that when my time on this earth comes to an end; I have used up every inch of my potential.
I remember when I was still doing my Honours degree at university, I had huge dreams of being the next CEO of a multinational company (which I’d have started from scratch myself, of course), winning a Nobel Laureate Prize, starting my own entrepreneurship academy whilst gracing the cover of Forbes magazine. My dreams were as big as my imagination could allow me to dream, and it was not so much about the dreams themselves being so extraordinary, it was that feeling within me that passionately knew I could achieve all of these dreams and more that fuelled my burning desire to succeed.
I was once told that the biggest challenge of achieving any goal is starting, and finally it clicked that ultimately all success lies in action and execution. If your life is simply a reflection of your actions, would you want to risk living a life of inaction? The logic behind it seems so simple, however, there is one debilitating emotion that always works to your disadvantage, and that’s the fear of failure. However, a great attitude and the desire and determination to realise your dream will overcome any obstacles that attempt to hinder your success. Following your dream is not easy, and may require you to sacrifice your time, talents and money, but the thought of never realising your dreams because of negative thoughts such as fear, will be the ultimate sacrifice you will pay as you will never really know what you are truly capable of.
Funny how a thing called “life” just seems to happen and gets in the way of one accomplishing those dreams. That made me question, what happens to the dream deferred? Will dreams always remain that, just dreams? Is it so simple to just totally disregard our dreams because our current circumstances and
You may still be wondering, what happens to the dream deferred? You are the only one to determine that answer, but as you think of simply stacking one of your dreams away, remember these words by John Kehoe, “Your success helps others. Your failure helps no one. Don’t be selfish. Succeed.”
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From a majority of blue collar households where parents kicked the dusty streets of the township in the early morning to earn their keep, to the kitchen party societies and MChina gambling circuits that have put many through school, the people of ekasi have always been financially innovative and determined to make life worth living for their families. So here’s to the brave, that police our dangerous streets; To the mothers that have single-handedly kept households on their feet; The men who are ever-present fathers to their children, no matter how hard the situation. Here’s to those that inspire others to be great, and make it their responsibility to empower the hopeful young minds in the township; The teachers that give much-needed knowledge to young minds and build the foundation needed to progress; To our grannies that look after us when our parents are out in the world making ends meet; To our Churches that implant faith in us when none is left; To those individuals that constantly try to make the streets we call our homes a positive change; To those who serve whole-heartedly even when there is no reward or recognition; To the ones that make us laugh when the hood is a depressing place; Those who share their wise words from street corners, wishing for us a better fate than that which fell upon them; We salute you! You continue to make ekasi the place to be. Remember that blue collar households raise white collar mansions, so dream big and DO even bigger! Phakamis’ Iflag BY: MOTHEO ‘MOVUTTA’ KHOARIPE
KASI DIARIES
DIVA DIARIES
DIVA! WALKING AWAY time thinking about how he used to step out of the house to take a call at 11 o’clock at night, or when you found a cheap and nasty braid on the couch whilst cleaning his place. Oh, and that dreaded day when he left you when you needed him the most. Yes ladies, you forget about these important times when this man hurt you so much and left you crying for days.
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very woman has a man that she will always go back to. Whether he was good for you or not, you will let this man in again. He could have cheated on you, abused you or walked out on you. For reasons which you can’t figure out, you always go back to him for more. He is THE ONE. No, wait – he is “your” one. The scary thing is that you might not be “his” one. The problem is that we hang on to the good times. That’s what disfigures everything! We reminisce about the pillow fights, the endless conversations in the middle of the night and the breakfast in bed. But, you never spend
Remember the countless times he rejected you? I’ll be the first to admit that I have been there. I took a flight to JHB to beg this man to take me back, and while I sat in his “upgraded” car, I cried and pleaded with him to give us another chance. He rejected me – AGAIN! Why do we choose to be clouded by the good times that clearly meant nothing to him the time he walked out that door? When will we learn to let go? Is it easier to just keep going back to knock your head against a wall until you get a concussion? When does it all end? You see, things aren’t the same anymore. Our parents took their men back because their men came begging for forgiveness. In our generation, WE do the begging. These men mess us up and then stay away. This is what I call the “cooling-off” period - when he gives you time to calm down. He doesn’t contact you and doesn’t return your calls. When he’s ready to deal with you, he will call you and act like nothing happened. This makes you
angry but you’re too scared to bring up what happened because he might disappear again. So, you rather talk to him about working things out. This, ladies, is when you have played right into his hands! And it’s only downhill from here. The reality is his kiss will still be as soft as it used to be. His touch will still be tender. All those feelings will resurface again. But the reality also is, he will still play the same old cards again and he will hurt you again. So why do you want to go back? The next time he comes back or you have that urge to call him again, take a moment to think about how long it took you to get to where you are right now; how difficult it was to pick up the pieces when he left you; how a part of you was broken when he rejected you time and time again. Think about how much stronger living without him has made you. But most importantly, think about how much stronger you will be when YOU walk away from HIM this time.
Written by a DIVA walking away... Natasja Madinda
CLASS OF 2011 My Say, with Linda Mbuso
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or that instant, in that moment, the entire world came to a standstill. The focus was on South Africa, Soweto, on the youth. Parents didn’t know if their children were safe, let alone dead. Once and for all, it was going to be settled, no more Afrikaans as the medium of instruction. June 16 1976 will always resonate the true fighting spirit of the African youth; the belief in doing what you think is right and just. And the apartheid regime, well, they couldn’t do anything about it. Nobody could stand in the way of that. 35 years on and we reap those rewards. Have we done justice to the lives that were laid to rest those years back? Are we living up to the standards our parents imagined for us? Has our generation of youth and those following the class of ‘76 lived up to the freedom we so longed for? Freedom was handed to us on a silver platter; we didn’t have to do much but be born in the “right” era. The clean air of liberation fills our lungs each and every morning, encouraging us to craft a new path for ourselves. How often do we just stop and think and appreciate all that we have already been given? We aren’t owed anything anymore. An ‘X’ mark on the box at a voting centre shouldn’t be the start and end point of your move towards creating a better life. Everyday should be enough for us to re-assess our moves and re-evaluate the situation we’re in, because honestly in the 21 st century, nothing comes for mahala.
All the societal rules and norms and regulations shouldn’t bind your thoughts into a knot; we are far better than that. Class of ‘76 was far better than that. They looked beyond what was being dictated to them as the societal norms. It was a norm to be taught in Afrikaans, by a black teacher, in our black communities. What rubbish is that?! And yet again, we allow society to dictate what the norm is. When will we learn? When we will we choose to be who we are?
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We are individuals, who have individual tastes and talents, joys and fears. We help each other. We have mountains of love to share and fountains of passion and drive to offer. We have Ubuntu. The power to assist your neighbour should be engraved in us. That is what makes us South African: our history, our strength and vigour, and the ability we should have to learn from the past mistakes. That is how we should go on forward as young people as the Class of 2011.
YOUNG, GIFTED AND TAKING OVER By: The Fashionista
Envisage B
orn and raised in Malamulele in Limpopo, Faith Mabandi has always been passionate about fashion. This was evident from a young age; she used to make the family sit down for her fashion showcase parading her motherʼs clothes. Although fashion was not considered a career in her community, there was no doubt in her mind that was the path she wanted to follow. She completed her Diploma in Fashion Design at the University of Johannesburg in 2009. This gave her the confidence to start working on establishing her own label, Envisage. She sees fashion as more than just making clothes, itʼs a lifestyle. She currently does ladiesʼ wear and is hoping to branch out to menʼs wear in the near future. Her vision is to go beyond designing clothes and become a household name. Starting her business was more challenging than she thought. Although sheʼd had an idea of what she wanted to do and knew her target market, she still hit many stumbling blocks,
from finding a suitable location, to building a solid client base. Starting a business requires patience, drive and knowing what you want. As they always say, Rome was not built in a day! What she likes most about what she does is getting an opportunity to transform peopleʼs lives through fashion. You are what you wear after all! It goes beyond giving someone a wardrobe change; it also tackles issues of confidence and acceptance. Her mantra is, “If you look good, you feel good.” One of her many future goals is to see herself showcasing her garments at fashion weeks around South Africa and the world. “For young people who are studying fashion, certain things are not taught at school. Experience is the greatest teacher. You have to go out there and find them out yourself. Attend fashion shows and do your research about the industry,” advises Faith.
KASI DIALOGUES By Poppy ʻPopsʼ Vilakazi
TO FALL AND RISE
TWICE AGAIN
The other day I fell. I fell and had a choice to make: To either dust myself up, rise and keep walking, Or stay down and refuse to get up.
By staying down people would overlook my fall. They would not realise that I was missing and would keep walking.
The shame of having to face that which made me fall was too great for me. It seemed easier to live in shame than to rise and live in embarrassment. I stayed down because I didnʼt want to be seen.
But while down, I got trampled on, disrespected and talked about. The pain was great. So I stood. Stood and fought for my name. I picked myself up, as well as my pride, and vowed to never again stay down!
The Kasi Times team is proud to announce a new section called the Kasi Dialogues. Readersʼ photography and short articles will be displayed on our website. The best pieces will be considered for print. Kasi Dialogues is a bid to celebrate ourselves, our backgrounds, things that inspire us, our values and our culture through the lenses of young people around South Africa. The photographs and short articles will be selected on merit of originality, creativity, professional or semi-professional quality and of course, their power in reflecting the young people of today. Send them to editor@kasitimes.co.za
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COVER STORY
By: Poppy ‘Pops’ Vilakazi
BABALWA RASANE Dreaming
BIG K
asi Times recently hung out with 25 year old
to Mzansi’s small screen as a Craz-e presenter in 2004. Babs, as she’s fondly known, is fast making her presence felt in South Africa’s fashion industry through her ‘daringly elegant’ African-inspired handbag range, Urban Glamour. She has now exchanged her trademark afro for a sleek copper blonde boy cut. Her new hairstyle was a topic we could not resist; it marked the foundation of a humorous, enlightening and motivating conversation. Babs talks about her ambitious business ideas, her travels and colourful adventures, the splendour of Hong Kong, being a drug suspect in China, falling in becoming a woman who is fast making her presence felt in Mzansi’s fashion world one bag at a time. She was born in Port Elizabeth, settled in Umtata, and landed in Jozi’s golden streets in the tenth grade, extremely shy and reserved. In 2003 she joined a modelling agency and landed a job in an advert and after a few auditions, she tried her luck at the E-tv studios for the new faces for Craz-e. The rest, as they say, is history. In 2008, keen to fuse her creative talent with her brother, Simphiwe Yengwa, to bring about a brand that would compete locally and internationally, Urban Glamour was born. The idea came from her travels. She explains, “I used to import handbags from China but I realised that nothing stood me out from other people. As a marketer, I understood that what makes a product different is its brand. I changed my approach and chose to export goods instead. I good manufacturer was challenging. It’s been a lot of work, but it is so rewarding!”
trends are, you need to stay true to your brand but also be aware of what sells.” Urban Glamour has also been exploring opportunities in New York and Milan. “From the very beginning I’ve always had the vision that the brand would be international. I would always tell myself that I own a multinational company. I’d like to see Urban Glamour at Macy’s in the States, in a boutique in Milan and Florence, and exclusive boutiques in Spain, France and London.” Locally, Urban Glamour is available at a number of boutiques such as Bello Couture in Melrose Arch and Pepper Deli in Parkhurst. They also do individual orders for clients. “This is a very competitive industry. You need stores like YDE and retailers need to stock more proudly South African brands to grow South Africa’s fashion industry.”
The Fun Side of Babs “I love shopping. Milan is awesome, but it is quite expensive. Whilst there, I was led to an area where items are tailor-made by upcoming designers. I found the most beautiful things! New York is the perfect place to go to in April because of their winter sales.“ “I enjoy travelling. It’s an opportunity for self-discovery. In China I was a “drug suspect.” I was searched, questioned and put under a scanner because they didn’t understand why I was there just to buy fabric! In Italy, the men were hot! I loved Hong Kong. In America I loved going to central park. I also went to the “hood,” Harlem. And yes, it is just like in the movies! There were kids hanging out in the streets carrying huge high 5 radios, listening to music. There were characters there like those you see on Jerry Springer and Ricky Lake. It was such an experience! I also found it appalling how little the Americans knew about South Africa.” “In South Africa, I like backpacking and up at the coast, it wasn’t a sport I’d previously considered doing until just a few years ago on
International Fashion Sale at the Coca-Cola Dome. “It was a great platform for us to show the public who we were and people were interested in not just the products but also the story behind the brand so they could buy something they could relate to,” she adds. This year they teamed up with Thula Sindi at SA Fashion Week, sponsoring handbags for his 2011 winter collection.
things that are unique to South Africa like Ostrich and Springbok, I love leather - I can spot a fake from a genuine bag. Even though you need to know what
it, I was hooked!”
Drive for Success She concludes, “I’m motivated by people who are success-driven. I’ve watched my dreams gradually unfold before my eyes, and that’s the power of ambition. I believe God has a plan for all of us and he puts dreams into our hearts so that people can see that there indeed is a God.” By Poppy ‘Pops’ Vilakazi
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ESPANINI
YOU IN 5 MINUTES
LEAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION
By Lerato Makgobatlou (From JCI Mogale City)
I
n today’s society there are many platforms where individuals can meet new people: Facebook, Twitter, MXit, online chat groups, the list is endless. However, these platforms take away the critical element of physical contact. You no longer need to worry about selfconfidence, voice projection or even eye contact to ensure you make a lasting impression on people.
Once, I was on my way to a meeting with a potential supplier within the Joburg CBD. My meeting was on the 20th floor. As I stepped into the lift, I entered my destination, and a young lady also got in. She did not enter her destination so I assumed that she was getting off on the same floor. In the midst of dead silence I tried to initiate a conversation. I greeted her and she responded. I asked her if she worked in the building and what she did. Her response was, “Yes, a bit of this and that!” With a smile I prodded on, asking her to tell me a bit about herself. She answered “I live a rather boring life and there’s nothing to tell.” That was enough for me not to ask further questions. When we got to our destination, I later learned that she is one of the directors of the company where I was having the meeting - a decision maker. As the meeting adjourned I journeyed back into the lift and was acquainted by the office manager of another company who was getting off on the 15th floor. Within a short space of time she initiated conversation, told me who she was and what her company did. She even closed off by giving me her business card. Because of my lift experience with the lady from the first company, I opted to take my business elsewhere. I questioned what type of people would be representing my brand, and quickly set up an appointment with the second lady I met in the lift. For some, my interaction with potential suppliers or partners is known as the “lift effect.” You always need to be ready to tell the story of ‘YOU in 5 MINUTES’ because you never know how much influence the next person might have. They might be a potential investor, sponsor or client. Here are some tips for introducing yourself in five minutes: Talk about tangible accomplishments. What you did on any project that grew revenue, delivered returns, or saved money? Avoid being overly ambiguous but only mention what
is necessary. Don’t talk about clubs or party dates, but rather business moves or corporate growth. Discuss unique experiences that changed the way you view things. Put them in perspective to what you are trying to do next. This highlights your passion for growth and desire to move onto the next level. Share customer experiences. If you own your
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own business, share stories of your biggest clients. If you don’t, talk about some of the projects you have worked on, or the highlights of your career. Highlight your flexibility to work in a team environment, or your ability to bring people’s different opinions from different backgrounds together. Make sure you seal of the conversation with a business card as you tell your story IN 5 MINUTES!
Q&A
EZASEKASI
MNG>L PBMA I'F:LA
LAYING A DIFFERENT SOUND… THE RISE OF THE LAYDERS
WITH GIGGS PERSTAR
By Peter Mashabane
T
he Layders is a musical collective made up of 6 members Barvu (saxophonist), Boody Bayz (Bass Guitarist), Ckenz Voucal (Lead Vocalist), Crisp (Vocalist), Scott Ross (Beat Conductor/Producer/ Sound Engineer) and V the Vowel (Keyboards). They give meaning to their name with the music they fZd^' Bm l Z[hnm lmZg]bg` hnm _khf the norms of society and establishing something authentic. Music with no boundaries is the very essence of paZm Ma^ EZr]^kl Zk^% Zg] maZm l par they cannot be associated with any li^\bÛ\ `^gk^' PaZm l bgmkb`nbg` fhlm about them is the fact that they play and record most of their songs live. They creatively blend music genres like Neo Soul, House, Latin American music like Mimosa, Jazz, Kwaito, Funk, Ragga, the list goes on and on.
By Keitumetse Segoai
GREAT MINDS THINK ALIKE… MECHANIX OF HOUSE: Mixed by Thee Gobbs, G-Funk and +EZgb Ma^ PZkkbhk
WHAT WAS THE FIRST CD/ CASSETTE/ VINYL YOU EVER BOUGHT? Robin S – Show Me Love vinyl
FAVOURITE SONG?
Victor Duplaix – That Night
ALL TIME FAVOURITE MUSICIAN AND WHY?
Bra Hugh Masekela. His passion for what he does inspires me.
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN LISTENING TO IN YOUR CAR?
Noxolo Hlatshwayo, Pebbles Zg] EbkZ l g^p Ze[nfl
WHICH MUSICIAN HAS LEFT AN IMPRESSION ON YOU?
;nlb Faehg`h' B_ rhn ] l^^g a^k on stage, you would understand why! She was amazing!
The band was founded by Teboho ”Milky” Tlaba aka Scott Ross, Khensane Khoza aka Ckenz Voucal, and Mothusi Thusi aka Serenade Amerouse in 2008/9. These 3 musical mavericks met in Auckland Park, Johannesburg, drawn by their shared interest in music. They recorded many lhg`l pab\a aZo^ ghm h_Û\bZeer [^^g released. Due to personal reasons, Serenade Amerouse left The Layders in early 2011. In March 2011, The Layders signed with Soul Candi and introduced new members, which then formed the musical collective you hear now.
A wise man once said “great fbg]l mabgd Zebd^' B \hne]g m Ûg] Z [^mm^k beenlmkZmbhg maZg bg this 3-in-1 compilation album put together by 3 top DJs: Thee Gobbs, G-Funk and 2Lani “The PZkkbhk' F^\aZgbq h_ Ahnl^ showcases some of the best soulful and deeply rooted Deep House tunes produced by some of the best local and international producers and artists. Each DJ passionately showcases their creativity and skills. Mechanix of House features soulful House tunes meant for easy Sunday eblm^gbg` Zg] Ühhk&Ûee^kl _hk eZm^ ?kb]Zrl' Ma^^ @h[[l l Bg&:&Lhne creatively combines the elements of jazz and soul to create a perfect chilled-out blend of soulful Vocal House tunes like “Stone Crazy” (Nastee Nev Remix) featuring Kafele. The second disc, Beyond Funk, was put together by G-Funk offers the best Vocal House tunes like “Smiling in the Sun” (Soundquest Remix). The last disc Deep Till Dawn was put mh`^ma^k [r +EZgb Ma^ PZkkbhk% brings in gospel into House music, with beautiful instrumentation and spiritual and inspirational vocals that will make you dance in praise, with songs like “Heaven on Earth” (Thee Gobbs Remix) featuring Belcanto. This bl ]^Ûgbm^er Z \hfibeZmbhg maZm House music fans need to look out for; it has every element that lovers of Deep House music will identify with. Mechanix of House pbee ]^Ûgbm^er Ûq rhnk Zii^mbm^ _hk some good Deep House music.
The Layders have worked with various musicians, and have been drafted bgmh hg^ h_ Lhnma :_kb\Z l [b``^lm House compilations alongside Liquid deep, and C.9ine on House Afrika Sessions. Their hit single Smiling with the Sun that was remixed by Sound Quest, on the Mechanix of House album (released August/September 2010 by Do it Now Recordings), became one of the best summer tunes to blaze radio stations. The band also has their own TV show on YouTube, Layders TV. Ma^ EZr]^kl nl^ ma^ ibgdr Ûg`^k Zl their symbol. The pinky is a symbol of promise. It is a promise to stay true to themselves and to not let anyone compromise their values. Ma^ EZr]^kl lhg` CZff+ pZl licensed to the much-anticipated k^e^Zl^ h_ =C M^kkZg\^ l Fnlb\ ;hq 5, due to be released in the third quarter of 2011. Their song Smiling with the Sun is available online for free download. Go to the link: http:// soundcloud.com/c kenzvoucal/ smiling-with-the-sun And also check out their videos: www.youtube/laydertv www.myspace.com/thelayders www.facebook.com/thelayderslive
Rating: By Peter Mashabane
11
MNG>L PBMA I'F:LA
The Reinvention of Tuks Tshwanelo by Tuks
Mndl L^g`Zg`Z''' maZm l hg^ name you have to mention when you talk about the rise of the Motswako movement. One of the Motswako originators, the FZÛd^g`&[hkg Mnf^eh Kepadisa, a.k.a Tuks, is back with his fourth offering simply titled Tshwanelo. The album took two years in the making. The quality and the production style of the album shows a lot of growth from Tuks. Tshwanelo is thought-provoking, with conscious lyrical content that touches on issues of politics in songs like Victory EZi% :lbf fhgZg`Z% Zg] <aZg`bg` Phke]' Ma^ Ze[nf has been well-received. The single Let Me Live Now is on high rotation at a lot of radio stations, and saw the album Ürbg` h__ ma^ la^eo^l' FZgr people may consider it as a highlight song on the album. Bm l p^ee&\kZ_m^]% pbma `k^Zm eZb] [Z\d [^Zml4 rhn ]hg m have to be into Hip Hop to dig this album. “Tshwanelo” is a Tswana word meaning ^gmbme^f^gm' Lh% d^ tswhanelo” - you are entitled to add it on your collection. Rating:
BOOK REVIEW
What’s Out At The Cinema
By Poppy Pops Vilakazi
By Natasja Madinda
THE RIGHT TO MOURN M
The Great Debaters
asingita Masiya’s debut into the world of literature has come with truth, sincerity and raw emotion. He put aside what society says a man in pain can’t do and used his talent and skill as a writer to put together a compilation of what he felt when he suffered loss in his life. The book is beautifully written and hits the very pit of a heart that has ever had to gone through pain such as his. The book made me understand that black men really do cry and how real they are because of it. It taught me the process that goes behind a man in pain and how, just like women, we need to mourn as a form of expression, and healing. Get hold of a copy it from the publishers: Lefoko La Kgosi Publishing CONTACT DETAILS: masingitam@lefokolakgosi.co.za and call 078 299 6856
Denzel Washington’s profound character, Melvin B. Tolson’s true story, takes us back to a time when the youth used education as a powerful weapon to demolish fight against oppression, racism and segregation towards black people (“Negros” in America at the time). “You need to do what you HAVE to do in order to do what you WANT to do.” This powerful quote is unpacked in a thoughtprovoking, emotional and empowering way, as we are educated about diabolic slavery methods such as “Linching” – named after William Linch (an infamous slave-master). In South Africa, we have used poetry, theatre, music and many other forms to fight oppression. This movie shows how AfricanAmerican students became Great Debaters by telling their stories whilst fighting oppression. Indeed, the perfect movie to celebrate Youth Month. So, visit your nearest DVD store – I got it from Mr Video. Snuggle up and get in-touch with your fighting spirit for youth rights this month. Actors: Denzel Washington, Forest Whitaker and Kimberly Elise
IN THE TECH WORLD
Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan
W
hen decorated soldier Captain Colter Stevens wakes up in the body of an unknown man, he discovers he’s part of a mission to find the bomber of a Chicago commuter train. In an assignment unlike any he’s ever known, he learns he’s part of a government experiment called the “Source Code,” a program that enables him to cross over into another man’s identity in the last eight minutes of his life. With a second, much larger target threatening to kill millions in downtown Chicago, Colter re-lives the incident over and over again, gathering clues each time, until he can solve the mystery of who is behind the bombs and prevent the next attack. Filled with mind-boggling twists and heart-pounding suspense, Source Code is a smart action-thriller directed by Duncan Jones (Moon) from a screenplay by Ben Ripley (Species III).
ON STAGE/CONCERTS METRO FM Comedy Experience – Emperors Palace (24 to 25 Jun 2011) Siz we Ba nz i is De ad – Ma rke t Th ea tre (21 Jun 2011 - 24 Jul 2011) MT V Pimp My Crow n Durban July – Greyville Racecourse ( 2 July) Loyiso Gola: Life an d Times - Monte Casino (1 to 8 July) WWE World Tour – Coca Cola Dome (9 to 10 July) Tickets for the above events are available through CompuTicket
By Ash “da flesh” Mokwena
HOMEFRONT
This shooting game focuses on realism, which largely helps set the tone for the rest of the game. The storyline is based on the war between North and South Korea, in which South Korea under the leadership of Kim Jong-un, the son of former president Kim Jong-il, looks to emerge as a force to be reckoned. The downside about the game is that they are not introducing anything new. There are no groundbreaking qualities about it and its short duration makes it feel like just a starter, with a player being able to complete the game in just 5 hours! The game though, has super cool military graphics and an interesting storyline.
SOURCE CODE
TOMTOM High Speed Multi-Charger:
If you struggle to charge your smartphone while your GPS unit is plugged in, worry not… TomTom’s new high speed multi-charger was developed to enable users to charge up to three devices in their car all at once, at up to four times the speed. This device speed-charges high power devices such as iPads and iPhones. It’s definitely a must-have!
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ZIKHIPHANI By: Alexis
THE NEW STAR OF TABLET COMPUTING
S
outh African celebrities recently met the new star of tablet computing – the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet.
Celebrities such as Bonang Matheba, David Tlale, DJ Euphonik, and Slikour were among lhf^ h_ ma^ Ûklm bg Lhnma :_kb\Z mh `^m Z mZlm^ h_ the game-changing BlackBerry® PlayBook(tm) tablet at an event held in Johannesburg.
They took part in an evening where celebrities and media competed in a quiz to determine which of them would be the true Brain of BlackBerry®. The event celebrated the upcoming South African launch of the BlackBerry PlayBook, which is due to hit local shores within the next few weeks.
A Class Act of Note Kasi Times has been attending Class Act season 2 live shows on Saturdays. This season is living up to its tagline of being the toughest Ûef Zn]bmbhg' <Zm\a bm ^o^kr LZmnk]Zr hg SABC1 at 18H30 and the elimination show on Mondays at 19H00.
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FASHION DIARIES
SNEAKER–nality… A
By Kutloano ‘Da Kruk’ Nhlapo
s mature and subtle as a singlecoloured sneaker may look, at times it makes one wanting more. Bright, colourful and out-there kicks have been a current feature amongst young people and when looking at the modern fashion cycle, it shows the return of the 80’s in a modern day context. A sneaker extraordinaire called Alex Nash a.k.a. Nash Money is one of my personal favourites when it comes to exhibiting the art of sneaker customization that makes sense in a classic, modern, traditional, and trends perspective. This young Londoner and lover of athletic footwear also started off as an in-store sneaker salesman but his creative drive and sense of innovation moved him out of this restricted environment. It thus saw him grow from subtle sneaker detail alterations to dismantling an entire shoe, to really understanding what it takes to construct a sneaker and in some cases, how they could be bettered. His creative approach of athletic meets street casual has been his winning formula and his niche in the youth sneaker market. This design extrovert has worked and showcased his master pieces for recognised global fashion brands such as NIKE and LACOSTE, with numerous campaigns aligned to his name. My respect for him was concluded when he was invited to South Africa during Heritage month in 2010, to run a campaign alongside Sport Scene called ‘Street CRD’ (Street Cred) to celebrate South Africa’s diverse cultural groups and traditions through sneaker design and innovation. When it comes to sneakers there is no approach but the “NASH Approach” For more of his work, checkout: www.hypebeast.com / www.nashmoney.com
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ADVERTORIAL
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