As the 2024 term draws to a close, I can’t help but feel bittersweet about it. On the one hand, I’ve been at this publication since 2020, and I don’t know how I will be able to say goodbye to PDBY. On the other hand… running a paper is not an easy feat. So, as someone who has basically become a piece of the office furniture, I would just like to take a moment to acknowledge all of the paper’s weird and incredible moments and people:
• To Micaela and her crutches, we’re really sorry that we almost left you on the bus…
• To the couches Jade and I slept on after nights out (and the breakfast buns the next day)
To the teargas Ivai was assaulted with in the first week of class (sorry about that man)
• To all of the Gilmore Girls and Taylor Swift references throughout this year’s papers
• To Spring Break Karla (she will be missed but never forgotten)
• To driving to Morrie’s in the middle of the night and gorging on sandwiches in the middle of the night. I love you, Franco, but may I never drive with you in a car ever again.
• To the unhinged accents and characters during the camp training scenario
• To the shots we had to send in ourselves before anyone cared about the column (Ps. To Franco’s really hot roommate: I still love our enemies-to-lovers storyline)
To Dani’s wasp drawing on the white board at Orientation
• To Annelize who somehow managed to take care of everyone at camp. I don’t know how you did it.
To the paper hats
• To whatever version of chess we played during the 85-year celebration
• To the digital cameras
• To the hot girl walks at 3 in the morning
To gossiping around the office table
• To unravelling schemes, chasing down the EFFSC, and being hated by the SRC (to anyone I offended by calling them a “blazer chaser”, “inept”, “boring”, or anything of a similar nature… womp womp)
• And finally, to the 2023/2024 editorial –Kerri-Anne, Vuyiswa, Danielle, Micaela, Karla, Jade, Nothando, Katherine, Sechaba, and Annelize – you were the best team I could have asked for. You made my Rory Gilmore fantasy come true, and I can’t thank you enough for all of the love and passion you brought to
the pages of these editions.
As someone who has sat on the editorial for as long as I have, I can tell you with certainty that the people who work here leave a mark on the paper that remains even after they leave. In my completely unbiased opinion, that is absolutely true of the 2023/2024 editorial. While it is never easy to say goodbye to something that you have loved so dearly for so long (I will be crying at the yearend function), I am certain that next year’s editorial will do an incredible job of upholding the PDBY’s legacy. So, good luck, babes!
Correction
In PDBY’s 9th edition we covered the triumphs of Coach Thesline Davids in “Celebrating Coach Thesline Davids: A Trailblazer in Women’s Basketball”. The newspaper included a photograph of the coach which was incorrectly credited. All credit for that photograph go to Regcaldecott Photography.
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Editor-in-chief carel.willemse@up.ac.za
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Visual: Nothando Mhaule
SRC Elections 2024: The Highlight Reel
Relebogile Manana
On 29 August, the preliminary results for the 2024/2025 Student Representative Council (SRC) term were announced, officially marking the end of the dramafilled 2023/2024 term, which led to the formation of the temporary SRC. From 15 to 23 August, SRC candidates presented their portfolio manifestos at the piazza, offering fellow students the chance to engage directly by asking questions both in-person and online. This forum allowed students to voice their concerns and challenge the candidates to propose practical solutions.
During the manifesto presentations, a wide range of issues were raised, with a number of students who asked questions expressing scepticism about the SRC’s ability to deliver on their promises, pointing out that similar commitments had been made by candidates in previous years without significant change. However, many of the candidates stood out for their innovative ideas aimed at enhancing student life in the upcoming year, including plans for fundraising initiatives, establishing more effective communication channels with students, and organising consistent student engagement events to stay attuned to student needs.
As is often the case in such competitive environments, the questioning sessions were not without controversy. Some students raised serious accusations against candidates, including allegations of cocaine use, sexual misconduct, and misuse of privilege. These allegations added to the tense atmosphere in which candidates were made to answer swiftly and under pressure.
After a week of intense campaigning, it was time for the votin Out of 44 056 eligible voters, 8 531 students participated, resulting in a voter turnout of 19.63%. Vhutshilo Muambadzi, who was an independent candidate, emerged victorious over EFFSC favourite Tshiamo Makunye for the SRC president position. Muambadzi’s #LetMeHearYou campaign evidently resonated with a lot of students which led her to victory, as her promise to deliver hope and actionable change rather than empty promises clearly struck a chord.
Despite facing backlash during her manifesto presentation for the secretary position, Euléne Bornman’s campaign was ultimately successful, earning her the most votes in that portfolio. Euléne has pledged to deliver tangible results, focusing on developing and maintaining initiatives that directly benefit students and ensuring that the SRC remains transparent and responsive to student concerns. Bongiwe Dlamini secured the SRC treasurer position with her campaign emphasising her commitment to addressing financial exclusion and other pressing financial issues faced by students. Her “Fund A Student” campaign and plans to tackle issues such as TuksRes food prices and registration challenges were key points in her portfolio presentation, which undoubtedl resonated with students. The rest of the results can be seen below.
The 2024/2025 elections have set the stage for a new chapter i student governance, marked by both optimism and scepticism. The election results reflect a strong desire among students for leaders who are committed to transparency, accountability, and tangible improvements in student life. As the newly elected SRC members take office, their ability to translate campaign promises into meaningful action will be crucial in restoring students’ trust in the SRC and driving positive change.
Dreaming Beyond the Stars Dr Sian Proctor Inspires UP Students
On 31 July, the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology witnessed a momentous occasion.
The UP-Aerospace Society, in collaboration with the US Embassy, welcomed Dr Sian Proctor, a trailblazing astronaut and geoscientist, for a groundbreaking event that not only celebrated her achievements but also launched the university’s Women’s Month activities.
Dr Proctor, the first African-American woman to pilot a spacecraft and the first African-American commercial astronaut, captivated the audience with her personal journey into space. Her presentation, “Packing for Space”, resonated deeply with students not only for its insights into space travel but for its powerful message of perseverance, creativity, and inclusivity.
Dr Proctor’s story is one of relentless determination. Although she narrowly missed her first chance to become a NASA astronaut in 2009, she did not let that setback diminish her dream. She used her experiences to fuel her passion for exploration and science communication, inspiring future generations to chase their dreams.
“When we solve for space, we also solve for Earth,” she told the audience, emphasising how space exploration can contribute to solving critical challenges facing humanity. Her journey culminated in 2021 when she was selected as one of four civilian astronauts for the SpaceX Inspiration4 mission when they would orbit Earth for three days in a historic flight. Her story exemplifies the power of persistence and belief in one’s abilities.
In addition to her work in space, Dr Proctor is an advocate for education and creative expression. Her Afrofuturistic art and poetry promote a vision of a just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive space – both on Earth and beyond. She encouraged UP students to embrace lifelong learning and creativity, underscoring that each of us has the power to contribute to a better future.
the Inspiration4 mission, stands as a testament to the role of art in shaping perspectives and fostering innovation. By blending science, art, and activism, Dr Proctor embodies the idea that exploration is not just about discovering new worlds; it is about discovering new facets of ourselves.
Dr Proctor’s visit to the university serves as a rallying cry for students to dare to dream big. She called on young women, particularly those from underrepresented groups, to step forward and pursue careers in STEM fields. In her words, “The sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning.”
Her message reinforced the vision set by the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology: innovating our tomorrow. As Dr Proctor left the lecture venue, the students felt inspired and reminded that with determination, creativity, and a commitment to continuous learning, they too can make a difference, both on Earth and beyond.
“Believe in your ability to do amazing things,” Dr Proctor encouraged the audience. “Whether
News Bite SRC Election
Results Postponed
The student body received a letter from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) declaring that the formal announcement of the SRC election results has been postponed. In the letter, the CEO of the IEC, Lulu White, explained that the Independent Monitoring Body (IMB) has requested additional time to thoroughly investigate objections raised during the electoral process. A new date for the announcement will be communicated once the IMB completes its investigations.
Musaion University of Pretoria Music Festival
The 19th of August marked the start of the University of Pretoria Music Festival. It consisted of a full week of festivities from masterclasses to showcases, and best of all – everyone was welcome for free. Students just needed to go to the venue, sit down, and enjoy the show.
Her poem “Space to Inspire”, which earned her a spot on
Posters were put up around campus and the music students tried their best to bring awareness to the event. Although the event was unknown to most students, the hard work of the music students is to be commended. The student concert consisted of a variety of performances from melodious operative singing to playing instruments such as the flute and the guitar. The audience was small, but their enthusiasm could be heard.
When asked what the purpose was behind the event, one of the stagehands stated that “it is a way for the students to get their hours and experience performing”.
The performers surely looked like they were experienced, showing little to no nerves and truly performing with confidence.
The events included within this festival ranged from masterclasses surrounding aspects such as chamber music to composition as well as an exhibition of their talents in a variety of concerts, including a Jazz concert and an Odeion String Quartet.
Jason Visser
Hannah Hambly
Visual: Kerri-Anne Swanepoel
Aleksa Kruger
Visual: Sourced
Welcoming Future Health Professionals
On 17 August, the University of Pretoria welcomed prospective health sciences students to its annual #ChooseUP Day. This event, held on the Prinshof campus, is designed to introduce grade 12 learners who have received provisional acceptance to the Faculty of Health Sciences to the vibrant academic community awaiting them.
The day kicked off in front of the Twelopele building, where students and their parents were greeted by an array of informational stalls. Representatives from various departments within the Faculty of Health Sciences as well as UP residences were on hand to answer questions and provide guidance. The lively atmosphere set the tone for a day filled with excitement and anticipation as students took their first steps towards their future careers in healthcare.
Inside the Twelopele building’s lecture hall, Prof. Prashilla Soma warmly welcomed the attendees, setting the stage for an inspiring morning. The dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof. Tiaan de Jager, followed with an introduction of the interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Themba Mosia. In his address, Prof. Mosia emphasised the significance of #ChooseUP Day, saying, "We are waiting for you with bated breath. We are very happy and very excited to actually welcome
you to this community of the University of Pretoria. You are going to have a rewarding personal experience for yourself and your families."
Prof. de Jager then took to the stage to deliver a heartfelt welcome. He urged the students to choose UP, not only for its esteemed educational programmes but also for the life-changing journey it offers. "Here, you not only choose an education, you are choosing a transformative journey that empowers you to be nothing less than a well-rounded, exceptional healthcare professional," he remarked.
A highlight of the morning was the awarding of bursaries worth R15 000 each to three lucky recipients – one from the School of Dentistry, one from the School of Health Care Sciences, and one from the School of Medicine. These awards underscore UP's commitment to supporting its students on their academic journey.
Dr Ramadimetja Kekana, chairperson of the School of Health Care Sciences, took the floor next to discuss the critical pillars of teaching and learning, research, and community engagement. Her insights offered students a glimpse into the comprehensive education and impactful research opportunities available at UP.
Other speakers provided valuable advice on what
the learners must aim for in their matric year and introduced the Faculty of Health Sciences’ social media platforms. They also detailed the various degrees offered and what students can expect during their studies. Teboho Sam Hlatshwayo, the outgoing chairperson of Health House, further enriched the session by discussing the vibrant student life at UP.
The day also featured a special address from Prof. Priya SomaPillay, chairperson of the School of Medicine and head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. She congratulated the students on securing a place at UP and shared compelling reasons for choosing UP as their academic home. Highlighting UP’s global recognition, she noted, "UP has ranked among the top 1% internationally in fields such as Clinical Medicine, Immunology, and Microbiology, and is one of the top-ranking institutions in South Africa for good health and wellbeing."
The remainder of the day was dedicated to tours of the Prinshof North and South campuses. Students were shown the cuttingedge technology and state-of-the-art facilities that will be at their disposal as they pursue their studies. The day concluded with some light-hearted fun as students participated in games on the BMS grass, rounding off an engaging and informative experience.
#ChooseUP Day 2024 was more than just an orientation; it was a celebration of the future health professionals who will soon join UP’s esteemed community. With the knowledge and connections gained from this event, these prospective students are now better equipped to embark on their educational journey at one of South Africa’s leading institutions.
Teaching, Learning, and Lots of Innovation Prof. Vanessa Steenkamp
At the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Health Sciences, the approach to teaching and learning is undergoing a significant transformation. Under the guidance of Prof. Vanessa Steenkamp, the deputy dean of Teaching and Learning, the faculty is increasing its focus on bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
One of the pivotal components of this educational evolution is the Clinical Skills Centre, where students have the opportunity to practise and refine their skills in a controlled environment before engaging with actual patients. This facility, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, allows students to simulate clinical procedures on mannequins, thereby honing their techniques and building the necessary muscle memory to perform under pressure. There is also a revolutionary VR lab in the medical library, offering immersive experiences that bring complex concepts to life in ways traditional methods cannot. This method of learning underscores the faculty’s commitment to ensuring that their graduates are not just knowledgeable but also competent and confident in their abilities.
Prof. Steenkamp highlights the importance of practical experience through an anecdote that underscores the limitations of traditional education. She recounts the story of a nursing student who, despite years of studying, only truly mastered the correct CPR technique during a brief ten-minute session of emergency care. The professional emergency care worker revealed that the nurse's compressions were not deep enough and were incorrectly positioned – a revelation that could have had significant consequences in a real-life emergency. This experience dramatically illustrates how hands-on training can correct ingrained mistakes that formal education may overlook.
Prof. Steenkamp explains, "In a real-life scenario, you're often scared of breaking ribs or causing harm, which can lead to incorrect technique, but through the practical training, students can safely learn and correct these mistakes before they matter most."
Beyond the technical aspects, the faculty is also deeply invested in cultivating soft skills, often the most challenging to teach but crucial in the healthcare profession. Communication, leadership, and ethical decision-making are integral parts of the curriculum.
The faculty’s efforts to support students extend beyond the classroom and clinical skills labs. Recognising the intense pressures of medical training, the faculty has implemented various support systems, including counselling services, peer mentoring, and stress management workshops. These initiatives are designed to help students manage the demands of their
education, ensuring that they not only survive the rigours of medical school, but thrive in their future careers.
Prof. Steenkamp also emphasises the collaborative nature of the faculty’s teaching and learning approach, contrasting it with the often competitive world of research. "In teaching and learning, there’s a community of practice where people are eager to share what works in the classroom, enhancing everyone's experience. In research, it’s more about individual recognition, but in teaching, success is a collective effort."
One of the most impactful initiatives that aligns with this collaborative spirit is an exercise where able-bodied students participate in wheelchair races. Prof. Steenkamp recalls her own participation in one such race, humorously noting how humbling it was to navigate the challenges of using a wheelchair. This exercise builds empathy among students and gives them a first-hand understanding of the difficulties faced by patients with mobility issues.
Moreover, Prof. Steenkamp is spearheading efforts to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the curriculum, particularly in assessment. Having completed two courses in AI herself, she is passionate about ensuring that future healthcare professionals are well-versed in the capabilities and limitations of this technology. She envisions AI being used to create more thought-provoking assessments that challenge students to think critically about the information they are presented with. This includes evaluating potential biases in AI-driven tools and understanding how these tools can be both beneficial and problematic in a healthcare setting. Prof. Steenkamp says, "Technology is here to stay, and incorporating it into our teaching will prepare students to navigate and harness it effectively in their professional lives.”
Using AI can enhance the assessment process and ensure that students not only learn how to use AI tools but also develop the critical thinking skills necessary to assess their outputs accurately. By doing so, she hopes to foster a new generation of healthcare professionals who are both technologically adept and deeply analytical and cautious in their approach to patient care.
In addition to these technological advancements, "endurable skills" need to be instilled, which include traits such as attention to detail, ethical judgement, and a strong sense of responsibility. These are the qualities that will carry students through their careers long after they have left the university. "These are the hidden skills that you don’t necessarily think about, like washing your hands before a procedure or the way you communicate with patients. They’re small things, but they’re critical to patient care," she notes.
The faculty’s approach also extends to postgraduate education, where the mentorship model plays a crucial role. Professors
like Steenkamp often serve as both supervisors and mentors, helping to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals. This mentorship is more than just academic – it is about passing on the habits, attitudes, and approaches that define good medical practice. She explains that students “learn the habits from you, and you hope that these are good habits that they will carry into their professional lives”.
Prof. Steenkamp highlights a significant upcoming change in the structure of certain undergraduate programmes at UP, such as the Bachelor of Clinical Medical Practice (BCMP). Starting in 2026, these programmes will be extended from three years to four years. This adjustment is designed to better accommodate the demanding workload, allowing students to gain a more comprehensive education while also enabling them to complete their honours degrees within the same timeframe. By incorporating the honours component into the extended undergraduate programme, students will no longer need to pursue it separately, which is expected to reduce the pressure on them and streamline their academic journey.
The faculty’s commitment to preparing students for the real world is not just about academics – it is about creating well-rounded individuals who are ready to face the challenges of the healthcare industry with confidence and competence. Whether through hands-on training, the integration of AI, or the cultivation of soft skills, the faculty is leading the way in
Jason Visser
Jason Visser
UP Unveils New Secure Parking Facility
Aleksa Kruger
On 1 August, the University of Pretoria celebrated a significant milestone in its battle against restricted campus parking by unveiling a new secure parking facility. Hatfield campus, perpetually plagued by parking scarcity, now has a state-of-the-art parking lot that promises to alleviate the persistent congestion that has long frustrated students. The new bays enhance security and mark a significant leap forward in transforming the daily commuting experience for the UP community.
The approximately 160 well-designed parking bays are within the basement of UP’s Javett Art Centre, offering a much-needed solution to campus congestion. This modern facility is open to staff, students, and visitors alike, enhancing accessibility for all. Modelled similarly to the efficient Engineering 3 Parkade, this new parkade features a user-friendly ticket and payment machine system that accommodates cash and card transactions. Parking rates are aligned with the Engineering lot’s affordable pricing so that this addition is a convenient and cost-effective option for everyone on campus. The parkade is open Mondays to Fridays, with the exception of weekends and public holidays, from 06:00 to 18:00.
To gain more insight into this new development, PDBY spoke to Prof. Susan Adendorff, the director of Facilities Management. Prof. Adendorff stated that the basement parking was meant to be part of the Javett design from the outset. However, the parking was initially earmarked for staff only but was underutilised. Facilities Management then decided to convert the basement parking into public parking to alleviate some of the parking challenges faced by students.
To facilitate this public parking, management was required to install new equipment to allow for connectivity, which was only recently completed. The Javett basement parking allows students to access the Hatfield North and South campuses via a turnstile Access to the South campus is direct, whereas access to the North section of Hatfield campus is via the bridge over Lynnwood Road, allowing students to cross the busy road safely.
Introducing the new secure parking facility at the Javett Art Centre marks a pivotal enhancement in addressing campus parking challenges at UP. By converting the underutilised basement space into a public parking area, UP has expanded accessibility and also demonstrated a keen responsiveness to the needs of its student community.
Taking the Fight to the Pests in Flight
Malaria elimination in the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) region has recently advanced with a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Pretoria Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control (UP ISMC) and the Roll Back Malaria Partnership to End Malaria. The MoU signing, held at UP's Future Africa campus, brought together key stakeholders, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa Leaders Malaria Alliance.
UP Interim Vice-Chancellor Prof. Themba Mosia stressed the need for a sustained, interdisciplinary approach to malaria elimination. He warned that global progress is stalling, putting years of investment at risk. With this in mind, Dr Taneshka Kruger, a project manager at UP ISMC, explained that the MoU aims to build capacity, support students, and address challenges like resource mobilisation and climate change. The goal is to drive sustainable progress in reducing malaria and improving public health.
Prof. Tiaan de Jager, dean of UP’s Faculty of Health Sciences, highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in combating malaria. He emphasised that the partnership with Roll Back Malaria will enhance research, share best practices, and develop strategies to tackle the root causes of malaria.
Zimbabwe’s Minister of Health, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, praised the MoU as a key step in empowering regional medical practitioners. He stressed the need for governments to lead the charge against malaria with strong, evidence-based policies. Ednah Baloyi, director of Malaria and Vector-Borne Diseases at South Africa’s Department of Health, highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration to combat malaria effectively.
The SADC, consisting of 16 member states, includes some of the countries hit the hardest by malaria. While all SADC nations aim to eliminate malaria by 2030, only three have achieved malaria-free status.
World Mosquito Day, observed on 20 August, marks Sir Ronald Ross's 1897 discovery that female anopheline mosquitoes transmit malaria to humans. A West African proverb says, "If you think you are too small to make a difference, you haven't spent a night with a mosquito." This highlights the mosquito's small size but immense impact on public health, symbolising the importance of collective efforts in the fight against malaria.
UP Scientists Crack the Rhino Code
Ivainashe E. Nyamutsamba
On 14 August, the University of Pretoria’s scientists from the Faculty of Veterinary Science demonstrated that the pulse oximeter can be used more effectively to monitor the blood oxygen levels of the endangered rhinoceros while it is under anaesthesia and immobilised.
According to Healthline, pulse oximetry is a “noninvasive test that measures the oxygen saturation level of your blood”. It can quickly identify minor changes in oxygen levels. These levels indicate how well blood is able to carry oxygen to the limbs and other areas furthest from the heart.
The use of a pulse oximeter is a response to protecting rhinos from poachers. According to Rhinos.org, just over 15 000 rhinoceroses remain in South Africa and just under 10 000 rhinos have fallen prey to poaching since 2007. During dehorning or relocation, the mammal needs to be immobilised, and its lungs and heart may not respond well to the potent immobilising drugs. Dr Thembeka Mtetwa explained, “The drugs can negatively affect the cardio-respiratory function of the rhino. This can cause blood oxygen to drop to dangerously low levels.” Thus, monitoring the fluctuating levels is critical for making important decisions such as whether to administer medication to stimulate breathing or to give oxygen to the rhino.
A team of UP’s veterinary scientists were faced with the challenge of identifying a reliable means of monitoring the mammals' blood oxygen levels. This team consisted of Dr Mtetwa, Prof. Leith Meyer (a wildlife vet and physiologist), experimental physiologist Prof. Ned Snelling, wildlife vet Dr Peter Buss of SANParks, wildlife veterinarian Dr Annette Roug, and ecophysiologist Dr Ashleigh Donaldson. They tested the reliability of different pulse oximeters at various attachment points on the body of an immobilised rhino and discovered that the rhino’s third eyelid is an efficient, reliable site to attach the pulse oximeter.
Dr Mtetwa stated, “The third eyelid is a crescent-shaped fold of the outer eye structure which forms a thin, semi-transparent ‘blinking’ membrane over the rhino’s eye.” The UP scientists explained that, in humans, the third eyelid is the little, barely noticeable pink structure snuggled in the corner of the eye; it is vestigial and has no function. They further indicated, “In rhinos, it is much larger, and it contains lots of small blood vessels. It’s also quite noticeable in dogs, cats, and other animals. It functions to protect and clear the eye of foreign bodies when it closes, and to help keep the eye moist.”
Prof. Meyer was the one to come up with the unique idea to test the feasibility of placing the pulse oximeter on the third eyelid. Prof. Meyer explained, “The colour, moisture, and capillary refill time of the external mucous membranes of the body are good indicators of hydration, circulation, and the overall health of the animal, and are typically good sites to place a pulse oximeter probe.” Prof. Snelling added, “The great thing about the rhino’s third eyelid is that it is relatively thin. It has lots of blood vessels close to the surface, and it’s easy for vets and vet nurses to access it.”
Before the latest veterinary innovation, scientists and vets would monitor the blood oxygen levels of immobilised rhinos with blood gas analysers and pulse oximeters – which are designed for humans, not for rhinos – without any certainty of their reliability. Dr Mtetwa expressed that the pulse oximeter provides a real-time reading of the oxygen levels in the blood of the endangered mammal.
Jason Visser
Visual: Kerri-Anne Swanepoel
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Visual: Boikgantsho Songo
Underconsumption Core
Kyra Erwee
We are all just chronically online material girls searching for our next source of retail serotonin. And who can blame us when we could get anything we want at the click of a button?
The possibilities are endless and so are our imaginations. From phone sterilisation devices to oversized water bottles, we are living the dream! Not to mention that we have never looked better. Platforms such as Shein and Temu have given us the opportunity to quickly and effectively search for items, skipping the tedious process of endlessly searching aisles in stores to find them. It is difficult to deny the element of convenience attached to these platforms.
Social media apps such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube go hand-in-hand with these online retail stores. As soon as something
goes viral, you can almost guarantee that you will find it on your feed. We live for these trends. The satisfaction of owning a viral item compares to few other feelings. We would rather settle for quantity over quality any day of the week if it means that we can own a status symbol. Even if you are certain that you are not easily influenced, the algorithm within these apps will do anything to convince you otherwise. An item will flood your feed until you have been convinced that you cannot live without it. And thus, a massive problem arises. Trends come and go much faster than in the past, and the need to keep up with these trends has caused a catastrophic consumer ripple effect.
According to the news Business Insider, social media has created a culture of overconsumption. We are taught that in order to be happy or successful, we
need to keep buying new things. The truth of the matter is that you do not need a R1 000 water bottle in order to drink water, or 16 different pairs of leggings to be able to exercise. Shein alone is responsible for 6.3 million tons of CO2 emissions per year. The brand also consumes an astonishing 7 billion cubic metres of water every year in order to produce their items. This is not to mention the amount of waste that overconsumption causes when we throw out the clothes we do not see as “trendy” anymore.
However, there has been a noticeable shift in the collective mindset of consumers. An antioverconsumption movement has been taking over TikTok. Thousands of #De-influencing, #UnderconsumptionCore, and #minimalist videos with millions of views are convincing viewers that less is actually more. Vogue Business said that the anti-overconsumption movement stems from the fact that people have realised that material items do not make us happier. If something is good for the planet, it will also be good for our mental health. Thus, if we buy less and more mindfully, we should become happier.
More influencers are focusing on brands that are sustainable, locally made, and will last a lifetime. The #WhatsInMyBag trend has taken social media by storm, with various celebrities and influencers showcasing their minimalist lifestyles to viewers.
Joseph Merz, the chairman of the Merz Institute and senior fellow at the Global Evergreening Alliance, says that human behaviour is at the root of the global environmental crisis, and what better way to combat this behaviour than by targeting it at its core through social media. Consumers are breaking their shopping addictions and leaning towards things such as “capsule wardrobes”, which consist of a few quality items that will last longer than a single season. The American magazine In These Times calls anti-overconsumption this season’s “hottest trend”. The fact that various multi-millionaire influencers are saying “no” to expensive products is encouraging the middle class to follow suit.
Of course, the #De-Influencing influencers will not be able to put a stop to overconsumption on their own, but they can start a brilliant movement. By teaching the younger generations that one can buy more consciously, the financial and emotional stress of keeping up with the latest viral trends can be minimised.
One can only hope that “Underconsumption Core” will be the norm for social media users in the future, but as it stands, the future looks promising. Let us all consume consciously together!
The 4B movement: Misandry or miscommunication?
In recent years, the 4B movement has gained traction in certain online spaces, sparking debates globally about its principles and intentions. It is hard to avoid its reach on social media. A video of a woman being left at the altar, and a comment screams, “This is why South Korean women are right!”; another woman tragically killed due to a gender-based violence attack followed by calls for the “4B movement!”; or even a group of women dancing and singing along to some music – “this is why I support the 4b movement, they look so happy.” You will not scroll away quickly enough without seeing “misandry!” thrown in response to those commenters. This dynamic has raised some questions about the true driving force behind this movement: hatred of men or protection of women? Misandry or miscommunication?
The 4B movement originated in South Korea in the late 2010s with YouTubers Jung Se-young and Baeck Ha-na. It is rooted in resistance to patriarchal structures and the historical oppression of women. However, as its message spread, it has been met with varying interpretations, some viewing it as an empowering feminist stance, while others label it as a form of misandry – an unjust rejection of men altogether. But is this radical feminist movement truly about enacting animosity towards men, or is there a deeper miscommunication that needs to be addressed?
The 4B movement’s name comes from four Korean words, each beginning with "B", representing the pillars of the movement: Bi-hon (no marriage), Bi-chool-sanak (no childbirth), Bi-yeonae (no dating), and Bi-seong-sangsig (no heterosexual relationships). Its foundation lies in rejecting patriarchal norms and resisting societal pressures that prioritise male dominance.
By promoting independence, the movement encourages women to focus on their personal wellbeing, free from traditional expectations of womanhood tied to marriage, motherhood, and male validation. What started as a boycott against misogyny has turned into a worldwide ideology that has brought along real-world effects.
As the 4B movement continues to grow, its impact is increasingly felt in South Korean society. Birth rates have declined sharply, and marriage rates are at an all-time low, reflecting the movement’s influence on younger generations of women. According to the World Population Review, South Korea has the second lowest fertility rate in the world at 0.72. Many are choosing to prioritise careers, personal development, and financial independence over traditional family structures. This shift has raised concerns about the future of South Korea’s population growth and the societal implications of a generation that is rejecting long-held cultural norms.
Beyond Korea, the movement has sparked conversations globally, with women in other countries reevaluating their own roles within patriarchal systems. While some people view the 4B movement as an extreme form of feminism, others argue that it is a necessary disruption to long-standing structures that have historically disadvantaged women. It has also been sensationalised in the way that most viral topics of discussion often are. The movement highlights the complexities of modern gender politics, where the fight for autonomy and equality is often misconstrued as an attack on men. This might resonate particularly with South African women who grapple with that harsh reality of GBV daily. Online forums and communities have offered women the opportunity to find support, but whether the 4B movement is being
adopted in any other parts of the world or not, women still have the lower hand. Femicide is still an issue and threat, GBV is still rampant and unfortunately, many of the issues women face cannot be solved by their decision to stay away from men.
It is clear that the 4B movement has forced a reevaluation of the pressures women face and the sacrifices often demanded of them in traditional relationships. Whether it is misandry or miscommunication depends on one’s perspective. For some, it is a radical and much-needed stance; for others, it appears to foster division. Ultimately, the movement reflects the growing global tension between evolving feminist ideologies (in a social media landscape wherein one can garner support and find likeminded individuals within minutes) and the traditional norms that have governed gender relations for generations and are being restructured by younger generations constantly. The debate surrounding 4B offers
Visual: Noluthando Ngwenya
Vuyiswa Fumba
a window into the broader cultural shifts at play and leaves us questioning how society can move forward while addressing the needs and rights of all genders.
Visual: Sourced
Study Hacks
How to Ace the Semester Without Losing Your Mind
Mashapa Ramokofi
Exams are looming, stress levels are rising, and it feels like there is just not enough coffee in the world to get you through this. The second semester tends to zoom by faster than a TikTok trend, and no matter how hard we try, sometimes it seems like we will never be able to catch up. You blink once, and it is already exam season. But fear not, fellow students! We have compiled a list of study hacks that will help you ace your exams without losing your sanity (hopefully). From quirky study methods to practical tips, PDBY has got you covered with this handy guide.
1. Break it down
First up, let us talk about your strategies. Cramming an entire semester’s worth of information into one night? That is a oneway ticket to Stressville. Instead, break your study material down into bite-sized chunks. Try the Pomodoro Technique: study for 25 minutes, and then take a 5-minute break. Rinse and repeat this until all of your work is finished. You will be amazed at how much you retain and how less frazzled you feel.
2. Teach what you have learnt
They say the best way to learn is to teach, so grab a friend, family member, or even your plant, and explain the material like you are the professor. This will not only help to cement your knowledge, but also reveal any gaps in your understanding. Plus, your plant gets to learn something new!
3. Create a study playlist
Music can be your best study buddy. Try creating a playlist of instrumental music or lo-fi beats to help you stay focused on your work. Try to steer clear of songs with lyrics – they can be just as distracting as a group chat blowing up. Think of lo-fi beats, classical music, jazz, or even ambient sounds as the background score to the film of your life.
4. Visualise with mind maps
If you are a visual learner, mind maps are your secret weapon. Start with a topic’s central idea and branch out with related concepts, facts and figures. This colourful, visual approach not only makes studying more fun but also helps you to see the
connections between different topics. It is time to unleash your inner artist!
5. Snack smart
Our brains need fuel while we study, so be sure to snack wisely. Rather opt for brain-boosting foods like nuts, berries, dark chocolate, and yogurt. Make sure that you stay hydrated by drinking water and keep your caffeine consumption in check to avoid energy crashes. Remember, a healthy body equals a happy brain.
6. Mix up your study spots
Do you feel like you are stuck in the same old study spot time after time? Mix it up! Whether it is the library, a cosy café, or a sunny park, a change of scenery can boost your motivation and memory retention. Plus, it is an excuse to explore some new corners of campus.
7. Use apps and online resources
Let technology be your friend. Flashcard apps like Anki or Quizlet can help you memorise key concepts, while apps like Forest encourage you to stay off your phone and focus. Websites like Khan Academy and Coursera offer free tutorials on just about anything you may need to learn.
8. Form a study group
Studying with friends can be both productive and fun. Form a study group with your classmates and divide the topics among yourselves. Each person can become an expert in one area and then teach it to the rest of the group. Just make sure to stay on topic and avoid turning your study session into a social hour.
9. Prioritise sleep
All-nighters might seem heroic, but they are really just sleepdeprived disasters waiting to happen. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep every night to ensure that your brain is functioning at its absolute best. Good sleep improves your memory, problem-solving skills, and overall cognitive function.
10. Stay positive and take breaks
Lastly, remember to maintain a positive attitude. It is easy to get bogged down by stress and negativity, but maintaining a positive mindset can boost your motivation and productivity. Do not forget to take regular breaks to relax and recharge your batteries. Go for a walk, meditate, or do something you enjoy.
Exams do not have to be a nightmare. By incorporating these study hacks into your learning routine, you will find yourself in a situation where you are more prepared and less stressed. Remember, it is all about working smarter, not harder. Good luck, and may the grades be ever in your favour!
Pretoria for the Sober
Sivenathi
Not all of us are drinkers. For many different, valid reasons, some of us just do not like or do not want to drink alcohol. For others, we might like to have some from time to time, but we would also be equally as happy doing something fun without getting drunk. Despite misconceptions that some people may have,
not all sober activities are boring. There are a multitude of things that you can do that are just as fun, or perhaps even better, than getting drunk and grooving, especially here in Pretoria.
1. Lace up your ice skates
Ice skating, the sport of winter kings and queens, is the perfect idea for anyone who enjoys a little chill in their bones and does not mind falling onto hard ice if they stumble. Unless, of course, you are good enough that falling is not a problem. For those of us who are not very good skaters, the only way to get better is through practice. The ice rink at The Grove Mall is the perfect place for you to learn the art of not falling flat on your face.
2. Perform a great escape
For mystery lovers and anyone who has ever wanted to test their ability
to solve puzzles, Just Breakout is home. Located on 285 Lynnwood Road, you can escape a crazy scientist’s lab or a World War II-styled prison as an intelligence officer for R250 per person. Sounds a bit too expensive? Well, the prices get cheaper when a larger number of people come in a group. A full group of six is R210 per person, with R20 discounts being offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays. So gather as many of your smartest friends as you can and test your ability to solve puzzles and riddles.
3. Do some bouncing
Are you in the mood to jump? Well then, Bounce Inc. is the perfect place for you! The ultimate bouncy castle awaits you in Menlyn Maine. Filled with activities such as Slam Dunk, Dodgeball, X-Race and more, there is no better place to set your inner child free.
4. Go on a picnic
A cheap and relatively easy idea for you and your friends is picnicking. Put your money together to buy some food and drinks to share, bring blankets, and you have everything you need for a perfect day. Well, almost everything. The thing about picnics is finding the perfect place to have it. Pretoria has plenty of parks and natural landscapes that would make for the perfect, picturesque backdrop for a picnic. For bird lovers, you could go to the Austin Roberts
for amazing photographs. The Pretoria National Botanical Gardens is also a beautiful, viable option.
5. Binge-eat at the Hazel Food Market
If you like eating and have a Saturday morning free, the Hazel Food Market is the best place to go. It is the perfect place for food lovers who want to try out new things. It is open every Saturday from 08:00 to 14:00, and is located at 378 Queens Crescent in Lynnwood. It is perfect for anyone looking for a meal, a snack, or even some arts and crafts. Is there any better way to start a Saturday morning?
6. Join a drum circle
What better way is there than to end a Saturday after the food market with a drum circle? Across from a Q4 Garage on Garsfontein and Tierpoort roads, you can join in on the beat for free at Klitsgras Drumming. They are open every second Saturday from 16:00. No drum? No problem! You can rent one to join in, or buy yourself some pizza and sit around the fire to listen. And if the cosy, warm atmosphere makes you sleepy, you can always camp there for the night for free.
Visual: Rayna Naidoo
Makhanda
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Bird Sanctuary. Jan Cilliers Park is the perfect place for nature lovers, and it would make
I Always thought end up with you,
To the handsome brunette man who walked past the law library twice on friday the 30th (late afternoon). You were wearing a dark blue button down shirt, a chino and glasses (i think). Sir, I nearly fell out of my chair, you look like a disney prince. Suddenly I believe in love at first sight (this is me proposing btw)
To the Indian guy in my krm 120 class who sits at the back and wears shades, I think your name is shahir. I love how you always answer questions so wisely . I wish I were that smart . I heard you’re into planes. Can I ride yours? xx your secret admirer
To that tall guy with light brown curly hair in GLY163 and SWK122. I spotted you in Thuto 3-1 12 August at 18:28 wearing the Nike ACG, black jeans and black faded shirt. Sometimes you eat chocolate chip cookies outside of agricultural sciences, just wanna say you look like a snack ;)
Hey Brendan/Brenan ( idk how to spell your name), from PTO 101 and Eng 120 studying BA law, they said when life gives you lemons you make lemonade, I wish life could give me you Brendan so I can make Brenanade
To the Frk 121 lecturer (the lady) are you FIFO because you were first in my heart. Can you balance my sheets :)
To Brendan, studying Physiotherapy, are you spicy curry because you’re smokin’ hot! I don’t have any classes with you but I’ll jump the gate just so we could be together. Love your little butter chicken shwarma xxx
To Lesego, you’re in my PTO101 class and I always see you around the piazza carrying a water bottle. I wish I could be your water bottle and taste your lips every day ;)
To Liviwe doing civil engineering first year. The first time I saw you was in the eng 3 building. Ever since then my heart has belonged to you. If our souls ever meet , I would let them stay like that forever. I love you Liviwe. You’re the girl of my dreams.<3
To Lubanzi from College: Hi, it’s “the girl with purple glasses”. My heart skips a beat every time I see you on campus. I want to be the reason that you fall asleep every night with your phone in your hand and I want my words to be the first ones you read that make you smile every morning.
To the dark skinned tiny girl who studies Vet sciences from Nerina. From the day I saw you wearing your Man City jersey across Monastery, blue has never looked that good on anyone. Everyday is a count down to the next time I see you. I wish I could be your Premier league Cup so that you could win me four times in a row :)
To the tall dark and handsome guy in my wtw 238 class. I dream about your beautiful green eyes and the day they notice me. I often find myself not listening to the lecturer but staring at the cute legos on your leather backpack. Please notice me too. xoxo your next girlfriend
Hello UP student, this is a safe place to shoot your shot at people how you feel about them, hit on your crush or compliment other day. Anything positive, really. Try to be as detailed makes it easy for the person to identify themself. If both
To the girl I saw in grey sweatpants and a brown crop top with the gold butterfly necklace at McDonald’s on the 7th of August around 10 PM. I’ve never been one to believe in love at first sight, but when I saw you, your beautiful eyes caught my attention, and I watched you walk away to Studios@Burnett, wondering if I’d ever get the chance to see you again. If you’re reading this, I’d love to take you out for ice cream sometime—just two strangers sharing a moment, and maybe more.
Dear Hope, (the accounting science sniper) IF loving you is a crime, then I’m guilty for loving you, kindly sentence me to be your lover for life
to the handsome noodle head boy in all my 1st year law classes. I’ve been eyeing you since day one of orientation and I can’t resist anymore. your glasses mesmerise me, your arms put me in a coma and your hair gives me butterflies. i think your name is shakeel and i might be falling off you
To Jenna Parker in GES120, you are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen in my life. I see a thousand lifetimes of us together whenever I look into your crystal blue eyes… I’ve sat behind you a couple times, hopefully you notice me soon
Diso I know I rejected you when you said you liked me but I wasn’t in the right headspace. I thought you deserved a better man than me but I was wrong. I feel embarrassed right now but will you give me another chance? Big Daddy J
To Prof Gruner in Comp Sci. You make me go Geeky like my name is Gerald. You are the Turing to my Church. From Quack the Duck
To Devaj , would you like to be my *statistically* significant other? I’ve seen you around and you’re hella cute. You’re so tall I just want to climb you like a tree ;) Please notice me!!
To the Korean gentleman who always wears a cap and graces my WTW 146 and 148 classes with his presence, my heart quickens its pace with each glimpse of your captivating visage and enchanting smile (proceeds to swoon while writing this).The dulcet tones of your voice stir butterflies within me, and I find myself eagerly anticipating those lectures simply to bask in the radiance of your being. Should you be single, seek out the caramel- skinned admirer whose gaze is always on you and be yours (wink wink).
Hey Jaden in chemical engineering. You once helped me with my MGC cad assignment. I did WTW with you and I had to fish for your name. I see you in SWK now. Boy I’m down bad for you. You look like you break hearts, come break mine and maybe my legs as well. Xoxo Girl down bad for you
thought i w0uld you, eventually
all those cute people you see around campus. Tell those compliment a person on that outfit they were wearing the detailed and creative as possible with your description so it both people agree, PDBY will arrange a meet up. this is you?
shootyourshot@pdby.co.za
To the pretty Indian girl in my GTS 161 MBY 161 lectures that’s always wearing different earrings and wears glasses and is always saying the answers out loud in GTS I could make you so happy you would be short of nothing and would live like the queen. You have ruined all other women for me -E
To Georgina in mechanical engineering. Your vibe is completely different to people I normally meet and I’ve met so many different perspectives and people with you. You are stuck in my head! Fortune favours the bold, so how about giving this dating thing a try?
To the current Social media and marketing for B.E.S.T Subhouse, you really look handsome and you smell so good. Your eyes make me wanna glance at you all the time. Wish we could meet one day when you take a break from your Architecture projects. I WANT TO BE ONE OF YOUR PROJECTS!!!
To Luyanda - the *cool* BCom Acc Sci student with the braces… You’re the best thing since sliced bread. I’d rather go blind than to see a world without your contagious smile. Also, I’ve said this before, but you’ve got great legs. I hope this is published in time for your birthday.
To the hottest guy in PAD 322 that wears the cleanest dunks, Thulani… I haven’t been able to get you out of my mind ever since I sat behind you in that lecture on unit 2. From your toned arms to your scent, I really can’t choose my favourite thing about you. If you ever see this, I’d like to take you out on a date! ;)
To Ponego Serepo doing Nursing ,you are very attractive and your beauty brightens my day.i always go crazy when I see you in Hatfield campus,I’m still building up my confidence to approach you just stay single for me please I’m coming.
I love you Thabang. The attractive man from Tuksfm. I’m so tired of our friendship. I need more. I am your more. Couple thina, jealous bona. Sekunzima ukuba umngani wakho. - N
Berno in 2nd year Accounting Sciences (Full government name and degree so you know I’m talking about you), you are the reason why I attend all my lectures. Whatever you’re doing in the gym, it’s working. You could turn your back on me and I’d still enjoy the view.
To Ethan Holliday in my OBS classes(with a tattoo that looks like city buildings on his right arm). You’re the reason I look forward to my classes everyday. I admire how quiet you are,it’s attractive. You look like a person who doesn’t like to be bothered, and so am I. But I want you to bother me for the rest of my life. And have a cute smile. P.s I think I like you... Admiring you from a distance
Dear Sukie, your copper hair awakens something in me. I could BS-See myself with you. Ek sal die tjops braai as jy die braaibroodjies maak.
To head tutor Armand, it’s me again…here is a riddle for you ;) “In a room where knowledge grows, I’m one of three, as the story goes. Blonde locks frame my curious mind, With green eyes that seek, you’ll find. In CMY 127, where the elements brew, Guess who I am—I’m right in front of you.”
Mia Vermeulen from BUY 320, the only simulation I want to run is a date with you.
To the STK 123 tutor, Kyle, you are the most beautiful man i’ve ever laid eyes on. I’m going to need a lot of help this semester with stats. I wish I was your derivative so I could lie tangent to your curves. See you in the next class because I know I’m not going to be able te keep my eyes off you. xxx
To Gerlo in my WTW389 class with the cheesy tabby cat hair & nose piercing. I’ve got the biggest crush on you, but a man so hot is scary to approach. Is there a vacancy for the job of your girlfriend. I’m over qualified. And being a simp is a full job. (P.s. I love how you smell like Dettol).
Dear Ethan Borrageiro, You were in my MLB 111 tutorial. You’re the hottest thing I’ve ever laid eyes on, and I can’t look away.If you are reading this,know that someone can’t resist your flame.
I have seen you in my GTS 161 group 2. Please come to class. You are motivation to come to class.
-Yours secretly
to karma in first year act sci, when I think about our first kiss 6 months ago, I realise that I will never stop loving you. be my chammak challo and I’ll feed you pasta and lobster at our desi wedding. I love you baby
Do you have a manual because I would like to read you Daniel
(To Daniel from SLK 110 tut)
To the Blonde Guy in WTW 220 (prim of Dregeana), I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but every time you walk into class, my heart skips a beat. There’s something about the way the sunlight catches your blonde hair that makes it impossible to look away. I find myself waiting for the moment you walk in, just to see that smile that lights up the room. Until then, just know that someone in this class can’t stop thinking about you. Maybe you’ve noticed the way I glance your way, or maybe I’m just another face in the crowd to you. But if you ever feel a curious gaze from across the room, it’s probably me, silently hoping for a moment to catch your attention. And I know you might have a girl but I am down for a threesome. -D
To Ryan, The first year in Invicta.I saw you at a social at the beginning of this year and to this day I still think about you.I always see you with that coloured boy and I’m always too shy to approach :3 “Can’t take my eyes off of you”. I’ll see you soon ;) #needthat
Lentedag: Loading…
Danielle Yeatman
Semester two is serious business. After their time of relaxation, students return once more to find their educational groove in the lecture halls of the University of Pretoria. The sun begins to appear again after the cold exam season, and chilly mornings and warmer afternoons leave students sighing as they put on their sweaters for early morning classes because they know that it will have to be carried around in their hands for the rest of the day. With the rising of the sun, students’ minds begin to wander to the Pretoria Botanical Gardens. The lush green grass, the cold beers and bar lines, the bus rides, and the comforting presence or the comfort of friends that overestimated themselves at the pre-drinks. A student’s mind begins to wander towards Spring Day, the day of Lentedag.
Lentedag has wiggled its way into the heart of UP, with the event’s first coverage appearing in a 1940 edition of PDBY. While it may have undergone tremendous changes since the days of wholesome games and light snacks, its core remains the same. This event still marks the beginning of spring, where students come together to cause mischief and burn in the sun. One would never know the work that goes into an event that runs so smoothly, a well-oiled machine producing drunken memories and beautifully disastrous dancing. To understand what goes into creating a student’s day in the sun is to fall in love
with it all over again. That is why PDBY sat down with Hein Booysen, the head of the student committee behind Lentedag, to hear about the time, energy, work, and laughter that goes into making Lentedag what it is.
Lentedag will open its doors to students on 18 September at the Pretoria Botanical Gardens after roughly seven months of planning. February and March were the team’s months of brainstorming, as the enthusiastic creatives gathered around a table to share ideas. Fast-forward nearly five months, and phase one is in action: ticket sales.
Lentedag is an event for the students, run by the students, as the first-years within the committee take their rightful place behind the ticket sales table. Convincing students to stand behind a table and sell tickets after lectures is a challenging feat. Booysen explains the challenge of releasing the inner entrepreneurs of students who would rather be working on assignments or gallivanting with their friends. “The secret ingredient to running an event is teamwork, keeping the tradition alive.” Booysen explains that while a sense of unity and camaraderie is important, money and compensation do make the world go round. There is an element of compensation within the sales, as the youngsters work towards their own Express Pass for the bar on the day. They gaze longingly at the veterans of the committee, who spend the day unwinding in a VIP area with free drinks and a view. But these youngsters look on in admiration, not in anger, as they know that the day will come when they too will be able to spill a drink without
hurting their budget.
Booysen recounts the darker days of Lentedag’s existence. After the Covid-19 pandemic, the committee was disheartened to find out that most of the students roaming campus were not only uninterested in this glorious event, but many seemed unaware of its existence. The idea that Lentedag could be unpopular seems foreign to those who have stood among the crowd watching South Africa’s finest up on the stage. But this is true. “People did not know what it was,” Booysen explains.
“We were selling about 30 tickets a day. Trying to make it relevant again was difficult.”
But the committee did not walk away in defeat. They faced the challenge head-on, rallying the group and putting their pride aside in the name of Lentedag.
In the true fashion of our generation, they turned to social media. “Promotion videos, giveaways on social media – these were all a big help.” Booysen, a veteran who has earned his place in the gloriously dishonourable VIP section, looks back on a promotion video he and his fellow comrades created with Droomsindroom at a busy Pretoria gym. “Doing that promotion video sober, swinging my shirt around in a crowded gym, was the most difficult thing about it all.” The one who accepts embarrassment in the name of Lentedag is the one who embodies the spirit of Lentedag. This, of course, was aided by the committee’s ability to lean into mischievousness. “We tried to create a large presence on campus with our speakers and stalls. We were being chased away by security just to come back and do it all again.”
As a veteran, Booysen shared some tips for the newcomers who will be experiencing the love of Lentedag for the first time. He gazes fondly as he begins with his wise instructions:
1. Get a lot of alcohol [from the bar] before getting a table and hanging out with your friends.
2. After a beer or two, begin with the main stage to settle in and get tipsy.
3. Then move to the hip hop stage to pick up the pace before heading off to the techno stage when you are in full swing.
4. When you start to get tired grab some food and restock the alcohol. Do not be dumb, eating is not cheating.
5. Then end the day at the main stage.
Readers can expect future articles to appear in preparation for the big day, but these instructions should remain clear. Scan over them during pres and trust the wise Booysen when he tells you to wear sunblock, pace yourself, and leave your white sneakers at home.
And so it begins; the clock is ticking down towards the student event of the year. For those fools who have yet to secure their place among the trees and the leaves, it is advised to stop by the painted wall next to the piazza for a fun chat and a ticket. Keep your eye on PDBY’s social media, as you could stand a chance to win a free ticket to the event of the season.
The L-Word Decoded: Part Two
Domonique Bennetts
Girls loving girls who identify as lesbians. Well, good luck, Babe! Even in the progressive 21st century, the L-word still carries baggage. As mentioned in the previous edition, identifying as a lesbian opens a can of worms just from the word’s connotations. Navigating life as a member of the queer community is tricky. There are the patent labels and their latent associations. Then comes the daunting dive into identifying as a label. The last thing is the unboxing of each label to reveal a complex haul of bold flags, fitting pronouns, and communities within communities. To get to the Pride of the matter, one needs to cut through all of the red tape of harmful stereotypes that are sticky enough to taint all of the goodness inside it. Here are some more powerful women taking the stage to give a new voice to what being a lesbian means.
Singer-songwriter and producer Girl in Red wonderfully represents the healthiness of lesbian relationships. Her songs are love letters to the
women that both stole and broke her heart. She is a typical teenager navigating her way through the scary world of first loves and heartbreak. Her song “we fell in love in october” expresses her affectionate feelings towards “[her] girl”. It represents a love so sweet, so simple, and yet so meaningful. In contrast to this, “bad idea!” embodies a steamy young love affair. Girl in Red sings about intimate nights with her lover, taking pride in her sexuality. She owns it.
While Girl in Red can be rather arousing, she avoids the typical inappropriate sexual exploitation of lesbians. Her music embodies a sense of innocent fun. She represents the balance that is often missed when portraying lesbian relationships, which have often been viewed through blinkers. Girl in Red shows that there is space for both the innocent butterflies and steamy fun, and she breaks the binary stereotype that there is always a “man” and a “woman” in a lesbian relationship. This binary notion holds two problems: firstly, lesbians do not fit into set gendered boxes such as butch or femme, and
secondly, there is always room in relationships to be individuals, not mirrors of heteronormative relationships. Girl in Red highlights her capacity to show attraction in both stereotypically male and female ways. She conveys sensitive, feminine feelings as well as the deep desires often associated with men. Just as any individual, her desires move on a spectrum.
Then there is the current top of the pops –Billie Eilish and Chappell Roan. Eilish’s track “Lunch” had fans dropping their jaws with its breathtakingly sexual lyrics. While notorious for her expressive lyrics and style, she has never produced something quite like this before. One cannot help but sing along. Eilish makes it crystal clear that what she desires is a steamy “lunch” with a woman whom she is confidently and passionately attracted to. Similarly, Roan’s “Good Luck, Babe!” is just as powerful as she expresses her experience in a lesbian relationship with a partner who is unwilling to accept her own sexuality. Roan accepts this and wishes her lover good luck as she knows that somewhere in her future, she will be yearning for liberation. This is an all too real experience for many, where queer individuals deny their sexuality and live in shame trying to “stop the feeling”, as Roan sings. The other side of “Good Luck, Babe!” shows Roan’s need for a relationship in which she is seen and acknowledged. She makes it clear that she deserves to be more than a “love affair”. Her lyrics show the longing for validation in lesbians, wanting their love to be acknowledged instead of hidden from society.
These women are breaking down ageold stereotypes and misconceptions. The public has seen many sides of Eilish’s persona, ranging from green hair and her somewhat macabre songs to her uplifting
young girls in the Barbie film with her song, “What Was I Made For?” Then she came out with “Hit Me Hard and Soft”. Eilish is clearly not fitting into any stereotypical category. Despite a few mentions of liking girls in interviews, she has not explicitly come out to define herself as a lesbian. Eilish is living her life according to her desires, unconcerned with trying to fit into any set box. For people like Eilish, “coming out” is not something that frames their identity, but this does not make her any less of a woman lover than Marielle Kraft or Brandi Carlile.
Roan, on the other hand, is very clearly diving right into her lesbian identity, which is also okay! There is no right or wrong when it comes to identification. Roan makes it clear that she wants to be acknowledged as a lesbian. Her attraction to women is something she highly values, and she does not want to be another woman's experimental gain. Here slides in another misconception when it comes to women loving women: often, women will experiment or just have a one-time attraction to another woman. This is absolutely fine; however, if the expectations of the relationship are not made clear, it can be harmful. The misconception is that it is okay to play around, and no one gets hurt. Roan makes it clear that this is not what she is signing up for. She is a lesbian who wants to be in a lesbian relationship, and it is something she is proud of. She takes her label seriously, which she has every right to do.
After listening to some of these sweet and steamy songs, the word “lesbian” can be viewed with more understanding and humanity. With more accurate representation, lesbian relationships can be given the respect and dignity they deserve. One lyric at a time, the word “lesbian” can start to be said and viewed with more pride.
Visuals: Lentedag
Visuals: Nicole Hagemann
Oh, the Drama! Why So Unsavoury?
Domonique Bennetts
Spend a day at the theatre, they said. It will be fun, they said. Newsflash: theatre is not for the faint-hearted. It can be a great way to escape reality, but the best of it is reality knocking down doors and entering abruptly with an itch to shake things up.
So what is the point of theatre if it is always heart-wrenchingly close to home? Turn the clock back over 2 000 years, and the Greeks have just birthed a new art form: Drama. Think of great names like Sophocles and Aeschylus who stood there creating a new world of performance. Derived from “I do” comes the Greek word for “act” or “deed”, getting to the action of Drama. They acted out rituals in celebration of gods and goddesses as ways to heal society. Comedies were for the people, something for everyone to laugh at. The tragedies were much more interesting. These were based on myths, gods, and goddesses that told tales of morality. A tragedy’s purpose was to show society how to live. If rules were broken, there were consequences, and this lesson was the very beginning of theatre changing the narrative.
So, what tough topics do the Greeks delve into? Well, how does murder and incest sound? Psychology students have undoubtedly become acquainted with the Oedipus complex against their wills.
Sophocles
In around 429 BC, Sophocles wrote The Theban Plays: Oedipus Rex, Oedipus at Colonus and Antigone. This tragic series follows the life of Oedipus, the King of Thebes, and his family.
Here is an Oedipus Rex crash course: Oedipus’s parents are told that he will grow up, he will murder his father, and he will sleep
with his mother, and so, they abandon him. Years later, Oedipus hears about this prophecy and runs away from who he believes are his birth parents. After skipping town, he has an argument with a traveller and then murders him before he arrives in Thebes, where he marries the queen. How was he to know the traveller was his biological father and the queen left behind, his mother? The events continue to unfold: Oedipus gouges his eyes out and puts himself in the naughty corner, while his mother goes somewhere she will never be reached.
What on Earth was Sophocles thinking when he wrote this? Well, The Theban Plays all touch on fate, the conflict between divine and civil law, and morality. The main lesson here (other than to not murder Dad and sleep with Mom) is to not run away from fate. The Greeks persistently believed that the gods controlled all that was happening. If one made them angry, there would be some serious consequences. So, in that context, the greater ill was going against a prophecy, and these tragedies aim to show what would happen if one defied the gods. Tragedies also pose questions about whether following free will is advisable. The last play, Antigone, gets even more interesting when it comes to questions of justice and the theme of civil versus divine law. One can assume that Sophocles wanted people to think about their actions and consequences by using some intense themes to get people to live correctly and to follow the path that the gods have set, or instead, to suffer.
Visual: Nothando Mhaule
Shakespeare
Fast-forward to where Shakespeare enters the stage with plays about monarchy and violence. Here is an unpopular opinion: his plays serve a purpose. Macbeth tells a story in which a power-hungry wife and her husband experience damning consequences on their bloody climb to tyranny. Then there is Titus Andronicus. Again, another overly ambitious queen who takes things a little too far and ends up unknowingly eating her sons baked in a pie! What is the point of all the bloodshed and violence? It is to try and avoid becoming so consumed with
power that it will inevitably breed insanity. Written at a time when tyranny was trending, Shakespeare was trying to point out why political leaders should exercise caution.
Protest theatre: The Island
These are just little teasers of modern Drama. Let us zoom into South African protest theatre. South Africa’s history of racial injustice and discrimination has given a rich context for playwrights to work with. The Island, written by Athol Fugard, Dr John Kani and Winston Ntshona, is set in a prison and follows the lives of two cellmates. The cellmates, John and Winston, are preparing for their performance of Sophocles’s Antigone. With that comes all of the themes of the Greek tragedy, such as the individual versus the state, and various ideas of freedom. Set in a discriminatory South Africa in an unnamed prison, clearly Robben Island, the plot goes much deeper than Ancient Greek values and morals. The Island shows the physical and psychological effects Apartheid has on political prisoners, with the existentialism John and Winston feel not knowing when they will be released. When John gets his release date, the story unravels, facing the question of why they fought against the regime to begin with, and why they are experiencing this suffering. What happens when John returns to the real world, and Winston is left alone?
It is dramatic, heartbreaking and gut-wrenching. An active stand against injustice, which the audience is meant to take and then, as the Greeks said, do. The point of South African protest theatre is for audiences to leave the theatre so disgusted and moved by what they saw that they feel compelled to do something about it. Surely people could not possibly be living like Winston and John were, right? Along with inspiring the audience to do something, it gave hope to those suffering the injustices. It gave a platform for black actors such as Kani and Ntshona to have their voices heard. One can see that the roots of Drama lie within the themes of living just and moral lives, not only for the gods or divine laws, but for the rights of fellow people.
Yes, Drama can be incredibly unsavoury. Generally, people do not get an entertaining rush from murderers gouging their eyes out and prisoners being so isolated that they cannot even count the days. Theatre is meant to tip the scales and mobilise those in the comfortable seats to change the narrative. Be a dramatist – go out and do
Freeing Your Inner Child Through Indigenous Games
On 27 July, House Humanities decided to welcome students back to the second semester with a bang, and boy, did they deliver! They hosted a games day titled “Friends Like These 2.0”, where friends teamed up in groups of four to six. For a mere R50 sign-up fee, participants gained access to all games, entrance tickets, and a meal to wrap up the day. This was not just any games day; it was a nostalgic trip down memory lane with classic childhood games.
Planned and executed by Keamogetsoe Radingwane, the event kicked off with the Executive Committee members setting up the eventful day at the Rag Farm on Hillcrest campus. Teams arrived buzzing with excitement, ready to channel their inner children and secure a win. A few groups left before the games could begin, as setting up for the day was delayed. Luckily, those who stayed were in for a treat. Games for the day included a treasure hunt, Find the Letters, Riddle Me Up, Tug of War, Amatin, Maroundas, Drie Tottie, and Put Your Faith in a Friend
Most of these games brought about nostalgic memories, be it from recalling how long it would take them to get the games right as a child or remembering the childhood friends they once played these games with. At the start, teams were given score sheets to keep track of their record for the day. The games began with a treasure hunt where
teams had to split up and find all 26 letters of the alphabet. With these letters, the teams then had to find facilitators to get clues for the Riddle Me Up game. Participants had to guess the answer to the riddle based on the clues given and create the answer using the alphabet letters they had found.
Games such as Amatin and Maroundas were a fun form of cardio, as these tested everyone’s capability to multitask. In Amatin, one team has the ball and must eliminate each member of the opposing team within five minutes. The opposing team must duck the ball to avoid elimination while simultaneously using their feet to pick up flattened tins from the ground and dumping them into a box by jumping with the tins placed between their feet. Maroundas, much like an advanced game of hopscotch, had everyone leaping and bounding, truly testing their agility and coordination.
Drie Tottie is a perfect example of how people jump to conclusions. In this game, three sticks are placed in equal intervals. Both teams form one queue and each take turns to see who will jump the furthest from the last placed stick. Each time a member jumps the furthest, the stick intervals increase to make the competition tougher. Put Your Faith in a Friend, on the other hand, entailed two teams competing in an obstacle course. Two participants from each team were blindfolded, with one group member from each team guiding their team member through the obstacle course by giving them signals on how to maneuver. For there to be a winning team, remaining team members from either of
the competing teams had to reach the end of the obstacle course before the other team. Finally, Designer Mania was a fun game where teams had to duplicate an artwork design. Each team received the necessary material to design the artwork; however, they only had 30 seconds to look at the artwork and report back to their team on what they needed to do.
Each round had points, and at the end of the day, the teams with the highest scores won. However, everyone left the Rag Farm as a winner, as there were various winning categories ranging from being the most competitive to the most creative. Before the award ceremony, participants were served food. Girl dinner? Covered.
Awards were given as follows:Queen of Quests received a certificate for the most energetic team, while F is For Friends Who Do Fun Stuff Together won for the most creative team name. For the most outstanding team spirit, Glorious Victorious won. For the general games, Sister’s League won third place, Youngins won second place, and Tyrants were the stars of the day!
More prizes followed as Zone Fitness sponsored the event with merchandise such as gym bottles for the game day. Throughout the day, Red Bull kept everyone as busy as buzzing bees to make sure that all the competitors had wings to soar through every game with their energy drink sponsorship.
Karabo Moriri
Visuals:
Recipe for Success: Barack O’ Broccoli
Danielle Yeatman
Most students assumed that growing up would come with all those adult perks yearned for over the years. No more bedtimes, the freedom of going anywhere at any time, and no one nagging you to eat your vegetables. Well, like with most aspects of the adult world, get ready to be disappointed because PDBY is now here to nag you. Eat your vegetables! The life of a student requires an occasional healthy reboot after days of late nights, alcohol, caffeine, and fast food. Vegetables do not always have to be the bane of one’s existence, much like a night out on the town: it is what you make of it. This quick broccoli salad is the equivalent to preparing for a lousy night out only to spend the night at home with your bestscenario person by your side on the couch. Not only is the following day spent in bliss, but your body will be grateful for the healthy, wholesome adulting. Take it from a 23-yearold who still holds a grudge against salads, this one is not like the others.
Ingredients (serves 4-6):
For the salad:
1 head of broccoli (R25.00 for 1 head)
half cup of sun-dried tomatoes in oil
(R63.00 for 240 g)
half cup of red onion (+/- R6.00 for single
onion)
quarter cup of dried cranberries (R60.00 for double pack of mixed fruit and nuts)
quarter cup of almonds (included in pack of mixed fruit and nuts)
For the dressing:
half cup of mayonnaise (R40.00 for 750 g)
half cup of Greek yoghurt (R50.00 for 750 g)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (R35.00 for 375 ml)
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon maple syrup or sugar
Recipe:
Start by taking out a large mixing bowl and place it centre stage on the kitchen counter. Take your beautiful broccoli in your hands and drench it in water like an Instagram influencer who managed to find a waterfall. After you have dried the broccoli, take a sharp knife (or a blunt knife, if you want the challenge) and cut your broccoli into bite-size pieces. After you have completed the chopping of the tiny trees, realise you forgot to take out your big mixing bowl, sigh at yourself, and take out your mixing bowl. Place the chopped trees into the bowl.
Leave your trees to unwind for a moment as you take out your packet of mixed fruit and nuts. The recipe does not explicitly require you to
purchase this packet, as it will require you to take out certain nuts and fruits that crashed the party, but it is the cheaper alternative to purchasing an entire pack of almonds, cranberries, and seeds. After selecting your ideal mix, toast them on a small skillet for two minutes or until they start to brown. Alternatively, place them in the oven set on a low heat. If there is anything I have learnt from watching my mother cook over the years, it is that these bad boys sneak up on you. Never let your guard down. At first they refuse to toast, after which you become frustrated and turn up the heat or look down to scroll on Instagram for a few seconds at most. Then you look up and the rascals are burnt. Like a loving partner, be patient and attentive.
Next up is the dressing. In a small bowl, throw in your mayonnaise, yoghurt, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and a generous amount of black pepper. Take a whisk, pretend you are performing at a festival and mic drop into the sauce. Whisk and walk, whisk and walk. After whisking, gently place your sauce to the side. It is time to add the chopped onion, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, seeds, and dressing to your trees. Take your sundried tomatoes and cut them into small pieces with scissors, or a knife if you are a fancy pants, while repeatedly saying “Yes, Chef” as if Gordan Ramsey is leaning over your shoulder. Take your bowl and
toss. Shake it up like a girl dancing in the club after breaking up with her toxic boyfriend. Let loose and boogie.
Your masterpiece is now complete. A beautiful salad that will impress both your mother and your body. You are a precious soul, and your body deserves some fuel to keep it going. Remember to tell at least three people that you made and ate a salad; pretentiousness adds flavour.
The Bookworm’s Corner Animal Farm
The art of creating a literary piece, whether it be a novel, book, play, or poem, is no easy feat. To create a literary work that finds its place among the classics, resonating with individuals throughout decades of change, is the dream of those who put their thoughts to paper. British novelist and poet Eric Arthur Blair, better known as George Orwell, mastered the art of writing. With his vivid imagination, political gusto and wild wit, he went on to write in a way that captured the hearts and minds of his readers. This bookworm stumbled upon Orwell’s 1945 novel, Animal Farm, at the foolish age of 15. Much has changed in the last eight years of living, and while my hands have picked up that scribble-filled book time and again, I will never forget the laughter, rage and weeping that Orwell brought out in me when I first discovered that “all animals are equal, but some are more equal than others”.
Animal Farm is set in England on the Manor Farm run by Mr Jones. The reader is introduced to a group of farm animals who have spent their lives suffering as they work for the farmer under cruel conditions. The animals, refusing to spend another minute of their lives suffering with no hope, plan a revolution to take over the farm. Led by two pigs, Snowball and Napoleon, the animals succeed with their mission, chasing the farmers off the property. The animals, now free from the ownership and subjugation of the farmers, unite to create the Animal Farm, where all animals are equal
and every life matters. The animals decide to continue the work on the farm to provide for themselves, with weekly meetings where all those present have a say in future plans. The pigs, due to their superior intelligence, become the supervisors of the farm to ensure that all the animals experience the highest possible benefit for their labours.
As the novel progresses, Orwell vividly depicts the consequences of a power vacuum fueled by greed and corruption. The reader, unable to tear their eyes away from the pages, is forced to witness the all too known tale of hopeful souls being led astray by a leader filled with greed. The animals’ equality becomes the animals’ equity, as those who created the animals’ fundamental rights become fundamental farces, everything that they had once denounced.
Animal Farm is by no means a pleasant read. You will not close the book and let out a pleasant sigh of relief. The book was created to unsettle, and unsettle it does. By removing the element of humanness from these essentially human topics of politics, power, leadership, and submission, Orwell pries open the chest of humanity, laying bare the wicked ways that lie beneath.
Visual: Danielle Yeatman
Danielle Yeatman
Visual: Danielle Yeatman
Visual: Danielle Yeatman
ACROSS
1. Immune to death
6. Mountain where Zeus resides
7. Greek goddess of love
10. Prediction of a future event
12. Gift from the Greeks used to infiltrate Troy
15. Someone who thinks highly of themself and constantly seeks attention
16. Synonym for fate
DOWN
17. Opposite of a hero
18. Very admired and famous or spoken about
2. Line from a song
3. Solve the anagram for this famous rock song:
HYPER BASH MAIN DOO
4. Greek god of the seas
5. One-eyed monster
8. Mighty
9. Three-headed dog that guards the Underworld
11. Act of slaughtering or surrendering something as an offering to a deity
13. Mythology-based series Percy ___ by Rick Riordan
14. Married to Persephone
Visual: Jade Fabri
Karla van Dyk
Word Search: Greek Myths
Karla van Dyk
WEEKLY
HOROSCOPES
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19):
Telling everyone that you’re a new, reborn person does not make you a new, reborn person.
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18):
Take some time and actually heal that commitment wound.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20):
Reach out to your friends this week.
Aries (March 21 - April 19):
You can’t be everything to everyone. Pick a lane, even if just for a little while. Hold on to what matters, but be open to new possibilities
Taurus (April 20 - May 20):
You can’t be everything to everyone. Pick a lane, even if just for a little while.
APHRODITE APOLLO ARES ARIADNE ATHENA CHAOS CHARON DEMETER DIONYSUS EROS EURYDICE FATES FURIES HADES HELEN HERA HERMES ICARUS MEDUSA ORPHEUS PERSEPHONE POSEIDON ZEUS
Gemini (May 21 - June 20):
Your impulsive decisions are catching up to you. Slow down and think before you leap.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22):
Your side of the story is not always the correct one. Listen to people before you make them the villain.
Leo (July 23 - August 22):
Just because you should be living in the present does not mean that you shouldn’t think about your future.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22):
You deserve more than mediocrity.
Libra (September 23 - October 22):
The time will come where the sun shines on your face and all the bad things will just be a memory.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21):
Lingering on unnecessary details will not change anything.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21):
Be careful what you wish for. You might get what you want, but you won’t get it the way you want it.
Espresso, Sprinting, and Socialising The Pretoria Coffee Run
Daniel McAslin
Running is a sport which has sprung onto the student scene and quickly risen to the top of the social agenda. To better understand the fitness phenomenon, PDBY sat down with Amish Kooverjee, the founder of one of Pretoria’s most popular running clubs: The Coffee Run.
How did your running journey start?
I’ve been a sportsman my whole life, but running wasn’t ever first on the list. It only really started to form part of my life during Covid as a way to get out of the house and get some fresh air. I’m a very social person, so being allowed to see other people out running during the lockdown was a massive benefit. Also at that stage in my life, I was forced to stop playing cricket, and running was a way to keep in touch with my cricket friends.
And The Coffee Run itself?
As I mentioned, I was running with my cricket friends, and we started a Whatsapp group where we added people, planned a quick five [km] run, and grabbed a coffee afterwards. People started to add people, and the group started to grow. I started the Instagram page as a digital journal to look back on in a few years’ time, and suddenly it was bringing a bunch of new people to run with us. The Coffee Run just took off from there!
How often does the crew run? And what is the attendance like at the moment?
Why do you believe running has exploded amongst young adults in the last few years?
I think running used to only be associated with the older generation and running lost-distances – like the Comrades and full marathons. It was something that was seen as boring. The shift from that mindset really started in the way that social media portrays running [as] positive, young, and social. Whereas in the past partying and drinking were idolised, running has become a social space which people admire. As with me, Covid also played a massive role. It was all people could do to get out the house, and the lifestyle which was built continued postvirus.
Do you have any advice for people looking to get into running?
We run three times a week: Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The Wednesday evening run is our most popular – we have easily over 100 people weekly – and the Friday and Sunday runs get between 30 and 80 runners weekly.
#Iyachesa:
Varsity
football
kick-off & full-time
The football instalment of varsity sports brings the heat to university campuses across the country to warm up winter with sporting excellence and fan spirit.
The women’s tournament began on 26 July and concluded on 9 August, with UWC emerging as the Varsity Football champions. UP-TUKS played a 50/50 game in the group stages. Their first game against the then-reigningchamps, TUT, ended in a 1-2 defeat. However, the women held strong to play dominant games against WITS and CUT. UP-TUKS beat WITS for a 3-0 victory where Sbahle Ndlovu was named player of the match. The women’s matchup against NWU was tightly contested, and TUKS only lost by one goal. Unfortunately, that goal cost them their spot in the semi-finals. However, UP-TUKS went on to play a fired-up and dominant game against CUT in the playoffs to secure a 6-0 victory that secured them fifth place in the tournament as a whole.
On the men’s side, UP-TUKS are playing a phenomenal game, as they are currently at the top of the table amongst the eight contesting teams. At this point, the men have won three games, drawn one and lost none. Their first game took place at home against VUT. This opening game was highly contested, with UP-TUKS playing an up-in-the-air, Brazilian-style game against a grounded VUT. Ultimately, TUKS took the win with a goal in the 84th minute to set the tone for the competition ahead. The men in red and white secured a comfortable win over CUT, ended in a draw against NWU and most recently beat UFS. UP-TUKS have three more games to play and are in a strong position to make it to finals. Interestingly, the current runner-ups are their first challengers, VUT. Could the 2024 Men’s Varsity Football tournament be a full circle event for UP-TUKS? You will have to tune in to find out.
Just start! People are often scared that it’s fast and people will watch you running, but in reality it’s not a judgemental space. By starting and showing up regularly you’ll start to see immediate improvement and grow as a runner – both physically and socially.
For more information on The Coffee Run, check out their Instagram page: @running_to_coffee.
Winner’s Circle
The 2024 Summer Olympics hosted by France kept sport fans across the world glued to their screens from 26 July. This tournament became the centre of entertainment for many sport enthusiasts, patriots, and fans of Love Island. With the tournament concluding on 11 August, South Africa welcomes our Bombshells back home to tally up the medals and congratulate many of the stellar performances of our very own South African DNA. I mean RSA.
South Africa ranked 43rd on the medals table with two bronze medals, three silvers, and one gold. The two bronze medals were awarded to the men’s rugby sevens team and to Alan Hatherly for his performance in the men’s cross country mountain biking. For the silverware, UP alumna Tatjana Smith clinched the women’s 200 m breaststroke. In track and field, silver was also awarded to SA for the men’s 4 x 100 m relay and Jo-Ané van Dyk for the women’s javelin throw. South Africa’s single gold medal is courtesy of none other than Tatjana Smith, who announced her retirement after completing her events. What a way to round off her career! What a performance, and what pride UP has in celebrating the successful career of one of their very own alumni.
TuksSport Cultivates World-Class
On 28 July, a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) went viral, gaining 350 000 views. A user questioned, “Every second South African participant at these Olympics has University of Pretoria links. From rowing to rugby, hockey to athletics…. How is that varsity good at every sport?” Anyone keeping up with the Olympic Games would have noticed that many of the South African athletes are affiliated with UP, including standout Tatjana Smith, a UP and TuksSwim alumna who has won gold and silver medals. Smith is just one of many TuksSport affiliates who participated in the 2024 Olympic Games, which raises the question: how does TuksSport achieve such success?
According to the TuksSport website, the organisation has established itself as a leader in sports participation, management, and coaching. With over 30 sporting codes, TuksSport caters not only to elite athletes but also to club competitors and recreational participants. Their highperformance programme offers a comprehensive range of services, including scientific and medical support, sports testing, fitness training, technical and tactical expertise, injury management and sports psychology.
The TuksSport facilities are extensive, featuring several indoor facilities, including two gyms, a 12-metre heated pool, a gymnastics hall as well as spaces for judo, karate, taekwondo, and badminton. The outdoor facilities range from a 50-metre swimming pool and a 25-metre heated swimming pool at the HPC (High Performance Centre), to an archery range, basketball and netball courts as well as a beach volleyball court.
The impressive facilities at TuksSport contribute to the department’s competitive edge, striving for excellence both on and off the field. However, the foundation of TuksSport’s success extends beyond its tertiary-level offerings. The University of Pretoria also operates TuksSport High School, a co-ed institution for grades 8 to 12 located on the sports campus. This high school provides a unique environment for student athletes to pursue their sporting passions while receiving a quality education.
TuksSport High School develops independent learning skills, preparing students to transition to universitylevel sports at UP. Many successful high school athletes continue their journey at the university, having already embraced the competitive nature and discipline that TuksSport fosters.
In 2021, Steven Ball was appointed as TuksSport director. With early experiences that included intense athletic training and studies, Ball joined TuksSport in 2001 and has held various roles, culminating in his current position. Under his leadership, TuksSport has achieved significant success, including dominating Varsity Sport and USSA (University Sports South Africa) tournaments. In an interview, author Wilhelm de Swardt stated that it is becoming the norm for people to talk about UP when it comes to South Africa’s sporting success. Ball then credited this to the culture of playing for the “Stripe”, which comes with responsibility and having to learn to be competitive and conditioned. Ball continued by saying that the success in TuksSport comes with long, hard hours when no one is watching, and the goal for athletes when exiting the university should always be to leave the “Stripe” at a better place and higher level for the next generation.
TuksSport’s success is rooted in its top-notch facilities, comprehensive support programmes, and strong culture of excellence. Under Steven Ball’s leadership, TuksSport continues to excel both nationally and internationally, setting a high standard for developing talented athletes.
Relebogile Manana
Micaela Wathen
Micaela Wathen
Visual: Sourced
Visual: Sourced (Liam Burgess)
Sport
What happened to UPlympics?
Micaela Wathen
When it comes to sports there are few events at UP as iconic as UPlympics. Every year around April, student structures across UP’s campus lace up their shoes and dust off their pom poms in preparation for the largest internal sports event on Hillcrest campus. However, this year the student body will not grace the main Hillcrest stadium for UP’s Olympics-inspired event. No indigenous games. No online cycling tournament. No track and field or spirit competition. The question is why?
Key student life events, like Rag of Hope Day, were disrupted this year due to the initial striking by administrative staff at UP, which brought the university to a brief shutdown. It may have been easy to deduce that those earlier disruptions also caused delays in the planning and execution of UPlympics, but it seems this was not the case.
PDBY spoke to the chairperson of the Student Sport Committee, Reabetswe Pooe, to uncover why the beloved event has not been realised. Pooe explained, “The reason why UPlympics has not happened is because of finding a date suitable for it to take place. We had been given a date early in March but due to TuksAthletics stadium not being available, it had to be moved. A date thereafter was not suitable as it would’ve been outside the 2023/24 term or during the curtail time of elections.” So it is as simple as that, a scheduling conflict on a busy UP campus, which is more than common for student structures to experience.
Pooe expressed sadness at not being able to realise UPlympics this year. “It is devasting that UPlympics did not happen. We felt like we weren’t doing justice to the students in giving them a student life event. We, however, must remember that things are done via procedures. We frequently communicated with our manager to ensure that we do not overstep/skip steps in executing this event. We are sorry to our students at large.”
The committee was looking forward to furthering their commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in sporting events with UPlympics. This year, Student Sport featured goalball at both Rag of Hope Day and the Blazer Squad Tournament. Usually UPlympics features braille chess and indigenous games, making it both accessible to visually impaired students and culturally inclusive. Plans to further inclusive participation in UPlympics was also in the works, says Pooe. “We were planning on making it a more inclusive event in terms of having an ‘individuals’ team because for track and field events, we’d only take two [or] three students from a structure because of time constraints […]. This was all because we wanted to have more participants and include students that are UP registered but not in the known structures.”
While 2024 missed out on UPlympics, it was still filled with sport tournaments and internal leagues that surely satisfied the sport-inclined students of UP. A major thanks to the 2024 Student Sport Committee for its contributions to student life. We look forward to UPlympics in the year to come and to covering the 2025 champions.
