Greetings from the new editorial for 2025, who are taking up the heavy mantle from for 2024, and we wish all the students a successful exam season where Jacaranda blossoms grace your heads and hard work (or, let’s be real, cramming sessions and all-nighters) pay off.
We look forward to bringing you your latest campus news, (slightly) unhinged Shoot Your Shots, and tricky crosswords once again next year. Here’s to honouring and building on the legacy of this paper with its 86 years of ink, sweat, and tears.
Correction
In PDBY triumphs of Coach Thesline Davids in “Celebrating Coach Thesline Davids: A Trailblazer in Women’s Basketball”. The newspaper included a photograph of the coach which was incorrectly credited. All credit for that photograph goes to Reg Caldecott Photography.
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UP Medical Certificate Guidelines: What Students Need to Know
Jason Visser
Health issues can often disrupt a student’s academic schedule, making it essential to know the proper procedures for submitting a medical certificate at the university.
Hannelie Coetzee
Oinclude the name and qualifications of the issuing medical practitioner, their contact number, and a valid practice or registration number. Additionally, the date on which the student was examined must be clearly stated, as well as whether the student is booked off or if the certificate is for attendance purposes only. In order for the certificate to be accepted, it must also bear the practitioner’s signature and the official stamp of the clinic or practice.
There are several important points to keep in mind when submitting a medical certificate. Only original documents will be accepted – photocopies or cellphone images are not
allowed. The certificate must be legible and up-to-date, and Student Health Services will not issue retroactive sick notes for missed academic obligations. The issuing of a sick note is strictly at the discretion of the medical practitioner following an in-person consultation.
After hours, on weekends, or on public holidays, it remains the student’s responsibility to seek medical attention at external health facilities if necessary. The Student Health Services clinic is not open during these times, so students need to be proactive about securing valid medical documentation to avoid issues when submitting a certificate for missed academic commitments.
By following these guidelines, students can ensure that they meet the university’s requirements when health issues arise, allowing them to focus on their recovery without unnecessary stress. You can contact the Student Health Services on 012 420 2500 or info.shs@ up.ac.za to schedule an appointment with a health practitioner.
From Car Parks to Academic Accolades A UP PhD Graduate’s Story of Ascent
Tshinangi Fabrice Kapya, an esteemed academic and lecturer for the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology (EBIT) at the University of Pretoria. Before obtaining his PhD and becoming a new graduate from UP, Dr Kapya first graduated from the school of difficulties by overcoming numerous challenges and hardships that stood between him and his aspirations for a better tomorrow.
His story began like that of many other young people – at the end of matric. He enrolled at a tertiary institution, and after three gruelling years of tests, assignments, and sleepless nights, he obtained his first degree in chemical engineering from the University of Likasi. However, a young Kapya certainly could not have predicted the dichotomy between where he was after his graduation – a young, hopeful engineering graduate – and where he ended up in 2018 –being a car park attendant at Wonderpark Mall. Despite this detour in life, where many would argue that his life had ended before it even truly began, Dr Kapya began living against all odds. This is his story.
What is your background?
I grew up in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and eventually moved to South Africa. When I arrived in Pretoria, I started working as a car park attendant at Wonderpark Mall. My journey in academia wasn’t traditional. I had to learn many foundational concepts on my own, balancing work and study. Over the years, I completed my honours and master's in Industrial Systems, and now, I’ve earned a PhD in Industrial Engineering. I’m currently a lecturer, using my experiences to inspire and mentor students.
What circumstances led to you being a car park attendant at Wonderpark Mall?
When I arrived in South Africa in January 2018, I sought political asylum. At that point, I didn’t know much about the country, its people, or how to navigate my new circumstances. A person I was introduced to at the time told me about working in the parking lot as a car park attendant. That was the only thing I knew of at the time. With limited knowledge, it became a way for me to support myself.
What motivated you to go back to university and pursue a second degree in engineering?
[It] was a combination of personal ambition and the encouragement I received from those around me. However, it was quite unexpected. I didn’t initially plan to return to school or to study here at UP. One day, I went to visit a friend who was studying at [the university]. Knowing
my background, she encouraged me to apply for a programme at UP. I didn’t want to, if I am being quite honest. It looked like a gamble, and I wasn’t ready to spend R300 on that. That was quite a lot of money, equivalent to three full days of hard work in the parking lot back then. In fact, she applied on my behalf and chose industrial systems engineering for me!
It wasn’t something I had planned, but I ended up trusting her judgment. I didn’t choose the path, it was chosen for me. But looking back, it’s one of the best things that could have happened. It opened doors I never imagined, and I quickly developed a passion for industrial systems engineering, despite the initial challenge of learning something completely new.
How did you manage to study while working as a car park attendant?
Balancing work and study while working as a car park attendant was incredibly challenging. I developed a strict routine to manage my time effectively. I used the hours when I wasn’t working to focus on my coursework and assignments. Every spare moment, whether during breaks or after my shifts, was dedicated to studying. This meant sacrificing personal time and sleep, because I was committed to making the most of the opportunity that I was given. Additionally, I relied on a strong support system, including the school, mentors and classmates who eventually became more than just friends. They are family now.
What motivated you to study further and eventually pursue a doctorate in engineering?
My motivation to further my studies and eventually pursue a doctorate stemmed from a combination of personal passion, academic curiosity, and a drive to make a meaningful impact. After completing my honours, I discovered a deep interest in applied mathematics and engineering. As I said earlier, a significant turning point came when I met a friend who encouraged me to explore higher education. I had not initially planned to pursue a degree, but after being introduced to the possibilities at the university, I saw an opportunity to follow a new path.
She saw something in me that I couldn’t see by myself back then. Her vision of me,
combined with my own growing interest, and the encouragement I got from my supervisor, spurred me [on to apply] for a programme and further my studies. As I progressed through my studies, my passion for solving complex problems and developing innovative solutions deepened. My experiences in both my master’s and honours programmes ignited a desire to delve further into research and contribute to advancing knowledge in my field. Pursuing a PhD represented a natural progression from my earlier studies. It was an opportunity to explore ideas, push the boundaries of what was known, and address challenging questions in manufacturing planning and control systems. The pursuit of knowledge and the desire to solve real-world problems motivated me to continue my academic journey, despite the obstacles. I wanted to not only advance my own understanding but also to contribute to the field and inspire others through my work.
What is one piece of wisdom or advice you would share with undergraduate and postgraduate students at UP?
Embrace your journey with perseverance and an open mind. Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's about developing resilience and the ability to adapt. Challenges will always come, and there will be moments when your progress might seem slow, or your future might look uncertain. Remember that every difficulty you face is an opportunity for growth. Life doesn’t ask you to have everything figured out at once, or to be the biggest or the best, it just asks you to try your best. It’s up to you to determine what you want to achieve because the magic you're looking for is in the will of trying and not giving up. Stay curious, seek support when needed, be disciplined, try to always be positive like a proton, and don’t be afraid to step outside [of] your comfort zone.
UP Focuses on Cancer
Jason Visser
The University of Pretoria is embarking on an ambitious initiative to develop a national cancer research and innovation strategy. It will be led by Prof. Mike Sathekge, the head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine and CEO & President of the Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRi).
This initiative will be guided by the World Health Organization’s four pillars of cancer control: prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. UP’s strategy will adapt these principles to meet local needs by identifying specific risk factors and implementing targeted preventative measures. A strong emphasis will be placed on innovative diagnostic techniques and health education to ensure early detection and improved patient outcomes.
Prof. Sathekge stresses the importance of translating research into practical, affordable solutions through various collaborations with academics, the community, the government, and the industry at large. Funding will be acquired through academic projects and corporate social responsibility initiatives to ensure accessibility. Small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) will play a vital role in contributing to education, cost reduction, and health technology assessment. They can help lower material costs and support local procurement, enhancing the overall effectiveness.
Balancing high-tech advancements with traditional medicine is also one of the core focuses. The strategy will support both approaches, ensuring that high-tech methods complement and enhance conventional treatment. Traditional medicine will be analysed in a laboratory to identify its active ingredients, and an emphasis will be placed on preventing people from relying on unapproved treatments. Education will be crucial to integrating both high-tech and traditional approaches effectively.
Addressing the socio-economic dimensions of cancer care is imperative. It is crucial to incorporate evidence-based research, to respect cultural and religious beliefs, and to focus on developing infrastructure in underserved areas. This will address economic inequalities, the emigration of specialised staff, and limited public knowledge and infrastructure. By considering these factors, the aim is to provide equitable cancer care across different communities.
Despite the hardships he has encountered, Dr Kapya pursued his education and his future with an unyielding drive. His journey from his first degree up until his PhD reflects not only his determination to push his career forward in the face of adversity, but it echoes what Edwin Louis Cole once said about winners. He said that winners are “not those who never failed, but those who never quit”. The story of Dr Kapya shows that when we decide not to quit, no matter how hard the journey or the number of setbacks we may face, we can succeed against all odds.
To promote collaboration and avoid isolated research efforts, inclusive projects and the formation of multidisciplinary teams will be encouraged. Projects that foster mentorship and collaboration will be prioritised. Recent workshops have introduced innovative solutions, such as artificial intelligence for marker detection and therapy planning, data science tools, Africanspecific genome models, and advancements in bio-entrepreneurship and technology transfer.
The success of the research will be measured through improved quality of life, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates. Regular assessments of the goals, economic value, and feedback from stakeholders will ensure alignment with national objectives. The draft strategy is expected to be completed and presented to Parliament by August 2025, marking a significant advancement in cancer research and care in South Africa.
Visual: Sourced
Visual: Sourced
Visual: Noluthando Ngwenya
Surgical Training Lab UP’s Advanced Surgical Procedures
Wet Skills Laboratory
Jason Visser
The University of Pretoria’s Advanced Surgical Procedures Wet Skills Laboratory is at the forefront of surgical training, offering a unique and comprehensive approach that sets it apart from other facilities. As the acting manager of the facility, Kirsten Regan shares her insights on how it contributes to realworld surgical education and application.
The facility is specifically designed for postgraduate training, focusing on surgical registrars and specialists. This focus, combined with the use of fresh, frozen cadaveric tissue, allows for a more realistic and immersive training experience. Unlike other labs, which may rely on embalmed (preserved) specimens or simulated environments, this lab provides an unparalleled level of realism that is essential for honing surgical skills.
The direct link to the National Tissue Bank (NTB) is vital in providing the lab with fresh cadaveric specimens and donors, which allows for more frequent and in-depth workshops. Regan stressed the importance of the NTB’s whole body donor programme and further elaborated that anyone can apply to be a donor. Additionally, the lab's independence from company sponsorships gives it the freedom to work with a range of external clients and focus on training UP registrars and junior specialists. The large lab space also allows for hosting multiple workshops and training sessions.
The lab has hosted numerous successful workshops, including a recent ENT workshop in partnership with the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, which featured international specialists that gave training in advanced techniques. Other notable workshops include trauma training with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the US military, as well as sessions on aesthetic medicine, emergency medicine, and sports medicine.
The skills learned in the laboratory are crucial for real-world surgical success. This focused training allows clinicians to develop a deeper understanding of fine anatomy and builds confidence in their abilities. The lab also facilitates networking opportunities that foster academic and business relationships which can lead to research outputs and collaboration.
Regan emphasised, "You will never have success unless you have put in the hours and practised and trained appropriately." The Advanced Surgical Procedures Wet Skills Laboratory is revolutionising the way surgeons train and prepare for real-world challenges, offering an unparalleled level of realism and comprehensive training. If you would like to know more about the whole body donor programme or the Skills Lab, you can email tissuebank@up.ac.za
Taking the Fight to the Pests in Flight: Part 2
In the quest to combat malaria, the University of Pretoria's Faculty of Health Sciences has emerged as a beacon of hope. Under the visionary leadership of the faculty dean, Prof. Tiaan de Jager, the university has launched a comprehensive initiative to tackle this perennial challenge. With the support of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, UP’s Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control (UP ISMC) has pioneered a transdisciplinary approach, addressing not only the medical aspects, but also the crucial elements of management and leadership. In an exclusive interview with Prof. De Jager, PDBY has uncovered the inspirations, successes, and future plans of this groundbreaking endeavour.
What inspired the university to focus on malaria control?
Malaria has long been a challenge, often addressed through vector control. However, we recognised the need for a more integrated and transdisciplinary approach. The UP IMSC stands out for its comprehensive strategy, addressing not only the mosquito vector and the malaria parasite, but also enhancing management and leadership capacities crucial for sustained impact.
How did the collaboration with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation help?
Applying for the grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation was a major step. It allowed us to expand our training efforts across elimination-aid countries in Africa, focusing on empowering malaria control programme managers and senior officers in governance and leadership. Our collaboration with GIBS and the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute also contributed significantly, bringing in expertise to build strong leadership skills. Their support has
been instrumental in advancing our goals toward malaria elimination. The networking opportunities between participants from different countries have been invaluable, breaking down silos and encouraging collaboration. Each participant is required to complete a project relevant to malaria control, guided by mentors and supervisors. These projects will make a significant contribution towards malaria elimination in their respective countries.
attending, which showed [a] strong governmental backing. Our next visit will be to Mozambique, and we are planning to meet with their Ministry of Health and other participants to ensure we address their specific needs. After that, Madagascar will be our focus.
Are there opportunities for UP students to get involved in this initiative?
What challenges and future plans lie ahead?
One challenge is the language barrier, particularly with Portuguese-speaking countries like Mozambique and Angola. For the first time, we have been offering courses simultaneously in English and Portuguese, and it has been working well. Furthermore, we plan to expand into new regions like French-speaking Madagascar, ensuring [that] our programmes are culturally and geographically sensitive. Future plans involve deepening our partnerships with institutions like Strathmore University and [the] University of Macquarie to extend our reach across Africa, ultimately aiming for comprehensive malaria leadership capacity across the continent.
Have you visited any of the countries involved in the malaria initiative?
Yes, I have visited several countries, with my most recent visit being to Angola where we had a highly successful meeting with the previous and new participants of phase two of our leadership programme. We had [a] high-level support, with the Secretary of State and the Minister of Health
Absolutely. We encourage student involvement in all our programmes and projects. Currently, we are looking for a PhD student to help measure and evaluate our leadership programme’s effectiveness. Several former participants in the course are now pursuing their PhDs with us, including senior figures from the malaria control programmes in South Africa. As a research institution, we welcome students from all levels, as their contributions are vital to achieving our goals for malaria elimination.
As the malaria control initiative continues to gain momentum, it is clear that the institution is committed to making a lasting impact. Through its innovative approach, leadership development programmes, and student engagement, the Faculty of Health Sciences is cultivating a new generation of malaria control champions. With plans for expansion and deepened partnerships, the future looks bright for this critical mission. As Prof. De Jager emphasises, the ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive malaria leadership capacity across Africa that will bring hope to countless communities ravaged by this debilitating disease.
UP’s Medical Campus Hosts Medical Negligence Mock Trial
Ivainashe E. Nyamutsamba
On 7 September, the University of Pretoria’s medical campus, also known as Prinshof campus, hosted a mock trial that focused on medical negligence, drawing in attendees from a variety of professional fields. The event attracted students, forensic pathologists, and practising advocates from the Pretoria Society of Advocates, informally known as the Pretoria Bar.
Medical negligence arises when healthcare practitioners fail to meet the expected standard of care and skill within their profession. It is an objective assessment of conduct, not intent. Practitioners may also be held liable for indirectly negligent acts
committed by their employees during their course of employment.
The mock trial was moderated by Prof. Gert Saayman, a forensic pathologist of the Department of Forensic Medicine at UP. The simulation aimed to determine, beyond a reasonable doubt, whether the death of the individual in question was caused by the failure of the medical practitioner to meet expected standards of care.
The session provided valuable insights for attendees from UP’s law and medical faculties, as well as practising attorneys, advocates, forensic pathologists, doctors, lecturers, and journalists.
It highlighted the complex legal processes involved in medical negligence cases, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how these trials unfold. The mock trial also emphasised the delicate balance in the doctor-patient relationship, where the common goal is the preservation of life.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Saayman noted, “Healthcare workers are increasingly facing confrontational situations, with legal processes often following such cases.”
The event ran from 08:30 to 12:00, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the legal and ethical intricacies surrounding medical negligence.
AI streamlines drug discovery
Ompha Mudau
The University of Pretoria’s Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control (UP ISMC) is breaking new ground in drug discovery by utilising artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate research and reduce costs. AI is redefining various industries globally, and is now reshaping how scientists approach the daunting task of drug development. Traditionally, drug discovery involves a slow, labour-intensive process that includes testing thousands of compounds in a laboratory, hoping to find a potential cure for various diseases. Now, AI is offering a more efficient path by streamlining this process, allowing researchers to discover drugs with unprecedented speed and accuracy.
Prof. Vinesh Maharaj, deputy dean in Research and Postgraduate Studies, said that AI helps to accelerate the process of drug discovery. By using AI, the research team can focus on the most promising compounds early in the research phase, saving the time and resources typically spent on lab experiments that often yield little progress. The integration of AI in drug discovery is not only about speeding up the process, but also about increasing the accuracy of predictions. AI technology is helping researchers avoid dead ends by offering a more targeted approach. Ethical boundaries must guide the application of AI in scientific research, ensuring that data is used responsibly and transparently. This consideration is crucial as AI helps with drug discovery development and its capacity to revolutionise
not only malaria research but also drug development for a wide range of diseases.
Although still in the early stages of incorporating AI into drug discovery, South Africa shows tremendous potential to lead in this space. Prof. Maharaj said, "In drug discovery, I think South Africa has potential, but we have just started, and we need to invest more." The research being conducted at UP ISMC is just the beginning, and the intersection of AI and drug discovery at UP represents a significant step forward in medical research. By harnessing the power of AI, researchers are not only making strides in combating malaria, but are also laying the groundwork for a future where drug development is faster, more cost-effective, and more accessible.
Visual: Jason Visser
Jason Visser
Visual: Noluthando Ngwenya
Visual: Karla van Dyk
Casual Day With ADIS
Relebogile Manana
On 6 September, the Access, Disability, and Inclusion Services (ADIS), formerly known as the Disability Unit, celebrated Casual Day in the Piazza. Casual Day is a national event held on the first Friday of September every year to raise awareness and funds for people with disabilities. This year’s theme was “I See You”, which emphasised acknowledging the challenges that people with disabilities face, and truly understanding the essence of every individual.
ADIS hosted the event with interactive activities such as wheelchair races and blindfolded challenges. This allowed ablebodied participants to experience some of the daily struggles that individuals with disabilities face. Every purchase of Casual Day stickers also made a meaningful difference in supporting the cause.
In an interview with the manager of ADIS, Juan Erwee, he was able to provide the following information regarding the event and the unit’s goals.
What is the purpose of this kind of event on campus and how did it come about?
It is mainly to increase and promote awareness for people living with disabilities. It also provides us, the ADIS, with an
opportunity to showcase our services at UP, and for many of our external partners to raise awareness among our students about the various disabilities being supported by them. This event has been in effect since the establishment of the Disability Unit back in 2003 and will continue to be supported and showcased by ADIS going into the future.
What encouraged the name change from the Disability Unit to ADIS?
We felt that the old name was effective, but it was starting to age a bit. The new name was decided through a lengthy process of consultation with our internal stakeholders, particularly our students, and better communicates what we are trying to accomplish. It is aligned with UP’s strategic commitments to promote diversity, inclusion, and transformation. I personally feel it speaks to inclusion to the extent that the institution as a whole is striving to promote access for all students[...].
Why do you feel it is important for students to understand the struggles of fellow students with disabilities?
I think awareness about disabilities [is] important to removing some of these struggles. Having an impairment or disability affects how people perform their daily activities and to some extent, how they interact with [their] social environment. Many struggles or barriers are experienced because of the attitudes of other
people, or because of ignorance about disability issues. Events such as Casual Day promote awareness of these issues and contribute largely towards a more understanding and inclusive society.
Visual: Sourced
Why do you feel it is important for the university to take part in such celebrations of national campaigns?
As the national campaign is promoting disability awareness with the aim of greater social inclusion, we as an institution of higher learning feel it is important to participate. By promoting an inclusive learning environment, we hope to encourage more learners with disabilities to pursue further education and become active participants in our country’s economy.
In conclusion, Casual Day highlights the importance of inclusion and awareness for people with disabilities. With the “I See You” theme, the event encouraged participants to recognise and appreciate the unique challenges of each individual. Through engaging activities and support, ADIS continues to promote a more inclusive and understanding campus environment.
UP Ovuwa Earns Prestigious SATMA Awards Nomination
Ompha Mudau and Stacey Mgijima
The University of Pretoria’s Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble has added a new feather to their cap by earning a coveted nomination at the South African Traditional Music Awards (SATMA). Their nomination is in the category of Best Traditional Group/Artist from an Institution of Higher Learning. This recognition highlights the ensemble’s remarkable contributions to the preservation and celebration of South African traditional music.
For the members of Ovuwa, this recognition represents years of dedication, rehearsals, and a deep passion for the music that resonates with the cultural roots of the country.
Luthando Maphanga, the ensemble’s head of Communications and Marketing, said, “Receiving the SATMA nomination was incredibly exciting and validating. It was a moment of immense pride for the entire ensemble.”
The ensemble’s mission revolves around preserving traditional music through authentic performances and educational outreach. By blending traditional instruments, songs, and dance into their performances, Ovuwa captures the essence of South Africa’s diverse musical heritage. Their focus extends beyond that of the university, engaging with communities to ensure that the value of traditional music is shared and celebrated. Maphanga added, “This nomination
motivates us to innovate while staying true to our roots.”
As the ensemble looks to the future, the SATMA nomination opens doors for greater visibility and collaborations. It is also about inspiring the next generation to engage with and appreciate traditional music. Ovuwa’s hopes are to expand their reach so that they can bring traditional music to new audiences while remaining true to the rich cultural traditions it seeks to preserve. As the SATMA awards approach, the Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble stands proud of the recognition they have received and their role in promoting South African traditional music.
Ivainashe E. Nyamutsamba, Stacey Mgijima & Jason Visser
FLY@UP thrift event on 9 October
FLY@UP’s second thrifting event of the year will take place on 9 October. It will be held in Rautenbach Hall where free, gently-used clothing will be offered to the university’s students. The event will run from 10:00 until 14:00, and it will have a “shop-like” atmosphere with music, while also promoting sustainability and community for the shoppers. Clothes are available until stocks run out, which is typically by 13:00.
UP ascends to bronze place in Africa University Rankings
As of this September, UP cemented its standing as a leading tertiary institution both in Africa and the world. In February, UP was ranked 447th globally. However, UP advanced significantly in the September rankings by securing 3rd place alongside Stellenbosch University in the regional university rankings. This was accompanied by a substantial improvement in the global rankings up to 431st place. Read the full article on pdby.co.za.
UP lecturer to join Young Leaders Collective
On 23 August, UP’s Relebogile Mashile – a chartered accountant (CA(SA)), researcher, and senior lecturer in the Department of Accounting – was nominated to be a part of a 28-person pioneer group for the International Federation of Accountants’ (IFAC) Young Leaders Collective. The 28-person group will be a multinational collective, including members from 23 different countries. Mashile will serve as a member of the cohort until the end of 2025.
Mopane Breaks the Mould with Imbizo: Where Football Meets Sound
Relebogile Manana
On 19 October, House Mopane, in collaboration with Hype Nation, will be hosting Imbizo, a unique festival held at Urban Hatfield which combines a football tournament and a music festival. The event offers participants the chance to compete for R20 000 in cash prizes, with both male and female teams eligible to win R5 000 each.
Mopane has earned a reputation for hosting top-tier festivals, such as Oesdag. However, Imbizo is in a league of its own. It combines the competitive spirit of football with a high-energy festival experience. The festival will be headlined by popular Amapiano artist Kelvin Momo, with support from popular acts such as Major Steez, MashBeatz, and Shakes & Les.
In an interview with PDBY, the 2023/2024 Mopane Sports HC, Alvin Rundora, and a Hype Nation representative had the following to say.
Alvin Rundora
What is the inspiration for an event like Imbizo to be hosted by Mopane?
The idea behind Imbizo was born out of a
desire to bring our student community together in a celebration of both our athletic prowess and the rich cultural heritage of South Africa. Football, with its unifying power in the country, serves as the heartbeat of the event, reflecting the values of teamwork, determination, and friendly competition.
But Imbizo is more than just a fun game of football – it’s about creating a space where we can also revel in the vibrant music and arts of South Africa. After the high-energy football matches, having local artists perform adds another layer of connection and celebration [...].
What are the steps to compete in the football contest?
It’s quite simple. First and foremost, the football contest is a five-a-side tournament. Each team needs a minimum of five in a squad, with up to three additional players on the team as substitutes, adding up to a maximum of eight on a team. Each individual player on the team will be required to have a ticket, but the team captain, who will be the representative of the team, is responsible for collecting their teammates’ money for their tickets and purchasing all their tickets.
Following this, the team captain will be
required to join the official ‘Imbizo Team Captains’ WhatsApp group chat, and register all the members of their team to the Imbizo Committee. The purchase of these tickets can be through the sale of physical tickets, or through the official Imbizo Howler link that can be found on the Imbizo Instagram page, @_imbizo_, where a ticket package [for the team] can be purchased. Those wishing to enter should do so by 14 October.
Hype Nation Representative
This is not the first time Hype Nation is collaborating with Mopane to host Imbizo. In your opinion, what factors have contributed to the success of this event?
The factors that have contributed to the success of the event and the reason we are selected by [Mopane] to collaborate with them for this event [are] based on our track record. We have over four years’ experience in hosting [specialised] football matches that include the entertainment element. We [...] have grown them within the community to a point [where] they are now a staple on our event calendar, and an experience you cannot afford to miss.
How important was it to have such a prominent name as Kelvin Momo on the lineup, and what role does music play in elevating the overall experience of the event? When it came to deciding upon the talent for Imbizo - it had to be Kelvin Momo. We as Hype Nation know how to select the correct artists
and talent for all [of] our events. In fact, it is one of the most underrated tasks of putting an event together. [...] Music is a crucial part of the event as it ultimately evokes a feeling, which is the intangible aspect of the event that our guests leave with. This is the most important aspect of the entire experience for us, to ensure that anyone attending a Hype Nation event leaves it feeling like they are part of our family, of our nation.
How would you describe Hype Nation’s role in shaping student and youth culture through events like Imbizo?
We as a brand take pride in shaping youth culture through events such as Imbizo by creating community involvement and a project that all students can be a part of. Imbizo is more than a football festival, it is an experience in which all students can get involved in. As Hype Nation, we are more
“Pics or It Didn’t Happen”
How to Live Your Best Life and Still Get the Perfect Shot
Mashapa Ramokofi
Let us talk about the ultimate Gen Z dilemma: you are out, living your best life, and suddenly, it hits you – do you soak up the moment or do you take out your phone to capture it for the “Gram”? In a world where TikTok trends and Instagram aesthetics rule, it is easy to get caught up in the #content game. But here is the thing: you can live in the moment and still get that “fire” picture. The trick is knowing when to strike a pose, and when to enjoy the ride.
YOLO: Why Living in the Moment Is Still a Thing
Remember the saying “You only live once”? Sure, it is a throwback, but the idea behind YOLO is still relevant. Life is short, and the best moments are the ones that catch you off guard, like when you are at a concert and your favourite artist drops that beat that makes the whole crowd go wild, or when you are hanging out with your friends and you end up laughing until you cry over the most random thing. These moments make life epic, and sometimes, the best way to experience them is to be there, in the now, without worrying about how it will look on your feed.
Think of it like a TikTok dance – sometimes you will nail the choreography, and it is flawless. But other times, you are just messing around, having a blast, and those are the moments that make the best memories. Living in the moment is like vibing with the beat – you just have to let go and enjoy the ride.
Say Cheese! Why Capturing the Moment Matters
Most of us know that if there is no picture evidence, it did not even happen. Your camera roll is a highlight reel of your life that contains the best bits for you to look back on whenever you need a pick-me-up. Whether it is a selfie with your besties, a shot of that Instagram-worthy sunset, or a hilarious video of you trying (and maybe failing) to do the latest TikTok challenge, these memories are pure gold.
Plus, let us be real — who does not love a good throwback? Scrolling through old photos is like taking a trip down memory lane, and it is awesome to see how far you have come and all of the cool stuff you have done. Those snaps and videos are more than just content. They are a way to keep the good vibes alive long after the moment has passed.
The Secret Sauce: How to Live in the Moment and Get the Shot
So, how do you live in the moment without missing out on the chance to get that perfect picture? It is all about balance, baby! The next time you are out having the time of your life, take a second to snap a quick picture or record a video, but then put your phone away and enjoy what is happening around you. Trust me, the moment will be way more epic if you are, you know, actually in it.
Channel your inner TikToker and embrace the fun of capturing life as it happens, but do not stress about making everything look perfect. Some of the best pictures are the ones that are a little messy, a little spontaneous, and real. Who knows? Maybe that candid shot will be the one that blows up your feed.
Final Thoughts: Live, Laugh, Snap
At the end of the day, it is all about living a life that is worth remembering, both in your heart and on your camera roll. So take that selfie, capture that sunset, and record that silly TikTok. But do not forget to put your phone down and be present in the moment too. After all, the best memories are not just the ones you can see. They are the ones you can feel too So live it up, laugh out loud, and snap away because life is too short to miss out on the fun, both on and off the screen.
Textbooks and Tail-wags
organisations may kickstart your journey to being a stress-free animal owner.
Could you imagine a world where textbooks and allnighters meet tail-wagging? One where your study breaks (or procrastination sessions) are filled with back scratches and purrs, where the weight of the exam season suddenly feels a bit lighter? Can you imagine a friend who will stay up all night with you, listening to you explain your work repeatedly? Be it a dog, a cat, or a particularly cheeky budgie, your academic endeavours are sure to become much more exciting.
In 2020, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conducted experiments using university students to determine whether a 10-minute interaction with a dog affected their subjective stress and mood, objective blood pressure, and heart rate. Unsurprisingly, the experiment proved that the students who interacted with the dog experienced a significant decrease in their overall stress levels. We often do not realise how burnt out and stressed we are until something relieves that stress.
Studies conducted by the University of Pretoria also showed that a mere five minutes of interaction with therapy dogs can significantly reduce stress levels and induce relaxation. UP’s Department of Library Services (DLS) has teamed up with Touch Our Pets Therapy Dogs (TOP Dogs) multiple times. During these sessions with TOP Dogs, students exhibit outstanding signs of stress relief. Often, students do not have the financial means to access mental health care, and organisations such as TOP Dogs have helped thousands of anxious pupils to experience sessions filled with serotonin.
But what if you never want your therapy animal to leave? Pretoria has hundreds of adoption shelters with dogs and kittens waiting for their fur-ever homes. Onderstepoort (OP) Cat Interest Group (CIG) specialises in cat protection throughout UP’s campuses. The committed veterinary students of Onderstepoort track, feed, neuter, and spay the feral cats that live on the university campuses. Often, kittens do show their little faces as well. CIG will take these kittens in and foster them until they are old enough to be adopted by loving people. Other shelters such as Kitty and Puppy Haven, Wollies Animal Shelter NPC, and Woodrock Animal Rescue have hundreds of dogs and cats available for adoption as well.
Although caring for a pet entails a lot of commitment and responsibility, it can improve your life, not to mention how it may change the life of an unwanted animal waiting to be loved. If adopting is not an option for you right now, even just visiting your nearest shelter or lending a helping hand to one of these
Below are the contact details of these shelters if you are interested in adopting a furry companion, helping out, or just seeking a little bit of stress relief.
You can contact OP Cat Interest Group via their Instagram page: @catinterest_op.
Podcasting, a unique and increasingly popular form of media consumption, has rapidly gained people’s interest in the last two decades. Offering a wide array of diverse categories, there is something for everyone in the world of podcasts. But what sets podcasts apart, and where is this innovative form of media headed in the future?
The term podcast is a blend of “broadcast” and “iPod”. Initially, podcasts were aimed at a technologically savvy audience. They have since evolved into various genres, including true crime, comedy, spirituality, personal development, and even the lives of multiple influencers and celebrities.
The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the surge in podcasts, but significant growth was evident even before. People listen to podcasts while engaging in various activities such as driving, cooking, or even studying. According to the Curzon HR Agency, podcasts have the unique ability to foster connections between hosts and listeners, and that is what sets them apart. Unlike traditional media, podcasts offer a more personal and intimate experience, fostering loyalty among listeners and providing a platform for hosts to share authentic experiences and expertise.
The most popular genre of podcasts among listeners is true crime. People are drawn to criminal motivations, their concerns about justice and the legal system, and their fascination with the thrill of a real-life mystery. The source of people’s morbid appeal to true crime is baffling.
The newest addition to the podcasting world is video podcasts. In 2023, three out of five of the top podcasts on Spotify had some form of a video component. Many podcasters have also taken to TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and other social media platforms to grow their audience. With all of these platforms, podcasts and video podcasts are the most consumed media form online.
Podcasts are not just a trend – they are a growing movement. With numerous subjects and different ways to enjoy them, podcasts are becoming an integral part of our daily lives. Whether you use it to break the monotony of studying or to accompany you on your cooking or driving journey, podcasts are definitely on the rise.
Gabriella van Niekerk
Visual: Rayna Naidoo
Visual: Karla van Dyk
Visual: Rayna Naidoo
Sivenathi Makhanda
WBreaking Toxic Ties
e all form bonds with the people in our lives. These bonds connect us and allow us to create ties with the people we call friends or lovers. These are the most important people in our lives, because we care about them, we think about them, and we love them. But sometimes, these ties can be toxic. Instead of filling us with joy, fulfilment, and safety, they make us sad and lonely, and, in some cases, they can even make us scared. It can be hard to recognise when the relationships we have formed with the people we love and who we believe love us are toxic. And it is harder still to exit those relationships.
Recognising and admitting that you are in a toxic relationship is the first and most necessary step, but it is not the hardest. The hardest step would be leaving. Paying attention to your emotions is the best way of recognising whether you are in a healthy or a toxic relationship. Knowing how you feel around someone or how their actions make you feel can tell you a lot about your relationship with that person or that group of people.
Whether it is a platonic or romantic relationship, it should make you feel safe, happy, and comfortable. Any platonic or romantic relationship that makes you feel the opposite of these things is toxic and can even be abusive. This is not to say that you are necessarily in a toxic relationship if you are angry or sad because of something your friend or partner did. Being angry or upset with your friends from time to time is normal.
However, if the default feeling around a particular person or group of people is
sadness or annoyance, then there is reason for concern. You need to question if and why you are seldom happy around this person, and why you are always angry or feeling alone, unheard, and isolated. Do you feel like you are being gaslit? Or degraded and constantly criticised for every little thing you do? Are you always at fault for everything that goes wrong? Are you somehow the reason for an argument or why there is a problem? Do you feel like you have autonomy, or are you on edge and scared of doing or saying certain things because you know it will upset your friend or partner?
Creating a list of all the things you believe are wrong with your relationship and asking yourself if these are problems that are hurting you, could be a good way of determining if the relationship is toxic. Then you can decide whether it would be possible to fix these problems. Or, you can confront the toxic friend or partner and ask them if they would be willing to fix these issues to improve the relationship. However, if these problems cannot be fixed, or your friend or partner is unwilling to help resolve them, then it is time to leave, which is easier said than done.
Leaving a toxic relationship is the hardest part because it is usually the most painful and the most heartbreaking. Leaving someone you love is not made easier simply because it is the right thing to do. Leaving is a three-step process. The first step is preparing to leave the relationship. The second step is actually leaving the relationship. And lastly, the third step is healing.
Preparing to leave is not necessarily an essential step. Some people can just go, but it is not that easy for others. Distancing yourself from someone you might have once loved or still care about is not simple. You must learn to start thinking of yourself as someone separate
from who you were with them. Slowly begin disengaging from the relationship. End all communication with them. This is not saying that you should ghost them, but just stop reaching out. Answer their calls and texts and respond to them when they talk to you, but do not initiate conversations. Decline any invitation you receive from them and do not offer any of your own. Be polite but brief when talking to them, and do not prolong the time spent together. Taking time to slowly distance yourself from the relationship can help you come to grips with its ending. It can help you to deal with the grief or guilt that leaving may invoke.
Then comes the second step: leaving. There are multiple ways to do this. There is the slightly rude way, which could be deserved depending on the person, or the kinder way. The rude way would be to ghost them completely. This is not recommended unless there has been a conversation, or multiple, about the problems you have been experiencing within the relationship and the person has refused to change. The nicer way would be to tell them that you are ending the relationship. Communicating that you can no longer be with them as a friend or lover and that you would like to part ways would be the kinder thing to do. But not everyone is deserving of that kindness. It is also up to you how you want to approach this. Are you comfortable doing it in person, or would you prefer to do it digitally over a call, a text or a voice message? Writing down and practising your words can help make things easier when it comes to ending the actual relationship.
And finally, it is time for you to heal. Toxic relationships can be taxing, and as a university student, you are already dealing with schoolwork that is draining. Your mental and physical health will have taken a hit, and you will need to start
healing. There may also be some guilt, or even a desire to reach out to the toxic partner, but it is important that you ignore these desires. Finding solutions to help you start moving on is crucial. However, moving on does not mean finding new friends or getting into a new romantic relationship immediately. It means focusing on yourself, satisfying your needs and wants, and aiming to make yourself happy. Treating yourself, practising positive affirmations, or just genuinely doing something you enjoy would put you in a better mood and create a better headspace for yourself. Most importantly, know that you were not the one at fault. You did your best to fix something broken, and you are not in the wrong for wanting to leave a relationship that was hurting you.
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Hey, handsome.
You know, the guy with the curly hair and the great taste in bands, like the Red Hot Chili Peppers? I’ve been watching you in CMY 127 and GLY 163. I think it’s time you noticed me. A little challenge: Can you blow me a kiss next time you leave class?
RA Xario. I know you’re now head of sport so if you ever need to do some cardio I’ll be waiting for you. - M xoxo
Diyajal…. meeting you at orientation was like solving an equation I didn’t even know I needed to solve. Every time I see you, it’s like my heart skips a beat - almost like how electrons get excited when they jump to a higher energy level. You’re definitely the most fascinating variable in this equation called life, and l’d love to see where this formula takes us. Are we approaching something as beautiful as we approach infinity?
To the tall brunette boy (I think your name is Sebastian from what I overheard) in AIM lab 5 at 11:30 on a Monday, I saw you on Monday and my heart skipped a beat. Are you excel? Because I want you to spread my sheets
I’m not a religious do sometimes think
Dear Fallon, the long haired, most stunning girl I’ve ever seen, I’m constantly try to get your attention, all I want is some of your time!!! I always see you on campus talking to your friends and you say hello to me every time you see me and my world stops! I am in awe of you. You must be a magician…because any time I look at you, everyone else disappears ;)
To the first year ginger girl who’s in all my classes, Jessica. I always make sure to sit behind you in class to hear your extravagant voice. You are so smart, I wouldn’t mind having you tutor me baby;)
To my Wednesday 10:30 APL tutor in room 3-24, I know I’m your student but i can teach you some things miss N, respectfully. Just one week is all I need cuz I get bored quick
Hello UP student, this is a safe place to shoot your shot at people how you feel about them, hit on your crush or compliment other day. Anything positive, really. Try to be as detailed makes it easy for the person to identify themself. If
To the guy that I saw at Chicken Hub on Sunday the 15th of September around 1:30, I heard ur French and je pense que tu es mignon
you think
religious person but I think God made you
To Kutlwano who studies BAdmin 1st year, baby I yearn to see you everyday. I need you in my life. I’m in a relationship right now but if I get you? I swear I’m changing my ways. You own my heart. <3
To Malebo Segone. know you old and have a boyfriend but trust me we can make it last and forget about your boyfriend because after all younger men have stamina. You know where to find me:)
To Yana, the girl with cut brown braids in my PAD 122 class who always sits in front, your smile is mesmerizing every time I see it I wish I was the reason behind it. Can I follow you everywhere, because my parents told me to always follow my dreams. This is your secret admirer.
XOXO, you shall be mine
To Njabulo Sfundza I’ve never stopped loving you since the first day I saw you
at all those cute people you see around campus. Tell those compliment a person on that outfit they were wearing the detailed and creative as possible with your description so it If both people agree, PDBY will arrange a meet up. think this is you?
shootyourshot@pdby.co.za
Dear Vic I’ve been inlove with you since first year I’m just waiting for you to realize you love me back (let me be your snowbunny) ;)
To the Vice chairperson well-being of erica at the beginning of the year, seeing you in o-week made my heart skip a beat, seeing you on campus makes being at UP worth it.
To Simren M. What’s cooking good looking? It’s you who I am soeking ;)
To the girl that was wearing the crab necklace with the pretty brown hair and blue eyes, I saw you when we were picking up our marketing papers. I’ll be ready to market myself to you one day.
To Thabang in my SLk 120 class, I’ve been admiring you from a distance, stalking your Instagram and i know you have a boyfriend and he’s not a mountain, we can move him if we want to. I can assure you that you’ll look better with me. If i was not such a wimp i would’ve asked you out already.
To Rowan in electrical engineering, we have WTW 164 lectures together and I think you’re sooo fine, why don’t you come over to my place so that I can see the exponential growth of your natural log ;)
To the girl who was renewing the key for the discussion room on Saturday, while my friend was helping you do that I was thinking this is the woman I need in my life and I haven’t stopped smiling since So Dinner ?
Lentedag: Let’s Review
Danielle Yeatman
And just like that, another Lentedag has come and gone. Students could kick-start their university break with some cheeky fun in the sun. And boy, was it cheekiness at its best. To make Lentedag the wonderful day it is, it takes dedication, calculation, and teamwork. Let us look back at Lentedag and reflect on the highs and lows, the good, the bad, and the beautifully ugly.
The people responsible for setting up the day were at the Pretoria Botanical Gardens bright and early at 07:00, when it began to open its doors. The sun shone down on the frantic hustle and bustle, and the organisers eagerly awaited their first cup of coffee for the day.
For those choosing to dance the day away on 18 September, there was an option to climb onto the buses that were run and organised by the Lentedag team from 09:00. Those buses became a student’s best friend, with people taking them to and from their destination for the day. The buses, which departed every 10 minutes from predetermined locations, provided students with the safe transport they needed to make their way to the botanical gardens. Once they arrived at the venue, students were greeted by a kind but thorough security check to make sure that no mischievous behaviour made its way into the festival.
Students had four stages to choose from to cater to their every mood. The Main Stage upheld its annual tradition of providing a carefree atmosphere for attendees.
The Electronic Forest lived up to its name as stomping feet created vibrations that guided one’s way to the hidden entrance. The Good Vibes Only Stage saw beautiful dancing and endless vibes all afternoon. The Whyly Stage was a welcome addition to the gang. From a fascinating entrance that took
students by surprise, to an excellent lineup that transported people to another world, it was a great addition to the day’s festivities. If it were not for the never-ending line to enter the stage, it may have been crowned the winner of the day’s events.
To summarise, the stages were well-placed, well-maintained, and well-performing. Each stage provided shade for those dancing in the sun because the treacherous heat made you wonder about how Sylvia Plath managed through it all. At 12:30 on a Wednesday afternoon, you found yourself sitting next to a stranger who was sucking on ice from a beer bucket, and you started thinking about how you got here. Your answer - the heat.
While the Red Frogs are always appreciated for the difficult work they do (and trust me, they did a lot of it this year), some accessible water could go a long way. Perhaps some food for thought for those organising the drinks - next year, bring in some more taps and advertise them as drinking water. However, I cannot emphasise enough how grateful we all should be for the Red Frogs, the soldiers of our generation. If it were not for them, many of you party animals would not have made it back home to your mothers.
Another feature that made all the difference at Lentedag was the endless options of food to line the stomachs of tipsy students. Most partiers carved some time out of their day to unwind and refuel with the wide variety of options, vegetarian or otherwise. With a full stomach, a cold beer, and a variety of stages, artists, and music to choose from, students successfully completed yet another Lentedag.
This team has grown over the years, but it started with the all-male residence Sonop and a dream. The Sonop boys remain at the heart and soul of Lentedag. From sitting outside lecture halls and selling tickets, to brainstorming and working with the team from February onwards, the Sonop boys deserve a round of applause for
making Lentedag the day that we students know it to be. It is unfortunate that the university has gone out of its way, particularly this year, to alienate these boys and their dreams from campus grounds. But those who try are those who do, and in doing so, they got it done. Those fellas not only pulled it off, but they knocked it out of the park. It is my hope that next year, these boys will continue to succeed and prosper with their day of spring. Time and time again, they have put together a safe, fun, and chaotic day in the sun, and it would be a shame to see this tradition fade out or be relegated to the sidelines. Well done to all the students who arrived with the strategy to make Lentedag an extremely memorable day.
The shirts were unbuttoned, the skirts were short, the boots were long, the makeup was extravagant, and the fights were limited. It is now time for us to rest. There is officially less than a year to prepare for next year’s Lentedag so that you can do it all over again. See you all next year!
Cake and Candles for 5 Years of Picnic and Thrift
As this chirpy thrifter walks down the street after attending yet another Picnic and Thrift market, it is evident where she came from. At the mention of Picnic and Thrift, faces light up. This little market has quite the reputation, especially among students. Many customers have been pouring out their love for the atmosphere that Picnic and Thrift has created at their fifth birthday celebration that took place on 31 August in Rivonia, Johannesburg.
For those who are unaware, Picnic and Thrift is a thrift and craft market that operates in Johannesburg and Hatfield. They are also known for their nightlife events, and they have recently opened up a branch in Cape Town. At these markets, one can find anything alternative and trendy. Their events are usually pop-culture themed, such as the Hatfield market on 7 September, Bratcore, which was for everyone grunge.
Picnic and Thrift is more than just quirky fashion and alternative accessories. It is a community. The market was started five years
ago by go-getters Gaby Onay and Ruby Prager. Prager remembers hosting a small market in her garden for a handful of people, and in the blink of an eye, there were over 300 attendees, and her mother was feeding everyone popcorn. Everyone at the market was quite literally picnicking and thrifting. Who would have thought that five years later, they would be celebrating their fifth birthday, and be known far and wide as one of the most inclusive and safe spaces in Gauteng.
Besides hooking customers up with the most sustainable and trendy wardrobes, Picnic and Thrift has created a safe space. Walking into any Picnic and Thrift event, one is immediately embraced by the most welcoming atmosphere. People from all walks of life come together to share fashion, food and laughter. One can find happy thrifters picnicking on the grass, listening to the latest Picnic and Thrift playlist that consists of tunes by one of their groovy DJs, or simply catching up with old friends. Vendors often do product trades with each other, and customers return time and time again to find their favourite hidden gems. Even on the windiest, hottest day – which for some reason, is mostly the case – there is not an unhappy soul in sight. Customer service this great certainly will not be found at any local retailer, especially not Hatfield Plaza.
Of course, this love has blossomed from the market's parents. Browsing through the market with Onay and Prager, affectionately known by everyone as Gaby and Roo, was nothing short of inspirational. As the organisers, they stopped by every vendor to ask how their day was going. They were genuinely interested and invested in improving the market for their vendors. These women put the well-being of their vendors first. You can ask any vendor about the support that Gaby and Roo give in the form of kind words and funny stories. They are known for pulling out as many stops as possible to make things work, and they help vendors make the most out of their time at markets. Onay explained that Picnic and Thrift is a space for people to test out their products. It is a space for fellow entrepreneurs to give each other the opportunity to grow, evolve and find their niche. There are no rules.
Many vendors are students and/or smallbusiness owners that are just starting out. Being an entrepreneur can be extremely tricky, so Picnic and Thrift aims to lighten the load of start-up jitters. With the accommodating organisers and diverse clientele, the chances of making a mistake are zero to none. If that happens, the community of vendors and loyal customers will no doubt laugh it off and offer any assistance needed.
There are two words to describe Picnic and Thrift: safe and queer. Unfortunately, these two words are not often found in the same sentence. And yet, Picnic and Thrift does it effortlessly. From bold fashion statements to Chappell Roan themed earrings and Pride flags in all forms, there is no doubt about who Picnic and Thrift’s main clientele is. Many of the vendors sell queer merchandise, making the market a hub for any queer folk seeking to find something tangible to represent who they are. Most importantly, Picnic and Thrift takes queerness, which is often framed as a question, and turns it into a bold statement. Queerness is accepted, celebrated and appreciated. It is greeted with a casual smile, effortlessly becoming a quick market catch-up and flowing through the air like a gentle summer breeze. Picnic and Thrift makes pride the norm. Could Picnic and Thrift be the Pink Pony Club all the Dancing Queens dream of? Very possibly.
Someone once tweeted, “The vibes at Picnic and Thrift are really horrible.” Onay took that quote, printed it out on a T-shirt, and wore it with pride. That says it all. Another market as welcoming and safe as this one cannot be found. Cheers to five years of love and acceptance, and here is to many more happy ones to come.
Domonique Bennetts
Gaby Onay and Ruby “Roo” Prager
Visual: Dominique Bennets
Visuals: Kerri-Anne Swanepoel
Visual: Sourced
The History of Horror
Danielle Yeatman
Horror is not an abstract idea that exists separately from humanity. Horror is borne from humanity. It revolves around the zeitgeist, adapting to the environment from which it emerges. Horror movies ooze and morph to fit into the nooks and crannies of society, evolving to reflect the fears and anxieties of the time period within which it is conceived. Horror comes from the minds of the brilliant and disturbed. It is loved and feared by its audiences for what it reveals to those who dare not close their eyes. Like all things in life, the horror genre has a story. It has been created and developed over time to reflect the society that consumes it.
1800s: The Darkness of Gothic Literature and the Fear of Silence
Before horror films were born, fear was induced through gothic literature. Gothic writers like Mary Shelley, who gave life to Frankenstein, and Robert Louis Stevenson, who unmasked the Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, provoked readers through their hypothetical constructions. Before computer generated imagery (CGI) and camera angles sent shivers down one’s spine, there were the possibilities, the what ifs, or the maybes that lurked on the next page. These possibilities and unknowns were later translated into cinematographic techniques to create suspense and fear.
In the late 1890s, French filmmaker Georges Méliès became the first person to film the supernatural. Méliès created several silent short films, the most famous being his 1896 film, Le Manoir du Diable (The House of the Devil). Méliès never intended for this three-minute silent short film to become the first horror film. With its pantomimed sketch style reflecting a theatrical comedic fantasy, it aimed to amuse rather than create fear. However, due to the content of the film, and the characters’ transformations into bats, this film not only became the first in the horror genre, but it also became the first vampire film.
1900s: Horror Evolves and Holds the Mirror
In 1908, the USA’s Selig Polyscope Company became the first to adapt a gothic literary classic into something for the screen with its production of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. In the true nature of horror, this work has gone on to be considered a lost film, with the original copies seemingly vanishing from any archive, private or public. The concept of morphing and adapting would not end with
Domonique Bennetts
IJekyll, nor with Hyde. In 1911, the hourlong Italian silent horror film, L’Inferno, screened in the Teatro Mecadante in Naples. Any guesses on which classical piece of literature inspired this film? Inferno, the first canticle of Dante Alighieri’s The Divine Comedy L’Inferno drew its visual inspiration from the haunting illustration of Gustave Doré, where morbidity trickled from every pen stroke. To this day, this film is known as the best adaptation of Inferno, with many scholars considering it the most successful adaptation of any of Alighieri’s works.
With globalisation on the rise in the 1930s, the habit of labelling things, food, and people grew in popularity –and entertainment was no different. It was here that the term “horror film”, as it is known today, was born. This new, slightly commercial category of horror was almost exclusively the result of American filmmakers adapting British gothic literature. The Americans avoided using homegrown gothic literature, shying away from the notion that the Bogeyman could be American. Monsters may exist, just not in America.
Universal Studios quickly became the main horror film producer, starting off with a bang by successfully releasing Phantom of the Opera in 1925. Universal Studios did not shy away from its success and saw the monetary value in evoking fear. The production studio went on to produce the adaptation of Bram Stoker’s gothic novel, Dracula, in 1931, followed by The Mummy in 1932, and The Invisible Man in 1933. Aiming to suck the money from viewers’ veins, Universal Studios turned to low-budget adaptations in the hopes of riding the monetary wave. But alas, this would not hold. As their capitalisation of horror dwindled, a new adaptation of horror began to evolve. This transformation fed off the nuclear warfare and radiational experimentation of the Cold War. Horror merged with science fiction to produce horrors that are now labelled as “creature features”, in which mutated monsters reign supreme. The horror films of the 1940s fed off of the fears of the population, the uncertainty of hastily built bunkers, and classified government testing. What went on behind the lab walls? What were they building in there?
To speak of the horror genre without mentioning Alfred Hitchcock, the father of modern horror, would be seen as treason in the film community. With Hitchcock’s release of his 1960s horror film Psycho, he managed to do what his predecessors had feared doing: bringing the monsters into the US. Psycho unlocked America’s door one night, allowing the creatures of nightmares to creep into the corners and hallways of nuclear families and homely neighbourhoods. With the character of Norman Bates, Hitchcock lifted the shower curtain to reveal the horrors of normality in which the perfectly repressed boy grew up to become an eerie psychopath. Before Hitchcock, movie watchers would come and go into the cinema as they pleased. With no specific running times, and commercials and short films always running on the screen, the ideas of spoilers or suspense were unknown. Hitchcock was the first notable director to discourage the disclosure of narrative secrets. The master of suspense created a press book describing how to screen the film and regulate terrified audiences.
Horror and its history is a beautifully sick and twisted tale that cannot be covered in a single article. The above merely serves as a taste of terror, revealing how many of today’s popular horror films follow the reflectionist trend of exploiting the audience’s current doubts and anxieties.
The Year of the Musical
t might not be explicit to the average viewer; however, anyone that is a part of a theatre fandom has certainly caught onto the upsurge in musicals in 2024. From reboots to stage productions, South African thespians have seen it all.
Mean Girls, the Broadway theatre production turned film, was released in January. Following that, March and April saw Showtime Management’s production of Mamma Mia! Then, Ster-Kinekor rereleased Rob Marshall’s Chicago for Throwback Thursdays. Pre-bookings for Joker: Folie à Deux starring Lady Gaga have officially opened. In November, Ariana Grande will take centre stage in the premiere of Part 1. Closing out the year, Disney will be releasing Mufasa: The Lion King December. Take a moment to process that noteworthy line up of musical features.
Generally speaking, musicals do not make the average film fanatic’s watchlist. Take this year’s Mean Girls for example.
Regina George fans flooded the cinemas to see what they assumed to be a Mean Girls reboot. There was a great deal of disappointment when they were greeted by nearly two hours of full-blown Broadway music numbers and choreography. True theatre nerds knew full well what was in store – a film version of Tina Fey’s Broadway production. This speaks volumes when it comes to the average viewer’s film choices. The absurdity of Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman being childish is always going to receive more attention than condensed (yes, condensed) versions of Broadway classics.
With a shoulder shrug and a mouth full of popcorn, moviegoers ask, “Well then, why care?” Why should one make an outing of an approximately two-hour long musical filled with dancing and singing, over the typical, feel-good rom-com? A lot can happen in those two hours, but the lasting impact of musicals is revolutionary.
Musicals serve as more than just fun sing-alongs. Disclaimer: this does not include Disney films. There is very little to say about a snow queen and her sister trekking through the wilderness with a snowman. Of course, some directors work magic into these children’s stories. However, the real magic comes from the theatre. Musicals, as most art forms, comment on a specific time in history. As a form of drama, they comment on social ills and lead to critical thinking. Musical theatre also allows for some escapism through the eccentric singing and dancing. Theatre lovers can be transported into another world through the belted-out showstoppers, and then they get thrown right back into reality with the all-too-real plots.
Look at Chicago (2002) as an example. Directed by Rob Marshall, it is based off of Bob Fosse and Fred Ebb’s 1975 stage musical. Starring Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere, it follows a group of murderesses awaiting their sentences in 1920s Chicago. Behind the heart of racing jazz numbers and the exceptional ranges of both Zellweger and Zeta-Jones is some interesting commentary. The main protagonist, Velma Kelly (Zeta-Jones), is a vaudeville star who murdered her husband and sister after catching them in an awkward position. Roxie Hart (Zellweger) wants nothing more than to be on the stage.
The film begins with Hart shooting her lover as he walks out on her after lying about securing a possible gig for her as a vaudeville star. Kelly and Hart end up being represented by the same lawyer, Mr Billy Flynn (Gere). Now, Billie Flynn is quite the master manipulator. Thanks to his manipulative tactics, these jazz babies are found not guilty.
Chicago highlights the corrupt methods used by the rich and famous
to swing the pendulum of the justice system in their direction. Along with that, the public is more interested in the celebrity status Kelly and Hart have gained than that of their crimes.
Sensationalism, corruption and greed shine through all of the “Razzle Dazzle” that Chicago offers. The wrong people take the fall for the true criminals, and money does indeed make this jazz-infused world go round. Towards the end of the film, Flynn comments that it (the justice system) is all a circus. This was the reality of Chicago in the 1920s. Maybe Chicago was brought back to 2024 cinemas because these ideas still stand true today.
Along with making social commentary and allowing for moments of escape, musical theatre has also given marginalised communities the space to safely express themselves. This theatre style offers a creative space for individuals to make bold statements without being ridiculed. There are no constructs in a musical. As long as the notes are being belted, all is well.
These productions have often focused on marginalised groups by giving them a voice and platform to be heard. This often works parallel to expressionism. Social commentary comes with protest, and the greatest protest movements have been organised as mass movements, including collective singing and dancing. So why view musicals any differently?
Joker: Folie à Deux, Wicked: Part 1, and Mufasa: The Lion King are rapidly approaching. Do not miss the opportunity to witness these films explore tough topics with their sharp musical numbers and swift dance moves. Sing your way through this musical revolution.
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Visual: Danielle Yeatman
WEEKLY HOROSCOPES
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
We know that it is difficult but you can acknowledge someone else’s feelings without making it about yourself.
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
Nostalgia is the thief of present joy; it was not better back then. (It really wasn’t – you are just bored.)
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
The cards you have been dealt have not been good, but you’re in for a royal flush (or something like that, idk how poker works).
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Think twice before speaking (literally, we are begging you).
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
That pile of work that you have been procrastinating is coming in hot, so you should probably start working on it before it crushes you.
Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
Chill out, nothing is ever that deep.
Aster
Azalea
Bluebell
Carnation
Dahlia
Daisy
Foxglove
Hyacinth
Iris
Lavender
Lilac
Marigold
Pansy
Peony
Poppy
Protea
Rose
Snapdragon
Tulip
Viola
Water Lily
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Pushing people away is a choice. Make better choices.
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
You need to learn when to stop arguing when you are wrong.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Do not let people walk all over you just to keep the peace; stand your ground even if it offends someone.
Libra (September 23 - October 22)
It is okay to feel weird once you have set boundaries. That weird feeling is anxiety.. kidding.. it’s growth or at least that is what the TikTok therapists say.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Put down the tarot card reading videos, they are not coming back. Focus on yourself or rather on your upcoming exams.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
When people show you who they are, believe them. Sometimes trying to see the best in people only hurts you.
I hope you enjoyed reading these as much as I enjoyed writing them (sorry to the Capricorns I offended in the process).
Over and out, Jade, reader of the stars
Cyra Qin
Crossword
Cyra Qin
Across
1. Which local band sings the song "Pretoria Girls"?
4. Who is known as the Prince of the Woodland Realm in The Lord of The Rings ?
7. Which famous band sings the song "Our Last Summer"?
10. Having foliage that remains green and functional through more than one growing season
11. How many biomes does South Africa have?
13. Synonym for flower
16. The scientific study of plants
17. Annual spring concert which mostly UP students attend
19. “Release your ___; feel the rain on your skin”
Down
Which event, usually celebrated in Chinese culture, took place in September of this year?
Which loud, raucous bird is native to SubSaharan Africa?
South African public holiday celebrated in September Solve the anagram for this classic film: CHOOSE SUM FUND IT
8. Main character in The Winx Club
9. The birth flower for the month of May
12. Which bird can fly backwards and upside down?
13. A compact growth on a plant that develops into a leaf, flower, or shoot
14. Which Tinkerbell fairy is known as The Garden Fairy?
15. What colour ribbon is used for Breast Cancer awareness?
18. Frog legs are considered a national delicacy in which country?
Spotlight: UP’s Olympic athletes
Jason Visser & Karla van Dyk
At this year’s Olympic Games in Paris, our sportspeople kept the South African flag flying high. It comes as no surprise that many of those who represented our country are or have been associated with Tuks. PDBY caught up with five of our Olympians currently training at Tuks, asking about their experiences in Paris and plans for the future. These Olympians are Erin Gallagher, Pieter Coetzé, Edmund du Plessis, Calvin Davis, and Wian Roux.
Gallagher (a UP student in BSc Geography and Environmental Sciences) and Coetzé (who does not believe in gnomes as he once claimed in a podcast interview) spend most of their time in Tuks’s swimming pool, coached by Rocco Meiring. In Paris, Gallagher made it to the semi-finals of the women’s 100m butterfly, and Coetzé swam in the finals for the men’s 100m and 200m backstroke.
showcased how anything is possible and you don’t need to go overseas to achieve your goals. You can do it in your hometown. And just to see her work ethic is really inspiring. It’s incredible to have her as a friend and someone that I look up to as well.
Coetzé: That’s a tough one, but I think probably mostly my dad and my mom because [of] the example they set for me in my life and where they also came from and how hard they work.
Du Plessis: I wouldn’t say there’s one person that inspires me. I think I’m inspired overall by hard work and dedication. When I see someone who sets goals for themselves and works hard to chase those goals, that’s what inspires me. People with high standards who strive to achieve them really motivate me.
Davis: My immediate family – my mum, dad, and sister. They’re always supporting me and keeping me level-headed. I’m also inspired by my coach from Tuks, Sihle Ntuli, who’s always there to set me in the right direction. Those four people are my biggest inspirations.
Roux: Knowing that the opportunities that I have been given and the talent I have at my disposal cannot be wasted on being lazy and giving up.
Do you see yourself training at Tuks for the foreseeable future?
Gallagher: Definitely. I have to say it because my coach is sitting right next to me. No, I’m kidding. For the next four years, I will be here, until the 2028 LA Olympics.
Coetzé: Yes, definitely. I really enjoy South Africa as a whole, so I don’t want to leave the country, and if you stay in South Africa, there’s no better place than Tuks to train. And I trust [Coach] Rocco. I trust his programme, and I think he knows this game very well.
stay in the national team and keep playing high-level hockey for them, especially.
Roux: To try and win a medal at the 2025 University Games in Germany.
What advice would you have for someone who dreams of going to the Olympics?
Du Plessis is a current UP medicine student and a member of the TuksAthletics team who trains with Ilze Wicksell. He qualified for the 2024 Olympics in the 800 metres and reached the semi-finals of this event. In the realm of hockey, Davis was chosen to participate in Paris as part of the South African team. This BCom Marketing student is also the captain of the men’s first hockey team at UP, with coach Sihle Ntuli. Finally, Tuks archer and student Roux is the first South African to wield a bow and arrows at the Olympics in 12 years. Roux is coached by his father, Patrick Roux.
What was your favourite part or moment of the 2024 Olympics?
Gallagher: Before every competition we have a little prayer circle before the gala starts. One of the girls from the previous Olympics, she was too nervous to pray in Tokyo, and in Paris, she said the most beautiful, simple prayer that I’ve ever heard. It was just such a pure moment, and that for me has really stood out from the Olympic games. Just the presence of God and how beautiful it was.
Coetzé: I think the first race, when I walked out and heard the crowd, and I saw how many people were actually there.
Du Plessis: My favourite part was the actual race, [...] the 800 metres. I really enjoyed the stadium, running there, and competing with all the people you always see on TV. Meeting all these famous people and then running in the heats and semi-finals was definitely the highlight for me.
Davis: My favourite moment would probably be our last pool game against France. It was special to come out on top against the host nation with the French crowd roaring against us. Winning that game was definitely the highlight of the trip.
Roux: Walking onto the Elimination stage and seeing the crowds. It gives you a feeling of pride knowing that what you are doing is a dream for many.
Who inspires you and why?
Gallagher: My teammates inspire me a lot. Tatjana Smith, who is now recently retired, has
Roux: My parents. Firstly, my dad, as a competitive archer himself, started at the age of 41 and ended up with a variety of international medals including some World Championships medals. Secondly, my mom who started at 42 and ended up with an individual bronze medal at the World Championships as well as other individual medals. They showed me that by working hard and [remaining consistent, performance] is a possibility.
What motivates you to continue when things get difficult?
Gallagher: Definitely God, my family, and my teammates. I think it’s so great to have such a community to support you. And I can also throw my coach in. Not for extra brownie points because he’s listening. […] And I think it’s just so great to have people in your corner that understand what you go through, and I’ve mentioned before that Rocco is a perfect combination of dad and coach. So, when I need someone to be stricter [with] me, then the coach comes out, and when I need some more compassion, then the dad side comes out. It’s really incredible to have that to keep you motivated.
Coetzé: Just thinking about what I want to do and my goals most of the time because a few times a week I really don’t feel like actually getting in the pool, and then you just have to think about why you’re actually doing it, and you must kind of stop living by what you feel like. So, if you feel tired or you feel like you don’t want to do it, you must put that to the side – it’s still going to be the same every time. If you don’t feel like it, you’re still going to do it. […] It’s just consistency.
Du Plessis: I’m an athlete focused on running, so yes. [...] I’m part of a training group led by Ilse Wicksell. We mainly focus on 400 metres, 800 metres, and some athletes do 1500 metres. It’s a great group, and we do train at different locations sometimes, but Tuks is our home base during the athletics season.
Davis: Yes, I do. I’ll be at Tuks until 2025 – that’s the plan for now. I’ve got to finish my degree, and we’ll see what happens from there.
Roux: [I] definitely do plan on continuing my archery competitively [and training at Tuks] for the foreseeable future, because I enjoy competing internationally.
What is your next goal?
Gallagher: Weirdly, my next goal is to not have a goal. I said going into the Olympics, I didn’t realise how much pressure we put on ourselves as athletes, and I think we kind of go into this robot mode [where] you stop doing things that aren’t going to [help] you towards your goal. […] Your life becomes quite strict, and so after Olympics I have been looking forward to switching off completely and just being a normal human being. […] And I know when the new year comes around, the goals are going to come flying in. I know that my next goal is World Champs, but right now, it’s to not have a goal. […] It’s just kind of to fill up my cup again and to fill up the emotional side to again find my love for swimming.
Coetzé: I’m not thinking too far ahead right now, but a lot of people think in terms of every four years with the Olympics, and I don’t really like that because between those four years there are things [happening] in every single year. So, I think between now and then, I want to become the main guy. I want to be the best in the world and go into LA as the favourite. Whatever that entails, that’s what I want.
Gallagher: [Do] not compare yourself to other people. Swimming is a very individual sport in terms of your makeup is completely different to somebody else’s makeup – someone can peak at 16, and someone can peak at 24. I think it’s so important to not compare your chapter one to someone’s chapter seven because they might be ten steps ahead of you, and you’re still getting to that point. [...] I think it’s best to work with your body and with your mental side on how you approach things. And I think [it’s important] just to be patient in that journey, because it can be very frustrating when you see someone who has achieved more than you at a younger age. […] Trust in the process and just focus on your own journey.
Coetzé: [Do] not put others on too much of a pedestal. It’s fine to look up to people, but I would say don’t think of them as greater than yourself because they’re just like you, and they were also a kid that wanted to make it and wanted to win a medal or whatever. So put yourself on that same level because that’s who you are. We’re all just human beings trying to do that.
Du Plessis: My advice would be to work hard and be disciplined. It’s easy to skip training when you’re tired or not feeling motivated, but that’s when bad habits start. You need to build good habits and stay consistent, even when it gets tough. Don’t see training as a sacrifice; it’s just part of the journey. Surround yourself with like-minded people – a good training group helps a lot in keeping each other motivated.
Davis: I’d say keep your head down and keep grafting. Try not to listen to people around you who aren’t giving you good advice, but do listen to those who support you and keep you going. Stay grounded, keep working on your goals, and remember that the sky’s the limit. Anything can happen –you just have to keep driving. I got my first national team cap in January, and six months later, I was at the Olympics. Times get tough, but that’s what gets you through the hard times in the future. Just keep going, and you’ll get what you deserve in the end.
Roux: It sounds cliché, but work hard and consistently. The performance for archery doesn’t come immediately. It is constant work over the years that all builds up. And never give up. It won’t always go according to plan, but keep going.
du Plessis: I set myself high standards and goals. Even when it gets difficult and you don’t feel like training, it’s those goals and dreams that keep me going. I always have plans in my head of what I want to achieve, and every time I reach a goal, I set a new one and raise the bar. That constant push to be better is what drives me.
Davis: I’d say I’ve got quite a strong mind, and it’s often myself that pushes me forward. But also, the people around me and the pure love of the game –hockey – keep me going. That winning feeling, whether it’s in a tournament or a game you’ve trained hard for, is what drives me.
Du Plessis: My next goal is to qualify for the World Athletics Championships in Japan next year. I want to improve my times from this year, set new personal bests, and just be better overall physically. If I can make the final at Worlds, that would be the ultimate goal. And once you’re in the final, anything can happen –everyone’s going for a medal.
Davis: My next goal is to make it into the national team again. If that happens, I’d love to go to the Commonwealth Games, and then in four years’ time, aim for another Olympics. But my priority is to
In the spotlight of the 2024 Olympics, UP’s athletes demonstrated resilience, determination, and a passion for their sports. From overcoming challenges to savouring personal triumphs, each athlete shared unique highlights and sources of inspiration. They emphasised the importance of staying focused, maintaining discipline, and surrounding oneself with supportive influences. Their journeys serve as a testament to the power of perseverance, reminding aspiring Olympians that with hard work and the right mindset, anything is possible. PDBY looks forward to following each of their bright careers.
Edmund du Plessis Visual (Sourced): Reg Caldecott
Calvin Davis Visual (Sourced): Reg Caldecott
Erin Gallagher Visual: Sourced
Pieter Coetzé Visual (Sourced): Anton Geyer
Wian Roux Visual (Sourced): Reg Caldecott
TuksSport Annual Awards and Colours 2024
Sandisiwe Msibi
The highly anticipated TuksSport Awards and Colours Ceremony is set to take place on 25 October at Rembrandt Hall, located on Hillcrest campus. After a year that has been packed with both national and international competitions, including several standout performances at the Paris Olympic Games, this event promises to be one of the most exciting yet. The TuksSport athletes have been shining on the global stage and raising the stakes for this year's awards. But who will emerge as the top contenders?
PDBY’s Awards Predictions
Sportswoman of the Year
Tatjana Smith: With four Olympic medals under her belt, Tatjana Smith (née Schoenmaker) is once again the favourite. Following her stellar performance at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, where she added two more medals to her collection, the odds are in her favour to claim the award once more.
Sportsman of the Year
Akani Simbine: A four-time winner of this prestigious accolade, Akani Simbine remains a top contender. The Olympic medalist continues to be a dominant force, and it would not be a surprise to see him take the award home once again.
Donald Ramphadi:
This standout member of TuksTennis made history at the Paralympic Games alongside Lucas Sithole by winning bronze in the men's quad doubles. Their victory over Brazil marks the first time that African
wheelchair players have won at the Paralympics, which is a monumental achievement.
Ramphadi’s groundbreaking success positions him as a strong contender for the Sportsman of the Year award, and it makes him a challenger for Akani Simbine’s long-standing reign in this category.
Student Sportsman of the Year
Wian Roux (TuksArchery): Roux’s Olympic debut makes him a standout candidate, showcasing the strength of TuksSport’s presence in global competitions.
Edmund du Plessis (TuksAthletics): Du Plessis made his mark with an appearance in the 800m event at the Olympics, making him a strong candidate for this category.
Kyle Cyster (TuksRugby): From succeeding in the Varsity Shield final, to being named the FNB Player that Rocks, as well as representing South Africa in the FISU World University Championships Rugby Sevens and various Blitzboks teams, Cyster has had a phenomenal year.
These athletes have all demonstrated exceptional talent and determination, making this year's Student Sportsman of the Year category particularly competitive.
Student Sportswoman of the Year
Erin Gallagher (TuksSwimming): Gallagher recently claimed the title of USSA 2024 Swimming Champion and competed in the semi-finals of the 100m butterfly at the Paris Olympic Games. Having already secured this accolade in 2022, Gallagher's continued success in both national and international competitions makes her a formidable candidate for this year’s award.
Sports Team of the Year
TuksRugby men’s team: TuksRugby’s men’s team went undefeated in the Varsity Shield this year, securing their promotion to the Varsity Cup. To add to their achievements, the men’s team secured third place at USSA Sevens championships. Their remarkable season makes them a worthy choice for the top team award.
Sports Club of the Year
TuksCricket: With an impressive haul of six titles in one season, TuksCricket has proven to be an unstoppable force. Their achievements speak for themselves, making them the frontrunner for this category.
Newsmaker of the Year
Tatjana Smith: Smith not only wowed the nation, she also made international headlines by becoming the first and only South African to win gold at the 2024 Olympic Games. Her global impact makes her a natural choice for Newsmaker of the Year.
Principal’s Award for Outstanding Team Performance
Having previously won this award in 2022, the TuksRugby men are in a great position to reclaim it following their Varsity Shield championship win. Their resilience and success have left a memorable mark on TuksSport.
With such remarkable talent and achievements across the board, the 2024 TuksSport Awards and Colours Ceremony promises to be an evening of celebration and pride for the University of Pretoria's sporting community. Only time will tell who will take these prestigious accolades home.
Formula One: The Pinnacle of Motorsport
“It is lights out and away we go” is a phrase that echoes out of most Formula One fans’ speakers on a Sunday afternoon. Hearing David Croft start the race with his famous line brings a thrill to viewers, and it signals the start of what will be an exciting two hours for fans. The battle for first place, the excruciating pit stops, and the fights between the drivers so that they can earn points for their teams and themselves are what fuel every race on the F1 calendar.
Formula One is a sport that is made up of over 20 races per season. There are 10 teams that make up the F1 grid, and there are 20 drivers that compete against one another. Each team has two cars and two drivers that race every race weekend. Here is a list of every team in F1 and who their drivers are for 2024:
● Alpine Renault: Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon
● Aston Martin Aramco: Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso
● Ferrari: Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz
● Haas F1 Team: Nico Hülkenberg and Kevin Magnussen
● Kick Sauber: Valterri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu
● McLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri
● Mercedes: Lewis Hamilton and George Russell
● RB Honda RBPT: Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda
● Red Bull Racing: Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez
● Williams: Alex Albon and Franco Colapinto
Formula One is seen as the pinnacle of motorsport, and for good reason. These drivers had to work tirelessly to get to where they are today, and they had to work their way up through the Formula divisions to make it into the top tier of their sport. To ensure that the sport stays at a meticulously high standard, there is a regulatory body called the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile, more commonly known as the FIA. The FIA ensures fair play between all the teams and the drivers as they enforce a set of rules to ensure that the racers are as safe as they can be at all times on the race track.
A Formula One race weekend starts on a Thursday with driver press conferences, and it ends on a Sunday with the actual race. Fridays consist of two practice sessions, and Saturdays are for the third practice session and qualifying. These practice sessions are an hour long, and they allow drivers to get a sense of what the track will be like on race day. Practice helps the drivers get used to various external factors, such as how long their tyres will last given the weather and the condition of the track, as well as how quickly they can take the turns and race down the straights.
Qualifying, on the other hand, is a system that determines where each driver starts the race on Sunday based on how fast their lap time was. Ensuring that qualifying goes well is crucial for a team, because the closer to the front of the grid you start the race, the higher your chances are of winning if the driver can defend themselves and their position.
The races on Sundays are most fans’ highlight of the weekend. The amount of laps that drivers need to complete for a single race depends on how many kilometres the track is. Every track is made up of straight sections (known as straights) and corners (known as turns). If the straight is long enough, then drivers have access to the drag reduction system (DRS) on the back of their car. This is a driver-controlled mechanism on the rear wing of the car that allows drivers to increase their speed when it is opened. This gives them access to a faster speed so that they can catch up to the driver in front of them if they are a second or less apart.
determines who the best driver was for the season. Accumulating enough points to win the most prestigious prize in the sport is easier for some because of a variety of factors that include the race car that the driver has to compete against others with, their confidence in the car’s abilities, and their own talents and capabilities.
There is also the Constructors’ Championship, which works the same way as the Driver’s Championship, except the teams are collecting points and they have two people trying to win them. For engine developers and corporate sponsors, the Constructors’ Championship is the most important because it helps them determine whether they should be affiliated with the team or not.
Every race is a new opportunity for drivers to earn points that will help them edge closer to winning the
This year’s Driver’s Championship is much more exciting than last year’s because there is more competition between the top five drivers. Max Verstappen and Lando Norris are competing with one another for the shining first-place trophy, and Charles Leclerc is also winning more points as the races go on. Additionally, Oscar Piastri has the potential to earn more points in the remaining races of the season based on his performances in the last few races. Carlos Sainz has also been performing well for his last season in a Ferrari race car, and he has the opportunity to fight for more points and race wins.
Many people view Formula One as drivers that “drive around in circles for two hours”, but there is a lot more to the sport than that. F1 is a strenuous sport that requires a lot of strength training so that the racers are able to cope with the demands of driving an F1 car. The forces that act on the drivers take a toll on their bodies. Therefore, they need to be physically prepared and fit for racing. Being a Formula One racing driver requires great deals of strength, both physically and mentally. The drivers need to be able to make split-second decisions while travelling up to 300 kilometres per hour, all while concentrating on battling their opponents and staying focused on the track.
Formula One may seem like a boring sport to some people, but to F1 fans, it is the most exhilarating sport in the world. If you ever find yourself doing nothing or wanting to have some background noise while you study on a Sunday, check to see if there is a race on, and try to watch it. Who knows, maybe it will become your new favourite sport.
Background visual: Nothando Mhaule
Hannah Roberts
Visuals: Sourced
Visual: Noluthando Ngwenya
Visual: Annelize Breed
Visual: Nothando Mhaule
Sport
From Campus to Main Stages Underrated University Athletes Turned Stars
Neo Paledi
The University of Pretoria has a rich history of fostering and nurturing successful athletes through TuksSport. While some athletes have become household names, there are many competitors that are flying under the radar. However, they are excelling both domestically and internationally in rugby, cricket, and football. Their names and hard work deserve to be recognised.
In rugby, UP has a great reputation of producing nothing but the best. The teams are able to sharpen their players so that they have the potential to become international names. Ethan Burger, who co-captained the TuksRugby men’s team to victory during the 2024 Varsity Shield, showcased his talent throughout the tournament. His leadership skills are some of the qualities that are essential on the international stage. He is definitely a player to watch out for.
Another rugby talent from our shores is Tharquinn Manuel, who is currently playing for the Blue Bulls in the Currie Cup. Manuel has been marking his territory in the wing position on the field, and his skills were recognised when he won the FNB Back that Rocks Award during the 2024 Varsity Shield tournament. It is undeniable that his abilities are only going to be further recognised.
Moving on to women’s football, the name Wendy Shongwe deserves to be known everywhere. In the women’s domestic leagues, Shongwe has shown outstanding abilities as a forward for UP FC. Deservedly, Shongwe got her first call up to the South African women’s team in 2021. As she continues to
grow in her career, football fans are bound to experience great talent from her.
There are many other UP athletes that are extremely skilful and are still building their way to success.
These athletes are prime examples of how UP nurtures talents that may not always be in the spotlight, but they constantly achieve at the highest levels in their respective sports. Their contributions, whether in domestic leagues or as representatives of South African sport, highlight the deep pool of talent emerging from the university. As the university community, we are excited to experience more greatness from our future sports stars.
A Winning Nation South Africa’s Recent Domination in Sport
It is undeniable that South Africa has been on top of its game in the sporting world. These victories gave birth to the rise and dominance of the phrase, “No DNA, just RSA”, and most South Africans have embraced it with open arms. The diversity of the sports that the country is involved in makes these wins so much sweeter. From football, the Olympics, and rugby, to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the recent season had it all. As the year is roughly 77.5% complete, it feels right to highlight some of the best moments in South African sport during the third quarter of the year.
Olympic Glory: The Medal Run
During the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, South African athletes certainly made their mark. It all started with a bronze medal win from the men’s rugby sevens team, followed by another bronze medal from Alan Hatherly during the men’s mountain bike competition.
Tatjana Smith (née Schoemaker) received a gold medal for her stellar performance during the women’s 100m breaststroke swimming competition. In a later event, she secured a silver medal for the women’s 200m
breaststroke competition. In a bittersweet moment following her commendable performances, Smith announced her retirement from swimming.
Moving to athletics, the men showed up, and they showed out. Bayanda Walaza, Shaun Maswanganyi, Bradley Nkoana, and Akani Simbine secured a silver medal win for their men’s 4×100m relay performance. And finally, Jo-Ané van Dyk closed out South Africa’s medal run with a silver victory for the women’s javelin event.
Rugby: The Continued Dominance
Ever since the Springboks won the 2023 Rugby World Cup, the air has been filled with victory. During the most recent rugby season, the Bokke managed to win the Freedom Cup for the first time since 2009. The Freedom Cup is a trophy that is played for during the Rugby Championship by South Africa and New Zealand. After all has been said and done, the Springboks remain the top rugby team in the world as per the World Rugby Rankings.
Women’s Football: Foot on Necks
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) secured the regional CAF Women’s Champions League after winning the post-match penalties 9 to 8 against Botswana’s Gaborone United. This win means that they will
be joining the Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies at the continental finals. With both teams being products of South African football, South African Football Association (SAFA) CEO Lydia Monyepao highlighted how this is good for the country’s footballing system. She said, “Think about it, we will have two teams at the continental championships!”
Another important update is that Banyana Banyana will face England’s Lionesses in an away friendly match on 29 October. We wish them nothing but the absolute best.
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)
The highly anticipated fight between rivals Dricus du Plessis and Israel Adesanya was a thrill to watch. The fight was close as both fighters threw significant strikes towards each other. However, Du Plessis emerged victorious after showcasing his grappling skills during the final rounds, managing to secure the fight. After Adesanya tapped out, we saw Du Plessis raising his hands in celebration because this win meant that he remained the UFC middleweight champion.
As our national teams and athletes continue to thrive, TuksSport athletes can only draw inspiration from these amazing performances. This year will surely be remembered as one of the golden eras in South African sporting history. Their victories are a testament to the hard work it takes to nurture South African sport. With sport management entities such as TuksSport, the nation’s sporting legacy is bound to grow stronger from here.
UP Hosts AfroBasket
Sandisiwe Msibi
The University of Pretoria was the host for the U18 AfroBasket Championship from 2 to 14 September. All the action took place in the renowned Rembrandt Hall on Hillcrest campus, commonly known as the home of sport. This prestigious tournament brought together 24 of Africa's best basketball teams, with South Africa among the participants.
This event marks the second international basketball tournament hosted by UP this year, following the successful Confederation of University and College Sports Association (CUSCA) competition in early July. UP’s worldclass facilities continue to attract top-level sports, reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination for international competitions.
Boys' Final Standings: 1. Mali 2. Cameroon 3. Senegal 4. Morocco
Mali dominated both of the divisions, claiming the top spots. While South Africa finished 10th in both categories, the tournament provided invaluable experience for the young athletes. The AfroBasket U18 Championship was a resounding success, highlighting the talent and potential of Africa’s future champions
