Urban Reality Magazine - Issue No. 12

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CONTENTS EDITOR Nozizwe Nuku |

2 EDITOR’S NOTE “All the best to my successor”

3 REVIEWS Music – John Legend

4

urmag@onemediacrew.com

PROOF READING Kelebogile Seokolo keles@onemediacrew.com DESIGN LAYOUT ONE Media SA Group

Movie – The Internship Book – Confessions #2

ADVERTISING info@onemediacrew.com PUBLISHED BY ONE Media SA Group (087) 550 2488

4 COVER STORY Lights, Camera, Success with Leroy Gopal

5 UR COMMUNITY Sebueng Itumeleng with drop in centre 6 FEATURES YFM‟s DJ Sabby

10 TECHNOLOGIES Nokia Lumia 720 And 520 arrive in South Africa…

10

DIRECTOR Lawu Mahome lawumahome@onemediacrew.com


Editor‟s Note

E D I

L

T O R ’ S N O T E

ast year March while I was still studying

towards my degree, an opportunity presented itself; an opportunity that I looked at as one that would let me practice some of the theory I had attained over the years in my media class and I thought to myself “Why not get some practical lessons?”. That was when I responded to the call to joining ONE Media SA as it was establishing its digital magazine, Urban Reality Magazine. Tasks came quick to get the magazine off the conception table and turn it into something tangible; deciding on the actual name was our first task and goodness did we come up with a number of them. I was assigned as the Editor and I came together with what were a group of awesome strangers to give birth to this baby; yes we pushed long and hard to get UR Mag to where it is right now and I believe there‟s still more to unfold. We lost some valuable team members along the way but we remained focused. Fast forward to now, I have decided to leave the publishing division and take on other challenges that the big bad world has thrown my way, which equates to growth. I really have had an amazing time working with the team to deliver monthly content to you, our reader. There were sleepless nights, long days, and editions where it seemed like everything that could go wrong did indeed go wrong but now they make for good memories and laughs. Interacting with the readers and the contributors 2 | URBAN REALITYMAGAZINE | @URmagazine

we have had over the run of the magazine has been humbling, meeting the people I worked with has left me with a friend-list longer than what it was before I committed myself to this brand. Sometimes the most impulsive and/or small steps end up making the greatest impact in one‟s life. The intention for the magazine and the company has been to empower creative‟s and I can safely say that the mission was well achieved with me. I will carry all the memories from this journey with me onto my next… unless amnesia manages to overpower me. To my CEO, Lawu Mahome, thank you for the platform and opportunity. To Sello Mathe and Linda Gama (management) thank you for guiding us when we kick started this journey. To the writers, deadlines were always crazy and things went wrong ever so often but we always managed to produce a complete product at the end of the day, thank you for your genius work! To the contributors, thank you for being our story tellers. To the readers, if none of you didn‟t take the time to log on and read the magazine every month and give input there would be no reason to fill up the blank pages with information, so thank you. All in all, from my humble heart I‟d like to say kelebogile (thank you), farewell, it‟s been a pleasure and all the best to my successor, Nozizwe Nuku. And in more interesting updates; HAPPY 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY to Urban Reality Magazine!


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REVIEWS

MUSIC Artist: John Legend Album: Love in the Future Record label: G.O.O.D Music Sony BMG Music Entertainment Release date: 25 June 2013

Description: John Legend‟s fourth solo album called “Love in the Future” is endearingly love struck (must be the influence he has on the fact that he is soon to wed his sports illustrated model girlfriend of six years, Christine Teigen). According to Mr. Legend, this album is about optimism and possibility and it has the feel of his first two albums, ‘Get Lifted (2004)’ and ‘Once Again (2006)’. His love songs have always been bitter sweet and with this album, we are to experience more of that. One of the collaborations that people should expect on this masterpiece is one with British producer, Paul Epworth who is best known for his amazing work on Adele‟s 21 as well as several other

collaborations with well-known favourites such as Kanye West and Dave Tozer. So yes, „Love in the Future‟ is set to drop on the 23rd of this month but in the meantime, people can familiarize themselves with and enjoy his latest single talking about living life to the fullest where he has featured Rick Ross, “Who Do We Think We Are.”

MOVIE Title: The Internship Genre: Comedy Starring: Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughn, Rose Byrne, John Goodman Release date: 7 June 2013 Running time: 1 hour, 59 minutes

Synopsis: A feel good movie about Google set at a beautiful business campus with lots of free food and world changing aspirations is set to take the film industry by storm as Hollywood and Google have finally decided to put aside their differences over piracy and payments but rather to focus on much more important things. Filmed in part on the actual Googleplex in Mountain view, Calif, ‘The Internship is more of a 2 hour commercial for Google, it‟s quite hilarious but it‟s an even more effective commercial as it portrays a company that many people know very well. For the making of this film, Google helped out on almost everything, from technical advice to

co-founder cameos. It is about two salesmen who find their way into an internship they‟ve always desired at Google where they are expected to compete with a group of young, techno geek geniuses for a shot at employment. If you do not fall under the 18-34 demographic, then this kind of premise could feel rather too real and thoroughly depressing for you but to have a fun experience filled with lots of humour, do check it out!

BOOK Title: Confessions of an Almost- Girlfriend (Confessions #2) Publisher: Harlequin Author: Louise Rozett Format: Paperback, 288 pages ISBN: 0373210655 (ISBN13:9780373210657) Publication date: 18 June 2013 Price: R96, 87

Description: Confessions of an AlmostGirlfriend picks up at the beginning of a sophomore year which is a few months after Confessions of an Angry Girl left off. In this book, one finds two best friends, Tracy and Rose who have been friends for quite a while now. Rose is going to be the lead in the school play, attains good grades and has made a promise to herself not to let the hunky Jamie Forta that kissed her the previous year mess with her mind this time around, though at times she gets signals mixed up and get caught up in him again.

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Louise Rozett has a unique writing style that keeps readers captivated and in this book, Rose is a unique character to behold and she has portrayed that quite well. While reading, emotions are always on the surface and for young women out there, believe me when I say a tear or two will be shed. Get yourself a copy of one of these for a good read but then again, warning: Don‟t be left depressed! But instead, fight that daily battle


LIGHTS, CAMERA, SUCCESS, WITH LEROY GOPAL!

Interview by Nozizwe Nuku

Zimbabwean born Leroy Gopal is a superb actor who has proven himself in many entertainment spheres; we caught up with the international actor to find out more about the man just to find and little bit of this and that about him and he does (it’s safe to say he is doing amazing work).

@URmagazine: What kind of upbringing did you have and what drew you to acting? Leroy: I had a really awesome childhood. I was raised by my mum and the help of my aunts when we didn't have our own house. When we did, it was my mother Florence, my older sister Claudia and my aunt Rash in our house. So you can see that I was raised by women mostly. I was drawn by my love for entertaining into acting. I recall when I was young from about age 7, when there were family gatherings, my family would automatically become my audience. When I was 13, my Maths teacher walked into class and said "I'm giving up Maths to be theatre director, who wants to act in my plays?" I was the only one who put his hand up and I haven‟t looked back since. @URmagazine: We often hear stories of how the families question the aspiration of artists when they tell them the line of work they want to go in to; was this the case with you and your family? Leroy: It was not the case at all with my family. My mother used to be a super model so it was easy to get her support. She was so supportive and pushed me towards my new found talent. She always encouraged me to be part of the drama club at school. She watched every play I acted in and she was my agent and she always had my best interest at heart. @URmagazine: You’ve had great success in the business thus far. What’s your formula? Leroy: My formula for the industry is to always remain humble and I am driven by passion; I love what I do. Sometimes I will take up roles not because the money is great but because it‟s challenging to prep for that character. This year I shot a film called Green Card; didn't have great budget but the character was so rich and challenging.

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@URmagazine: We’ve always known you to be cast as the 'serious' actor then you switched to comedy (and added an award to your name while you were at it, congratulations), what was it like doing comedy? Leroy: That is true; I've always been the lover boy with the serious roles on TV. Comedy is something that I last did when I was in film school, on stage for that matter. It was so much fun doing comedy because of the freedom I had of playing on set from the director and also the awesome cast of Ses top la. When I'm home with close friends I'm actually the funny one. I get nice material for comedy then. @URmagazine: When you’re not busy acting on the big and small screen, doing radio and emceeing, what do you do to take time out? Leroy: When I'm not acting or entertaining, I'm a husband to Keletso and a father to three lovely kids (son Kiki and my two girls Didi and Mimi). They make the world disappear and I shut down from all the hustle of this world. We love travelling so any chance given we go somewhere. Music, movies and dates with my wife are the ultimate time outs. @URmagazine: If you were not an actor you would be... Leroy: a psychologist. I had started studying it at some point and then dropped it cause of time. I enjoy the human psyche and it fascinates me how we operate as humans. @URmagazine: What’s the worst thing about the entertainment industry through your experiences? Leroy: The worst thing about the entertainment industry for me is auditions. I find that auditions are poorly conducted. You'll find someone conducting the audition does not know or understand the brief or performance. @URmagazine: From the roles you’ve played which character would you say was most similar to you as Leroy and which character role was the total opposite to your personality? Leroy: Of all the characters I've played I would have to say Duma from Backstage was quite similar to me. A young man who just wanted to chase his dreams despite the odds that stood against him. One that was totally opposite to me was my role in the horror film Night Drive; I was a ruthless and rough dude in that film. @URmagazine: Do you have other projects you’d like us to know about? Leroy: I'm currently working on my clothing label called MAMAS BOY. This is a vision and dream I have had for a number of years, now I finally have the resources and platforms to make it come to life. @URmagazine: What would you like to be remembered for in your life as a whole? Leroy: I would like to be remembered as one of the best entertainers of my time. Whatever it is: stage, film or TV show I act in, people will always remember working with that Leroy guy who was professional, great sense of humour and loved what he did. @URmagazine: A quick fact about Leroy Gopal... Leroy: A fact about me is that I am a born again Christian and my heart is sold out to Christ. @URmagazine: And finally, would you model topless for a good cause (the good cause being making the ladies happy)? Leroy: I would absolutely model topless for a good cause!!! The man behind the smile and that hot six pack is clearly more than just a face. He is passionate about his craft and is a devoted family man who is still keen to win the following of his fans. Are we pro #teamLeroy? YES! Success is all we see for this man.

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UR COMMUNITY

LENDING MORE THAN A HAND! Wherever there‟s a community in need of help due to matters that are often social economically based, we always find that there is that group of people that are regarded as heaven sent. Sebueng Segopolo can be regarded as one of those in her community. She is the founder and manger of Sebueng Itumeleng Drop in Centre which is located in Simunye Westonaria. She and a group of other community member are doing their bit to create a better South Africa for those less fortunate.

What exactly do you do?

Mission and Vision?

I together with a very passionate team run a NPO also known as a non profit organization, meaning we are funded by government for the main mission which is the home based care and other service provided has to be funded by us or sponsorship.

NPO initially is an organization operating for a certain goal and not profit and that is exactly what keeps us going. We want to empower our youth and community to help one another and have a positive mindset, reduce poverty and we also promote a healthy lifestyle like teaching of plantation of fruits and vegetables in their own homes.

When did it start? The idea has been a concern for years as we live in a community full of orphans and children and women living with and affected by HIV. In 2004 after doing research the organization was finally up and running.

What services do you provide? We run a home based care were children would come to have breakfast and lunch everyday prepared by the volunteering workers and caregivers. We have also currently opened a nursery school, free of charge to all children we see roaming around the street. We have decided to rather bring them in as their parents can‟t afford to take them to nursery and we educate and take care of them. Our feeding scheme is open to every child that is registered on our data base. We also have different activities that we have for the children after school and during school holidays which assist with reducing the number of children doing drugs; instead they become involved in arts and culture activities which keep them off the streets.

Where does the passion for caring for other come from? Going to work every day and coming back with a salary in my account with no change in my surrounding brought no joy to me. I decided to stop complaining, resigned, and did something about it. The thought of seeing a child going to school with an empty stomach is sad on its own, but a child who does not go to school at all is just a sin. We want to reduce the number of uneducated children, children using drugs for all the wrong reasons, with the little we get from government and sponsors we try to cater for each and every child. The thought of seeing a smile on a child‟s face just because you have given them school shoes really completes one. Where do you want to see yourself in the next few years? Well our centre is all about empowerment, so we always push our caregiver to also do some courses so that they can also one day go and open their own home based care and spread the growth of uplifting our communities. Contact her on 0721391025 or 0820480550 or via email sebueng@ymail.com if you‟d like to reach out.

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YFM’S D J S A B B Y “I started radio back in high school when I was 14” by Lindiwe Dhlamini

O

ne of YFM’s coolest radio personalities , SABC1’s Bonisanani TV presenter, MC, Club DJ and presenter for Africa Magic’s TV Show, ‘Unplugged,’ Sabelo

Mtshali (aged 23), commonly known as DJ Sabby; is one of the male figures in the entertainment industry that numerous young stars out there are currently looking up to. Originating from a small township in KZN called Mandeni, he graduated from Fred High School and did media production at NEMISA (National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa). He is the shy, ambitious, driven, a ‘don’t care’ kind of person and colourful (as he would like to describe himself), he is one individual who has so much love for the media, radio specifically. Being so successful at a very young age, he has had his share of experiences and lessons along the journey. It is true what they say when it is said that hard work pays off, the evidence is all here...

@URmagazine: How did entertainment industry?

you

get

your

big

break into the

@DJ_Sabby: I started radio back in high school when I was 14 (Grade 9). To be honest, I didn‟t want to do radio. When I was young, I always wanted to be a scientist because I was doing very well with Natural Sciences at that time then Grade 10 happened when Natural Sciences changed to Physical Sciences. But anyway, I used to be that dude that always used to make noise while the guys were playing basketball, I used to commentate all the time that if they did not want to play they should just get off the court. I used to be that rowdy guy. The station manager at that time suggested that I try out commentating on air but I was like, no it‟s boring because you are commentating to yourself but I tried it and just after I did, the station had a 30 day broadcasting live licence and that‟s how radio started. When I was 15, my marks dropped in Grade 10 and my mother was not happy about it, she called my aunt and I was relocated to a place with no radio so I was separated from radio for 2 years... heartbreak! So I did my matric there and then I came to Jo‟burg, did radio production and got my first break at PRIMEDIA‟s Cape Town based commercial radio station, 94.5 KFM. I was an intern at Bonisanani, NEMISA and KFM happened. To keep my internship at NEMISA and to get the job at KFM, I had to make sure that I‟m in Cape Town on weekends and in Johannesburg from Monday to Friday. That was my first big break into radio and my big break into TV! I left KFM in 2009 and came back to Jo‟burg in 2010, did Highveld Stereo from January till March then I heard about the Y Academy and left Highveld. I started from the bottom at YFM, worked all my way up and got traffic that very same year, worked hard and got my very first show with my name in branding with Y. The Y Academy was the only way of me entering YFM, there was no other way so I had to drop the ego, drop everything and just be an intern, worked like crazy but it paid off for me.

@URmagazine: How do you balance your career with other demanding obligations in your life? (Family, friends, school or work)? @DJ_Sabby: Time makes itself. The people close to me know that I can‟t say no to money so I‟d drop a family gathering for money at this point in my life, they know that. I always tell people that if you grew up with nothing, money will always come first. To make everyone happy, time makes itself, it has to or else there wouldn‟t be life and another thing, I don‟t have friends. I dropped all my fake friends because they all just wanted something from me so now I‟m just friendless.

@URmagazine: What does a typical day for you look like? @DJ_Sabby: It‟s unpredictable. At times you can wake up thinking you‟re free and then you get 1 call that will change your whole day, YFM calls you for a stand-in, your agent calls you for an audition or a voice-over or a random business meeting pops up. Pretty much, that‟s my thing... Unpredictable.

@URmagazine: What has been the biggest influence on your career thus far? @DJ_Sabby: I motivated myself. For me, when I got to Jo‟burg to study radio production, my lecturer had a strong role in terms of my radio today in a sense of the fundamentals in understanding the media better. The theory

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part especially and the ethics of it, I‟d really give that a high-five of how he really made me respect radio more than how I respected it so that influenced me to try and be on time for everything that I do on air and be on time basically as a jock. In terms of the people that have influenced me, I just really look up to guys such as Ryan Seacrest, locally I look up to guys like Pro but one of the people that have influenced me is Dock Fake, I‟d really say that he saw something in me and gave me an opportunity to go to Cape Town and get my break and at the same time, be able to do my internship at NEMISA so I‟d say he played a huge role.


@URmagazine: What is your biggest challenge on your road to success thus far and what’s your biggest highlight? @DJ_Sabby: Getting into Yfm, getting a radio show at Y and this year, getting a day time show, that‟s the biggest thing out of everything else in my career. In terms of the challenges, it‟s not a lot because I do not have any fake friends. The biggest challenge is breaking into the industry. I honestly feel that getting in is the hardest thing and people don‟t really understand how hard it is to get in. I think I‟d say that the biggest challenge was breaking in and getting a radio show, having to prove to all radio stations that there‟s a unique aspect that you have and that there‟s something special that you‟re bringing to the table. With TV, that‟s the challenge right now... growth. It‟s back to auditions every single day.

@URmagazine: Any projects the public should look forward to from you? @DJ_Sabby: More music. I dropped “Taking it” last year which was a song that I didn‟t want for it to be club banger or anything. I am basically taking it one step at a time, working hard and just taking life as it comes and then the next thing comes, you do it again until you finally get your break. That was the whole point of the single as the whole chorus went and that‟s what the lyrical content was about, taking it one step at a time; basically not limiting yourself. There is a celebration track that I‟m working on now. I‟m dropping #TeamNoSleep sweaters this winter so that‟s me basically

exploring the fashion industry on a smaller scale, I have an ambition of dropping sneakers as well one day. Hopefully a TV show soon, there‟s one that I‟m working on and it‟s a National Schools Quiz Challenge, you should also look out for that. More parties from me as well, my website will be back „djsabby.com‟, no longer entertainment based but it‟s going to be more on what I‟m up to, it will be more of a personality site, maybe I will bring back the entertainment site back next year.

@URmagazine: You sound like someone who travels a lot, so which places do you actually consider as home? @DJ_Sabby: KZN... I haven‟t been to KZN for the past 2 years and the reason was because it was hard getting in so it made no sense going home. I think it‟s expensive, I mean what‟s the point of leaving Jo‟burg when you haven‟t achieved what you want to achieve from the City Of Gold. You‟ve got to have your share of the piece of gold and then you can relocate. I‟ll be going home in May after 2 years. KZN is home, Jo‟burg is a playground, and it‟s where we make things happen.

@URmagazine: What advice would you give to beginners or anyone out there who wishes to see themselves where you are? @DJ_Sabby: No one owes you anything, take your time, perfect your craft, have patience. That‟s what I‟d like to preach more, have patience because the industry is really tough.

5 QUICKIES 1. One bad habit you have that people don’t know about? I bite my nails. 2. One music artist you’d like to work with, locally or internationally? Locally, I‟d like to work with Zulu Boy and internationally, I‟d like to work with the YMCMB Squad, it‟s a dope crew. 3. Favourite game? Burnout Dominator 4. Favourite TV show? Rhythm City 5. Favourite meal? Anything with meat! With that much being said by Mr. “The Best Thing Ever” himself and as he‟s dropping #GetPaid sweaters soon, you may want to look out for that. Otherwise, stay fresh!

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GOOGLE GLASS THE NEXT STEP IN MOBILE EVOLUTION

A

fter almost a year since Google I/O

where Google asked developers to sign up the Glass Explorer program, last month Google finally started shipping out the first few devices to those developers. Along with the release of the device, Google also released the Glass API (Mirror) for those developers that are still waiting or not getting the device to start developing apps that work with the new interface. For those who don‟t know what Glass is, here‟s a short explanation: Glass is Google‟s latest Moonshot project, a wearable augmented reality computer developed over the last few years. The concept behind Glass is that “we need to bring technology closer to get it out of the way”. Since you wear Glass on your head, it‟s always there when you need it but out of the way when you don‟t, so when you're having a conversation with your friends you can just ignore it and if say you need directions to the nearest book store, it‟s there ready to help you with that.

device is set to feel like looking at a 25” HD screen from 8 Feet (2.4m) away. The Glass interface is very simple with almost everything being able to be controlled by voice actions, it also includes a touch pad on the side for when you need to navigate the device or do more than just tell it what you‟d like it to do. If you‟d like to start a task, you simply tap the touchpad and say “Ok glass” and follow the instruction, e.g. “OK glass, take a picture” if you wanted to take a picture of a moment.

The device will also connect to your Google+ account allowing you to start hangouts, send messages and post to your circles. The aurgmented reality will come into it‟s own if or when you ask for directions as it‟ll give you seemless directions, including a map, without interfering with whatever else you may be doing.

surprising to find a few with this particular device. A few people have voiced their concerns with Glass, one of which is Glass‟ always available camera; their concerns mostly revolve around having someone with the device active in public areas such as public toilets, parks and swimming pools. Their concerns though valid, I feel have already come and gone with the introduction and success of camera phones. Similar issues came forward with the arrival of camera phones and people got used to having them around, I believe the same will happen with Glass. The other concern people have is being spied on by Google through Glass. Again this involves the camera but also includes the microphone and the internet connection that Glass would be using to communicate. Personally I feel this concern has no merit because there are millions of people that use Google services in their everyday lives and in my personal experience Google has never even tried to spy on the things I do. Of course I understand that my data must pass through a Google server that will probably filter it and categorize it before it reaches me, but I don‟t think Google itself will take that opportunity to

The specifications released by Google for Glass include 16GB of on-board storage, of which 12GB will be available to the user, a 5MP camera capable of As with all new technology, there are taking 720p video, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi b/g always concerns in its usage, and it‟s not and a micro-USB slot. The screen on the spy on my everyday life as that would infringe on the privacy agreement I have with them when I signed up for the account.

South Africans will soon be able to get their hands on Nokia’s new Windows Phone 8 powered Lumia 520 and Lumia 720. A blend of premium style and innovation for a socially active crowd, the Nokia Lumia 720 features a high end camera experience and Nokia’s latest music and navigation experiences, while the affordable Nokia Lumia 520 is a fun and colourful addition to the Nokia Lumia family.

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Both devices offer many of the same digital camera lenses as the flagship Lumia 920, as well as maps and navigation from HERE, free music streaming and super sensitive touch screens for a highly immersive Smartphone experience.

Combining exclusive Carl Zeiss optics with Nokia‟s largest f1.9 aperture, the Nokia Lumia 720 delivers sharp, clear pictures every time, day or night. Its HD-quality 1.3 megapixel wide angle lens brings Nokia‟s best front facing camera performance, and is perfect for taking group portraits with friends or making video calls with Skype. With powerful hardware and Nokia digital camera lenses including Cinemagraph, Smart Shoot and Glam Me, the Nokia Lumia 720 makes it easy to capture and share stunning pictures. With a highly responsive curved 4.3” Clear Black Display, the Nokia Lumia 720 boasts a super sensitive touch screen that brings an innovative lamination process for wider viewing angles, and enhanced clarity in bright conditions thanks to software enhancements. An optional wireless

Nokia Lumia 720 Operating system HERE location and mapping Display Battery Processor Cameras

Memory

charging shell innovation.

also

delivers

further

Both the Nokia Lumia 720 and Nokia Lumia 520 come with the HERE suite of applications including HERE Maps and HERE Drive for free turn-by-turn navigation. Nokia Music offers unlimited music streaming, free of adverts or subscription charges, and also includes the ability to download playlists to listen offline. The 8GB mass memory and expandable 64GB memory slot of both the Lumia 520 and 720 allow users to store even more content created and collected. Both devices will be available locally in white, black and red and are expected to start sales in May. Recommended retail price for the Nokia Lumia 520 is R 1,899.00, while the Lumia 720 will be from R 5,699.00.

Nokia Lumia 520

Windows Phone 8 Free global HERE Maps, free regional HERE Drive 4.3” ClearBlack WVGA LCD, 2.25 D Gorilla Glass 2, Super Sensitive Touch for nail and glove use 2000 mAh battery + Optional Nokia Wireless Charging Cover Accessory 1.0 GHz Dual-core Snapdragon S4 Back: 6.7 MPIX, BSI, F1.9, Auto-Focus, Carl Zeiss, LED flash, HD 720p @ at 30 fps Front: Skype HD wide angle (1.3Mpix) 512 MB RAM 8GB mass memory Support for micro SD cards up to 64GB 7GB free SkyDrive storage

Courtesy of Tameron Carneson

Operating system

Windows Phone 8

HERE location and mapping Display

Free global HERE Maps, free regional HERE Drive 4” IPS LCD WVGA (800 x 480 pixels) 16M colours, Super sensitive touch for nail and glove use

Battery

1430 mAh

Processor

1 GHz Dual Core Snapdragon™

Camera

5 MP autofocus video recording HD 720p 30fps

Memory

512 MB RAM; 8GB mass memory; Support for micro SD cards up to 64GB;7GB free SkyDrive storage

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SOUTH AFRICA: TOURIST PARADADISE OR VIOLENT ABYSS? By Nozizwe Nuku

It‟s either I live in heaven or in hell but really which is it? Ever since power shifted hands from Apartheid to democracy in 1994, South Africa has been painted with a black brush and I wonder if these tarnishing statements are appropriately applied to the country I‟ve lived in all my life. The world‟s view of South Africa is murky but blissful and yet it is stereotypical. Murky in that some people believe that South Africa is totally and absolutely in dire straits with crime being experienced at every corner, most if not all people living in abject poverty, with a corrupt chauvinist president, clinics brimming with people dying from AIDS at the knees of negligent, over worked and untrained medical professionals, a country were rape is normal and illiteracy and unemployment are our bread and butter. Stereotypical in that some foreigners still believe that we live in a backward country with no innovation and people still walk around bear-breasted wielding assegais, breeding lions; exaggerated concepts if you know better but this is the truth...sadly this ignorant group of people still exist. As it's neen said before, "ignorance is bliss". Blissful in that there are open-mined people who understand that South Africa has a growing democracy experiencing some major teething problems and thus do no judge the country based on negative publications but instead want to experience the country and its beauty with an unbiased view. These are the simple facts about my country; South Africa is a democracy and this has only been true for 19 years. At the risk of sounding like the ANC, we still have a long way to go a lot could‟ve been done but wasn‟t. But in the same light, a lot has been done much to the delight and benefit of the masses and still will be done to better the situation for the majority regardless of colour or status. Crime is a major problem, a serious one as it affects everyone but in a different way and magnitude. Burglaries and hijackings occur all around the country everyday; some violent, others not violent at all, but being South African I don‟t believe these acts are targeted at a specific group of people. It seems like anywhere else in the world where you live or where you are at a certain time will determine the risk factor for certain events thay may happen to

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you it is unfortunate but it is true. Rape is not normal in South Africa it is illegal and has been for longer than most countries in the developing world. Rape is disgusting and it takes away the victims dignity, it is unacceptable no matter how prevalent it is, this is the general consensus among the majority of South Africans. We may not talk about it as much because it's a touchy and an incredibly humiliating part of what we‟ve come to hear about everyday. Poverty is relative in that it can be abject certainly but just like America or any other first world country or developing country for that matter, South Africa has homeless people, single mothers, child households and many children in the system are being raised by foster parents or grand parents and other family members who struggle. Child abuse much like rape is shunned and illegal. Yes there is a bystander effect that has engulfed us when it comes to domestic violence which is wrong but because of our rich cultures and traditions it is very difficult to get involved even for the benefit of the victim(s) but this doesn‟t mean we don‟t try to help there even as a ministry dedicated to just woman, children and people with disabilities. Take Patrice Motsepe for instance; he decide earlier in the year that he would donate half his wealth to charity through his family foundation. This man doesn‟t have to do this he is worth $2.65 billion but he wants to help alleviate the plight of South Africans who are not as fortunate as him. And some say our basis of alleviation is in the education system. Functional illiteracy rates in people between the age of 15 years and older have dropped from 31.5% in 2001 to 19.1% in 2011 according to census, which means something right is being done. We are not blind to our problems but we cannot be expected to dwell in them. Things have happened, terrible things, apartheid being the worst and trust me I know my father was on Robben Island for six years; the rapes, the murders, the disease ,it's all just part of growing as a country unfortunately. No there are no lions roaming free, our wildlife is in the wild (nature parks) or in zoos where they are striking and majestic SA is home to the ostrich the; largest bird,

the elephant; the largest land mammal, the giraffe; the tallest creature, the whale shark; the largest fish and the cheetah; the fastest land mammal. Our president, Jacob Zuma, inherited a lot of the problems he has to solve when he came into presidency I believe. He is human and thus subject to error, he is also staunch culturist and part of his culture is polygamy and practises but that doesn’t make him a chauvinist. Honest to goodness South Africa is not as bad as it has been painted out to be. We are a nation made up of diverse cultures, with a rather complicated history but we are a fiercely proud people. We as South Africans are sportsmen and women, Natalie Du Toit, Oscar Pistorious, Chad Le Clos, Ryk Neethling, Bryan Habana; academics like Dr Mamphele Ramphele, political heroes and philanthropists like Dr Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, our country is beautiful. It is home to not 1 but 8 world heritage sites, Robben Island being one of them. This culture rich country is also home to innovations such as the Kreepy Krauly, Smartlock safety syringe, Hippo water Roller and the retinal cyroprobe to name but a few. And some of the things that help me forget about the price of petrol are Biltong , Rooibos Tea , Jungle Oats , Nik Naks ,Appletiser, Nando‟s , Mrs. Balls Chutney, Savanna (my favourite), Boerewors , Koeksisters ,malva pudding and Oumas rusks, we produce some of the best! We have so much to offer the world and thus should continue to be judged based on a few inflated numbers. I am South African and would have it no other way, problems and all.


Fashion

fashion

RETROJHB

by Dipuo Mongoai

Retrojhb is the name which refers to the early 90s fashion scene, the name was inspired by our mothers and grandmothers old senses of styles. Ipeleng Sekati was brought up in a family obsessed with dressing up; everyone from; dad, mom and two brothers. The common communication in the house was styles and trends. Every occasion you had to dress up for, be it going to the shop or just sitting around and watching TV you need to look „phly‟ as they called it.

This lady is a stylist by profession even though fashion was never considered a career, to the point that she went off to study Law. “I felt like some people just didn‟t care about how they looked and it bothered me, as a lady you need to have a sense of being. I believe it does not matter what your style is, but have a style. That‟s when I decided to become a stylist and just open a store and assist with ideas of dressing up” she explains. There is so much that looking good does to you , it boast your mood , puts a smile on your face that no one will understand there is just a sense of confidence in a person character. “I never thought one day I would own my own store, I guess the passion inside was bigger than I thought. What make s my store unique is the fact that I have a one-on-one relationship with my clients everyday, I have a delivery option where I actually go to the customer‟s house and help them put together outfits.” Her clientele consists of fashion forward free thinking girls, professionals, students and moms to be; literally all shapes and sizes.

To get hold of her, look for the Retrojhb Facebook page

Soon the store will be accessible to everyone in the Westrand! Upwards and onwards she goes!

@URmagazine | URBAN REALITYMAGAZINE | 13


SEX TOYS IN THE BEDROOM, WARM FEELING? By Dipuo Mongoai

Yay or Nay to using sex toys in the bedroom. It really ties down to how open minded one is about these issues. Sex toys have surprisingly been around since ancient times, in the early 1800 Greek women would use them as a substitute for their absent soldier husbands who would be away for quite some time; see, atleast they didn’t go off and cheat. Most widows would also have a wooden dildo to keep them satisfied after they lost their loved ones. The main purpose really of using these toys either than having fun is really masturbating when being realistic. It’s all about satisfaction and reaching that climax, nothing wrong in doing that, it’s unfortunate it was made illegal in other countries and cities like Texas, Louisiana and Colorado just because it was believed to be violating a person’s right of privacy which doesn’t make much sense if they are being used in private spaces.

Sex toys have been upgraded in major ways of the years as well as the changing of stereotypical thinking of people to the toys. From caveman porn, stone sex toys, wooden dildos, cock rings made from eyelids of goats in china, ben-wa-balls, whips and chains, steam powered vibrators, electric vibrators, and the list is endless! Today we get fancy models of blow up dolls and dildos, non-electrical vibrators, lubricants and the likes. The convenience of accessing these is also a bonus as they can be found at sex shops around the corner; it‟s not longer a huge deal or taboo. Sex toys are mostly preferred by women as opposed to most men, with women claiming that they find more pleasure in satisfying themselves in different forms like masturbating, so these are perfect tools for them as they become in control of what they want to happen to them. Men on the other end feel a tad intimidated as they see their women getting more pleasure (in terms of orgasms, it should be stated) from an object than them. This gives them low self esteem in the sense that they not doing it right or

that they might need some sort of assistance to satisfy their women. Other man on the other hand happen to be open minded and really don‟t mind adding toys in their sex lives; to them it‟s just experimenting and they actually get satisfaction from seeing their women enjoying their sex life. Sex toys are mostly common in couples who are open in their relationship, who feel free to discuss their sex life, who don‟t take sex as a secret that should be kept in the bedroom only. You really need to be open minded to be willing to use toys, because from most women‟s perspective if you‟re an insecure man you‟re going to be heartbroken from the reaction your partner is going to give from the use of the toys. Not that they don‟t enjoy your work but there is just some sort of stimulation they get from it. Both sexes are catered for. There are toys for men such as the blow up doll that also gives the men the pleasure of being in control and only satisfying their own desire. There is a saying that states “couples who play together stay together” this will only be true to you if you believe it right? So how about this winter you and your partner get out of your comfort zone and explore a little. Spice things up and just warm it up with some new fun toys to join your sexual sessions. Who know, this might just be most memorable winter ever!

NB: Remember there’s no sharing of sex toys with multiple partners and also remember to read the instructions carefully before you make use of them! 14 | URBAN REALITYMAGAZINE | @URmagazine


U R

H O R O S C O P E S

Aries Now is the time to consider taking a rest from your labors. Like many of your sign, you may have burned yourself out without once getting away for a few days of real rest. If you can manage to do so now, your health, and future productivity, would benefit immensely. There is a chance for romantic adventure in the offing, but you should be rested before you play. Taurus The knowledge you have in special areas has long been virtually wasted. Consider seriously baking advantage of your knowledge and your skills to make money for yourself for a change, instead of adding to the coffers of others. An old romance could be replaced by a torrid new one, but not at a cheap price. This should be taken into serious consideration. Expect a phone call. Gemini Academic pursuits and/or specialized learning activities go well for you now. This could be a good time to take up the study of that musical instrument you have been threatening to learn for many years. You could also run into some financial problems now, resulting from poor planning or unwise investments, but this could be forestalled if you act quickly. Cancer Catch up with the world and try to stay out of dreamland. Your biggest fault is talking about grandiose plans and never getti ng off the dime to do something concrete about them. Your talents are virtually endless, but your love of ease and sloth can be your undoing. Expect an important message from an old love concerning a situation dear to your heart. Leo Upward and onward should be your cry now. Your abilities have never been tested so much as they are likely to be in a short time, but if you react with one-tenth of your capability, you could rise to the top of the pack with scarcely a feather ruffled. Speak seriously with an employer or colleague about your situation and don‟t mince words when it comes to placing a value on your services. Virgo An interesting new romantic situation could open up for you at this point, and it may well be with someone you already know and least suspect. Correct behaviour is important to you now, however, as many eyes are on you. If you are already in a mate situation, or if your new friend has commitments, it might be well to cool things for a time. Libra Playing things safe might seem the wiser course, but it won‟t bring that sweet knowledge of having stayed in the game to the end. Losing isn‟t the worst thing that could happen. It could seem far worse at a later date not to have tried at all. And the chances might just be about 50-50 that you could win. Don‟t expect miracles or depend on others to bail you out, however. Scorpio Use every effort to get in touch with a close friend whom you have lost contact with. There could be something truly amazing and exciting in it for you if you do. Social activities should be soft-pedaled for awhile until you find out more about a certain situation. Keep your ears open for word of an important business transaction that could benefit you in more ways than one. Sagittarius Set up some intricate safeguards to protect yourself and your property, especially if you are dealing with a financial project of some size. Risking personal debt on an unproven project could bind you up for some time to come, but if it seems right, there is no reason why you shouldn‟t take a solid position with savings or personal leverage. Say no to an unsavory proposition. Capricorn Try turning yourself around by making an honest effort to look at both sides of a situation before sounding off. There is an excellent chance for you to improve your present financial or career position, but you may have to take the bull by the horns and move as quickly as an Olympic sprinter to do so. Your love life could be dampened by the actions of a third party. Aquarius Stealing a kiss may seem like enormous fun at the time, but such simple pleasures could develop into big problems if the proper precautions are not taken into consideration. Steer clear of fast-money schemes. In all likelihood, those who would recommend such action stand to make a great deal more than you, and you could easily be left holding an embarrassingly empty bag. Pisces Strongly consider rewarding your co-workers for the successful completion of a project for which you have received the lion‟s share of credit. This could insure future loyalty and it might take no more than a simple pat on the back, although something more concrete might not be amiss. Check out a romantic situation very carefully before you commit yourself. Adapted from Savannah.com


HEALTH FOCUS: MENTAL TRAINING Mental Training will help you to stay on top of your game By Tshepo Khoza (Aptitude PR Consulting)

If you believe you‟re doing everything right; spending enough time at the gym, following a wholesome and nutritious meal plan, taking advice from your trainer and getting plenty of rest, you‟re on the right path. But there is just one point that you are missing: you're not maximizing your full potential until you incorporate mental training. Mental training is what separates GREAT from EXCEPTIONAL. To be physically outstanding you have to train your brain and it's the one thing that even very committed athletes and exercise enthusiasts often overlook. Mental preparation and attitude before and during training are what gets you through a 42km run in the rain and helping you beat your best time. Whether you're seriously committed to developing muscle and definition, want to lose weight or perfect your golf swing, you must include MENTAL TRAINING. Your mental skills will improve through practice. If your mental game needs strengthening, it's time to give your mind a workout. This mental training can:      

Increase motivation Strengthen your focus and concentration Tap your unconscious Find your ideal "psyched up" state Sharpen your imagery and mental rehearsal and Build mental toughness

Mental training will help you develop the outlook and skills you need to succeed as a recreational exerciser or a professional athlete and this is the secret for our most outstanding and ageless athletes. You can incorporate mental exercises into a physical workout by learning, developing and practicing specific psychological techniques. These techniques will assist you in mental training: 

Short- and long - term goal setting- This can be as short as each workout and even each set. Goals should be specific, measurable, action oriented, realistic and have a deadline. Those who fail to plan, plan to fail. Having clear goals in your mind gives you a mental picture of the outcome you aspire to, helping you keep track and moving in the direction you desire. Positive thinking and affirmation - Having sayings in your head that are rehearsed will be critical when the time comes to dig down deep for the physical ability to perform. Phrases like "If it's going to be, it's up to me", "I am unstoppable", and "I am strong" can be the difference in pulling through when the going gets tough. To assist you in always remembering these, have them as fridge magnets, sticky notes around your bedroom or bathroom mirror or even your desk at work.

 

Performance profiling - Mentally rehearse and visualize exactly how you will perform throughout your event. Picture the positions your body will be in, how efficiently you will be breathing, the strength in your legs, the balance of your torso, the postures necessary to successfully perform and so on. There is a proven transfer from the mental to the physical.  Motivational strategies- Know what makes you tick. How are you inspired? Where does your drive most thrive from? How you are going to look and feel when you achieve your weight loss goal. Know precisely what to say to yourself when you are feeling down or when the going gets tough.  Relaxation and complete breathing- the use of breathing for relaxation and concentration can keep your cantered in control and execution of right techniques.  Attention control techniques - focusing on the technique helps you regain your focus when you are becoming physically or mentally challenged. Just as you train your muscles by resistance exercises, you can develop mental skills by practicing them diligently and consistently. You can build the body you've always wanted and perform at your best when you harness the power of mind and muscles. The process involves finding ways to increase satisfaction and enjoyment and promoting healthy self-esteem. Mental training can also provide assistance with injury and sickness. When injured or sick, you can take a more active role in your healing process by engaging both your conscious and unconscious mind to restore a sense of wholeness and health. Now that we‟ve covered the basics of mental training, I would like to provide you with an exercise that will help with mind/body training: Close your eyes and concentrate on your physical performance. Be acutely aware of the space you occupy as you visualize your legs, chest, back, hips, neck, breathing, etc. As you explore your physical movement, connect with your breathing and release all unnecessary tension out of your muscles. Discover the increased focus you develop; visualize yourself performing, relaxed and powerful. It'll take practice to clear your head of "noise" and implement mind/body training. Through enhanced awareness of your body, you will be able to perform more efficiently and reach desired goals sooner. Ultimately, using mental training will increase your performance and keep your body young. This exercise gets better with time and the more practice, the better you get. If you wish to utilise any of my services or have any training or fitness requests, please post your request on my Twitter: @ArtOfRunning

16 | URBAN REALITYMAGAZINE | @URmagazine


SPORTS

SPORTS REPORT: THE YEAR OF THE UNDER DOGS

www.rugbyweek.com

Nobody, including both the Cheetahs and newcomers, the Southern Kings, were expecting the kind of success both teams have had thus far in the Vodacom Super Rugby 2013 season. With the Cheetahs being unbeaten in Australia along with the Kings winning two games (Western Force in Port Elizabeth and Rebels in Melbourne) and securing a draw against the Brumbies who are coached by IRB World Cup 2007 winning coach, Jake White; puts critics in a little awkward situation. In just their first season the Cheetahs have pulled out of their cat-cage some magical moments in this year‟s Vodacom Super Rugby campaign. The success‟ of both Cheetahs and Kings has been a good turning point for South African rugby. The two South African teams have shown the depth potential of what South African rugby has up its sleeves. For instance, having the Kings to participate in the Vodacom Super Rugby campaign was seen as a disaster waiting to happen –especially when they failed to make the Absa Currie Cup after losing to the Cheetahs in the play-offs last year. But with young new recruits who are eager to perform for their slow developing

team such as Bandise Maku, Demetri Catrakillis and Sergeal Peterson, it's no surprise that their Vodacom Super Rugby campaign has shown some promise of glistering gold. But despite minor injury concerns to certain senior players, the Southern Kings have gone on to achieve status respect in their young journey of Vodacom Super Rugby. Their victories over the Western Force and Rebels proved to be a positive side-step towards the right direction. Those two victories definitely gave the Eastern Cape-based outfit much confidence in continuing to make their loyal fans proud. A few rugby analysts also feel the Cheetahs are partially responsible for the Southern Kings' minor recent success. Their form since March with victories over Highlanders, Waratahs, Stormers and Sharks was a significant indication to the Kings; installing the mentality that end at end of the day it can be anyone‟s game –even against the big boys of the Vodacom Super Rugby. With only seven games left until the season sadly comes to an end, it shall be very interesting how both the Cheetahs and Kings shall do proceeding in the latter end of the Vodacom Super Rugby 2013 campaign.

By Mandilulame Manjezi @JizzyJakesTheIn www.jizzyjakes.blogspot.com @URmagazine | URBAN REALITYMAGAZINE | 17


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