6 March 2021 Issue 1 Year 83

PDBY

6 March 2021

Year 83 | Issue 1

yourcampusnews.

First Year’s Edition 2021

Illustration: Marren McKay

P3

Safety around Hatfield

P15

A first year’s guide to the Uni-verse

P20

I! FREE WIF

064 549 1271

599 Francis Baard St.

061 523 1924

(Schoeman)

ARCADIA

Featured athlete: Sphe Nzula

2 | From the Editor

6 March 2021

Welcome to UP! Sort of?

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in the student experience as much as safely possible. We will return to campus one day, and we need to ensure student life still exists when that day comes.

On the note of being involved, PDBY is always looking for passionate students interested in journalism and joining a newspaper is an exciting jump into student culture and affairs. You can find an application poster to join PDBY in this edition, and you can apply via the links posted on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook at @PDBYMedia. PDBY is published every two weeks, and our social media platforms feature frequent online content, and all ten sections are open for applications (so don’t worry if you don’t write, in addition to news, features, entertainment and sport, you can also apply to copy, layout, visuals, multimedia, web or social media).

I may be blatantly self-marketing, but follow PDBY for independent, accurate and exclusive news, and stay involved in student life with your campus newspaper.

All the best for your first year at UP! Until next time,

Kayla Thomas Editor

Copy: CJ Barnard Nomzamo Xolly Maluleka Maryke Steynvaart Layout: Duane Kitching Kara Olivier Ngoako Ramokgopa Kirsten Minaar Multimedia: Vice Mkansi Promise Zulu Cletus Mulaudi Sanele Zulu Cassandra Eardely Elma Akob

Do you know of news PDBY should be reporting on?

Let us know on social media @pdbymedia!

SCAN ME

elcome First Years! (And weathered seniors like me). The academic year is officially starting, but in a way that is foreign to us all. The pandemic continues, and we begin the year in a strange mix of online learning, physical residences and ambiguous student life.

There’s a lot we don’t know and questions we have unanswered, but we still need to prepare for our respective degrees. While we may not know how the pandemic will continue or whether the entire year will be online or not, there are some aspects of

being a student that remain the same. And so, PDBY presents the First Year’s Edition, the first issue for 2021. In it you will find an extensive guide to being a UP student, and navigating the jungle of a tertiary institution.

You’re going to hear this a lot, but first year can be overwhelming, frightening and stressful, and it is a big jump from high school. But there are ways to ensure you minimise the stress, and maximise the enjoyment and success. In this edition of PDBY, you will find articles that seek to offer guidance on student life, and assist you in building a positive experience. This includes safety information, student societies to join, introductions to UP sports, meeting the SRC and some features on local and student artists and musicians. Student life is varied and broad, and PDBY hopes to offer students a diverse and engaging view into campus and student affairs. If you’d like to see something in PDBY that we haven’t covered, let us know at news@pdby.co.za or @PDBYMedia. We’d love to hear from you.

While we start the year in lockdown and away from our campuses, student life can and should continue. The various student societies and structures are all working to continue online and offer students as much access to student life as possible. I really encourage you to be involved and join societies, political parties, student groups and sports clubs, and really immerse yourself

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Letter policy PDBY appreciates that freedom of speech is an inalienable right enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic South Africa. We encourage our readers to engage in discussion and debate on issues that affect them through letters to the Editor, comments on our website, tweets, or posts on Facebook. We ask our readers to keep the following in mind: 1. PDBY will not edit letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts in any way.

2. PDBY will label letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts as opinion. These do not represent the views of PDBY in any way.

3. The PDBY editorial must approve letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts before they are published.

4. PDBY will not publish letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts that are defamatory, or libelous, or that contain offensive content.

5. PDBY reserves the right to practice discretion when publishing letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts.

6. PDBY reserves the right to publish any content we receive unless the sender specifically requests otherwise.

7. PDBY reserves the right to retract a letter, comment, tweet, or Facebook post after it has been published.

8. PDBY will not accept responsibility for any consequences the author of a letter, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts may experience as a result of the letter being published.

9. PDBY will only publish letters between 150 and 200 words.

10. PDBY will not publish letters unless the writer confirms their full name, student number and contact number. PDBY will not publish this information, we need it for our records.

Copyright PDBY is printed by Paarlmedia. All rights reserved. Contributions are welcome. All due care will be taken with materials submitted, but PDBY and printers cannot be held responsible for loss or damage. The editor reserves the right to edit, amend or alter in any way deemed necessary. PDBYcannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The opinions expressed in PDBY are not necessarily those of the editors and printers of PDBY.

9 March 2020

Your guide to safety on and off campus Funding Susanna Anbu

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his collection of information is intended to summarise the key safety and security services that students are offered by the University of Pretoria. Students are urged to practice vigilance and caution at all times to ensure the maintenance of their safety and security and are encouraged to make use of the available services, should they encounter a situation that could affect their safety.

The Green Route Project This is an initiative affiliated with UP, that aims to provide safe routes that students and staff can undertake during after-hours. The service allows students and staff to be accompanied by security personnel on foot, to and from residences, vehicles or any other nearby places, between 18:00-06:00. Students and staff can access this service by calling the 24-hour Operational Centre on 012 420 2310 / 2760 to arrange for an escort.

An alternative to calling the centre is to simply make your way to security officials on duty at the main gates of campus or residences to arrange for the escort. The different campuses affiliated with UP have different meeting points where this service is initiated, namely:

Campus Hatfield

Meeting Point In front of ABSA ATM next to the Merensky Library

Prinshof

In front of HW Snyman Building

Groenkloof

Between the Administration Building and the Auditorium

Kalafong

In front of the Klinikala Building

Onderstepoort

No specific meeting point, call 012 420 2310 / 2760

Mamelodi

No specific meeting point, call 012 420 2310 / 2760

24-hour Operational Management Centre This centre is situated in the administration building on the Hatfield campus. The centre is tasked to provide 24-hour services to students by responding to emergencies, initiating a rapid response to security breaches, and attending to any complaints or incidents directed to them. The 24-hour Operational Management Centre can be reached via 012 420 2310 or 012 420 2760.

UP Crisis Service This is a 24-hour service that offers professional and confidential support to victims of crime and trauma. The service includes providing support to students and staff experiencing family/personal relationship problems, study guidance, counselling in cases of suicide or attempted suicide, as well counselling following a criminal encounter. The service can be accessed on 0800 00 64 28.

General tips for spending a night out: Let a friend know where you will be going as well as what time to expect you back at your accommodation. Should you decide to walk back to your accommodation, do so in a group and opt to use well-lit, busy streets and main roads. Be prepared for the eventuality that your phone may run out of battery by carrying a portable battery pack. Ensure that your phone is fully charged and has adequate airtime and data. Set limits to how much alcohol you consume, as being in an inebriated state makes you prone to losing objects and provides an opportunity for individuals to

Emergency Telephone Numbers: 24 Hour UP Operational Manager Hatfield Campus - Brooklyn SAPS Groenkloof Campus - Sunnyside SAPS Medical Campus - Pretoria Central SAPS Onderstepoort - Pretoria North SAPS

Kalafong Campus - Atteridgeville SAPS Mamelodi Campus - Mamelodi East SAPS Ambulance Fire Brigade

Baby all through the night I’ll (safely) make love to you…

Kayla Thomas

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ex is fun, and most people do it.

University is an exciting introduction to freedom and independence, and part of this, for many students, involves sex and experimenting. But to keep it fun and beneficial to all parties involved, UP’s Centre for Sexualities, AIDS and Gender (CSA&G) encourages practicing ‘safer sex’, and remembering that no sex is “completely without risk”. To keep sex as safe (and as fun) as possible, students are encouraged to ensure safer sex through consent, communication, protection, hygiene and comfort. In 2021, safe sex also involves being familiar with your partner or partners, and protecting yourself and others against COVID-19.

Sexual Wellbeing explain that “being sexually active with another person involves some risk of COVID-19 transmission, especially as some people may have no symptoms while they are infectious”. Partners can consider “mutual masturbation or remote sexual activity as alternatives to physical sexual activity with partners” during the pandemic, as well as limiting sexual activity to partners in the same shared space. Sexual Wellbeing recommend avoiding sex with people outside your household or inner circle, and maintaining social distancing, hand washing and mask wearing to ensure your inner circle – and sexual partners – are as safe as possible.

The first step in any sexual exchange is consent. Sex without consent is rape, and consent cannot be given by minors, unconscious or asleep people or highly intoxicated people.

Safer sex occurs between consenting adults who can withdraw consent at any point before

steal valuables that you are carrying. Additionally, be prepared for the possibility of your drink getting spiked by not accepting drinks from strangers or leaving your drink unattended.

General security tips for ATM use: Ensure that the ATM you pick to withdraw money is situated in a well-lit and high traffic area. Be on the lookout for any suspicious individuals who may be loitering around the ATM. Always be cautious and sceptical of individuals who offer to help you at the ATM or create some sort of diversion, as this kind of behaviour is often followed by card swopping, hence ensure that the card that is returned to you from the ATM is legitimately yours. Following the completion of a transaction, refrain from counting the money on the spot as this again creates an opportune moment for criminals.

Security Tips for electronic devices: Do not leave cell phones, tablets, laptops, or any form of electronic devices unattended in any space. On campus, this is especially the case in libraries when students leave their belongings unattended or ask a stranger to watch over their belongings. Consider setting an alarm for electronic devices that are designed to go off when the laptop undergoes unexpected motion or is moved out of a specific location range or store them in less prominent places to not draw attention to them. Do not flash or hold out electronic devices in public places.

or during sexual acts. Ensuring all parties have consented and feel safe is crucial to enjoying healthy and safe sex. This is also part of the need for communication, and open and honest exchanges between sexual partners. The CSA&G explain that communication is crucial, especially regarding comfort and honesty about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Being sexually active means facing the risk of STIs (and now, COVID-19) and ensuring you protect yourself and your partners as much as possible. Being tested regularly and being honest about sexual partners is key to safer sex, and students can be tested for STIs by the Student Health Services on Hatfield, Groenkloof, Prinshof, Mamelodi and Onderstepoort Campuses, as well as receive testing and treatment at the CSA&G. Aside from abstinence, protection is the only method of preventing STIs such as HIV, herpes, chlamydia, HPV and others. But it is important to know the limitations to protection options.

The CSA&G reminds students that some forms of protection against pregnancy are not effective against STIs. While students may “block pregnancy, not everything is protected against”, and physical protection is still required for all sexual acts. All skin-to-skin acts, such as vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex, anal oral and group sex, are risks for STIs and should be made safer and more fun by using protection. There are many options, and the CSA&G emphasises finding a method that suits your preferences, and knowing the “level of risk” associated with each. For sex involving a penis, male condoms are the most common and accessible means of protection. They can be used for anal sex, oral sex with a penis and vaginal sex. Female condoms can also be used for vaginal sex, but the CSA&G emphasise that these should never be used at the same time as male condoms,

083 654 0476 012 366 1740 / 7 012 422 3696 012 353 4000 / 4223 012 353 5666 / 5600 012 373 8534 012 805 4041 10177 or 112 from a cell phone 10177 as friction can cause the condoms to break. For oral sex with a vagina or an anus, dental dams can be used (and condoms can be adapted for use as a dental dam). Drugs like PrEP can help prevent HIV transmission, and PEP can be used if you have been exposed to HIV to prevent infection. In addition to protection against STIs, people who menstruate should also ensure they are protected against unwanted pregnancies.

Contraceptive options students may consider include the oral pill, the implant, an IUD and the diaphragm.

Beyond consent, protection and contraceptives, personal hygiene is imperative to practicing safer sex. Good personal hygiene during and after sex ensures greater comfort for all parties, and protects you against health problems like urinary tract infections (UTIs).

This also includes using clean toys, unopened protection, and engaging in sexual acts in a clean environment. Hygienic sex also helps minimise the risk for STIs. However, the CSA&G warns students with vaginas to “only use water to clean”, as “over cleaning the vagina” can cause UTIs, candida, and uncomfortable sexual acts.

Ultimately, the comfort and pleasure of all parties is of utmost importance. Speaking openly about desires and concerns, using water-based lubricants (and not oil-based), openly consenting, honestly discussing kinks and fetishes and ensuring a clean and safe environment all contribute to the overall comfort and pleasure of parties during sex. The CSA&G credit safer sex to “comfort, pleasure and communication”, and being aware of the emotional and physical risks and associations of sex. Knowing what you want and understanding what partners want and how these can be combined into a mutually safe, beneficial and pleasurable experience are crucial when entering the sexually liberal space of university. Open communication, good hygiene, adequate protection and, above all, informed consent, will ensure you practice safe and fun sex, and look after your own needs and those of your partner or partners.

News | 3

opportunities for financial relief

Illustration: Giovanna Janos

Amukelani Makamu

T

uition fees and residence fees can be financially taxing. Thus, it is very important for students to look out for funding opportunities. Financial problems can lead to financial exclusion and for some students.

In some cases, it has led to academic exclusions as stress due to university fees and school related debt can lead to poor academic performance.

There are different funding opportunities from different organisations, made available for students who do not have the financial means to cover their tuition and residence fees.

Funding opportunities include:

University of Pretoria Financial Aid: The University of Pretoria has made available loans and bursaries that students can apply for on their student portal under the Financial Aid tab. For more information regarding bursaries administered by UP, students can email Elias Ntlhane on elias.ntlhane@up.ac.za as well as the Finance Department Senior Management Assistant, Lana Pieterse on lana.pieterse@up.ac. za.

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) : NSFAS is a public bursary made available to students who come from households with an income that does not exceed R350 000 per annum. NSFAS covers tuition fees, residence fees, book levies as well as student allowances.

For more information on NSFAS students should visit www.nsfas.org.za .

Bank Student Loans: Banks such as ABSA, Standard Bank, FNB and Nedbank offer student loans. Students that are interested can search for www.bankstudentloans.com for more information on student loans, or they can visit their nearest bank branch in order to get first hand help in applying for the student loan and for a bank assistant to better explain all possible terms and conditions aligned with the specific loan.

Students can also apply for the following funding opportunities: • Thuthuka Bursary Fund 2021 • Trust Fund Bursary 2021 • Funza Lushaka Bursary 2021 (mainly for Education Students) • Sasol Bursaries 2021 • SAICA Bursaries 2021 • De Beers Bursaries 2021 • Anglo Platinum Ltd Bursaries 2021 • Eskom Bursaries 2021 • Old Mutual Bursaries 2021 • National Youth Development Agency Bursaries 2021 • SARS Bursaries 2021 Information on these bursaries and other funding opportunities can be found at https:// zabusaries.com.

For more information regarding financial aid, students can contact the University of Pretoria Financial Aid Department on finaidquery@ up.ac.za. For urgent bursary matters students can also contact Setumisho Motlalepula from the Finance Department on motlalepula.setumisho@ up.ac.za .

4 | News

Meet UP’s political structures: an introduction for first years Amukelani Makamu and Susanna Anbu

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s an introduction to the services and initiatives offered by the political structures at UP, PDBY reached out to the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL), Democratic Alliance Student Organisation (DASO) and Economic Freedom Fighters Student Command (EFFSC). Answers for the ANCYL, DASO and EFFSC were supplied by Tarik Lalla, Resource Mobilizer for ANCYL; Chardonnay Arends, DASO Chairperson and Sthembiso Nkosi, EFF Vice Chairperson. The South Africa Student Congress (SASCO) is also a political structure at UP, but declined the offer of comment.

What initiatives and services are organised this year for first years?

DASO: As DASO, we intend to help students adjust from online learning back to contact learning (if it happens that way).

We also intend on implementing tutorials to familiarise first year students with the means of navigating their UP portal, and the updated Blackboard Learn site, by using video tutorials and an email that the students can contact should they experience any difficulty. DASO executive and senior members aim to be on call as liaisons between the SRC and the students. Within the DASO network that already exists, we intend to connect first years to current members that are in the same faculties that they are in.

EFFSC-UP: We will run programs to assist first years with adjusting to university especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that they do not suffer that much academically by assisting them to get the necessary exposure to the various support systems the institution has available for them and providing support to them, because they are our priority.

ANCYL: As an alliance partner of the Progressive Youth Alliance, as led by SASCO, along with the Young Communist League and Muslim Student Association, we have a number of events that we organise, e.g.

Save the Semester: Right to Learn Campaign.

Generally we form part of the progressive youth alliance. The initiatives that we are organising this year are spontaneous events that fit the need at that particular point in time. For example, Pad ride, this is where we get sanitary pads for students because we see that there is a need for that particular product. We collect the sanitary pads via donations and through that we allow ourselves to distribute the sanitary pads to students that are in need. Another campaign is ‘noodle driver’, we collect noodles and non-perishable food and then distribute it to students that are in need. But as a democratic organisation, we are open to encouraging new ideas from students, including first year students should they have any ideas.

Why should first years be encouraged to participate in political structures on campus?

DASO: Political structures seek to be an active means of advocating for the benefit of the students and one can only truly become a part of the output that is the benefit when they themselves actively participate.

Political involvement allows students to learn about the actual running of the university and gives them a foot in the door for student governance, which is crucial because a university is made up of students and so students should have a say in its running.

As DASO, we want no student to be left behind, and joining our political structure ensures that your voice will be heard, your energy captured and your

contributions to the greater goal valued.

EFFSC-UP: Politics in general affect each and every aspect of our lives, the COVID-19 pandemic serves to prove that because all of us, including those who are said to being apolitical, were affected and controlled by political decisions which were made by political leaders. So avoiding politics and pretending they do not exist is a foolish mistake to commit. It is important that political consciousness is cultivated from very young and early in our lives, so we can make the correct decisions when we must exercise our rights as citizens, one of which is to elect our leaders. So it is highly imperative for all students in all various years of study to not be clueless when it comes to politics and to be conscientised [sic] so that when they leave this institution with their degrees, they can be influential and responsible citizens who will build the country and move it forward.

ANCYL: Political structures are the backbone of student governance, because the fact that we need to have good leadership in our Day Houses, Faculty Houses, as well as the SRC, means that we need to have good leadership in our political formations. In saying that, political structures ensure that student leaders and student governance are in touch with the students and do not disconnect from the general student body.

Overall, I’d encourage first years to join political organisations, because then they will know that they are represented, that they have a voice. [...]

Of course political organisations give them a platform to present progressive and beneficial ideas that will impact the general student body positively. Participating in political organisations will give first year students the platform to protect their democracy.

How have you adapted your services and mode of operation to operate online?

DASO: We were well suited to operate in the midst of the pandemic as we already had a WhatsApp group with our members which we made use of as a means of communication. Members of our executive committee made use of Zoom to convene for meetings and our established social media channels have also served as mouthpieces during this time. All members are also willing and ready to share information and communicate with new members.

EFFSC-UP: Every year in January,

we have a program we run annually called Sizofunda Ngenkani, which aims to assist students both first years and seniors with the various issues which they have ranging from exclusions (financial and academic) to accommodation and others, and this year we did not have a choice except to move this program online through a means like WhatsApp; and it is proving to being quite effective as we are helping students more frequently and we are achieving our goals so moving forward we will see what transpires. Obviously however, we will look into exploring other alternative means of how we can be relevant and still serve students even though we have to do our operations and run our programs online, as it is the “new normal”.

ANCYL: We have adapted our

online platforms to be in line with our government, the mother body. For example, the ANCYL will work with SASCO and the Young Communist League online during the ‘Save Semester Campaign’ which usually runs for three weeks, through this campaign we are able to help students with mental health. This campaign

like many other campaigns during online learning will be run on all ANCYL social media platforms, eg. WhatsApp group chat. Last year, this initiative was relatively successful, therefore as [the] ANCYL we plan on being accessible via all our social media platforms during online learning. We also have structural processes put in place where students can contact certain individuals via email, WhatsApp and telephonically in relation to the issues that they face. Although we are ensuring that working online is [as] effective as possible, we must accept that working online is extremely challenging, because some students do not have access to Wi-Fi or the internet.

How can individuals stay up to date with information regarding the political party?

DASO: Individuals can stay up to date with political party information through our social media [platforms], Whatsapp groups or fellow members, as all these platforms are regularly updated and all members are willing and ready to share information and communicate with new members.

EFFSC-UP: The sure way is [to] primarily join a political party through contacting any of the leaders which are accessible.

In that way a student will be in the loop with what is happening and the information which is necessary and shared with all members. This is on top of following us on all the social media platforms we are available on.

ANCYL: Students can stay better informed about the ANCYL through our social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram, [and] especially by joining the ANCYL WhatsApp group. But students can also be better informed via the ANCYL WTT. Is there any form of advice you’d like to give first years?

DASO: Simple - to get help!

However big or small your issue is, there are people who have found themselves in the same predicaments and have prevailed. Get assistance, you’ll be better for it.

Additionally, get involved and have your say.

Make valuable connections because they carry you through some of the toughest times, which are inevitable. Never let anyone undermine you because you’re only a first year.

EFFSC-UP: To the first years, first

of all we sympathise with you for being denied the opportunity of experiencing university in all its greatness, however be not deterred by this. Secondly, is to make a clarion call to let them know that we are available for them and to help them. They must not panic or worry, they should just reach out to any of our leaders and they will get assistance. Thirdly, the unity amongst us as a people is of paramount importance. If we are not united and one, then the enemy will have a field day with us, we will self-destruct and it will be the end of us all. Let us be united and conquer together, because we can as the future of this nation willing and able to live the full manifestation of the dreams of those who came before us, enjoying the fruits of our freedom.

ANCYL: Students should enjoy what

they are studying, work as hard as they can and they should not be afraid to ask for help, because working in the collective is far easier than working as an individual. Students should also give help. I also encourage students to be involved in political organisations, because any participation in a democratic system is a positive contribution.

SASCO declined the offer to publish responses, despite multiple opportunities to comment.

Visit pdby.co.za to read an extended version of this article. Article has been edited for length and clarity.

6 March 2021

Sexual assault: how to report it Susanna Anbu

U

P’s code of conduct related to the handling of sexual assault aims to provide a framework of procedures that will be undertaken to deal with cases of sexual assault.

Students can access the code of conduct on the handling of sexual harassment on UP’s website and their student portals.

Reporting sexual harassment at UP: The first step in reporting sexual assault involves approaching either a Student Council Member Tel: 012 366 9800, Protection officer, Mrs E Gardiner from the Legal Services Division (Tel: 012 420 3073), or a member of the Support Panel. Following the consultation with any of these members, the complainant has the choice of pursuing mediation if an agreement is reached, or of going through with a disciplinary procedure.

Process of reporting sexual assault at the police station: Complainants of sexual assault are first interviewed by a police official at the Community Service Centre to get the basic details of the incident. After this, a written statement is obtained. Brooklyn SAPS Media Communications Officer, Captain Colette Weilbach, asserts that “statements with regard to Gender-Based Violence and other sensitive cases are taken in private in a Victim Friendly Room (VFR)”. After the statement has been taken by a police officer, it is required that the complainant reads through the statement before signing it.

A detective from the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigation Unit (FCS) is responsible for conducting the investigation. Captain Weilbach explains that in some instances “a police official may attend the crime scene [and] where possible more statements will be obtained”. The suspect is arrested immediately if their identity is known (minor common assault cases are the exception to this mode of operation). Victims are then referred to a medical examination to obtain a medical report for the case.

Case follow-ups by the complainant: Once a crime has been reported, it is registered in the Crime Administration System (CAS). The CAS number that is subsequently generated is forwarded to the complainant via SMS. This CAS number is used to direct any enquiries regarding the case. Captain Weilbach ascertains that “if you are a victim of crime, you are entitled to receive continuous feedback on your case. Any changes of addresses or contact details must be communicated to the investigation officer to make feedback possible”.

After the investigation has been concluded: Once the detective completes the investigation, the docket is presented to the court for prosecution. The prosecutor makes the decision to go forward with prosecution provided there is sufficient evidence. In cases where this criteria is not fulfilled, the prosecutor may direct the detective “to further investigate the case or withdraw charges for various reasons”. Captain Weilbach explains that “if any member of the community is not satisfied with the investigation process or with the service from the police they can approach the Head of Detectives or the Station Commander.” After the prosecution is underway, the complainant is notified by the detective to attend the court hearing.

Victim support services: All police stations in South Africa provide free victim support services. Captain Weilbach explains that “the Monami Trauma Troops are trained volunteers that are providing emotional assistance to people affected by crime and trauma in the Brooklyn policing precinct. They are not counsellors but are a friend in need who can lend a ear during a traumatic period”. The 24-hour emergency contact number for Monami Trauma Troops is 073 653 4497. This support service is free.

On behalf of the Brooklyn SAPS, Captain Weilbach urges communities “to play their role by reporting any suspicious persons, vehicles, or circumstances to the police immediately by phoning the 10111 emergency-number”. Any information relating to crime can be given to the police anonymously by phoning 08600 10111 or by using the My SAPS app.

6 March 2021

News | 5

UP Residences welcome first years: find your res message below Azalea:

Asterhof:

To our Beautiful Skerwe, Congratulations on being placed Welcome to the residence of pioneers; We cannot believe you are finally into the oldest women’s residence on men who take pride in each and here! We have been waiting in campus.We seek to encourage the every single thing we do. As your anticipation for this day, almost about holistic and optimum development State President, I would love to have ready to explode with excitement. We of our young women in residence, you here in our brotherhood to make know that things may seem scary at and leave them feeling empowered history with us, just as we have been first, but take everything one step at about the role they occupy in an doing for the past 106 years! a time. Our HC is always going to be environment in which patriarchy is there for you, taking every step with imposed on us, and understand the you along the way. Wear your mask, insurmountable capabilities they have sanitise and socially distance ;) to be leaders and change makers of All our Love - Azalea HC our world. - Akudzwe Mhangami

Ikageng:

Hayani:

Erica:

Curelitzia:

College:

Congratulations are in order! I Dear Kloekies. encourage you to not be afraid of It is such an honour to welcome you the unknown, “the only way out into this magnificent home. The HC is through”. You are unique and and I hope that you will fully embrace that matters, find what works this experience. Push yourself and for you, don’t stop discovering grow as much as you can. We know and improving your academic, that each of you is going to add so spiritual, social and personal much value to our house. See you dimensions. I cannot wait to soon! welcome you to Erica.

- Anel Kruger - All my purple love, Thando Langa

House Mags:

House Nala:

Hello Buggies!!!

To our future Naladies, Dearest Spikkel, Congratulations for being accepted at Congratulations on the beginning The time to embark on your sparkling UP and the privilege of being placed of this new chapter of your lives. pink adventure has arrived. in House Ikageng. We are known by The yellow castle and all its ladies From the moment you set foot in our royal colour blue and greeting. cannot wait to welcome you. We look House Mags, you will have a home Our mascot is Lady Bug Libby. We forward to having you join our pride away from home (and a lifelong love have HC members who will be with and share in the lovely sisterhood that for pink). you every step of the way. You will we have at House Nala.

Give your all to Mags, she will give make mistakes, do not beat yourself - Lots of yellow love from your her everything and so much more to up, take a break and rise again. It is Primaria, Sinazo you. your race!!! #LibbyLove - Refilwe Nakeng Spik, the best is yet to come.

Dearest Homies, I would like to congratulate you once again on your acceptance in university. Great opportunities lie ahead of you. May your varsity journey be summed up in one word, “light”. Shine light wherever you are and in everything you do. I wish you all the best with your studies!

- With love, your Primaria Khumo Suping

House TAU:

House Ukuthula:

Madelief:

Mopane:

Dear Yster, To our dearest Dahlias Congratulations on joining the It’s an honour for me to welcome you Times may be uncertain and things renowned House Ukuthula. to your new home away from home may be grim - but one thing we can In this House, you will be faced - House TAU. Congrats for passing promise you is that your time at with more opportunities than you a year that had so many challenges.

Madelief will be anything but bland. could ever imagine. You will find Gents, I hope you are ready to make Welcome to our sisterhood- we are unwavering support, seniors assisting lifelong friends and memories. I can’t proud and excited to welcome you as with academics and a lot of time wait to see and meet you all around our new Madeliefies. to study. You come to this House the Eiffel! with a blank slate. A chance to be - André Mouton Lief lief - MadHC 2020/21 whoever you are. Use this to your full advantage. Virorum Inlustrium - Men of Distinction

Morula Legae:

OP Village:

Nerina:

Congratulations on your admission to UP, even more so to our residence.

Mopane is a community that encourages excellent academic and extra-curricular success; although there’s a strong community spirit, each individual is free to be themselves and if you have problems or worries, there’s always someone willing to help. Through unity still higher.

- Geolé, Rorisang Mapheleba

The Tower:

Morula Legae is a male residence of To all the first years and especially Vet Sawubona Brakke Dearest Spriete, you are about to begin UP. Established in 1968, Morula Legae Science and Vet Nursing first years, The time has finally arrived to join the your journey of phenomenal growth is one of the most tradition-orientated, a warm welcome to UP. You are big leagues! Res life is definitely the and we are so excited to watch you driven and vibrant residences. about to embark on the best period best way to do it and you will laugh, bloom in everything you set your Our values and Code of Conduct in your life, a period in which you cry and down many cups of coffee minds to. We are here for guidance, include: Integrity, Honesty, Humility, will become the true you. COVID-19 but you will love every second of it. inspiration and overall reassurance Camaraderie, Accountability, Fairness, makes it difficult, be innovative and Whether you’re having a party with that you are exactly where you need to Commitment, Excellence and Pride. find ways to enjoy University as much friends or struggling with the new be and are on the verge of greatness.

Our motto is “Asbestos”, which means as possible. workload always remember that the unquenchable, and this describes each House and HC believe in you and we - Sending Nerina Love always, and every Morula man.

- Gerhard Gregory will stand as one.

Mademoiselle Jordyn Appel Chairperson Est Festo Brakke

Messages have been edited for length.

Tirisano:

Tuks Bophelong:

Dear Cubs, it is an honour that you chose our residence as your home away from home. Our house is culturally diverse and we pride ourselves in academic excellence. We have emotional and academic support structures, you will never be alone.

Black and yellow are the colours of our blood. PS! We are the only male res at Groenkloof Campus.

Zinnia:

Tuks Ekhaya:

TuksVillage:

Good day to the first years of 2021.

Dear 1st year Tuks Villagers Congratulations and welcome to the You are my grade 9s when I finished I am Takudzwa Mutasa your Tuks Bophelong family! At Tuks high school!

Chairperson for 2021 and it is Bophelong we are proud of the rich My charge to you is that you take with great pleasure to receive this culture and support provided to the everything as it comes. Learn to opportunity to engage and to interact students. “ You don’t have to be great to appreciate the here and now with the with you. As you begin your journey start but you have to start to be great” people around you. I add one of my at UP, it’s a chance for self-growth, Looking forward to watching your favourite quotes which I hope you will discipline and independence. It is a growth Neous! find useful: “those who were dancing huge transition from high school to - Princess Mhlanga were thought mad by those who university, but rest assured, you will Chairperson and Discipline couldn’t hear the music”. never regret the great experience you All the best - W. N. will carry for the rest of your life.

Docendo Day House:

Dear 1st Years & Future Docendo Dearest Zinnia, Family Members May I be the first to wish you a You’re embarking on a journey of a prosperous new year filled with many lifetime! Hoping you will be inspired blessings, love, and exponential to endure the hardships and leisurely growth. We cannot wait to welcome times of student life. It’s up to you you into our orange palace and make to make the best of it; being part of you part of our legacy. You will soon a family makes it much easier. Build realise and experience the true feeling memories you will cherish for life. of home, and we are so excited to - Brendan Alberts share that journey with you.

Chairperson - All my love, Baroness Carmen x

Dregeana:

Luminous Day House:

Vividus:

Vividus first years, I Welcome to UP and although this University opens so many doors and am truly ecstatic to meet will be a very monumental year in Day Houses are the key! We want you you and we are excited itself, I hope that you will enjoy every to thrive in the academic, social and about your forthcoming moment of the new chapter of your cultural branches of university life. contributions to Vividus! I am life. Use these next few years to learn Having a Day House at your back and incredibly sad thay it is under new things, meet new people and do friends by your side is the best way to the current circumstances, things you have never done before. walk the path university has in store but know that Vividus Day We look forward to meeting you. for you.

House is doing their utmost to still make you feel welcome and enjoy your first year. Keep an eye on our social media platforms for more information.

6 | News

Scamming the scammer: know your Hatfield scams and crimes Susanna Anbu

cell phones to avoid being labelled as potential targets.

False prophets or many first year students, starting This especially becomes relevant during test university is their first time being away or exam weeks, where false prophets play on from home. It is these spaces where the emotions that students feel during this time. scammers take advantage of a students’ trusting False prophets convince students to invest in attitude. By being aware of Hatfield’s scams prayers and various rituals in return for good and crime schemes, students are able to avoid performance in their exams. Upon asking the potential incidents that can sour their first year student to make various purchases for the rituals, experience. the false prophets, who request to be left alone Vehicle-related crimes in the student’s accommodation, The issue of adequate steal valuables in the parking spaces is a problem accommodation and in Hatfield, which gives make an escape at the rise to instances of vehicle accommodation. related crimes. There is a Other times, the false high risk of items being prophets persuade students stolen out of a vehicle or, to think that there are evil in some cases, the vehicle spirits in their laptop and is hijacked. Additionally, convince the students to put Captain Colette Weilbach their laptops on the ground, of the Brooklyn SAPS, close their eyes and raise warns that “[…] students Illustration: Sanele Zulu their arms, after which the false can also be fined for parking prophets take the laptop. Other times, they play on illegally”. Captain Weilbach advises students to emotional sentiments by offering to pray for sick make use of safer options such as the free park family members or solve a personal problem. The and ride facilities available at the sports grounds.

Brooklyn SAPS urges students to rather make use Cell phone robberies of reliable counsellors and registered churches for In 2018, a student lost his cell phone when he prayers. directed and drove with a motorist who asked for Falsified shop discounts directions. At the garage, the motorist gave the Students who go out shopping for clothes at student R100 to buy airtime and asked to use the retail stores may fall victim to shopping discount student’s cell phone. When the student arrived scams that eventually end with the students losing after buying the airtime, the motorist had left with their personal belongings to scammers. In past his cell phone. Pedestrians who publicly use their incidents, students get approached by an unknown cell phones or any other electronics fall victim woman who offers them a potential discount. The to street robberies. Captain Weilbach says that woman urges the student to try on various articles “gangs are often operating from vehicles to make of clothing in the fitting room, and offers to look a quick escape after they [steal a cell phone”. after their belongings. After the student makes Students are encouraged to limit public usage of

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their way out of the fitting room, the woman would have already disappeared with the student’s belongings.

In other instances, the woman will ask the student to give her their bank card and pin code mentioning that the student can only get the discount if the woman makes the payment on their behalf at the till. The student stands a certain distance away and the woman disappears with the student’s card. Captain Weilbach urges students to not fall for these scams as “stores will advertise sales and discounts and will never give individual discounts”.

Impersonation of police officers Scammers sometimes impersonate police officers in their ploy to obtain money. They will approach a victim and mention that they fit the description of a suspect that they are searching for.

The victim is then asked to hand over their bank cards and pin code which the scammer will use to confirm the identity of the victim. The suspect then disappears with the victim’s bank cards, money, or personal belongings. Captain Weilbach reminds students that “police officers do not need a bank card or a pin code to confirm a person’s identification”.

False accommodation rentals Students who do not get granted placement in official university residences should be wary of private accommodation. When using advertisements to look for potential accommodation, parents and students are cautioned to be vigilant as scammers use these adverts to scam potential tenants. In some cases, the deposit that has been paid is for non-existent accommodation, the accommodation has been rented to someone else or the so-called owner was never the rightful owner. Captain Weilbach warns students to “make use of the university’s official accredited rental agents for private

Being aware of human trafficking

Image: Cassandra Eardley

Nokwanda Kubheka and Kayla Thomas

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ccording to eNews Channel Africa (eNCA), a sugar daddy or “blesser” describes a transactional relationship between young people and older, wealthy people who provide them with material items in exchange for sex or a relationship. While the relationship between two consenting adults is normal and acceptable, young people in transactional relationships should remember to proceed with caution.

Marcel van der Watt, the case manager for the National Freedom Network, stated in an interview with eNCA that the main difference between a blessee and a victim of trafficking is consent and personal freedoms. However, he explains how the former can become the latter when the financial insecurity of young people is readily abused, and when drugs and abuse may be involved.

In a time of economic deprivation, young, vulnerable people may be at risk of being manipulated by sex traffickers who may move them to new cities, exploit them, or offer them drugs which they are forced to pay for with labour, prostitution or other exploitative methods. The

eNCA also reports an incident where vulnerable people are lured into houses with the promise of being set up with beneficial transactional relationships, or with work opportunities.

A21, a modern abolititionist organisation against slavery and human trafficking, explain that “human trafficking is [a] hidden, fast-growing, and complex [industry] generating billions each year through the exploitation of millions of people”.

Vulnerable groups are particular targets for human trafficking, such as people who live in poverty, face inequality, are migrants, illegal migrants, children, women or refugees. People of all ages, genders and ethnicities are trafficked but some groups are affected differently, such as those vulnerable to substance abuse, mental health difficulties and a lack of resources. If you suspect someone is being trafficked or fear you are at risk of being trafficked, contact the South African National Human Trafficking Hotline, operated

by A21, at 0800 222 777.

If students become involved in initially consensual transactional relationships and later find themselves being coerced into certain activities, or find themselves in uncomfortable

situations, it is important to be aware of the following human trafficking myths that the National Human Trafficking Hotline has debunked, and know how to recognise the signs of human trafficking: Myth: Human trafficking is always a violent crime.

Reality: Many human traffickers use psychological methods to extort commercial sex or exploitative labour, such as tricking, defrauding, exploiting or threatening victims.

Myth: Human trafficking involves moving, traveling, or transporting a person across state or national borders.

Reality: Trafficking in human beings does not require any movement whatsoever. Survivors in their own cities and homes can be coerced and trafficked.

Myth: If the trafficked person consented to be in their initial situation, then it cannot be human trafficking or against their will.

Reality: Initial consent to commercial sex or occupational operation due to acts of force, theft, or intimidation (or whether the victim is a minor in a situation of sex trafficking) is not important to the crime, nor is payment relevant. These relationships can still become human trafficking.

Myth: Traffickers target victims they do not know.

Reality: Romantic partners, including spouses, relatives and parents have been trafficked by loved ones.

Myth: If a party is benefiting from a relationship, like a blessee, it cannot be human trafficking.

Reality: Initial consent to commercial sex or work before acts of force, theft, or intimidation is not relevant to the offense nor is payment relevant, and a person could still be a victim of human trafficking.

A21 South Africa state warning signs of human trafficking to be aware of: • people being controlled by others and not speaking on their own behalf • lack of personal identification • controlled movement, being transported everywhere by others, and never being alone

6 March 2021 Safety measures advised by Captain Weilbach when considering renting private accommodation: • Ask family or friends that are living in Pretoria to check out the location of the property and to ensure that the property exists and complies with normal health and safety standards.

• Get the full name and ID number of the rental agent/owner and try to verify it.

• Do not send any money or personal information without meeting the landlord or property manager or without viewing the property.

• Be sceptical if the landlord or the agent claims to be out of the country and is unable to personally show you the property.

• Ask for a copy of the rental contract and obtain legal advice to verify its legality.

• Try to obtain references from previous tenants.

Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. accommodation”.

Scams are not set in stone and are subject to change and are therefore not limited to the ones mentioned in this article. Although scams become recurring, scammers become innovative in devising new ways to exploit people. Captain Weilbach states that the “Brooklyn SAPS want[s] students to have a safe academic experience” and urges students not to be trustworthy of strangers and be vigilant in all situations. Captain Weilbach advises a heightened sense of awareness of one’s surroundings when walking in public spaces and draws attention to the green routes that students can make use of when walking to and from campus.

Anyone with information on crime can contact the Brooklyn police station at (012)366 1735/6, or Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or SMS Crime Line on 32211 or download the free MY SAPS app to report crime anonymously.

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being unable to keep one’s own earnings or whole earnings claimed for debt overly fearful, depressed or submissive behaviour, avoiding eye contact bad health, hygiene and malnutrition signs of physical abuse and torture substance abuse lack of trust and suspicion few or no personal belongings false job offers or falsely advertised jobs.

Be aware of offers of enticing positions away from home. These offers may be in newspapers, word of mouth or by personal offers No credentials are required for a job, and the position is provided with free accommodation and travel, plus free registration of your visa and/or work permit. feelings of being trapped

Fears of human trafficking rings around campuses: In September 2019, students from Stellenbosch University posted on matiemedia.org about an alleged human trafficking ring operating as a church group after they were approach by a trio of women recruiting “prospective worshippers”. This caused alarm across several institutions, including UP. The article posted by the students, warning other students, was updated a few days later with an apology and acknowledgement that the church group was never asked for a response or comment.

Spokesperson for Stellenbosch University, Martin Viljoen, confirmed that no formal complaints were lodged regarding incidences of human trafficking. Shortly after, UP students reported similar instances with a group recruiting for a church group. In September 2019, PDBY spoke to two students who had been approached by such a group. The students, on condition of anonymity, expressed they did not feel threatened by the group. Following the publishing of the incident at Stellenbosch, students in Hatfield attributed their encounters to the Stellenbosch incident.

Brooklyn SAPS Media Communication Officer Captain Colette Weilbach confirmed that “all past allegations were found to be ungrounded and we never received complaints about churches”.

The South African National Human Trafficking Hotline can be contacted at 0800 222 777.

6 March 2021

A new(s) year: Join PDBY Tshepang Moji

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he PDBYMedia family is excited that you’ve chosen UP for your studies, and an exciting couple of years await you. You will not have a better companion through your UP journey than with PDBY (though 2 minute Noodles, Quizlet and YouTube tutorials have solid arguments) PDBY is South Africa’s largest and oldest student newspaper. In the more than 80 years of its existence, the newspaper has gone through so many changes to get to where it is currently from being a chiefly print medium to publishing all of its content solely online amidst the pandemic. The publication consists of a diverse team of hardworking students studying at UP, who contribute across many different departments to

bring you informative and entertaining content — and we’re always looking for new recruits to join the PDBY team.

Our office is located near the Prospect Street entrance on Hatfield Campus, and we’re always open to welcome new members to the PDBY family. Now, with the shift to online, simply DM us on our social media platforms (@PDBYMedia) to find out more about the process to join the publication. Hone your writing skills by joining either the News, Features, Sports or Entertainment sections, or if you consider yourself to be more hands on behind the scenes, you can always join our layout and copy teams and be directly involved with the look and feel of each edition of PDBY. You can also join our Multimedia and Social divisions and be a part of PDBY Online where you can find interactive and informative content on our social media platforms and our website, pdby.co.za, which is never short of online exclusives.

So, drop us a line on our social media platforms (@PDBYMedia) and join the PDBY family!

Mentorship and online skills @UP Manelisi Magoro

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any first-year students are faced with the challenge of adapting to a new learning environment and the swift transition from traditional, contact learning to online learning. The University of Pretoria offers mentorship programmes and the skills required to succeed in these changing times.

STARS is UP’s main mentorship programme led by the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) and it has been running for over a decade. The programme has a holistic approach. Not only does it offer academic guidance, but it also focuses on the social and emotional wellbeing of the

News | 7 mentee while developing interpersonal skills. A GPA of 55 is required for senior students who are interested in being mentors, and first years can request a mentor once the semester begins.

This requirement accommodates students across faculties who feel that they can assist and guide first year students with navigating the university environment. Mentors are trained before the start of the mentorship relationship for them to understand what is required from them as mentors and how to go about the journey of mentorship.

Students can apply for this programme by emailing upmentorship@gmail.com.

UP offers Professional Online Development programmes (PODs) that focus on skill enhancement and learning opportunities in an online environment, while optimising on global participation and lifelong learning opportunities.

These include Enterprises University of Pretoria and the Ready for Work programme.

The Library also offers virtual sessions where students learn about plagiarism, develop reading and writing skills and learn how to navigate the the library. UP libraries are accessible at @ uplibrary on social media and online at library. up.ac.za.

A home away from home: An International Student’s survival guide Susanna Anbu

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he University of Pretoria boasts a diverse community of international students. Statistics obtained by PDBY in 2019 indicated that the international student community at UP totalled more than 3600 students, spanning across 100 different nations. To create an easy transition into the UP community, numerous societies at UP have been created to provide safe, nostalgic spaces for international students. While not all international students beginning their tertiary studies at UP are new to the South African setup, these societies provide spaces aimed at promoting a sentiment of smooth cultural integration and social connectivity.

UPI: The Umbrella Society UP’s International Students Society (UPI) is aimed at integrating different cultural and international societies at UP and assisting international students with concerns such as registration, accommodation, moving and other miscellaneous aspects.

Tanatswa Dendere, the Marketing Officer of UPI, says that the society’s “mission is to enhance the interaction of foreign and exchange students with one another as well as with South African students. The benefits of the society and why students must join are so that together we can ‘Dream. Discover. Explore’”.

Dendere asserts that UPI is committed to “to making the lives of international students a little bit easier and when [UPI] cannot we are able to connect the students with the right people who can”. UPI’s compilation of a document known as the UNI Help Guide encompasses multifaceted aspects of living in Hatfield and provides key information to guide an individual who has just moved into Hatfield. Dendere states that students can access the document on the society’s Instagram page (@upi_society).

All administration queries or concerns regarding immigration, study visas, or any other crucial information pertaining to international students are to be directed to the International Cooperation Division (ICD) at isd@up.ac.za. Should students want to be aware of cultural activities related to the international student community, students are advised to contact UPI via email at up.international.society@gmail.com or on Instagram (@ upi_society). After this, international students will be added to the UPI WhatsApp group managed by the UPI executive committee that will allow students to keep up to date.

Dendere explains that the orientation of international students into the UP space during the pandemic is dependent on the mode of international students’ orientation this year. UPI’s activities for 2021 as of date include self-defence lessons, dance lessons, and sports days with braais. However, Dendere affirmed that UPI is awaiting further communication from UP regarding the lockdown regulations, which would decide the activities permitted. UPI has also devised a mentorship program that plans on assigning new international students with experienced international students to have someone to contact for minor concerns. Former Chairperson of UPI, Elma Akob, states that “we would normally take international students on tour around Hatfield, we would speak to the different residences […], we would get international students together on a bus and take them around Hatfield as for most of them it’s the first time being in the city and if they don’t get that tour a lot of them just find themselves going from home to school, home to school because that’s all they know”. Akob mentions that with the onset of COVID-19, the tour, albeit integral, would not be possible this year.

The Nigerian Students Society The Nigerian Students Society (NSS) is a society that aims to connect Nigerian communities at UP. Chairperson of NSS, David Ononogbu, expresses that the society aims to extend “to building and promoting a positive image, citizenship identification and create a platform for showcasing the Nigerian culture here in South Africa and particularly in Pretoria”. NSS is primarily set up to cater to the academic and social needs of Nigerian students studying at UP, however, Ononogbu affirms that the society commits itself to creating multicultural spaces, saying “any student from any country is welcome to associate with us”.

With the shift to online activities as a result of the pandemic, the NSS has adapted their physical programmes to operate in a “silo form to reduce the number of participants in each of the programmes”. Ononogbu confirmed that most of the activities planned by the NSS will take place virtually. Furthermore, it was confirmed that Africa Day celebrations planned by the NSS “will be divided into a number of simultaneous programmes where students in close proximity to each other will gather to celebrate.”

Message from Chairperson of NSS, David Ononogbu: “We are a people who intend to, while studying, create lifelong, healthy relationships, learn leadership lessons, access career opportunities, network with senior academic mentors, researchers and coaches within and outside the NSS. We, at the NSS, develop positive tentacles of good relationships in formal, informal, academic and relaxed settings. Everyone is welcome to join us today.”

La Francophone Société The francophone society is dedicated to promoting French culture “through the use of creative entertainment”. The society aims to connect French-speaking individuals across the world. In addition to creating social spaces for international students, the society is open for any student wishing to learn more about the francophone culture, provided they are a registered student at UP. Chairperson of La Francophone Société, Sarah Gombele, states that the society is founded on three major principles, namely inclusivity in diversity, assertively visionary leadership, and image as a community and student-friendly society. Gombele cited that La Francophone

Illustration: Giovanna Janos

Société will plan on continuing its virtual activities into 2021 by organising competitions and events with potential sponsors, and inviting special guests to the society’s online francophone events.

Gombele mentions that the society has a diversity of students, which “include Francophone nationalities and non-French speakers alike”, estimating that the society boasts more than 15 nationalities amongst its members.

Community of Indians At Tuks Community of Indians At Tuks (CIAT) aims to introduce individuals to Indian culture. Chairperson of CIAT, Leon Panthera, states that “anyone [who] wants to learn about the Indian culture (or just wants to meet new people and have fun) is welcome to join”.

In response to the shift to online activities, Panthera mentions that CIAT still managed to make the most of the year, as they had hosted the first year introduction event where all new members were introduced. This allowed the society to host online games, activities, and quiz nights “without the need for extra ice breakers”. Panthera affirms that the society plans on building upon the aforementioned events and keeping the society connected through lockdown by ensuring constant communication between its members. Panthera states that the society plans “to come up with social media challenges that we will incorporate into our virtual events. Nonetheless, we see this as an opportunity to revamp the events of our society”.

The Zimbabwe Students Society Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Students Society (ZimSSoc), Ralph Hwenjere, describes it as “catering for the academic and social needs of all the University of Pretoria students, with emphasis on Zimbabwean students”. The society is open to all students registered at UP and all students are welcome to benefit from the programmes that the society runs. He cites that “the society is a platform for students to bring matters that need to be taken up with the SRC and ICD to ensure Zimbabwean students and all other international students have smooth experiences integrating in the UP community”. In addition to organising social events where students can interact, Hwenjere confirmed that “this year, the society is daring to be different by opening up the space and taking on the challenge of fundraising, so that it may be able to give financial assistance to its members that may need it”.

ZimSSoc is also looking to devise an online mentorship program for first-year students to provide guidance and assistance during the transition into their respective tertiary studies. ZimSSoc also plans on organising the logistics for a Zimbabwe Independence Day celebration by liaising with the Zimbabwean Embassy in an effort to get the ambassador to attend. To join or find out more about the society, contact them via Instagram (@zim_soc_tuks) or email zimssoc.tuks@ gmail.com.

Another society affiliated with UPI include the Eswatini Student Society.

International students who wish to join one of the aforementioned societies are encouraged to send a direct message to the societies that have an Instagram page or contact UPI via Instagram or email (details found above) after which they will be linked to an appropriate one, or encouraged to start one if one does not already exist.

8 | Advert

6 March 2021

6 March 2021

In conversation with SRC President Lerato Ndlovu

News | 9 those that came after them, like myself, to also step into those spaces. It is that overwhelming feeling of knowing it can be done and should be done - normalising it. Alongside this, the office of the presidency will have various initiatives during the year to empower young women from disadvantaged backgrounds.

What services and initiatives is the Office of the Presidency’s Plan of Action offering first years this year?

The SRC plan of action will be released and shared on the SRC website and various social media platforms. The plan of action will outline what the SRC plans to do and [the] initiatives [planned for] throughout the whole year. The SRC will however be very active in first year orientation week, to be of service to first years and assist them with various needs.

What are some core issues that the SRC can help first years with?

The SRC aims to assist first year students with all matters which are brought to the council’s attention, so whenever you have an issue or concern, please reach out [to the SRC]. The main issues are often to do with registration, residence and academic support. Now, taking into consideration the shift to remote learning, another main issue will then be assistance with resources and adapting to online learning. The SRC believes that every first year student should be provided with the adequate resources to ensure their success and flourishing at the university.

This should include the re-opening of laptop applications by the university for first year students who cannot afford their own.

Image: up.ac.za/student-representative-council

Susanna Anbu

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DBY spoke to SRC President, Lerato Ndlovu, on a range of miscellaneous aspects regarding remote learning and its associated impacts on first years. Ndlovu has also cited numerous SRC services available to first years to aid in promoting a smooth transition into their respective tertiary studies.

Ndlovu previously served as the outgoing SRC Deputy Secretary of 2020 and made history by becoming the first black female candidate to hold the title of SRC President at UP.

You have made history by attaining the title of UP’s First Female Black President, how do you plan on empowering others in the student space with this achievement?

By unapologetically being. If I take a look at all black women who have inspired me (quite a long list, but I’ll just name a few), [like] Charlotte Maxeke, mam Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Nina Simone and Dr. Shirley Jackson. These women stepped into different territories and they just unapologetically and boldly occupied that space.

Some of them were firsts in their own right they boldly existed in those spaces empowering

What is the student forum and how can a first year participate in it?

Student forum is a quarterly gathering of students covered and provided for in Section 43 of the Constitution for Student Governance (CSG). According to the CSG, the purpose of the forum is for the SRC to account to students.

The SRC presents their report of the quarter and students engage and ask questions on the report.

First year students are encouraged to engage in such a forum as they are part of the student body and their voices matter. In 2020, the SRC office of the Deputy Secretary worked closely with the then Chief Justice and constitutional tribunal to finalise new rules and procedure of the forum to ensure that it can take place online. For the year 2021 we wish for a more interactive student forum, more input and interaction from students, key committees and societies.

What advice would you direct to first years to ensure a smooth transition into their tertiary studies?

Plan and reach out for assistance. The shift to varsity from high school is not an easy one. It is often accompanied by culture shock, anxiety and uncertainty. As a first year the best and quickest way to adapt is being engaged and planning your time wisely. Take time in engaging with ClickUp and keeping up to date with modules and lecturers. As some courses will continue to be taught online, students should not fall in the trap of not keeping up with lectures and assignments.

Should you need assistance of any kind, do not hesitate or wait [until] it is too late, reach out to the faculty EC and the SRC. Students should also follow as many university related pages as possible [ie.] UP pages, SRC pages, societies pages, key committees (such as RAG, STUKU and Sports), stars mentorship, day houses and different departments like student development and Centre for Sexualities, AIDS and Gender (CSA&G) and SpeakOut. Following such pages will keep you in the know and give a feel of varsity life and activity, above all, they will also assist you in transitioning to varsity.

Is there any message you would like to share to first years and the student body at large?

Mine is mainly to lay a challenge and give perspective. Often when we come to varsity, we are sent with the perspective of obtaining our degrees or qualifications, and this is true. It is the main goal. However, I challenge us to also look at our contribution to the UP community and to society as a whole. Let us aim to be a conscious student body, in whichever degree or qualification we are pursuing, in whichever community we form part of, in our different passions and interests we have a responsibility to contribute. Let us contribute to make our UP community and society around us more inclusive and truly representative of all. Now, as we find ourselves in the middle of this pandemic, we shouldn’t see it as a hold or reason not to contribute but as an opportunity to find more innovative ways to contribute and leave a community that we only wished to have. And that is my charge to all UP students, including first year students. Although for first year students you will spend most of the year adapting and adjusting, let this be at the back of your mind even when you’re doing that.

To read an extended version of this article, visit pdby.co.za

In conversation with SRC Deputy President Rameeza Sattar Susanna Anbu

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DBY spoke to SRC Deputy President, Rameeza Sattar, on what the office of the Deputy President has in store for students this year; as well as ways in which first years, and the student body at large, can reach out to the SRC to relay their concerns. Sattar called for students to prioritize their mental health amidst coping with the new learning environment posed by the pandemic. Sattar previously served on the 2019 SRC as the Academic Representative.

You have made history by attaining the title of UP’s First Female Indian SRC Deputy President. How do you plan on empowering others in the student and political space with this achievement?

The SRC of 2020/2021 made history by being the first SRC at UP [to be] led by women. In my view this is empowering in itself already.

I believe that women are meant to be in such spaces and positions of leadership. This should empower students to believe that they are capable of achieving anything they set

their mind and heart to; and if society suggests otherwise, that should be more of a reason to work harder to achieve it.

What services and initiatives are the Office of the Deputy President’s Plan of Action offering first years this year?

The SRC as a whole plans to ensure to the best of our ability that first year students’ transition from school to university is as smooth as possible.

We will be assisting all students through these uncertain and unpredictable times with issues students might face.

How would you advise first years and the student body at large to reach members of the SRC to ensure a smooth chain of communication between the two entities?

On our various contact lists posted on various social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter), WhatsApp and email. Should we have contact lectures, we will be available during office hours in the Student Affairs Building.

With the shift to remote learning, how

different will the experience of being a first year be (in terms of getting oriented into the university)?

With remote learning, and being a first year, having that university experience won’t be the same. Being at university during orientation where students would usually explore the campus and various campuses will not be the same as it will be with remote learning. I think that will be the biggest difference.

Is there any message you would like to share to first years and the student body at large?

My message to students in totality would be to remember to take care of themselves. Your mental health is important. Remember that your future self will thank you for all the hard work and effort you put into these years of studying and to also take time for yourself. Have a balance of working hard and taking time to breathe and relax too. Sometimes it gets tough, take it one day at a time and if it still seems too much, take it one hour at a time.

To read an extended version of this article, visit pdby.co.za

Image: Instagram - @up_lawhouse

10 | Features

Student life reimagined Living in

6 March 2021

Hatfield

Navigating Hatfield and Hillcrest safely

Carli Botha

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Carli Botha

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he University of Pretoria is not only known for its academic excellence, but also for its vibrant student life. The social calendar is marked with multiple events that provide students with the opportunity to get out and socialise with their peers and many have adapted to COVID-19 regulations.

RAG week The first event students should take note of is RAG week and RAG of Hope Day. Brümmer le Roux, former Chairperson of Morula Legae, explained that the well-known acronym stands for “Reach out and Give”, and is an “initiative for students - mostly residence students - to get involved in various different charity work”. According to Le Roux, this week gives rise to many social activities, including a “Zeftroue”. Le Roux described this event as “the first official social activity taken on by both residences that are paired together, basically the two Chairpersons ‘tie the knot’ on the year’s collaboration”.

RAG has undergone many transformations through the years, and continues to change. Elmé Ravenscroft, a former RAG House Committee member (HC) of House Mags, told PDBY that although the main idea behind RAG is considered to be community engagement, throughout the years the emphasis has mostly been placed on socials. In the past, RAG week included the building of floats and first years were tasked with folding the flowers to decorate these floats. This tradition has since stopped. Kgothatso Thutse, RAG HC of Tuks Ekhaya, told PDBY that nowadays, RAG week is “left largely to the individual pairings to decide how it looks”.

Thutse added that in 2021 first years can expect RAG to be similar to the previous years, with a few minor changes. According to Thutse, RAG is an opportunity to engage with people and make new connections, and this is exactly why first years should get involved.

Kinky Pinky Kinky Pinky Tighty Whitey is an event hosted by OP Village, the Veterinary Sciences residence, and the name describes the dress code perfectly. Calah Pillay, Internal Culture and Postgraduate Representative of OP Village, described the dress code as “pink, white and scantily clad”. This event gives students the opportunity to dress up and enjoy a social with friends. Pillay told PDBY that the event can be described by the popular Mean Girls quote, “[Kinky Pinky] is the one day a year when a girl [or guy] can dress up like a total...”. Pillay encouraged first years to “put on that outfit, throw in some pink and you boys and girls will be ready for a night of mischief”. Kinky Pinky is an event that is highly sensitive to the COVID-19 regulations, but Pillay told PDBY that, once these restrictions have been lifted, “we may once again party like the good old days”.

Annual July Another event that gives students the opportunity to dress up is the Annual July, hosted by The Tower residence. Righardt Bester, Chairperson of The Tower, told PDBY that the event is centered around horse races in which the first years participate. The horses are made from broomsticks and make for an entertaining competition. The event also features popular bands and DJs. Bester encourages first years to attend the July, saying that “[students] who enjoy any aspect of life will enjoy the Annual July”. According to Bester, the event is unique because of the glamour of it. He explains, “[everyone] dresses up to the nines in suits and cocktail dresses.”

Image: Cletus Mulaudi

Joe Stegmann, Culture Internal of The Tower, added that “in previous years, the event was hosted at a few different indoor events, however, our goal this year is to find an outdoor event which will allow us to expand the event even more”. With regard to COVID-19 regulations, Stegmann emphasised that “we will make our choices with the safety of the students as our first priority and will only host events if they follow all regulations.”

Oesdag This popular event hosted by House Mopane can be described by its name, as the event celebrates the harvesting of the corn that the residence plants every year. Jean Brink, Internal Projects HC of House Mopane, explained that the event originated many years ago when a group of senior students decided to plant corn. “When the corn was harvested, Oesdag came to be.” The event also features live performances, and Brink told PDBY that the lineup will be released soon. He added that students can expect “to see mielies on every poster, because why not?”. Brink is positive that Oesdag will be able to continue if COVID-19 restrictions are eased to level one, since it is always hosted outside in an open area.

College Frat Party College is the oldest residence at UP and, according to Njabulo Radebe, Minister of Internal and External Affairs, College is also one of the proudest residences. Radebe told PDBY that College hosts multiple social events during the year, but the main event is Frat Party. According to Radebe, Frat Party “is different as it is arguably one of the biggest res events of the year - with a band, artists and also a separate event location”. The reason this event should be featured on on every first year’s calendar is, according to Radebe, that “the good vibes and special guest artists always make it a treat”. Radebe says that College will not contravene the COVID-19 regulations “but rather look at a virtual performance and if not feasible, a postponement of the event for the following year”.

Christmas in July Another event hosted by House Ukuthula is Christmas in July.

Von Ludwiger told PDBY that “this is a traditional event that we host every year during the Hatfield House Week”. The event is yet another opportunity for students to dress up: this time in Christmas sweaters. “A wide array of Christmas sweaters, electric atmosphere and a mechanical bull certainly makes the event a staple on the calendar”, says Von Ludwiger.

Night Market The last event that first years should take note of is Sonop’s Night Market. Wian Spies, Chairperson of Sonop, described Night Market as “an annual market event with local talents like Elvis Blue, Jackal and the Wind, and Uncle Spike performing”. Spies added that “Nagmark [Night Market] is a family-friendly fundraiser for the residence and is usually held during winter”. The event is held on Sonop’s premises every year, and Spies says that this provides beautiful scenery for students attending the market. Sonop is positive about the continuance of Nagmark as “we have our very own COVID-19 team whose only mission is to fight the spread of the virus”.

COVID-19 and all the regulations that go with it, is a reality.

Although some of the events that usually highlight the social calendar might not be realised in 2021, many have adapted to allow student life to continue.

or a first year student, there are three important areas to take note of: firstly, the closest grocery stores; secondly, the restaurants; and lastly, the doctor’s offices. There are other options available to students, but for most Hatfield residents the following will be the closest.

Hatfield Plaza is one of the closest places for shopping purposes. The Plaza is situated on the corner of Hilda and Burnett Street.

HatMed is the closest medical centre for Hatfield residents. It is situated on Hilda Street, just a few steps away from Aandklas.

All registered students can also make use of UP’s student health services, situated on campus.

For Hillcrest residents, the Hillcrest Boulevard is the closest when it comes to restocking the refrigerator. The entrance on the corner of Dyer and Lunnon Road is the most accessible to students. The Boulevard has a Pick ‘n Pay and a Woolworths Food. Students can also find restaurants, a barber and a Sorbet in the Boulevard. When it comes to medical needs, Hillcrest Boulevard offers a walk-in doctor and dentist, as well as a DisChem with a pharmacy.

When it comes to bars and clubs, Hatfield has a few places to offer. Springbok and Aandklas are two pubs situated across from each other on the corner of Hilda and Prospect Street and are popular choices for students. Both pubs have bouncers to ensure students’ safety and. News Café is another choice for students, and it is situated outside Hatfield plaza, close to Grosvenor Street. Mystic Bull and The Blue Room are a bit further away from the main campus, but they are also popular amongst students. In Hillcrest, just across from the men’s residences, lies the Strip. The Strip is the well-known name for this part of Lynnwood Road, because student spots such as The Jolly Roger, Jukes, The Grind, Latinos, and Fokof Bar are all situated next to each other.

In Hatfield and Hillcrest, there are a variety of options when it comes to transport. In Jan Shoba Street, students will find the Hatfield Gautrain station. The University of Pretoria also offers bus services to registered students between all campuses.

The schedules for the bus services are made available on ClickUp and only a valid student card is required. Other options include taxis, Uber, and Bolt, services which are easily accessible around campus.

When travelling to and from different destinations, students need to remember that safety comes first. The Hatfield City Improvement District (CID), as described by Danie Basson, COO Security and Cleaning, is “a legally mandated initiative funded by all the property owners in Hatfield (including UP)”.

The CID is focused on keeping Hatfield clean and safe, and also works closely with the Tshwane Metro Police and SAPS Brooklyn. Basson told PDBY that the most problematic crimes experienced in 2020 were “common robberies – specifically the grabbing of cellphones and then jumping into a waiting vehicle”. Basson also warned students to be vigilant when waiting for Ubers, as this is another opportunity for cell phones to be stolen.

By pretending to be an Uber driver waiting for a customer, criminals can move under the radar and strike unexpectedly.

When it comes to emergency numbers that every student should know, Basson reminded students that the back of every student card has important numbers that students should take note of. The number for the Hatfield CID 24 hour CCTV control room is 073 540 1866. There is also a toll-free number: 0800 061 012. Another number to have is the Hatfield Satellite TMPD: 012 358 5585.

Basson emphasised that “prevention is still better than cure”.

By keeping this in mind, every first year student should be able to make the most of this new environment.

“isPrevention still better than cure

6 March 2021

Features | 11

The social side of university life Bianke Neethling

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ntering university for the first time, while exciting, can be overwhelming. Aside from the increased academic pressure, the prospect of meeting new people and having to form new relationships, usually from scratch, also arises.

Given 2020’s forced lack of socialising, it seems as though senior students will have to rediscover their campus relationships and social skills alongside first years. This guide will offer some tips and tricks on how to start, develop, and maintain relationships in a university setting.

Image: Kara Olivier

Defining university relationships University relationships usually fall on two different ends of a spectrum. On the one hand, there is more weight added to the relationship, as many students have the expectation of forming lasting and life-long relationships. On the other hand, many students see university as an opportunity to meet a lot of new people and explore as many relationships as possible. It is therefore important to define one’s own expectations beforehand, see where they fall on the spectrum, and ensure that they are compatible with the expectations of the people in one’s social circle. By having a clear idea of the type of relationships one wishes to form, miscommunication, conflicting expectations, and disappointments can be avoided from the start.

Meeting new people For some, meeting new people can be a stressful experience, and doing so in a new environment can be overwhelming.

However, in a social setting like university, meeting and interacting with new people also becomes inevitable. It is helpful to see this inevitability as an opportunity wherein one will either make a friend, meet a potential romantic partner, meet acquaintances or, at the very least, have a nice conversation.

Luckily, the university’s multiple societies and clubs make it easy to find a range of people with the same interests, as well as easy topics of conversation when meeting people for the first time. Try to be proactive: the university offers many opportunities to meet new people, but they have to be sought out. One way to do so, in line with our modern era, is by taking advantage of technology like dating apps. Tinder and Grindr, for example, are popular apps among university students and gives one access to a multitude and variety of new people and opportunities.

Maintaining university relationships Often we become so preoccupied with the initial process of meeting new people and starting relationships, that the step thereafter is neglected. In many ways, starting a relationship is easier than maintaining it. The various academic and other commitments that come with university life often make it difficult to spend as much time with friends and partners as one might want to. It is therefore important to prioritise quality over quantity when it comes to spending time together.

In addition, and though a cliché, communication is also an integral part to maintaining a relationship. Be honest and direct with your expectations of the relationship from the start and maintain that communication throughout the relationship.

Psychology Today cites trust issues, different expectations and communication problems as some of the top ten reasons for why relationships fail. Therefore, ensure that all parties in the relationship are on the same page regarding expectations of, respect for, and trust in the relationship.

Finding your student society

U

P offers a lot more to students than only academics.

Student life can be enriched through membership of a student society or structure, and there are a broad variety of options available at UP. PDBY breaks down some of the student societies on campus.

Tulip - @tulip_tuks

TULIP The Tuks Leadership and Individual Programme (TULIP) is a student-run non-profit organisation focussed on helping students from six disadvantaged schools in Pretoria reach their academic potential in order to be admitted into tertiary institutions. According to Chris Cloete, the organisation’s head of applications for academic development, “the programme makes use of a holistic development strategy by teaching learners financial, academic, social, and leadership skills”.

Members can act as ambassadors, “who help facilitate monthly school visits”, or as tutors, “who assist students academically on a one-on-one level every Saturday”. The organisation also supports these learners through other initiatives throughout the year, such as stationary drives, pad drives, and a career day.

STARS Mentorship - @starsmentorship

The Inklings The Inklings is a literary society that strives to cultivate an appreciation for culture, language, literature, and the arts on campus. As one of the oldest student societies at the University of Pretoria, they offer countless activities for anyone interested in literature, including creative writing workshops, theatre productions, poetry performances, and writing competitions.

They also publish their own annual poetry collection, Inclinations.

Dating spots and activities in or near Hatfield With expectations at a reasonable level, one can move onto the practical aspect of where and what to do on dates in university.

While the various coffee shops and restaurants on campus do make for easy in-between-classes dating spots, with a bit more effort (or walking) it can also be easy to do something more special. Picnic dates can be a simple and cost-effective way to spend quality time together, and with a range of picnic spots to choose from, it also requires the minimum effort. If the grass outside Aula might seem like the obvious answer, try to find the more secluded places on and around campus, like the botanical gardens or next to the LC de Villiers lake.

There are also various events regularly held in Pretoria that would make for ideal dates but require a form of transportation.

Markets like the Market@theSheds, the Vegan Food Fair, or the Deep Roots Night Market are always good date activities, though a simple Google search (or browse through Pretoria.co.za) can lead to a variety of other options as well. If it is a shared interest, music events like Park Acoustics or live shows at Aandklas could also make for fun dates.

While there are a host of other dating ideas online, keep in mind that the best outings are often those unplanned, spontaneous dates where the area is explored together. With that in mind, a simple walk around campus can be one of the best date ideas out there.

Tuks FM Tuks FM is the largest on-campus radio station in South Africa and the six-time winner of the Campus Station of the Year award. The station plays a mix of hip hop, house, RnB, and pop music, while providing students with relevant news, sport recaps, and interactive conversations. Any new student who has an interest in radio should consider joining this society, as new recruits are given plenty of opportunities every week to experience live broadcasting for the first time.

The rest of the students on campus can also attend the annual Tuks FM Freshers music festival or participate in any of Tuks FM’s community outreach programmes aimed at supporting disadvantaged students.

Kirsten Minnaar

STARS Mentorship The STARS Mentorship Programme is a development programme aimed at helping first year students transition into university life. The programme strives to improve the academic performance of member students, while offering them emotional and social support. First year students are assigned a senior student, a mentor, who assists them with goal-setting, navigating around campus, and finding relevant people and services on campus.

University dating Dating in university finds itself with an interesting dynamic.

On the one hand, there is more physical freedom, as most parties have access to cars and campus life allows for a wider social reach than in high school. On the other hand, however, more constraints come into play, as resources like money and time become scarcer.

However, if one goes into this dynamic knowing the constraints, it becomes much easier to navigate. For example, being aware of the fact that most university students are working with a limited budget ensures that all parties in a relationship can set their expectations for dates at a more reasonable level.

Day Houses Day students who want to experience all that student life has to offer can join one of the four day houses on campus: Dregeana, Vividus, Luminous, or Docendo. Day houses offer Vividus - @vividus_day_house a wide variety of activities that members can participate in, ranging from movie nights and formals, to sporting events and community outreach initiatives. Day houses also offer many opportunities to socialise with members of other day houses and residences.

The SRC The Student Representative Council (SRC) is the highest student governance structure at the University of Pretoria and members are elected annually by their fellow students.

According to members of the SRC, they have members in many of the student structures that fall under the Department of Student Affairs (DSA), which is responsible for the facilitation of organised student-life activities. One of these structures, the Student Culture Committee (STUKU), is responsible for managing student cultural events, including 1nsync, Step It Up and UP A Capella. UP RAG (Reach Out And Give) is another structure with an SRC member and is responsible for overseeing student-driven, non-profit and community engagement projects and programmes, such as Kagiso, “a four week training programme that educates students about the essence of community engagement and charity”. The DSA’s Student Sports Committee aims to “connect students to sport events, TuksSport and to other students and it has many initiatives geared specifically towards first year students”, such as the First Years Football Tournament and the First Years Netball Tournament.

TuksFM - tuksfm.co.za

12 | Features

How the pandemic generation will beat all odds Susanna Anbu

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ore than a year since the first case of COVID-19 was recorded in Wuhan, China, the world still faces the pandemic in the form of second waves and stringent lockdowns. Despite the cautious optimism of what the year 2021 will provide, the year offers little promise of being different from its notorious predecessor, 2020. The age group impacted the most by the pandemic is17-28, comprising of matriculants, university students, and early-career professionals, and researchers.

This demographic, collectively known as “Generation Z”, is entering the pandemic and post-pandemic world in a state of heightened gloom and pessimism. However, there is greater motivation to believe that the unique combination of stressors that the pandemic has exerted on Generation Z has actually accelerated many positive social trends, which have set them up for success in the post-pandemic world. This so-called “pandemic generation” may therefore be the ones who hold the best chance of conquering a post-pandemic world.

The term “Generation Z”, also colloquially known as “zoomers”, refers to individuals born between the early 1990s to the early 2010s. A distinguishing characteristic of this group is that they are the first generation not to have experienced a life devoid of the internet and digital technology, earning them the name of “digital natives”. Due to the stressors that the pandemic has exerted, most institutions and activities were forced to move online and onto digital platforms. This overnight shift to technology has provided an ideal environment for the “digital natives” to exploit and showcase their skills to develop creative solutions to problems.

Heightened awareness and critical thinking Generation Z has developed a collective mind-set that the order of things in their daily life can change overnight. The uncertainty about what the next day or next few months hold has promoted a hyper aware mind-set that allows them to think on their feet.

With the onset of the pandemic and its associated lockdowns, individuals had to place their trust in media and government organisations for information regarding lockdown regulations and case counts. As per the Edelman Trust Barometer, only 49% of the world’s population trusts the media. A 2019 study published

by Science Advances found that the “baby boomer” generation (individuals older than 65) are seven times more likely to share fake news articles than Generation Z. The study also found that 83% of Generation Z obtain their news from links that lead them to reputed online news sites. Despite the fact that almost 97% of Generation Z owns a smartphone and reside on at least one of the major 6 social media sites, only 7% stated social media as a source of trusted news.

Generation Z consumes news content that is catchy, real-time, digestible, and that appeals to a certain emotional chord. Instagram has become an ideal platform to obtain information, with meme pages becoming the go-to choice. Meme pages post memes in real time with events such as national addresses, incorporating humour with information, regarding, for example, lockdown regulations. This boasts greater resonance with their consumers, as these meme pages bring in an element of relatability. Additionally, UP-themed pages like Life_at_Tuks, Tuks_FacultyOfMemes, and Cry_at_UP, also provided students with the “campus experience” during online learning. Through meme pages, Generation Z are learning many things, such as key political figures and the content of a presidential speech, and are staying up to date with lockdown regulations. At the beginning of the pandemic, there was a general absence of real-time

Getting uni-fit Asanda Made

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ew Years has come and gone in the blink of an eye and without a second to spare, the “back2school” television adverts have started to roll in. It is at this point that most students finally drag themselves out of bed and once again register for the upcoming academic year. However, for first-year students, registration is just a small part of the preparations that need to be done prior to coming to university.

The increased academic pressures at tertiary level already create a notable difference between secondary and tertiary schooling. This difference is made more prevalent by the responsibility to establish both academic and extra-curricular timetables and schedules. In high school, there were tasks that the scholar’s institution took the responsibility for. Therefore, with this newly transferred responsibility, the increased academic pressure, and the necessary mental preparations, a significant amount of initiative is required from a first-year student. Tackling these tasks may often prove to be a challenge, especially when determining where to start.

The simplest starting point would be to establish a schedule that is free of any clashes and allows adequate free time for the student to ensure balance to the schedule. Dr EskellBlokland, the Head of Department at the Student Counselling Unit, identified establishing a schedule and having the correct

6 March 2021

information. However, as the pandemic progressed, individuals relied heavily on the announcement of real-time information.

Generation Z used this situation to set themselves up to become hyper aware and critically assess news sources.

Accelerator of positive social trends Reports suggest that the pandemic has served as a hyper drive event that has accelerated trends that researchers had previously predicted about Generation Z. An inevitable result of the pandemic was needing to make personal sacrifices (for example, staying home and not socialising) for the greater good (in this case, protecting the more vulnerable generations of our society). Thwarting Generation Z from socialising, albeit not easy, was possible, which in turn has conditioned them to consider the effects of their actions on others.

This also promoted a sense of compassion, as Generation Z have come to value the broader community they live in, as opposed to possessing more individualistic mind-sets.

The pandemic has also led to the development of smaller social circles, comprising of only immediate family members.

Tertiary students and young career professionals found themselves losing their personal freedom and independence after being forced to stay home for a much longer period of time. Contrary to popular belief, a recent Washington Post article, written by a sociologist at the University of Virginia, indicated that unions within families grew stronger through the stresses imposed by the pandemic. Youngsters found themselves having to juggle domestic chores, while simultaneously attending online classes and conferences. This allowed many to learn domestic skills that they never got around to learning in the pre-pandemic world.

This hyper drive event also meant that family members spent time togethers, as with the imposition of lockdown and alcohol bans, youngsters were forced to seek out simple pleasures, such as puzzles, walks, or simple conversations with friends and family.

A study published in Trends in Cognitive Sciences affirms that, when a human witnesses distress in another human, they are able to empathise with the individual. The pandemic has been a collectively distressing experience , and, for Generation Z in particular, this distress often manifested as a result of being isolated from friends and peers for prolonged periods of time.This collective distress has the potential to lead to empathy, which “motivates cooperation and effective communication”.

When home environments were made to combine with their work lives, members of Generation Z had to devise creative strategies to juggle multiple responsibilities. This gives rise to a generation of creative problem solvers, conceived from early training that fine-tuned them to apply knowledge to real-world setups. A study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology argues that any stress exerted on a young generation has the capacity to build qualities of resilience and continued learning. As a result of the pandemic, many people have had to persevere through difficult times. Additionally, a resultant pessimistic attitude is merely a short-term impact, as the continued effects of the pandemic instill new levels of determination and grit amongst a generation who are still shaping their perspectives of the world.

Diminishing Hustle Culture With the closure of campus, the idealised “fast-paced” lifestyle experienced by students diminished to a much slower pace. The buzz of the Student Piazza, coupled with the incessant busyness on campus, often led to many aspects of everyday life being forgotten or ignored. With a halt in most social activities, and the lack of physical access to campus, there has been a reduction

in pace. This has arguably forced Generation Z to take a slower approach towards life, and create an existence marked by quality of relationships, rather than quantity of social connections. A recent Forbes article cited this phenomenon as “mental distancing”, echoing the sentiment that it “provides for time when you’re not thinking about the virus and […] gives you the opportunity to take a timeout from worry or anxiety about current conditions”. This could ingrain long lasting behavioural changes in Generation Z. Enabled by Apps In addition to “digital natives”, Generation Z has also donned the label, “the app generation”. A study undertaken by The Seattle Times found that this group can further be subdivided into those who are “app dependent” (people who are helpless without an app that directs them) and those who are “app enabled” (people who go beyond an app to obtain solutions to problems).

The unique cauldron of stressors caused by the pandemic, such as schooling in limbo, limits on social gatherings, and ceased extracurricular activities, meant that there was a rise in unstructured time. In this unstructured time, the “app enabled” youth’s characteristics enabled them to exploit the dire pandemic situation positively.

For example , The Seattle Times’s study found a trend where the “app enabled youth” garnered a greater satisfaction in their technology use during the pandemic, because they approached their technology use with the purpose of gaining new knowledge, connections, and skills that correlated with their interests. For example, the shift to an online platform led to more conferences and programs moving online, and students were able to make use of these opportunities to garner knowledge and attend programs from across the globe, from the comfort of their homes. However, the mind set to exploit this gold mine of knowledge was almost absent in the “app dependent” generation group. This group is often characterised by barely attending online classes and lectures, or doing so only for academic credit. Most students in this group experienced a sensation that their lives were put on hold, felt they did not learn anything substantial from online learning, and simply allowed themselves to be swept up in the current of whatever news or topic was trending for that day or time period.

However, the pandemic has driven a surge of Generation Z to become “app enabled” youth. The circumstances imposed by a pandemic meant that a large group of youngsters were driven to seek out technology with a purpose, such as finding out latest case counts, keeping up with COVID-19 regulations, or looking up when to expect school or university reopenings. Platforms such as Zoom and Google Meets were also used as alternatives to social gatherings.

A take-home point from the effects of the pandemic is that the youth can emerge and thrive amidst future pandemics or crises, as long as they channel a sense of purpose to whatever action they pursue. For example, one can attend online classes with the purpose of garnering knowledge, or be prepared with questions, or learn new skills with the unstructured time available during the pandemic. Furthermore, members of Generation Z should not feel guilty for not exploiting all the avenues available to them amidst the pandemic, but should rather focus on continually practicing key behavioral trends that will help them navigate pandemic stressors. Although the current state of affairs might have pessimistic undertones to them, in the long term, the behavioral benefits acquired during this time will aid in creating a unique “pandemic generation”, equipped to conquer a post-pandemic world.

mindset as two of the more important aspects when preparing for university. The importance of these aspects were echoed by the Faculty Student Advisors (FSAs) at the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and IT (EBIT). This is to ensure that students “use their time wisely and get organised”. The EBIT FSAs also mentioned the importance a balanced schedule plays in achieving academic success. They explained that “it is vital that students have a balanced schedule in order to be productive in all areas of their lives and to achieve academic success” and therefore “recognising students as holistic beings”.

Once a schedule is established, the next step would be to ensure that the student commits to the schedule. This is where having the correct mindset plays a role. The FSAs also mentioned that “the two work in harmony together as opposed to individually”.

Dr Eskell-Blokland added that “with the correct and constructive mind set, the scheduling will be easier to design and stick to”.

This reveals that no matter how impressive your scheduling is, without the correct mindset it will be ineffective. Dr EskellBlokland further highlighted that “when embarking on studies at tertiary level your identity as a student is not as easy as it might have been”. She further emphasised the importance of cementing the mind set that “you are first and foremost a student”. It is also important to ensure that this newly established mindset remains intact throughout the academic year. This is also why the FSAs recommend adopting a “growth mindset”, stating that “this

mindset enables [students] to believe that they can overcome any obstacle if they view it from a growth and development perspective”.

With the correct mindset and schedule in hand, there are a few other aspects that will ensure that students are well on their way to getting uni-fit. The FSAs recommend that one of the first tasks students should engage in is research. This includes familiarising yourself with the UP Portal, ClickUP, the study guides relevant to your degree, and “becoming friends with your degree yearbook” to assist in the structuring of your degree.

Utilising the services the university offers will go a long way in assisting students with the adjustment. From the student counselling centre to the student advisors available from each faculty, students have multiple channels to use when in need of any assistance, whether academic or otherwise. The important thing to remember is to “always ask for help when you need [it]”, as there will always be someone who has the answer to the questions one may have.

The most important piece of advice mentioned by Dr EskellBlokland for students is to “become self-aware [and] know yourself”. With self-knowledge in hand, a student will be better equipped to identify any problem areas in both the academic and personal aspects of their lives. Self-knowledge enables them to tackle the areas more effectively and promptly, and prevents students from falling behind and needing to play catch-up.

Images: Kara Olivier

Features | 13

6 March 2021

PDBWhy:

Campus clothing tips and hacks

Vuyi Zondi

Tshepang Rihlampfu

K

nowing what to wear for university, especially when one has had to wear a uniform to school for however many years prior, can be an overlooked, but overwhelming, aspect of being a first year. To help with this, PDBY asked some senior students for their best campus clothing hacks and tips.

BA Psychology 3rd Year

I live by JTS. Jeans, tees, and sneakers. A jean that fits you well, a T-shirt that doesn’t distract and sneakers that are popping. As a first year you need to be comfortable and simple ‘cause you will have classes, practicals, and tutorials and the last thing you need stressing you is your outfit.

Pearl Ntshane BSc Food Science 3rd Year

Two important things to always have in mind is to look put together and be comfortable. Basics are important: a good pair of jeans, a good pair of leggings for ladies, white and black tees, white sneakers! (white sneakers and a white tee blend in with everything: you will never go wrong but black also works). On a lazy day, a midi dress and sneakers (the white sneakers again or with sandals) and throwing a leather or denim jacket over your outfit for those morning classes makes your outfit look put together. Track pants, oversized tops, flip flops and sweaters [are also] good things to have in your closet. A little extra something [could be] white sneakers, good fitting blue or black jeans, white tee and a blazer of a neutral colour. and add a wristwatch if you like (thank me later). Neutral colours are the best, [because] they allow you to mix and match outfits as you want (white, black, navy and nude or khaki). Make use of student discounts! The Fix has a 20% discount for students every Tuesday [and] Varsity Vibe also has good offers. Whenever you go grocery shopping, just hop into stores [like] Mr Price. [In] the sale section there’s always something that will catch your eye without breaking your budget. Outlet stores will be your friend. [Feel] like going for a shopping spree? Take your wallet and head to Atterbury mall (there are a lot of outlet stores there).

Siyabonga Nkosi LLB 2nd year

Colour co-ordination is very important.

[Don’t] mix up your colour in a cringy way.

Mr Price is for the students so use and visit it to your fullest. [Buy] different coloured shirts and designs. [If] [you’re] going to get round neck T-shirts, buy a black, blue, grey, red, white and yellow one. [Have] a wide range in colour, and when it comes to denims buy black and blue. [Keep] it simple and clean. [Plus,] they go well with most colours.

[Also] have a jewellery piece [and] never mess with your shoes. [Have] proper kicks and at least one jewellery piece.

[Don’t] be plain. Buy more tops than pants. [Lastly,] don’t look like your problems: even if you are stressed, still dress proper.

Thando Vokwana Bcom Economics 3rd Year

First of all, thrifting is key. To always have a clean fit but not break your budget, thrift.

[Comfort] is important too. You don’t want to find yourself in a full double lecture in Thuto in a pair of uncomfortable jeans. [Make] sure you’re comfortable in whatever you’re wearing. Don’t feel pressured to drip in your best every day, as long as you’re comfortable and clean, whether it be sweatpants and a hoodie or a nice pair of jeans and simple tee.

Mbali Nkosi LLB Final Year

What one [wears] usually depends on the weather, and how one feels on that particular day. On summer days, I usually have on an oversized T-shirt [and] skinny jeans with sandals or sneakers.

I also love a simple [jumpsuit] or a dress which is easy to dress up or down. Whenever I have a library date I prefer comfort over everything. So, I’d throw on some leggings [and a] T-shirt with flip flops and a hoodie. During the autumn season, my leather jacket and cardigan are my favourite items because they work with almost every outfit.

I usually have on a simple dress or crop top with jeans then put on a leather jacket over it to make the simple outfit pop.

In the winter season, ankle boots and sneakers are my [go-to] shoes. Layering in winter is the best way to go, so put on a hoodie or sweater and a jacket over that. If one is going for a simpler look then one can wear a bomber jacket, a pair of jeans or leggings and sneakers.

Images provided

Lesser-known student societies Bianke Neethling

U

P offers an abundance of societies, clubs and organisations that students can be a part of. This wide range of options makes it is easy to become overwhelmed by choice, and also makes it easier for some societies to fly under the radar.

PDBY has featured and interviewed three of UP’s interesting, though lesser known, student societies.

Tuks Exploratio The Chairperson of Tuks Exploratio, Stefan Schalkwyk, describes this society as one based on “going out and having adventures”. The focus of this society, Schalkwyk continues, is “rock climbing”, but “slacklining, […] hiking, and kloofing” are also activities the society Image: Facebook partakes in. The society is fully equipped Exploratio for these activities and new members do not need their own gear to take part.

In 2021, Tuks Exploratio hopes to “grow the outdoor community” and create excitement around their adventures. The society also hopes to “grow [their] involvement in the slackline community” because it is “more social” and “a good time for people of every experience level”.

Upcoming events, in which first years can be involved, are their pre-beginners and beginners weekend, which Schalkwyk describes as “a rock climbing get-away”. On the agenda for the year are also “some social hikes and kloofing”, though these events are subject to the regulations regarding COVID-19.

Universiteit van Pretoria Debatvereniging (UPDV) The UPDV is UP’s Afrikaans debate society and, according to Chairperson NJ Nel, “aims to create Afrikaans discourse that promotes debate skills, while improving general knowledge and providing awareness for Image: Facebook - UPDV [local and international] issues”.

Nel states that the UPDV “provides a social environment where anyone who has a love of Afrikaans can further their debate skills and enjoy intelligent conversations with others”.

First years, and anyone else who is interested, are encouraged to attend the society’s yearly “Debat-101” event, where members of the society go through the basics of debate and give the attendees “a first-hand experience in what the society entails”. In addition, the society also hosts many social gatherings where attendees will be given “an opportunity to meet new people and to dispute radical points”. The UPDV annually competes in a national debating competition against other universities in the country, and try-outs for this competition are held yearly and are open to everyone. The society is also involved in various community projects, where they assist children in the community and help prepare them for university. This year, the society hopes to host multiple social gatherings, either physical or online (depending on COVID-19 regulations) where current topics can be discussed, particularly since, as Nel states, 2020 has given rise to “many different opinions”, which “we can talk about and dispute during debates”.

Tuks Anime and Gaming Society (TAGS) Stephen Brookes, the Chairperson of the TAGS, states that this society, rather than having “a more rigid structure Image: Facebook - Tuks Anime and and mission statement”, seeks Gaming to “foster and grow a casual community of people who enjoy playing games”. The society hopes to be a place where “a student can come in [and] find people who they can share their interests in games with”.

In 2021, the TAGS plans to host many events, some of which will be open to student suggestions. In addition to these events, the society also intends to have “regular meet ups that allow students to play with their fellows regularly”. Brookes emphasises the fact that this society is “open to every student […] regardless of race, creed, religion or number of years having been a student”.

This, therefore, includes first years, who are encouraged to join “so that they can find fellows in a chilled environment, without the stress that comes from a more traditional society”.

In line with the TAGS’s aim to be a more “casual” society, they are also “aiming for absolutely no fees to join”, as they do not want their members “to ‘stress’ over an obligation to the society when they feel either not in the mood to join or don’t have the time to do so”.

Brookes notes that, though they do have “tentative plans for large events” this year, they are dependent on COVID-19 regulations and can therefore, at this time, “not confirm that these events will happen”.

14 | Entertainment

6 March 2021

South African soapie celebrates a milestone Kendra Connock

L

ong-running South African soap opera 7de Laan recently celebrated the broadcast of its 5000th episode. The multilingual, multicultural series has been airing since 2000 and, in recent years, has made an effort to be more relevant to contemporary audiences in South Africa.

In 2017, the series had its first appearance of a queer couple, and a number of interracial

couples feature in the show. Recently, a number of young actors and actresses have been added to the cast in an attempt to draw younger viewers.

Set in Hillside, a fictional suburb in Johannesburg, the show centres its storylines around South African life, with characters celebrating South African public holidays such as Freedom Day, Mandela Day, and Heritage Day. The lives of the characters are meant to mirror the lives of South African citizens by dealing with issues that are common in our

society, ranging from love, parenting, and divorce, to running a small business, living with HIV/AIDS, and gender-based violence.

It is important to remember that 7de Laan is a soap opera, and between all the real life struggles there are moments of absurd dramatics (think surprise evil twins, or the we-thoughtyou-were-dead-but-you-are-not-and-nowyou’re-here-to-take-revenge tropes we have seen in The Days of Our Lives or The Bold and The Beautiful). But, as it turns out, there is such a

thing as too dramatic. Over the past few years, the show has experienced a steady decline in viewership as a number of iconic characters have departed from the show in quick succession, but what bothers some viewers is how the content of the show has changed. Viewers have expressed concerns over the immorality and murder which forms the basis of a number of storylines as well as the depictions of varying forms of violence and themes of rape.

The SABC, which broadcasts the show, seems to be cutting its losses with 7de Laan as it recently announced the show’s running time was being cut down from two and a half hours a week, to one and a half hours. Starting on Monday 5 April 2021, 7de Laan will air only on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.

Meet Nicola McLeod Images: Provided

Dani van der Horst

P

DBY caught up with Pretoria-based musician, Nicola McLeod. McLeod describes herself as a quirky go-getter who is passionate about what she believes in.

She also says that sometimes she can be blindly optimistic and that this optimism has oftentimes pointed her in the right direction. McLeod is a full-time musician who also offers singing, ukulele and guitar lessons. On top of this, she also acts and runs a pet sitting business. While McLeod has her hands full, she could not imagine it any other way. She states that she is “scared of conforming to an office job” and that if she had to “do the same thing at the same desk just, [she] thinks [she] would go crazy”.

How did you get into music?

As a kid, I was inspired by what I heard on the radio and what I saw on television. I started teaching myself to play guitar and it went super well and I absolutely fell in love with it - that is how I really started. I think I was four or five and I heard Britney Spears on the radio. I am completely obsessed with Britney Spears. For literally every Christmas all I wanted was a Britney Spears album. I would just listen to her music all day. I started dancing competitively when I was five and I just wanted to be one of Britney‘s dancers or one of her backup singers.

And then I wanted more. I wanted to become Britney Spears. I have always known that this is what I wanted to do. When I had almost finished primary school, I was obsessed with Hannah Montana - okay well, Miley Cyrus. I still am and I still strive for that authenticity and artistry that she always portrays. I feel like that is the one true way of showing your artistry, being unapologetically authentic.

What is your creative process like?

If you can first play a melody from some kind of instrument and then put that melody into words – that is where the magic is. It does not matter exactly which way you go about it but for me, that is where it starts. Just having the freedom to say what is on your mind and making a melody out of it. [...] I have a digital notebook on my phone and every time I have an idea, I just type it out on there. I also have a physical notebook at home where I physically write down all of my ideas from the digital notebook. If what I have written sticks to a certain theme that I already have in the

notebook, I will add it to those lyrics. When I eventually go back to the lyrics and I add in the melody, the song kind of speaks for itself and it just becomes what it was supposed to be, I guess. I also like to make up stories and scenarios and then write about those [...].

How would you describe the South African music scene and your experiences with it?

I would say that there is still a lot for me to learn about it because there are so many cultures in this country and so many different genres of music that there is absolutely no way that I could know everything about it or every musician. That’s one of the reasons I love to do collaborations because they always teach me a lot about music and culture. I would describe the South African or African musicians as expressive. I definitely don’t feel like we are easily put in a box. We’re all free to express our cultures and music, which is beautiful. The Pretoria/Johannesburg music scene, where I’m at right now, is full of very supportive people we are a community. I think we help each other a lot and help to get each other’s names out there. We support each other, especially online.

I know it fills me with pride when I download my friends’ EPs and I know they support me as well.

What have some of your favourite live performances been?

I would say that the most nerve-racking one was in 2013 at the Pretoria State Theatre.

I was in a competition where they picked 15 high schools and you had a competition in each high school and if you were in the top ten, you would go to the finals in your school.

If you won the final, then you would go as the winner of the school and compete against the other 14 schools. So, I went through as a winner which was insane! It really built my character and that kind of helped me to break through that nervousness. It was such a big opportunity and from there I just really started enjoying performing instead of overthinking it.

The most unexpected one that I really enjoyed was called Sunburn and Wonder, we opened for major artists like Jeremy Loops and Matthew Mole, to name a few. It was in 2019. It was truly the best performance because of all the experience I built up and all the musicians I met. They were all super, super nice and I made some good friends in the music industry like Johnny Apple - he is a super awesome guy, and

he is so talented. Little Ringo was also there that day - they are amazing. Yeah, it is honestly just so amazing getting backstage seeing what it actually takes to pull off a festival like that.

But I would say that some of my favourite performances ever have been at Fokof Bar’s Bar Acoustic. They are my favourite because my partner, Jeandré, and I actually run bar Acoustics.

Where would you love to perform someday?

Oh my word – The Grand Ole Opry! I would love to perform there. But more locally, I would say that my big dream is to perform my original music at Park Acoustics.

What is it that makes performing live so special?

If people really respond as I said in [a] previous answer, to your music it is incredibly rewarding. As an artist you want people to respond to your art and to actually be interested in it and want to know more about it. So, it is extremely rewarding when you are performing live and people respond to that. I would also say that the endorphins are released as when you are actually standing up there singing your heart out, are unmatched. It is so different to when you are alone in your room playing. It releases so many happy hormones and I think that is why I love it so much. It is just this expression of pure love for music, singing and playing instruments. It is such a simple thing, but it is so amazing because I believe that people communicate through music.

Do you have any upcoming projects that we should look out for?

Yes! I am looking at working with a few people at the moment. I mean I am obviously also always quite busy with our Bar Acoustics project. That is sort of a weekly project, we have to book artists and make sure the posters are ready, sort out pictures, send out invoices, basically the whole shebang of running an event. But the big project that I am currently working on is an EP with Kyle Botha from Joy Club Cassidy Cassidy, they are a punk band.

He actually just graduated in music last year and he is brilliant, absolutely brilliant. We have been working on my EP together where we authentically do everything ourselves. All the instruments, the vocals, the song writing, everything is done by Kyle and I. It is a singer/

songwriter/country style EP. It is very close to my heart and I am very excited about it. I feel that it is the most authentic I have been. I am also looking at working with some bigger pop artists out there. I don’t know if I should say anything yet because it’s kind of up in the air right now. But yeah, it is in the pipeline. So yes, there is a lot going on.

If you could work with any musician (dead or alive) who would it be and why?

Miley Cyrus. I think everything about her is brilliant! Her artistry, her authenticity, her voice, her song writing, and even the way she uses the instruments in her music – everything. She is truly remarkable! Locally, I’d like to think realistically in a sense of people I could actually make music with - people in my community. I love Bianca Blanc’s voice. I would love to sing with her, and I would love to write with Martin Gill, he is an amazing writer. I would love to do an original with Janie Bay because she’s really doing something in the pop industry and she’s really working hard at it which I really respect. She’s always pushing hard and hustling in the female Afrikaans pop industry which isn’t always easy. Then, just for fun, a late artist I would have loved to work with would have to be Elvis. That’s super far fetched but yeah. His music is just so much fun. I would’ve loved to just play music with Elvis.

What life lessons have you learnt from being a musician?

I know there’s a saying [that goes] ‘fake it till you make it’, but I think that is actually about confidence. If you’re not feeling that confident, fake the confidence. But otherwise, I think that authenticity is the most important part of being an artist. Do it because you love it. I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. I work hard at this and I might as well enjoy the journey and not only focus on the endpoint. Another major lesson that I have learnt is to take rejection as constructive criticism. Sometimes it’s hard to pick yourself up from that and that’s okay but try see it as a learning curve.

You can catch Nicola McLeod at Bar Acoustics on Wednesday evenings. Be sure to check out the Bar Acoustics Instagram (@ baracoustics) and Facebook (Bar Acoustics) pages for details. You can find Nicola on Instagram (@_nicolamcleod_), YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook.

6 March 2021

Student Specials Kendra Connock

P

erhaps one of the most useful skills you will learn in your first year as a student is how to stretch your money far enough to actually enjoy life. Every little bit you can save will help in the long run and you may find yourself with extra to spend on a few luxuries.

If you are an out-of-province student you should look into Greyhound, Intercape, and SAA as a means of getting back home for the holidays. Each of these companies offers a student discount which can come in handy if you find yourself feeling a little homesick.

Varsity Vibe is an app that offers student discounts. The app has an annual membership fee of R200 but offers up to 20% discounts from brands like Cotton On and Typo, Takealot, USN, and exclusive offers on food from Nandos and Mr Delivery. With a constant offer of discounts throughout the year, the money you save through Varsity Vibe for some students makes the R200

Entertainment | 15 membership fee worth it.

Be sure to enquire at your bank about what they can offer you as a student. From specific types of accounts aimed at students, to free data, vouchers, and travel discounts, each bank has their own incentive system for young account holders.

Most places in and around Hatfield are geared towards students, so you are likely to find specials and competitive prices but there are some companies offering specials on food, entertainment, and tech too. Ster-Kinekor card holders get discounts on movies, and Computicket offers discounts on event tickets. Apple and HP offer discounts on various kinds of tech like laptops and printers. Game has a discount available for students on things such as home goods, technology, food supplies, stationery and more.

The next examples do not necessarily count as student discounts because they are available to anyone, but they can be useful to university students. Make sure to sign up to UberEats. Signing up does not cost you anything and they will send you regular

Illustration: Tshepang Rihlampfu

emails with discount codes or specials on delivery. Do your part for the environment and save some cash at the same time by taking a reusable mug to your favourite coffee spot; Vida e Caffé will give you R2 off your drink, Woolworths Café will take off R1, and Seattle Coffee Company will discount your drink by 10%. Be sure to enquire at cafes and coffee spots whether they have a loyalty

program. Seattle will give you one free drink for every 10 you buy, and you can save money at Vida e Caffé by using their app to pay for your order.

Student life can be tough, and learning to budget is a new skill to many students, but with a little practice, self-control, and a few student discounts here and there you will be a master of your own finances in no time.

A first year’s guide to the Uni-verse Dani van der Horst

S

tarting your first year of university is a daunting endeavour even under normal circumstances, and 2021 carries with it the unique task of studying remotely, away from the university. While this is not ideal and probably not how you pictured starting this new chapter of your life, it can still be an exciting experience. PDBY has compiled a guide to university to help you navigate campus life, both virtually and physically.

Virtual Campus: Get involved Spending your days inside can get lonely student structures are a great way to meet new people and to get involved with the university.

There are many different structures to choose from and a full list of structures and societies can be found on the UP’swebsite. You can even apply to be a part of PDBY.

to you by your faculty. This is a great way to meet some of the people studying with you. However, if this is not the case for your faculty – you could also check out a mentorship programme like the STARS Mentorship Programme. With the programme, senior students (second year and above) assist the first year students through the first semester. There are often hangout sessions where you can meet other mentors and mentees.

Ask questions and stay involved during lectures Do not be afraid to ask questions or to enter into discussions during lectures. University is a space where you get out what you put in and it is more enjoyable if you actually engage with the lectures. This goes for physical lectures and learning online.

Stay hydrated Even though you may be spending most of your day sitting down and inside, it is still important to stay hydrated. Drinking water helps to maintain memory function and it is important to keep your brain in top shape when studying.

Take a mental health day if you need one The university space is great for an array of reasons, but one of the major ones is that it tends to be a bit more flexible when it comes to your academic schedule. While some degrees will require more of you in terms of practical hours and contact sessions – there are many degrees that are not too demanding about these. PDBY is by no means encouraging bunking, but if you need to take a break day – there is some room for it. Just make sure that you stay on top of your work and do not fall behind.

Get some exercise It is important to keep your body moving.

Research has shown that just fifteen minutes of exercise a day can help boost your brain power. A short walk around your block or even doing a few jumping-jacks is more than enough to do the trick, there is no need to start vigorously exercising if you do not enjoy it.

Just keep moving your body a little bit every day. To read about keeping fit at home, check out page 19.

Talk to friends It is important to make time for a social life. Sometimes you may feel like you are overwhelmed by your workload and put your social life on hold. This could cause you to feel more stressed and overwhelmed. Be sure to carve out some time during your week for your friends and family. Whether that is phoning someone who you care about to catch up or making time for a quick (COVID-19 safe) coffee. It is about finding a balance.

Join peer hangout sessions if they are offered or sign up for a mentor Some faculties offer peer hangout sessions.

Information about this will be communicated

Physical Campus: While you may not be heading to campus just

yet, it is still important to have a rough idea of what essentials you should pack when you do end up there.

Parking While this is not something you can pack for campus, it is definitely something to be aware of. The parking situation on campus is disastrous (read some of our previous editions to find out more about this issue), so be prepared. If you live far away from campus, try your best to get to campus as early as possible and give yourself enough time to hunt for a parking spot.

amount of hand sanitiser.

Download campus maps Navigating campus can be quite tricky, so download a campus map from the UP website to help you figure it all out.

Google Maps can also be useful if you are stuck.

Always pack an umbrella The weather in Pretoria can be unpredictable (especially during the summer months) and there is nothing worse than getting caught in the rain when you are more than two kilometres away from your next lecture. Pack an umbrella just in case.

Always have a jacket or jersey handy While on the topic of unpredictability, the UP aircons are always a gamble. Some lecture halls may be so hot that you want to remove all of the layers you came to campus in, and others are so freezing it feels like you are in the middle of a snowstorm. So be sure to pack a jersey or jacket just in case.

Water bottle Staying hydrated on campus is just as important as staying hydrated at home. Pack in a water bottle so that you can fill it up throughout the day.

Mask and hand sanitiser (for the foreseeable future) It is likely that when you return to campus, you will have to wear a mask.

Be sure to pack in a spare and a decent

Image: vecteezy.com

16 | Entertainment

6 March 2021

Black Coffee Subconsciously Sam Mukwamu

L

egendary South African DJ and producer, Black Coffee, released his highly anticipated album, Subconsciously, on 5 February. Coming five years after his last album, the 12-track body of work is packed with impressive collaborations with international acts like Usher, David Guetta, Pharrell Williams, Diplo and Cassie.

The album also features local acts including Sun-EL Musician, Msaki, Tellaman and Una Rams.

Having earned global stardom, the Durban native has graced some of the world’s biggest stages and collaborated with some of the most prominent names in the music industry.

This has allowed Black Coffee to develop his unique sound and musical range, which is fairly evident on Subconsciously. The album is smooth, melodic and sonically diverse, and

is accompanied by sultry and soulful vocals that set a relaxed vibe that is carried throughout.

The tone for Subconsciously is set with the opening track, “Lost”, a smooth and emotional song with very relatable lyrics, backed by a gentle kick drumladen beat. The second track “You Need Me”, featuring Sun-EL Musician and amazing vocals by the Bronx-born singer, Maxine Ashley. This song delivers a laid-back beat with gentle piano chords, and strikes the perfect balance between the emotion in Ashley’s vocals and the energy in Black Coffee’s production that demands movement.

There is an uptick in tempo by the third track, “SBCNCSLY”, which features exquisite vocals from US-based singer, Sabrina Claudio. The tempo is further heightened by the hypnotic rhythm set by “I’m Fallin’”, featuring RY X. The album further comes alive on “Time”, with R&B star Cassie delivering simple yet elegant vocals, with Black Coffee producing a melody that plays to her strengths. On “LaLaLa”, Black Coffee enlists the help of R&B

icon, Usher, for a groovy track guaranteed to make you move. Next up is “Flava”, a song with a banging beat and booming horns, however the lyrics are somewhat uninspired. The song features Tellaman and Una Rams singing about an untrusting woman with “too much flavour”, who was once sweet, but was turned bitter by a former lover. Although the song is still enjoyable, it is somewhat at odds with lyrics on “SBCNCSLY”, with Sabrina Claudio singing that “she’ll love when she’s ready”.

Black Coffee’s range is further highlighted on “10 Missed Calls”, a pop-infused track featuring vocals from Jozzy and Pharrell. A more relaxed mood is reintroduced on “Ready for You” and “Wish You Were Here”, both of which make you reminisce and long for the return of music festivals.

The inclusion of Black Coffee’s 2018 hit “Drive”, featuring David Guetta and Delilah Montagu, on the album is a welcome bonus to an already solid body of work. Three years later, the track still holds up. The album is rounded off with “Never Gonna Forget You”, which sees Black Coffee team up with versatile

American producer Diplo and features vocals

by Elderbrook. The song perfectly ends off the album with Elderbrook providing catchy vocals that complement the polished production done by Black Coffee and Diplo.

On Subconsciously, Black Coffee manages to perfectly balance star-studded collaborations with exquisite production, delivering a strong project with a recognisable mellow sound that we’ve come to expect from him. Subconsciously is packed with songs perfect for club and festival settings; however, with the uncertainty around their return, you’ll have to settle for whatever setting you can think of to enjoy this album. It certainly has the quality to be enjoyed anywhere, any time.

Image: pitchfork.com

PDBY Featured Artist: Invisible Evergreen

You have performed live in the last year.

Tell us about how gigging and performing live has changed in 2020, especially in these unusual circumstances amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

2020 was the year we intended to really get Evergreen off its feet but obviously the world was halted by this horrible virus. However, we still managed to achieve all we set out to at the beginning of the year by landing our first gigs and recording our first song.

Although we would have liked to perform and record more, last year still added the fuel we needed to keep our passion for this band burning.

Image: Provided

Vasalya Moodley

J

acques Viviers and Kyle Abernethy began a journey into the music industry in the last year as the musical duo Evergreen. With the release of their single “Siren” and live performances across Pretoria, the band hopes to make their mark in the local music scene.

PDBY caught up with Evergreen to gain an insight into their newly-established place in the music world.

Your first song “Siren” was released in August. Could you elaborate on the song and what it is about?

“Siren” is an unconventional love song. We took inspiration from the mythical creature which would seduce sailors into jumping overboard, ultimately drowning themselves. So, to harken on that, “Siren” portrays a love that has led someone into metaphorically drowning in its toxicity and dysfunction. However, the ‘Siren’s’ beautiful seduction makes it all seem worthwhile.

Tell us about your initial interest in music.

It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact moment we both came to love music because it’s always been a part of who we are, so it was more of a natural inkling of a passion we have for it.

Could you walk us through your creative process as artists?

We tend not to write with a specific process.

Instead, we ride the wave of each other’s moments of inspiration wherein one idea will spark another and another until we have a complete song.

How would you describe Evergreen’s sound and style? Are you influenced by anyone in particular?

Evergreen is really a mixture of both of our tastes in music and the styles we have loved during our lives. We have heavy pop punk elements which grew from our mutual love of bands such as Neck Deep. We also both love Justin Bieber and admire his vocal and lyrical prowess which inspires our writing.

As new artists, tell us more about putting your foot in the door into the industry.

As new artists we just hope that the music we love to make will find its niche in the public and hopefully speak to whoever needs it. We are not aiming to create the most popular or trendy music, rather to do it out of love and as a tool to express ourselves and if people catch on to it and love it as much as we do and want to hear more then we would have achieved our goal.

Speaking of COVID-19, how has the lockdown affected your creativity?

Even though we were forced to be apart during the lockdown, we still managed to keep our creative juices flowing by individually writing ideas down and then discussing and building on them over zoom.

Are there any short or long-term goals that you, as a band, hope to achieve in the future?

As a new band, our long-term goals are really just to record more, perform more and gather a following that will allow us to evolve and expand. With regard to short-term goals, we hope to record an EP by the middle of this year so that we can offer people a few songs that encompass our vision and style.

Can we anticipate any new projects?

Definitely. We are in the process of selfrecording one of our songs which we hope to finish soon and then on to the EP! What would your advice be to fellow students who strive to release original music?

Our advice would be to not to write music you think people will like but write music you love because there are bound to be people who hear you and connect and then you’re off!

Girl

Ashleigh Pascoe

L

isa Jewel’s Invisible Girl is a thrilling read full of plot twists that are sure to leave you scratching your head.

Jewel creates a world full of dark secrets and interwoven stories, where sometimes all that it takes to make you invisible is a hoodie.

The book opens with a description of an attack and the nature of this violence is perplexing. There is no indication of what is going on. After this opening chapter, the book switches to the perspectives of the characters where the reader is first introduced to Saffyre Maddox, a teenager in therapy working through her past traumas. Next there is Cate Fours, a housewife trying to make her marriage with psychologist, Roan Fours, work and finally there is Owen Picks, an IT teacher who gets suspended for sexual misconduct. These are completely different people, with completely different lives and yet, they share a common thread of a story.

Reading this book will have you trying to figure out how the pieces are interwoven on every page but delivers a plot twist that you undoubtedly will not see coming. Not only does this book surprise you, but it also raises some thought provoking questions about the different sides to the same story, whether or not you should give people the benefit of the doubt, and where you should place your empathy.

Lisa Jewel is a talented author. Her thrilling stories come alive with her imagery and complex structure. Her brilliance comes from what she leaves unsaid and even at the end of the book, you will be looking for answers that you will not find.

You can find this book at any Exclusive Books, Bargain Books, or in eBook format.

Where can we follow your activities?

Follow us on Instagram at @band.evergreen for news about new releases or gigs. Otherwise, you can find us on all music platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube.

Image: usatoday.com

6 March 2021

How the pandemic affected 2020 TuksSports

Caitlyn Walsh

L

ast year took many people by surprise and affected a number of individuals with countless losses and sorrows.

TuksSport also experienced difficulties, with several contact sports being reduced or postponed, and a couple of UP athletes being affected by the COVID-19 virus themselves.

It was a challenging year, but athletes pulled through and continued with their hard work, training and practice.

TuksAthlete, Wenda Nel, unfortunately contracted the virus. Nel was fortunate enough not to experience any of the serious symptoms that COVID-19 can present, although she is still taking it easy, especially for her lungs. According to TuksSport’s Wilhelm de Swardt, “the TuksAthlete admits that [...] during the national lockdown, there were times when she was slightly frustrated”. Nel has a lot more appreciation for being an athlete now after realising how a passion and skill can be unappreciated until it is taken away. Nel is currently in a good place and competed at the 2015 Olympic Games, in the 2015 World Championships 400m-hurdles final and won bronze at the 2015 Commonwealth Games. Nel also has titles at the African and South African Championships.

Llewellyn van Leeuwen, TuksGolf’s head coach, also had the unfortunate experience of testing positive for the virus.

Despite the COVID-19 setback, van Leeuwen continued to help and train his player, George Coetzee. With the help of van Leeuwen, Coetzee won the European Tour’s Portuguese Masters Tournament, a big achievement for the athlete. According to TuksSport, van Leeuwen is extremely gifted but “unfortunately, he got hit by a cricket ball in the eye while at school. He suffered a detached retina that affected his vision.” This ended his sporting career, however, he continued to coach the sport, helping others realise their talents and achieve their goals.

TuksSwimmer, Kaylene Corbett, a possible and hopeful Olympian, learnt to live in the moment during the many weeks of the COVID-19 lockdown last year. According to TuksSport, Corbett “chooses to see the glass as half full rather

than half empty”. Lockdown was not easy for Corbett as she had no access to pool facilities and had to learn to train with other techniques on land. This resulted in Corbett injuring her hip and knee. Her time of 2:24.18 in the 200m-breaststroke meant that she would have competed in the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. However, she was frustrated when the Olympic Games were postponed, as well as the South African Swimming Championships being cancelled. She blames herself for her injuries as a result of not training in a pool, nonetheless, Corbett realised that she can never take anything for granted.

TuksSports reports that she appreciates her opportunities and the privilege that she had to train in a pool before, and now.

TuksAthletic’s former SA 100m record holder, Henricho Bruintjies, believes he benefited from the lockdown during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Wilhelm de Swardt, “Bruintjies biggest challenge is not [...] only to beat the stopwatch over 100 metres. He is now also focussed on changing people’s lives. To get them to feel good about how they look. The one thing, however, that remains the same is that less is better. It could be seconds in a sprint or the numbers declining when standing on a scale.” The Tuks sprinter began his own fitness programme and qualified himself as a fitness instructor. Bruintjies began online classes and started coaching people through a safe and socially distanced method. It seems that Bruintjies’ “21 Day Challenge” is working for many people, with feedback and testimonials from some who believe they already feel physically stronger, and others who have lost around 10kgs from his programme. The sprinter has not given up his dreams and career to compete, although he takes pride in the encouragement and change he’s made during the difficult lockdown period.

Despite the obstacles and frustration many UP athletes experienced, they kept a positive attitude and continued to work hard, regardless of the difficulties they faced. With 2021 being a year for further commencement of sport, the effort made by TuksSport athletes will not go unrecognised this year.

Sport | 17

Getting a kick out of TuksSport Kayla Thomas

U

P features more than 30 sports clubs for athletes of diverse and varied preferences. From beginners to professionals, student athletes have their pick of sports clubs and can begin sporting careers that lead to championships, titles, national and international records, and even the Olympics.

For first years joining UP or seniors continuing their studies, TuksSport is open to all students.

TuksSport explain that they cater to all students, including “complete beginner[s] looking to try something new or […] elite athlete[s] with a record of high achievement”, and offer sporting opportunities to all students. Interested athletes have the choice of a wide variety of sport clubs, including rugby, soccer, netball, archery, squash, hockey and golf. TuksSport hosts a number of fields, courts and high performance facilities that enable UP athletes to train and hone their abilities, and prepare for friendly and professional competitions. TuksSports also offers exciting clubs for cheerleading, dance and gymnastics with indoor facilities, as well as multiple swimming pools for water polo, underwater hockey and lifesaving clubs. From martial arts sport clubs such as Judo, Karate and Taekwondo to mental sports like chess and e-sport, students have their pick of athletic activities, and with facilities such as climbing walls, a kayaking dam and a beach volleyball court at the disposal of registered club members and athletes. The more than 30 sporting codes and extensive facilities are found at UP’s Hillcrest Campus on South Street in Hatfield.

While access is restricted to permit holders during the COVID-19 pandemic, students can join TuksSports clubs and register as members for access to train with their club at UP facilities. To join a club, students can find contact details on TuksSport’s website for specific clubs, and check the TuksSports application on the UP Portal. Students can also contact TuksSport on social media for information for specific sports, joining procedures and club fees. Annual fee estimates for UP gyms, facilities and clubs can also be found on their website.

To find out more about TuksSport and joining a club, contact TuksSport on social media @tukssport, or online at up.ac.za/ tukssport. Students can also read about TuksSport in 2020 in their annual magazine, the Medallist, which can be accessed on all of their social media platforms, @tukssport.

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18 | Sport

First year health and fitness tips Susanna Anbu

F

ollowing enrolment into a tertiary institution, many first year students are exposed to new routines that are different from the ones they leave behind at home. The pressures of adjusting to a new environment often sideline the prioritisation of a healthy lifestyle, however, maintaining one’s fitness is a precursor to obtaining good grades. PDBY consulted with Senior Sports Scientist and Head of Sport, Exercise, Medicine and Lifestyle Institute (SEMLI) Education and Training, Ms Kirsty Elliott, to compile a list of easy lifestyle and fitness tips relevant to the university setup.

Elliot explains that “first year is a daunting experience at first and students often take the approach of, ‘let me just settle in first and get used to the studies, then I will start with the extras like sport or exercise’. This approach might look like a wise choice, however, it will make it very difficult to change your behaviours once you have settled into a routine (and some bad habits)”.

Get involved in a fitness activity The high school routine provided embedded sources of fitness activities such as compulsory sports practices and Physical Education (P.E.). At university, students deviate from engaging in physical activity as it is no longer compulsory. This will instigate various negative physiological effects such as loss of baseline fitness which can instigate a process known as “deconditioning”. Elliot explains that “the biggest change that happens when one goes to university, especially if one moves out of the family home, is that there is no longer anybody checking on you constantly. While at school, daily routines such as getting out of bed, setting time aside to eat regularly and exercise, are all part of a daily routine set out for you. School provided a structure that was dictated to you whereas at university it is up to you to create this structure for yourself”.

UP has a range of sports and fitness activities (to read about some of these, check page 19,“Getting a kick out of TuksSports”) that complement academic timings. Elliot cites that “a good way to do this is to find out about all the exercise options during the orientation week and sign up for a sports club, gym, or res sport. This will help you to commit to exercise at the outset”. There are different levels in a sport offered at UP, with the recreational level being the go to option, should you want to partake in the sport solely for exercise as opposed to competitive sports. Elliot clarifies that “sports clubs are often mini communities within a large university where you can feel a sense of community and belonging. Joining a sports club on campus does not mean you need to be the best but rather a want to enjoy the many benefits that sport affords us”. Additionally, students have access to SEMLI, which provides services such as group classes, fitness programs and assessments, eating plans, psychological support, and radiology services. For more information on SEMLI, visit: https://www.up.ac.za/sport-exercise-medicine-andlifestyle-institute/.

Some pointers to guide your exercise routine (as recommend by SEMLI): - Strength training is essential to all populations, not just sporting elites.

- Include plenty of variety in the training you do to ensure sustainability.

- 20 minutes per day of high intensity bouts can be all you need to maintain a happy, healthy lifestyle, while others may need more. Figure out what you enjoy and what works for your body!

- Try not to follow fads because others are doing it and have seen results. Online fitness training has boomed recently and is an effective, affordable method to follow. Just beware that not everything available online is safe and appropriate to your needs.

- As with all university work, use reputable sources and try to individualise it to your situation as far as possible.

Eating healthily Elliot explains that “[…] before university someone probably prepared your food for you and you just ate it when it was available. Now that luxury might be something of the past. It is very important to make good food choices from a quality and quantity perspective from the start”.

Fast food restaurants can prove to be tempting, especially because this option is convenient amidst the newfound freedom. Elliot warns that “convenience food is often high in quantity and low in quality which causes one to over eat”. While treating yourself to a takeout is not a cardinal sin, opt for food combinations that boast grains, vegetables, and healthy fats such as almonds, avocados or chia seeds in their menus, like wraps, which aid in keeping you satiated and concentrating for a longer period of time, which simultaneously saves money.

Alternatively, packing small healthy snacks to consume several times a day between lectures helps to avoid binge eating on sugary or fatty food items. Furthermore, snacking on fruit or vegetable slices is advantageous in keeping the body’s basal metabolic rate consistent, fuelling a heightened sense of focus.

Many first year students who enter tertiary have previously participated in a school sport which correlates to an accumulation of a large volume of daily physical activity. Elliott cites that “when [first years] start university, although they still participate in sport or exercise regularly, the total volume they are doing decreases. However, they continue to follow the same eating habits as before. This causes an imbalance in their energy intake vs. energy expenditure. So when students begin to pick up weight, even though they are still exercising, they can’t understand it”.

Tips to eating healthy as recommended by Elliott: Get into a daily routine as soon as possible, starting with good sleeping patterns. Without healthy sleep habits, many other habits are compromised. For example, if you do not wake up before 11h00 daily, you will miss the first meal of the day, which will compromise a balanced calorie intake and leave you lacking energy to exercise.

A minimum of 8 hours of sleep daily is recommended with a fairly regular wake up time. In addition to this, a 30 min nap during the day is also a useful refresher and recovery tool during times of high stress or workload.

Avoid waiting until you are very hungry to eat. This might lead to overeating. Rather have regular, smaller meals and healthy snacks throughout the day.

Breakfast is very important to ensure your metabolism begins to work early in the day and thus, work for longer throughout the day.

Ensure you drink enough water (6-8 cups) on a daily basis as this helps keep you hydrated and feeling full. We often eat in response to a thirst craving and so regularly sipping on water can prevent this from happening.

Limit your caffeine intake, especially with the use of energy drinks. These contain very high quantities of sugar and disrupt good eating and sleeping habits.

Social eating and drinking of alcohol is a major part of student life and does not have to be completely avoided in order to remain healthy. The trick to it is all in moderation and making good choices.

For example, choose grilled options instead of fried, have salad or veg instead of fries, order a starter instead of a main meal for a smaller quantity and if you feel like takeout, see if you can make the meal at home yourself, such as pizza or burgers.

It is sure to be a lot healthier and definitely cheaper. When it comes to alcohol, this is the most energy dense substance we can put into our bodies. It gives us a lot of calories without any nutrition. On top of the actual alcohol, what you mix your alcohol with, for example, Coca Cola, substantially adds to the calories. Limiting alcohol consumption to social drinking can help prevent frequent energy spikes.

6 March 2021

Keeping fit during tests, exams and online learning: The days preceding a test or exam are crucial, with many Tuks students making use of the study spaces in the library for hours on end. Taking a jog or walk around campus between study sessions helps. The best paths to walk on are guided by the green route, which you can identify using the yellow footprint markings on the paths.

Ending your study session with a jog, or punctuating your study sessions with long walks, will boost mental fitness, without making you feel bogged down. Additionally, if you prefer to study from home or your accommodation spaces, practice small space workouts such as squats, situps, push-ups, and lunges. These provide sources of high intensity workouts in small space setups during exam and test weeks, or even amidst online learning.

Campus spaces are huge, and a walk to campus or between lecture venues is ample exercise alone, however, opt to walk to locations in and around campus when given a chance (albeit with safety precautions and in a group setup if possible, as opposed to alone), rather than to drive or Uber to a location.

These first year fitness tips are recommended by Elliot to maintain a balanced and holistic fitness routine during online learning: A good habit would be to incorporate good quality movement into your activities of daily living. For example, walk fast between classes rather than strolling, maintain your posture when you are standing around or sitting at a desk and take the stairs where you can.

Take brain breaks during studying or online lectures.

This should include moving away from your desk, phone and technology, having a sip of water and possibly doing something physical such as walking or stretching.

Build support groups around yourself, such as commune housemates. Share the load of cooking so that a new person cooks each night and so you take responsibility for one healthy meal per week and the others all do the same.

This will help to spread the burden of being disciplined in what you eat each day.

Getting adequate sleep Pulling all nighters for tests, exams, assignment due dates or even giving into social pressures are key incidents that disrupt adequate sleep. We need an adequate amount of sleep, as it plays a vital role in cognitive functioning, immune system maintenance, and regulation of emotions. According to the Sleep Foundation, a night without sleep detracts from working memory, creating higher risk of false memories that hinder long term recall of vital information that one has studied. The Foundation also found the after-effect of pulling an all nighter is equivalent to being drunk. Scientists equated a person’s mental performance following an all-nighter to that of an individual with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.10%. As per guidelines published by the National Sleep Foundation, young adults in the age range of 18-25 need between 7-8 hours of sleep.

The shift to a hybrid online learning model has led to an increase in screen time. Deviate from working on a device at least an hour before bed time. Should you have to engage in academic work before bed, opt to use notes or textbooks as opposed to reading on a device. Additionally, stick to a routine bedtime and cultivate daytime habits of exercise and avoidance of caffeine, alcohol and water after a stipulated time in the evening.

Elliott asserts that “the key to exercise, nutrition and health, and the relationship between these components is that it is very specific to the individual”, and says that consistency is vital to reap the rewards. She advises that this consistency can be attained by creating lasting habits in first year that are tailored to the specific individual.

6 March 2021

Sport | 19

What to expect in 2021 sports

Caitlyn Walsh

D

espite 2020 being an unfortunate year concerning many sporting events, and the limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 seems to offer a lot more for our entertainment. It’s been a year since the first case of the virus in South Africa, and it has delayed many contact sports as well as complicated the way forward when considering necessary safety measures and social distancing. In the face of the setback, athletes and coaches have learnt to adapt and continue with sports events safely. We can definitely enjoy and expect a lot more with TuksSport during 2021.

Olympic Trials are still happening this year with Rocco Meiring, TuksSwimming’s head coach, preparing his swimmers for the big day of qualifiers. The qualifying tournament to compete at the Tokyo Olympic Games or the World Student Games is happening in April 2021. The event was originally supposed to be held at the Kings Park Swimming Pool in Durban, however the stadium is still in poor condition.

The qualifiers will therefore most likely take place in Port Elizabeth/ Gqeberha.

According to TuksSport, the swimmers compete for a 6 day period during qualifiers and have been training daily for the last 6 months with only one break from 24 to 27 December.

Many are looking forward to the performance of Tatjana Schoenmaker and Kaylene Corbett, as Meiring is hopeful they will qualify for the upcoming Olympics.

TuksAthletics relay team athletes, Akani Simbine, Thando Dlodlo, Chederick van Wyk, Sinesipho Dambile, Simon Magakwe, Clarence Munyai and Henricho Bruintjies, are getting back on

track with the determination to win a medal at the 2021 World Athletics Relays. This tournament is set to begin at the start of May. The South African 4x100m relay athletes have set their eyes on the same goal for when they compete in the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games. According to TuksSport, their national relay coach, Paul Gorries, “is a firm believer that practice makes perfect.” The athletes often train at training camps, the most recent one took place 20 February at the Bestmed TuksAthletics Stadium. All team mates share the same sentiment that training creates teamwork, which is exactly what is needed to win medals in the coming future. Two more athletes, Anaso Jobodwana and Phatutshedzo Maswanganyi, will join the team when travel regulations allow it. Both Jobodwana and Maswanganyi are currently in the United States.

TuksRugby’s Varsity Cup is also a huge sporting event for UP students, so many can look forward to its return on 8 March this year. This is the day the tournament kicks off with UP first playing Wits. Head coach of TuksRugby, Nico Luus, mentions it’s been almost a year since the players went out onto the field for a game.

TuksSports explains that the COVID-19 pandemic did not dampen the rugby team’s spirits, as this time was used to rethink strategies and discover new ideas for future matches. All health and safety measures are being taken with the players are being observed and Image: Cletus Mulaudi the players that show signs of illness are quarantined.

TuksSport seems ready for action again, and athletes as well as coaches are excited to get back to their passions and competing.

There are many more sporting events to expect from TuksSport in the coming year.

Exercise… in the time of COVID-19

Kendra Connock

T

he COVID-19 pandemic presented professional athletes and avid exercisers with an interesting conundrum; how might one go about exercising or training when the gyms are closed and, at least for a short while, we were not allowed to walk or run out on the streets. As the old adage suggests, necessity is the mother of invention and 2020 saw people getting pretty inventive with the way they exercised.

Without a fully-equipped home gym, one may have been forced to look around the house for whatever was heaviest in order to do some sort of weight-lifting; some turned to large sacks of rice, others lifted buckets filled with water.

Some people took things a step further and used whatever space they had available to run excessive distances. Englishman James Campbell ran six-metre lengths in his garden and in just over five hours he’d completed a marathon distance and raised £18 000 for the National Health Service. In France, Elisha Nochomovitz ran along his sevenmetre long balcony to make up a marathon

distance. Dmitry Yakukhny had been training for nine months when COVID-19 put an end to his 250km desert race in Morocco.

Confined to his home for the duration of quarantine, he did the next best thing and ran 100km worth of laps around his bed. It took him 10 hours and 19 minutes, but his wife and children were cheering him on every step of the way.

11-year-old Imogen Papworth-Heidel found her own way to stay active and help out at the same time. This young soccer fanatic set a goal of performing one “keepy-uppy” for every member of the NHS; the goal of this game is to keep the ball from touching the floor by bouncing it off of your knees in an alternating pattern. Over 195 days, Imogen managed to perform 1 123 586 keepy-uppies.

On some days she performed up to 7000 of them! An additional 5 976 414 were “donated” by schools, sports clubs, and individuals who sent in videos of themselves playing the game. On the other end of the age spectrum is the man who inspired Imogen to start this challenge. 100-year-old Captain Tom Moore walked 100 laps of his garden in the time leading up to his centennial birthday and raised an incredible £33 million for charity. The World War 2 veteran was knighted later in 2020 as a sign of gratitude from Queen Elizabeth II. Some people experienced a creative block during the free time afforded to us by lockdowns in 2020, but it seems that for others the lockdown and lack of access to their normal means of exercise was just the boost they needed to get really creative with their ways to stay active.

Image: Cletus Mulaudi

Locked in, workingout: home work-outs during lockdown Vasalya Moodley

F

or students (and the rest of the world), all outside life came to a halt in March 2020. Our daily activities had to relocate to the confines of our homes to limit as much public activity as possible. Our kitchens became our coffee shops, and any space we could find became a gym. While we waited for gyms to reopen or if we did not want to attend them anymore for safety reasons, exercising from home became a way to keep healthy and fit in the absence of gyms and the outdoors.

Following fitness channels on YouTube is one way to keep fit from home. YouTube contains a plethora of fitness channels to choose from, with videos to follow along to, whether you want to learn something new or grow an existing fitness regime.

From yoga to pilates and everything in between, there is no shortage of fitness options on YouTube.

Even without frequenting a gym, it is possible to exercise without gym equipment. There are plenty of workouts where the only equipment you need are space and a floor. Resistance exercises can include squats, push-ups, or crunches. If you are a beginner to fitness, bridge exercises, lunges, and planks are just a few of many exercises you can try from your own space.

Should you want to use equipment for your workout, household items can be an interesting substitute. A full laundry detergent bottle can be used as a kettlebell, a packed back-pack can double as a weight to carry around as you do regular exercises, and a cushion serves as a balance tool in which balancing exercises performed on them can increase the difficulty of the exercise.

If your home has stairs, they can be a useful tool to incorporate into a home fitness routine. Running up and down a flight of stairs increases your heart rate and engages muscles in your legs and core. This can be a great way to start home practice if you are new to working out. Stairs can also be used in stretching exercises for warm-ups or cool-downs.

If regular exercises are not your cup of tea, dancing is an effective full-body workout. Dancing improves heart health, balance, coordination, and joint mobility. Whether you put on your favourite song and go wild with your own moves, or if you prefer to learn a specific style of dance from an online tutorial, dancing is a great way to exercise your whole body and release mood improving endorphins.

In these times of lockdown, some normalcy of our daily lives can be transferred to our home space. In respect to exercising from home, there are countless possibilities to keep fit and improve your health. There is also the lack of an audience in a gym or onlookers from the outside in a home practice, which can additionally ease any worry of embarrassment. With good music, an empty space and a floor, exercising from home will keep you healthy, and most importantly, safe.

“

It is possible to exercise without gym equipment

Sport Featured Athlete: Sit down with Sphectacular Fitness Caitlyn Walsh

S

phephelo Nzula is a motivated fitness instructor who has dedicated his time and effort to keeping individuals in the community fit and healthy, especially during South Africa’s pandemic lockdown. Nzula has built up an entire fitness class based on motivation and perseverance despite the lack of access to fitness facilities and equipment available. PDBY sat down with Nzula to speak about his progress, achievements and his innovation during this difficult time.

What does your fitness programme entail and what is its intended purpose?

My fitness programme entails aerobic, muscle, strength, endurance and flexibility training and exercise. Its purpose is to serve those individuals who are weary of going to the gym because of the pandemic, and also those individuals who do not enjoy going to the gym.

What inspired you to begin this fitness programme?

I love the ability to be able to personally interact with people and get to know them, and their reasons for wanting to be fit. Fitness is the primary reason, but I love to learn about people and engage as well as develop a personal relationship with them.

How did you get your fitness business started?

Honestly speaking, I was motivated by all my friends who have been asking for fitness advice, nutrition advice, and if I could put together individual programs for them. I remember clearly that it was a Saturday morning and I had just wrapped up a full body workout for myself, and someone asked for advice with reference to weight loss. After that, I was on my computer making him a program but I realised that he was not the only one who could benefit from this. I was then looking up different ways to make a logo, opened a WhatsApp group and added my immediate neighbours who I also asked to invite anyone they would think could benefit from my program. Shortly afterwards, I had a fitness group established.

Can you see improvements from the time you began to now?

Yes. Considering the fact that I only began with one client, numbers have grown to 31 in our group with 14 regular attendees at our classes. What stands out to me is the energy everyone has and that they portray at our training. I cannot remember someone complaining about sore muscles except maybe a little stiffness here and there after we kicked it up a notch from the previous month’s programme. I have also had quite a few testimonies. One that stands out to me is one of my clients came back and told the entire group how she had received positive comments and compliments about how she looks, even though she hadn’t mentioned that she works out to her colleagues and friends.

How have the implications of the pandemic affected

Photo: Caitlyn Walsh

your fitness programme and how have you overcome the challenges?

In terms of my client base, I have not been able to reach as many people as I would have liked to, due to social distancing practices and restrictions based on the pandemic.

Although online classes were something I considered, it just does not feel as personal as it would if they were training with you personally. Consider how you would try to comfort someone if they were crying and you could not put your hand on their shoulder or look them in the eye and tell them, “It’s going to be alright” or give them a hug.

What does your fitness programme follow and include?

My fitness programme includes aerobic exercise. This is an activity which involves large muscle groups being active in a continuous, rhythmic fashion for a sustained period of time. It also includes muscular and strength exercise and endurance conditioning with a bit of flexibility exercise.

Most importantly, I observe my clients and how they respond to each month’s program. The things I look for are for their overall cardiovascular ability and if it is improving or not. I also look at their muscle and strength ability, if they are getting stronger and when certain exercises should become easier as we progress. Lastly, with reference to their range of motion, especially in doing the exercise and doing it well.

How do you motivate yourself and others who sometimes lack dedication?

In terms of motivating myself, it’s never been difficult, because I am always thinking about when my next workout is and what I need to be doing for that workout. I try as much as possible to pass on that ‘gene’ to my clients during training, and also by posting regularly on our WhatsApp group. Reminders and motivations are at the top of the list in terms of what I post on our group. I always want to let my clients feel like they are engaged, and in control of how their program works and our workouts.

What do you do for yourself to stay active and fit?

I work out at the gym and at home depending on what I am doing that day. In terms of training at home, I involve a lot of intense workouts which push my heart rate really high. At the gym I focus on muscle hypertrophy, which promotes muscle strength development. Being fit is a huge part of my life, and my day does not feel complete if I do not engage in physical activity, which is a very important part of my day to day activities.

Do you have student athletes you’d like to see in Featured Athlete? Let PDBY know at sport@pdby.co.za

Infographic: Kayla Thomas

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Contact: Carel Willemse carel.willemse@up.ac.za