Salt Magazine: ISSUE ELEVEN by Salt Magazine

African Australian NEWS MAGAZINE.

I S S U E E L E V E N / / M AY 2 0 1 7

DORINDA HAFNER

a woman of many hats Inside this issue Mazzprints: Transcending Tradition Consulting the Consul: From Tanzanian Travel to Trade SANAA: The art of the street Bella Ndayikeze: My AFL Story

$5.00 AUD ISSN 2203-0972

9 772203 ISSUE 097002 E LE V E N >

Contributors FLORA CHOL Flora is a Humanitarian Advocate of South Sudanese origin studying International Development at Adelaide University.

ANDREW LODIONG Andrew is a graduate journalist from the

Inside this issue

Dorinda's Australian journey

Iconic African Australian chef and TV Host Dorinda Hafner on her life and Australian journey.

4/ Pacific One Drop

Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur Method Mukundu and his wine label.

University of South Australia with a passion for writing and a sport enthusiast.

LINDA LIWEWE Linda is a Masters student based n Adelaide. She is passionate about empowering and promoting financial, emotional and physical wellbeing amongst African women living in the diaspora.

STEVE BARLIEA Steve came to Australia in 2010 from Liberia and is currently completing his honours in Health Sciences at the University of Adelaide. He is also a volunteer

Mazzprints: Transcending Tradition

Young up and coming African-Australian fashion designer Marie-Jeanne Tuyisenge.

Tanzanian Consul

Tanzanian Honorary Consul, Mr Sossy Msomi on representing his country in Australia.

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SANAA: The art of the street

SANAA: A better world through creativity project and the African Street Party.

with Multipurpose Media Inc.

VALÉRIE BAYA Mauritius-born Valérie Baya helped form the African Society at the University of South Australia. and was the UniSA Student Association’s International Student Representative 2016

FRANCIS GALA Francis is a building design professional passionate about architecture and the built environment. He enjoys writing about places, people and products and he says 'the universe is my canvas'.

Credits ARTICLES

Sidique Bah, Andrew Lodiong, Steve Barliea, Flora Chol, Linda Liwewe, Bella Ndayikeze, Valérie Baya, Francis Gala, Kristen Hamill. EDITORS Sidique Bah Ellena Bezzina PHOTOGRAPHY Sidique Bah, Alee Bonnue, Emma Hackett DESIGN inadifs Productions PRINTING Replica Press

Cover

Dorinda Hafner

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe online at: www.saltmagazine.org

DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or its servants or agents. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

AF RICA N AUS T RA LI A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E

Sidique Bah

From the Editor’s desk

Welcome to another edition of SALT Magazine. Many thanks to all those who have sent us their congratulatory and appreciation messages for winning the 2016 Governor’s Multicultural Media Award. It was a humbling experience, and an achievement owed to all our contributors.

We believe that migrants opting to become Australian

In this issue we had the opportunity to interview

undesirable, while there is no evidence-based study to

internationally-acclaimed and talented performing and

suggest that mastering the English language helps to

street artists from Africa who were happy to share with

make good citizens; and neither will a positive response

us their experiences using music and art to tell their

to a question about someone’s values make them better

stories. We also talked to a variety of African-Australians

citizens.

who are determined to follow their dreams and pave the way for the next generation, including award-winning Chef and TV celebrity Ghanaian-born Dorinda Hafner.

citizens should uphold the country’s values and obviously speak English as best as they could in order to maximise their chances in the workplace. Most refugees are fleeing wars and poverty with no educational background. A stringent English test will only make their path to citizenship strenuous and

We at SALT Magazine believe that engaging with service providers through consultations and workshops geared towards providing adequate support for new arrivals to

Despite all their efforts the majority of African migrants

transition into their new-found homes will be a step in

of refugee background still face an uphill battle as they

the right direction in terms of promoting a harmonious

juggle settling within a new culture, trying to understand

society. We know these systems are already in place, so

and speak English, finding jobs against so many odds,

what we would like to see is more dialogue and support

while trying to support an uprooted family beset by

measures implemented to improve work skills levels of

varying factors.

new migrants, thus increasing their chances of securing

Recently the Australian Federal Government announced changes to the country’s citizenship laws whereby migrants will face a tougher citizenship test to determine

well-paid jobs, which will in turn help to stabilise some of the disintegrating homes. At the end of the day, it’s all about the status of the family.

their commitment to Australia and their attitudes to

We will continue to follow up on these issues, and do

religious freedom and gender equality. Defending his

hope that the Government and those in opposition will

party’s position, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull

look at all the positive contributions we are making in

said Australia is an “extraordinary nation …. defined by

this society and support us in our settling process.

commitment to common values, political values, the rule of law, democracy, freedom, mutual respect, equality for men and women…” and that “these fundamental values are what make us Australian.” As reasonable as Mr Turnbull’s argument may sound,

Once again we thank all of our readers and contributors for their continuing support. Your comments, good or otherwise, are always welcomed and will help us to provide the type of magazine you want, and that we wish it to become.

his rhetoric tends to ignore and jeopardize the hard work and positive contributions of Australia’s migrant community and their service providers across Australia.

ISSUE E LE V E N

DORINDA’S AUSTRALIAN JOURNEY By Sidique Bah

A role model for all African Australians, Dorinda Hafner wears many hats and is one of South Australia’s most prominent success stories. Among the first Africans to call South Australia home in the 70s, she has gone on to become a household name, an internationally acclaimed chef, TV host, author and motivational speaker. Her jovial personality and hard work have propelled her to the highest echelons of society in Australia and different parts of the globe. Her prestigious honors include best TV series awards in 1997 & 1999 for her “A Taste of the Caribbean” and “United Tastes of America”, the Living Legend award presented to her at the Sydney Opera House in 2012 and named by Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard as ‘A People of Australia Ambassador’ and in 2014 receiving The Special Jury Award at The World Gourmand Awards in China for her 8th book “Honey I shrunk the chef”. In retirement, she keeps herself busy as a marriage celebrant, a grandmother and board member for her charity “Australian Sponsorship 4 African Kids” (AS4AK). SALT Magazine had the opportunity to chat with Dorinda on a wide range of issues including her Australian journey and some of the challenges she faced on her quest to break down barriers and achieve her dreams. Born in Ghana, West Africa, Dorinda moved to Australia with her family from England as a dispensing optician and a registered nurse. “I wasn’t used to being stared at or people taking the liberty to touch and fiddle with my children’s hair without asking,” said Dorinda with a hearty laugh. But that was just the tip of the iceberg. Dorinda had to put up with many racist comments during those early years. She said some people she met talked slowly, dragging their sentences, to ensure that she understood what they were saying.

A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

“I used to say to them ‘Have you got a speech

their parents started calling me asking ‘How come my

impediment? Can’t you speak properly?’ A woman

children never eat spinach but they love your spinach?’

once put her hand in my hair and started ruffling

They started asking for the recipe and it started that

through it, I said ‘Excuse me what are you doing?’

way and within weeks I had bookings for over twelve

and she said ‘I’ve always wondered what the hair

kindergartens, so my husband said ‘You can’t spend all

of your people feels like?’

your evenings writing recipes for all these mothers, why

“I was walking down Rundle Mall in front of Harris Scarfe, they were demonstrating sewing machines, a

don’t you just film it for them or put it in a book?’ and that’s how it started”.

man was there calling people to come and see. He called

Dorinda said the secret to her success is her refusal to

me and said ‘Madam, we’ve got the machine just for

see prejudice. “I refuse to accept it; I saw that prejudice

you, it is so simple to use, any idiot can use it. You don’t

represents other people’s perception of me rather than

need a brain to work with it; it is so good it actually

my perception of myself so if they see me that way I

works by itself’.

don’t have to see me that way”.

I saw that prejudice represents other people’s perception of me rather than my perception of myself so if they see me that way I don’t have to see me that way. “I know he wanted to sell but it seemed like he was

According to Dorinda, her family was well known in

saying here is a stupid woman, she doesn’t have a brain,

Ghana for their culinary skills. “It didn’t matter which

she will be able to use it”. He was not very tactful.

career or profession we belonged to, our number one

These experiences emboldened Dorinda and gave her the energy and motivation she needed to move on. She started a program called Africa in schools at St Mary’s kindergarten (now known as Pasadena Kindy after another interesting incident. “One day I went to pick up my son and one of the school assistants went and grabbed this boy from Zimbabwe and brought him to me and said to the boy ‘Your mom is here.’ I said that is not my child and the woman was adamant that he

priority was food. My mother was a midwife, she had her own maternity hospital but people used to come to her asking for recipes. When I was growing up my mother would cook this exotic food and I’d be embarrassed to bring my friends home. I used to wonder why she didn’t cook the same foods I saw being sold on the streets, you know, like ‘waatse’ (rice and beans) or fried plantain. I didn’t realise that was part of my culinary skills training”.

was my child and even the kid had to say ‘That’s not my

Knowing how to cook was just one part of the process,

mummy, that is aunty Dorinda!”.

the challenge Dorinda had to deal with was how to

Due to that incident, the school director later asked Dorinda if she could present an evening talk to the kids and their parents about her country of origin. “I thought that was a lovely idea, children like music, games and dress-ups so I brought some African clothes, some drums, specially seasoned, baked chicken wings plus some palaver sauce with rice that I made. Two hours later, they didn’t want to go home and then

market palatable African food to mainstream South Australia and the rest of the western world. So she had to come up with a fancy way to present African dishes with a unique and enticing look. “ “People eat with their eyes first and then their nostrils, before food gets to their mouths. You may cook a nice Jollof rice but if you just put it in a bowl or on a plate, it’s not that appetizing, but if you get one big lettuce leaf and use that as a bowl and put the Jollof rice there > CONTINUED OVER PAGE

ISSUE E LE V E N

> CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

Pacific One Drop By Sidique Bah

and then garnish it with a cherry tomato or two and a sprig of fresh basil in the middle, it’s the same thing but looks quite different”. Dorinda believes that the progress of the African community in SA depends on having the right attitude. “We should start by being friendly to our fellow Africans, that’s how people will start to respect us. We are all thinking as individuals,

The diverse landscape of Australia offers an enticing range of food and beverages, and if you are a wine connoisseur then South Australia is the place to be. For Zimbabwean-born Method Mukundu, it was a TV ad in the UK about life in Australia that spurred him on a journey to the land Down Under in 2012; it was love at

we don’t think collectively, everybody is out for

first sight.

themselves and that’s not how it should be. We

Three years later he partnered with Davis, a

should be like a family”. Another concern of Dorinda’s is the misplaced priorities of some in the African community. “They act like children in a toy shop, they don’t think about having a roof over their heads, instead they think about driving SUVs, having a big television set and expensive sound equipment but meanwhile they are renting. “We should have learnt from previous, wise immigrants like the Chinese who arrived here before us, they combined their resources to buy one big house. They would live in it and work very hard to pay off the mortgage of the house as fast as possible, get a second mortgage and so forth”. When asked about why she kept a low profile at community events Dorinda said lack of support for one another and infighting within the community doesn’t sit well with her. “We are all Africans, why should we be fighting each other? That’s why I stopped going, we have brilliant people but because we don’t respect and treat each other right, we don’t get recognized”. Dorinda’s parting advice for the new and emerging African community in SA is to “put on your blinkers and see the positives, roll up your sleeves and work not just alone but together”. It was a great honor talking to Dorinda and we really appreciate her outspoken and candid discussion about her experiences and observations of the African community in SA. We wish her all the best.

A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

Zimbabwean friend to launch the Pacific One Drop wine label in South Australia. “I think it’s a beautiful country with lots of opportunities and I don’t regret the choice” said Method with a positive affirmation smile. “Since I came to Adelaide, I scaled down on beers and started drinking wine. I made numerous trips to the beautiful local wine regions; Barossa, McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills and Clare Valley trying and tasting

different wine. I enjoyed it so much and in the process

Method believes there is space in the African market

gained experiential wine knowledge. One day I said to

for Australian wine to thrive. “I believe Africa is a

my wife, ‘can you imagine drinking your own brand of

hidden market and our intention is to tap into that

wine, your own product?’ and she is like ‘yeah you can

market to create a new frontier for Australian wine

try that’. I pitched it to a friend and we started from

exports. I call it a hidden market because, even though

there”.

the region is home to almost a billion people, not many

Method said he buys his wine mostly from McLaren Vale, which he then brands, packages and sells to local retailers in South Australia. “We look at the type of wine, the name to go with the varietal, the image or artwork to use on the label to make it appealing to the target market and the price point”. “A lot of the psyche that goes into buying stuff is to do with what your eyes perceive and what style that brand represents; so we play with that psyche and try to manipulate it to create attractive brands”.

major Australian wine companies are looking at it and it’s not making noise either. I went to Africa for a reconnaissance and I was really impressed by the level of wine awareness and consumption. There is a lot of South African, French, Italian and Portuguese wine but there isn’t much presence of Australian wine”. Method’s plan is to establish a strong relationship with the African community in South Australia and work out their behavior around wine to help him understand the market. “As a business, we haven’t really taken our product to the African community except at the Kanda

The Pacific One Drop name came about due to a mix-

Bongo man concert last year in September which was

up with the graphic designer. “She asked us what name

good. I feel the African community is missing out on

we wanted to use for our label and we said wine drop.

embracing the aspect of wine drinking and we need to

When she sent us her plan proposal, she addressed it to

give them that opportunity”.

us as one drop. I actually liked the name so I thought let’s keep it that way. The Pacific is added to reflect the region we are in”.

Method’s parting message for those aspiring to start their own business is “no matter what your training or background, find something you like, work around your

As a young business which has only been going for

margins with the right passion and make sure you make

just eighteen months, Method said they haven’t made

something out of it”.

inroads within the African community in South Australia yet, but will be working towards that. One of

We wish Method and his business venture all the best.

their long term business goal is exporting Australian wine to Africa.

ISSUE E LE V E N

Mazzprints Transcending Tradition By Sidique Bah

Clothing and adornment have always been an important part of Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and identity. The team at SALT Magazine have continued showcasing traditional clothing from across Africa in our publications. As members of the African Community gradually find their footing settling in Australia, diverse traditional garments from different parts of the continent are becoming more and more visible in festivals and formal events.

Marie-Jeanne Tuyisenge wearing clothes from her label Mazzprints. PHOTO: Emma Hackett

A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

For this edition of SALT Magazine, we caught up

like Australian brand Zimmermann and also Gucci on

with Marie-Jeanne Tuyisenge, a young up and coming

Instagram.

African-Australian fashion designer in Adelaide to talk about her Mazzprints design label and her passion for fashion. Marie’s designs were donned and paraded at the 2017 Adelaide Fringe SANAA Street Festival with positive feedback.

“African prints have always been seen as a cultural thing. I want people to be able to wear it to formals and other high-end events looking elegant.” Since the SANAA Street Festival, where she had the opportunity to showcase her work to a large audience, Marie said interest in her designs have spiked with more

Currently studying Psychological Science and

people calling her because they want to try on her outfits.

Criminology at the University of Adelaide, Marie said

Talking about her strategy to reach out to mainstream

her parents were originally from Rwanda, but she

clients, Marie said at the SANAA Street Festival that she

was born in Tanzania, raised in Kenya and moved to

got her Australian white friends to model her designs to

Australia as a teenager. She said her love for colourful

show that they look good on everyone.

African traditional clothing and a desire to transform it to reflect modern times is the driving factor behind her ambition in the fashion industry.

“From my experience, wherever people see you wearing African prints they think it’s only for Africans; I had a fashion show last year and I only used a few African

“I always experimented with clothes. I love to see

models. People will come up to me and be like, ‘Oh my

my mum all dressed up. I like her clothes – they are

God! It looks so great on you. It compliments your skin

colourful, they are beautiful – but when in my teens

colour.’

it occurred to me that African print is used more for traditional stuff. I want to bring it into the modern times we are living in as fashion evolves all the time.” In March 2016, Marie decided to pursue her dream during her gap year.

“I decided this time around I will get my white Australian friends to wear the same outfits as the other African models, I want people to be like, ‘My God, it actually looks good on her and she is not even an African.’” When asked if she is satisfied with her journey so far,

"When in my teens it occurred to me that African print is used more for traditional stuff. I want to bring it into the modern times we are living in as fashion evolves all the time". “I was like, ‘What can I do with my free time?’ “I always love clothes. I feel like there is a gap for

Marie said she is not trying to self-praise, but at 21 she thinks she is doing alright.

African prints. I wanted to create patterns that haven’t

“With all of the things that have happened in my life,

been seen before, so I bought my first material, went

I’m sort of proud of myself, how far I’ve come and how

to a sewing class and started designing little crop tops.

I sacrifice my own finances to invest in my label instead

I started selling a few because, when I wore them out,

of clubbing. I’m trying somehow to create opportunities

people were like, ‘What is this?’, ‘Where did you get

not just for myself but for other people; like, eventually,

it?’ And I was like, ‘I made it’; and so that’s how it all

if I grow big, it will be jobs for other young people.”

started.”

According to Marie there is something therapeutic

For Marie there is inspiration everywhere. She gets her

about been engaged in whatever you love doing, and for

inspiration from following high-end fashion outlets

her that’s fashion; and her dream is to parade her outfits in New York Fashion Week. We wish her all the best.

ISSUE E LE V E N

CONSULTING THE CONSUL –

From Tanzanian Travel to Trade By Sidique Bah

The demanding challenges of settlement over the past decade have left African Community leaders and elders with little time to nurture special relationships between South Australia and their country of origin. Recently SALT Magazine learned that Tanzanians in South Australia, though one of the smallest community groups, have a Consulate which has been in operation for over six years. The Consulate protects the interests of Tanzanian citizens who are temporarily or permanently residing in South Australia. It also

Mr Msomi was appointed for the role of Honorary Consul by the Tanzanian Government in May 2010. Despite being the first Consul for South Australia, Mr Msomi said the Tanzanian Government already had Consulates in Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. “Australia is huge, and we do not have a High Commission in Canberra. Obviously the linkage between Tanzania and Australia is still very important, and therefore there was a need to set up Consulates in different states so that the linking factors between the two countries can be maintained and strengthened.

assists companies to invest, import and export goods

“We process and issue visas, help with travel

and services to their home country and to their host

arrangements, provide advice to people wanting to start

country.

a business, and also help Australians who have worked

We spoke to Tanzanian Honorary Consul, Mr Sossy Msomi, about his role and his experience representing his country in South Australia. Mr Msomi said he came to Australia over 22 years ago as a skilled migrant specialising in Quantity Surveying with his young family. “We chose Australia because, at the time, my wife’s sister was undertaking her PhD studies at Flinders University; and after a visit we thought it would be a good place to raise our children.” In his early years, Mr Msomi spent a considerable time in Singapore working for an Australian construction company. After a five-year stint he returned to South Australia and joined his current company Ceiling and Wall Contractors which deals with internal building fitouts, specialising in partitions and ceilings in major commercial projects.

A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

in Tanzania and need police clearance certificates. Our Consulate is the basic link between our two countries and Governments.” There are a number of South Australian businesses operating in Tanzania such as the Adelaide-based company Beach Energy Ltd which is involved in petroleum exploration in Lake Tanganyika, the oldest and deepest lake in Africa. Mr Msomi said that early in his appointment he had to help an Australian family fulfill the wish of a deceased relative. “The couple had been living in Tanzania for many years and unfortunately the wife contracted cancer, fell sick. When her cancer had progressed, she opted to come back to Australia for specialised medical attention. The lady passed away, and in her will she wanted her ashes to be scattered in the Serengeti and other National Parks in Tanzania.

“The family did not know how to get the ashes to Tanzania. However, when they found out that there was a Tanzanian Consulate here, they came to me, and I was able to help them fulfill the wishes of the deceased and send the ashes over.” An active and founding member of the Tanzanian Community Association of South Australia, Mr Msomi works closely with his Community to celebrate or commemorate Tanzanian national days together. Asked about his thoughts on the African Community in South Australia, Mr Msomi said he was worried over the tendency for some in the Community to forget about Africa. “If you look at the English, Greek or Italian Communities, they have strong connections with their countries of origin, and they have been here for much, much longer. I would urge all Africans not to forget where we came from. We should help Africa; it is our duty.”

He urged parents to make sure that the younger generation did not lose their link with Africa. “Maintaining a strong connection will foster business ties between Africa and Australia in the near future.” It was great talking to the Honorary Consul. We wish him all the best, and we hope to see other African Community leaders working towards that same vision to strengthen relationships and linkages between our host country and countries of origin as it is a win for all in the changing fortunes of these times.

Tanzanian Honorary Consul Mr Sossy Msomi

ISSUE E LE V E N

Country life vs City life By Andrew Lodiong

For the very first time in my then 22 year life, I had to step out into the world and become truly independent. After completing my Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and an Advanced Diploma in Marketing, I was one of many graduates trying to get my “foot in the door” and

Because it is a town that has just less than 5,000 people it’s not hard to remember a face after meeting them for the first time. Everyone I’ve come across have been friendly in my encounters with them and are glad to hear I’m enjoying life in Naracoorte.

begin my professional career.

The lifestyle

Now 23 years-old, I find myself living and working in

Despite everything being at a convenient distance in

Naracoorte - a small town in South Australia located south-east of Adelaide. After six months of adapting to my new surroundings, I have compiled a small list of positives and negatives of my experience so far.

The local community A new city, town or state always requires time to settle in and learn how things work. This was no different. Being only one of a few Africans in Naracoorte, it took a while for me to open up and get to know the locals.

Naracoorte, there is not much to offer in terms of shopping and social spots. Living in a city, shopping complexes are usually a hub of activity where you can spend hours shopping and enjoying your leisure time. The restricted options however mean that I am not always splurging on clothes or other items and has given me a chance to save. I have learnt to live a sustainable and efficient lifestyle which I see as a key when you’re supporting yourself.

SALT Magazine contributor Andrew Lodiong in Naracoorte

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A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

Responsibilities There’s no doubt that your responsibilities increase when you move away from home, and your support systems. Paying bills and house keeping isn’t such a new concept but making sure you are eating a healthy and balanced diet also becomes a huge priority. Lucky enough, I was able to still remember some of the recipes my mum taught me and merge them with my skills as a kitchen hand back in my high school days.

Social life Having to minimise social outings can be challenging at times. Many of them are based in Adelaide. Not being able to catch up with them as much due to working commitments is also tough. My weekend trips to the city once a month are the only chances I get to see friends. Given that Naracoorte is a sport loving town, it wasn’t hard finding other young people that I could relate to.

Family The biggest challenge I’ve faced overall has had to be being away from my family. Not having an immediate support structure 24/7 has its own pressures. Despite that, I can honestly say it has helped me build a stronger character and has made me more independent. I’m also blessed to live in the era of technology and social media meaning making phone calls, sending messages and video chatting is not impossible. No matter what the next chapter of my journey holds, I know I can rely on my new skills to guide me along the way.

ISSUE E LE V E N

A MESSAGE FROM SOUTH AUSTRALIAN PREMIER JAY WEATHERILL We know that the national energy market has failed South Australia and the nation. We have announced a plan so that South Australians can take charge of their own energy future.

The plan has the following key elements. »» Australia’s largest battery will be built in South Australia to store renewable energy and add stability to supply as part of a new $150 million Renewable Technology Fund. »» The South Australian Government will build its own gas power plant to have governmentowned stand-by power available in South Australia for emergencies. »» The State Government has legislated to give the Energy Minister direction over the market so South Australia’s best interests always come first if there is an electricity shortfall. »» We will use our own bulk-buying power to attract new electricity generation, increasing competition and putting downward pressure on prices. »» We will offer incentives to source more gas for use in South Australia replacing coal-fired energy from Victoria. »» A new Energy Security Target will increase South Australia’s energy self-reliance by requiring more locally generated, cleaner, secure energy to be used in South Australia. Our plan will make our power supply more reliable, put downward pressure on prices and create jobs.

The Art of the Street By Sidique Bah

It was while filming a short documentary in East Africa, exploring the power of art as a catalyst for positive change in the community that Adelaide-based Victoria Lewis stumbled upon five of Kenya’s renowned street and visual artists.

SANAA Event creator Victoria Lewis pictured with some of the artists from Kenya

Impressed by their inspiring talent, against all odds

In what was a dazzling display of skillful and colourful

Victoria did all she could to secure them a spot in the

paintings, Eliza Street – an Adelaide city laneway and

2017 Adelaide Fringe festival as part of the

home of African-themed restaurant Mama Jambo – was

SANAA: A better world through creativity project.

transformed into a buzzing, vibrant African bazaar with

The event was officially opened by the Governor of

music, art, fashion and food combined.

South Australia, His Excellency the Honorable Hieu

After the SANAA Street Festival street party, which

Van Le, at The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre’s

went on to win best event for the 2017 Adelaide Fringe,

Kerry Packer Civic Gallery – University of South

SALT Magazine spoke to three of the artists, Onyis

Australia – where some of the artists’ works were

Martin, Wisetwo and Bankslave about their SANAA

displayed.

experience and the drive behind their passion for street

In his opening remarks, the Governor acknowledged

art.

the importance of The Hawke Centre, lauded Victoria

There were three things the trio share in common; it

for her hard work, and also thanked the artists for their

was their first trip down under, they started art at an

courage in using art to speak their minds.

early age, and they have a huge appreciation of their SANAA experience.

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A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

Describing his work as thought-provoking, Onyis

or in the cold. Even if it’s raining, you have to finish –

Martin said what he enjoys about his work is when he

you can’t take the street wall to the gallery.”

sees someone standing transfixed before his artwork. He also likes using numbers to depict society.

Bankslave said his name reflects the hustles of everyday life – “it’s all about us being slaves to the system.” But

“The wall for me is a metaphor for the society. The

when it comes to art it’s all about raising the profile of

posters I paste on the wall are about what we are

the African woman.

consuming. The numbers are just statistics – 360 will mean this is the 360th girl sold for sex. It became just statistics that can be interpreted different ways. My aim is to remind the viewer that everything is numbered; and people can be managed and restricted on numbers.” For the softly-spoken Wisetwo, his artwork is open to different interpretations. “When you look at my work you define it in terms of your perception and your life experiences. Someone else would see a different experience. That’s what I’m trying to convey.”

“I try so much to be biased in favour of the African woman,” said Bankslave. I believe she is the one who keeps us going, keeps our culture and our race going. I try to document her and show people how strong she is.” An inspiring parting message from Wisetwo for our readers is that we should keep working. “The Earth knows when you are working so it’s going to reward you at some point. When you are digging for gold, you have to dig very deep to get gold. If it was on the surface then everybody in this planet will be rich.

The creative process experience varies among artists,

Same thing with art. Same thing with any kind of thing

so we asked Wisetwo about what he thinks about the

you want to do: you have to dig deep.”

creative process when doing his work. “I like the process because I learn a lot of things about myself. It kind of nurtures you to be a patient person to get that kind of satisfaction you want as an artist, because you are doing it for yourself first.” Wisetwo said street art is growing in Africa, but there is a lot more to be done in terms of becoming a force to be reckoned with in comparison to Europe, America and Latin America. “Africa is a big continent with about 54 countries, so I’d like to see more street art. I think the artist needs to be supported a lot, especially street artists, because they are doing a work that is very difficult, they paint in the heat

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As for the event organiser, Victoria Lewis, it was an awesome event. “I probably couldn’t have asked for anything better. The guys were really great, and then the Festival went well. The paintings, the response from business, from people, the weather – everything fell into place. “I hope that we can do it again – sponsors have been positive. I hope there is a bit more support from the Government; and I might also have to find artists from other part of Africa … it’s more about the finance.” SALT Magazine lauds all the key players who organised the event, and hopes that the SANAA experience will live on to become an annual event.

The joy of being broken open By Linda Liwewe

I am a word fiend. At any given point in time, there is one word that I am fixated on. I believe that this year, I found my lifelong word. I have a genuine, committed and vested interest in living out this word for the rest of my life. The word is “wholesome”. “Whole” replaced “balance”,

an education and become an independent woman, my mother yelling at me to take a shower because girls should always be clean, my father telling me I should have the strength of a general, my father never giving his own wife the room to exercise the same strength … Guys, much like this grammatically incorrect sentence, I was confused.

not only for the weight of its many meanings, but

My teenage years were an internal struggle. I spent

also because balance often implies relentless juggling.

the bulk of that time belittling myself, running away

Balance suggests equal divides, round numbers and

from the things that marked my identity and forever

perfect equations. Quite frankly, balance and I didn’t

seeking out truths that did not belong to me. If this was

work out because numbers and symmetry have never

not indication enough that I had left wholeness in my

been my forte.

childhood, life at university made this abundantly clear.

2017 broke me open. I’ve spent my whole life seeking

At 19, the impasse between knowing nothing and

purpose and greater certainty around who I truly am.

believing I knew everything, I welcomed the first man

Like many young people, I didn’t quite understand that

I have ever loved into my life. In retrospect, man and

identity is privileged information. The world never

woman were really just boy and girl, someone’s son and

expected me to figure it out immediately, and eventually

someone’s daughter. I had long decided I would love

life led me to the answer anyway.

him and so when he showed up, Boy’s massive presence

Childhood was remarkably busy. Between Enid Blyton novels, ice creams after church every Sunday and building cities out of mud, I had no time for contemplating my existence because I was thoroughly immersed in living it. In retrospect, I think childhood is a wholeness that we don’t quite realise and certainly one we fail to appreciate. It is bright and wonderful, and it evaporates in an instant. Fragmentation descended upon me during my teenage years. I was plagued with a lengthy season of anger, loneliness and angst because I could not seem to make sense of myself and my place in this world. I was trying to bridge the gap between my Western education, my Africanist father, our patriarchal household, my blackness, my femininity, my immigrant family, my bourgeois lifestyle, my stay at home mother, my Christian upbringing, my mother telling me to get

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instantly dwarfed my own. I had never been told that even the love we give out must be careful and measured, so I put my whole heart on the table believing it would be safe there. Most of the story is made up of words that all mean “sad”. I don’t read from that book any longer. The last word said “resentment” and my heart had become so heavy with it, I had to put it down. Boy, was neither perfect nor all-knowing, but he had an unwavering belief in his place in the world. Boy taught me the most powerful lesson I have learned in life thus far. The book is now buried among all the others. Putting it away was one of the hardest things I have ever done, but I am so thankful that I did because I know that I would have lost myself to it forever. Binding my whole self to another person was the deepest form of brokenness I have ever known, but it also brought me to myself.

My revelation was faith. Faith in a God that my

gratitude. Enough gratitude to keep me on the earth

grandmother prayed to every Sunday, albeit that I

rather than in it.

wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t willing to call him Jesus. My heart had become incredibly ill, my spirit was suffering greatly and life had become an endless, empty expanse of pain. Everything ached with the effort of what one expects to be ordinary. Laughter remained caught at the back of my throat, words were hauled from my lips with force, and I woke up each morning to fresh tears on my pillow to remind me that while my body was very much alive, I was merely a shell of the self I ought to have been.

This post was supposed to be about exercise and nutrition because nutritious food and staying active have become a real source of joy for me. Instead, as I began to write about how in the joy of being broken open, I stumbled upon the biggest revelation of all: that faith in something, anything and thanks for nothing and everything will heal even the deepest form of broken that one can be.

Living on loveless love, lonely love, lazy love, no love; I repeat, NO LOVE. Till faith began to knock on my door each day to remind me to say thanks. I kept descending; lowering myself further and further into the earth. Living on loveless love, lonely love, lazy love, no love; I repeat, NO LOVE. Till faith began to knock on my door each day to remind me to say thanks. Thank you for the air I breathed today God. Thank you for the food I ate today God. Thank you for the legs that carried me God. Thank you for the conversation I had with Mum today God. Thank you for the spurt of

In the spirit of this article, thank you to those who are moved to action by the pain of others. Thank you to those who recognise that depression is not an issue for white people or weak people but for people. Thank you to those who inspire wellness. Thank you for the joy of healing and letting go. Thank you for the divine peace that comes with finally recognising that you are the whole human, the whole package, the whole woman.

giggles I had this morning God. Gratitude for nothing

PS: The nutrition and exercise ramble is coming up

and everything. A little gratitude and then a lot of

soon.

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Bella Ndayikeze: My AFL Story My name is Bella Ndayikeze. I am 20 years old. I was born in Burundi, Central East Africa, and I grew up in a refugee camp in Tanzania, and arrived in Australia when I was a child in 2005. I am the oldest child in our family. I grew up with three brothers but in later years welcomed a little sister named after indigenous Australian music sensation Jessica Mauboy. I love making music, media, dancing, playing sport and coaching.

turn out the way it did as sometimes I wanted to leave

Currently I am a Youth Programs Coordinator at the

so I got asked to join the Leadership Program. I lacked

Edmund Rice Centre Western Australia managing the AFL teams, and the Youth Leadership and Youth Arts Programs. This is my story. My journey to Australia was emotionally and physically hard. Things were unclear and decisions were made for me. My mother always protected me during the war, and growing up was very tough. As a young African girl, our culture is all about dignity and pride; the way you dress up and carry yourself is important. To become a strong young woman, I had to endure pain and adversity. I got bullied. I got called names; and was basically an outcast in my own community because of the path I chose. It wasn’t lady-like to play sport in shorts; and not to go to church because of sport was considered a sin. I had to stand up for myself many times, and sometimes I broke down. But I later realised

and get away from all the bad things. My mum and dad went through some problems and eventually got a divorce. That took a toll on me as I am the second most emotional person in the family. I fell into deep depression and isolation, and there wasn’t anyone there for me except for a broken mum, who eventually picked herself up and found freedom for us. We moved into a home with the support of the Salvation Army. It took time, but one day I got asked to be a part of a sports program with the Edmund Rice Centre WA once a week. I was one of the older kids and confidence in myself, and gained extra weight from my problems. I didn’t understand what I was doing, but I learned about being myself, and to be a good person. Eventually I got asked to coach the Edmund Rice Multicultural AFL team, and the following year I became an assistant coach at 15. It was super difficult because the boys I coached were older than me, and I also didn’t have enough knowledge of the sport. I was new to it and still lacked confidence in myself. Things worked out as I kept being involved. I got a schoolbased traineeship with the WA Football Commission at 16, and also became the manager of the Multicultural AFL Program a few years later, and played AFL for West Perth Football Club. Before I was given any AFL opportunities, my life was

people will still be negative whether you succeed or fail.

bad and I was at risk. I thought about bad things and

My mum has been instrumental in my journey for the

school and wasn’t doing well in life.

last 14 years. I grew up without an active father and, being the oldest, I had to be the strength of the family without a choice. My brothers looked up to me and

did some bad things. I got into fights with people at

I believe being a part of the Edmund Rice Programs saved me. The opportunities I got when I entered AFL

even my mother – I was her strength to live.

were life-giving, exciting, and I wanted to experience

The Edmund Rice Centre WA gave me a coaching

exciting. There are not a lot of sports like AFL that

opportunity in the AFL. I never imagined life would

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it more because I had never been a part of anything can challenge the way you think and carry yourself

in life. I never felt what I felt being a part of the

It’s hard when you don’t get the same support as your

AFL community. I grew up playing sports such as

team mates – their parents come to each of their games

Basketball, Soccer and Volleyball, so I don’t think it’s

to show their support which is different for a young

only the sport. You are a part of a culture, people and

person from an African background. Transport and

environment that is built for you; so I like the life-

parent support is one of the biggest challenges we face,

giving experiences AFL gives people. It challenges you

especially on Sundays.

physically and mentally to make decisions, and teaches you that people will always get around you no matter the circumstances, failure or winner.

For now, I don’t have any major plans; I just want to keep studying and hopefully get involved in more exciting opportunities soon. I wanted to be a national

There are some major challenges in playing footy; the

AFL coach but I don’t have that dream anymore

culture of the sport can be brutal sometimes if you are

because I’ve realised opportunities will come when you

clueless. It’s exciting but it’s slightly hard to transition

work hard in life and never give up.

because you get congratulated left and right after win celebrations, there’s the passion of team mates, and the pace of the game – it gets hard when you’re not used to it. I was in shock after my first club game. I was like, “What in the world just happened?” My senses went missing that day, but I played the following week.

I think AFL has a lot of work to do with girls from different backgrounds, especially African girls. More girls are playing AFL, and only a small percentage of those girls are African girls. Soon, I’m certain we’ll see more African girls playing AFL. The game is also becoming more inclusive, and clubs will eventually have

It is lonely playing this sport because you look to your

to learn to cater for diversity; and when that happens,

left and right and there is not a single African girl

more girls will be enabled to take elite opportunities on

alongside you. Obviously, things are changing and there

board.

are more African girls playing, especially for my club.

ISSUE E LE V E N

One Death is Too Many –

Isn’t it time to raise awareness about suicide within the African Community in South Australia? by Steve Barliea

Although the occurrence of suicide is not commonplace

population. Gender-specific data has shown that the

within the African Community in South Australia, it is

rate of suicide is higher among men than women.

equally not unheard of either. Few incidents of suicide

Indeed, men are 3 times more likely to commit suicide

have been reported via social media or by Community

than women; however, there is still a proliferation of

leaders of Africans who have tragically taken their own

women committing suicide, with the rate as high as

lives. The question is, why is it that little or no attention

26%. People with conditions such as schizophrenia,

is brought to discussing suicide within the African

major depression, bipolar disorder and eating disorders,

Community SA, even though suicide is one of the

among others, have suicide rates far and above any other

leading causes of death in Australia and worldwide?

group in Australia.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that,

Migrants or people born overseas account for more

globally, suicide accounts for more deaths than all wars

than a quarter of suicide deaths. The Australian Bureau

and natural disasters combined – approximating that

of Statistics (ABS) data shows that roughly 600 people

800,000 people take their own lives each year.

who were born overseas commit suicide annually.

It is estimated by WHO that for every person who commits suicide, there are roughly more than 20 people that may have attempted suicide. In 2015, suicide accounted for 1.9% of all causes of death in Australia. On any given day in 2015, an average of 8.3 people ended their own lives – that’s 1 person every 3 hours! In that same year, 3,027 suicide deaths were reported (almost 13 per 100,000 people) – 2,292 males (over 19 per 100,000) and 735 females (over 6 per 100,000). Historically in Australia, the year 1963 recorded the highest rate of suicide deaths in Australia, peaking at 17.5 deaths per

In 2014, of the 2,864 (over 12 per 100,000) suicides which occurred nationally, individuals born overseas accounted for 800. People who commit suicide may have different reasons for ending their own lives. In some cases, the reasons may not be disclosed; and if they are, it may be too personal for family members to disclose it for fear that it might bring unwarranted shame and attention upon them. This may explain why I couldn’t speak with survivors or families of victims from the African Community SA after several attempts.

100,000 people. From this period onwards, while the

When people contemplate suicide, it is not out of a

suicide rate has fluctuated, it has remained lower.

passion to die; it is about having no hope, nothing

Though Indigenous Australians record the highest rate of suicide – more than twice the general population (25.5 per 100,000 versus 12.5 per 100,000) – it is also reported that men, those who have previously attempted suicide, migrants of refugee background, substance (drug and alcohol) abusers, and people with complex mental health conditions present a higher risk for committing suicide.

to live for. The notion of “How do I keep going on like this?” – the overwhelming thoughts that one’s challenges are insurmountable so therefore living is meaningless. Older people may commit suicide due to ill health – not wanting to be a burden on other people if they have lost their abilities or have mental health problems, and so on. Irrespective of what people’s reasons for suicide may be, research has shown that survivors of suicide posit that a significant barrier in

People with complex mental health problems record

seeking help is a feeling of shame and stigma associated

a suicide rate 10-40 times more than the general

with discussing their intentions to commit suicide or

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the reasons thereof with others. Having someone to

research on suicide among Africans, are all challenges

trust and connect with can be a life-saving opportunity.

capable of producing noxious consequences in the long

Enabling a community to develop that is oriented on

term for Africans, such as increasing the risk of suicide

trust and support for each other is critical.

over time unless a concerted effort is implemented to

Another factor promoting suicide is silence. Some

ensure otherwise.

survivors of suicide note that they often feel a sense

My fear, however, is that experience has suggested

of distrust so they may keep silent. When people who

that the African Community is both too passive and

contemplate suicide talk to someone they often do not

too reactive to ever implement any form of proactive

commit suicide.

measure to address this problem; thus, a future of

The most effective and efficient way to prevent suicide is to create awareness about services available to support people who contemplate suicide beforehand; or to treat the underlying reasons or conditions for which they aim to commit suicide. Put simply, we need to talk about it more as a community. For those with mental health conditions, a better way to seek treatment is to seek professional help from a counsellor or psychologist; and, if one doesn’t work out, try others. Be your brother’s keeper – watch out for your mate as we may pick up on the challenges or changes in people’s lives if we watch out for them.

increased suicide is inevitable. If one death is too many, then we need to be proactive by leading awareness and using other forms of affordable interventions to prevent suicide. It would be cheaper and easier at this stage to make big achievements in reducing suicide through awareness, but harder if the risk factors deteriorate. In conclusion, though I was unable to describe the scope of suicide within the African Community of SA, this was predominantly due to the lack of specific data on Africans and the difficulty in speaking with family members of victims of suicide or survivors of suicide. Nonetheless, this does not eradicate the need to increase awareness about suicide. A shift in our understanding

The aforementioned statistical descriptions are national

and imagination of suicide is required. The way

representations which do not necessarily reflect the

forward would be to consider engaging religious and

trend in every migrant community. As a matter of

Community leaders and other community groups to

fact, the rate of suicide is reported to be lowest within

diversify the Community agenda to include awareness

the African, Middle Eastern and Asian Communities.

about the risk factors of suicide. Remember that one life

While this may sound like good news for the African

is too many and that early intervention or awareness

Community, drastic caution should be taken, as no

can produce significantly positive consequences.

valid evidence is obtainable to support this assertion, or to underline the specific factors that support such conclusions.

Many thanks to Megs Lamb who provided me with insightful information on the topic. Megs works with the Multicultural Communities Council of SA

Despite Australia being a multicultural and

(MCCSA) and runs a project on suicide awareness. Megs

pro-migration country wherein about 28% of

and her team are encouraging Africans to join their

Australians were born overseas, with another 25% being

committee, and are willing to run information sessions

second generation Australians, most research about

and awareness campaigns with community groups, or

suicide at the national level excludes migrants, including

provide information to individuals. Contact details:

Africans. On consideration that a large proportion of Africans (sub-Saharan) in Australia are of refugee background, the fact that little is known about the mental health of Africans, coupled with the lack of

Every Life Matters – Salisbury Suicide Prevention Network Facebook: www.facebook.com/everylifematterssalisbury E-mail: megs.lamb@mccsa.org.au

If you or someone you know needs help, call: Lifeline on 13 11 14 Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978

ISSUE E LE V E N

EDUCATION THAT GIVES BACK:

A Look at Careers in Community Services By Kristen Hamill

There are many reasons why we study; to learn new skills, advance our careers, or to broaden our perspective. For Buol Juuk and Sumbo Ndi, it was the desire to help others.

“At that time I had started a Bachelors of International

Buol migrated to Australia from South Sudan in 2004.

able to support people.”

While working as an interpreter, he enrolled in the

Over the next seven years, Buol completed five

Certificate IV in Community Services at the Australian Institute of Social Relations (AISR), the training arm of Relationships Australia SA. That study led to employment at Relationships Australia SA, where he initially worked in health promotion within the Sudanese community. As the former training manager for a blood borne viruses prevention program at a displaced persons’ camps in South Sudan, becoming a community educator was a natural fit for Buol.

Buol Juuk and Relationships Australia SA colleague Mark Gaye at a community event

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Business, but changed my mind and enrolled in a Diploma of Community Education,” he says. “I wanted to help community members own the process of health promotion, and I needed a relevant qualification to be

qualifications with the AISR. He worked full-time during the day as a CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) Community Liaison Officer and as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, and studied at night after his children had fallen asleep. “Because of my study, I consider myself multi-skilled. If a client needs mediation, financial or relationship counselling, I have the skills to help them,” says Buol.

The Australian Institute of Social Relations RTO 102358 is a division of Relationships Australia SA

“My training has also helped me to communicate better. My social interactions with people have changed completely.” For Sumbo Ndi, an interest in learning about the social impact of her work in the sciences brought her to study at the AISR. Originally from Nigeria, Sumbo came to Australia in 2003 to pursue a PhD in Biomedical Science. “I had been a lecturer and lab researcher at UniSA for a number of years, and I thought ‘maybe there are other things I can do?” says Sumbo. “I was always very involved in my community, so working with people was an area I wanted to explore further.” Sumbo is currently studying the Diploma of Counselling at the AISR while working with Relationships Australia SA’s PEACE Multicultural Services Team, coordinating their Blood Borne Viruses program. “The work involves talking to people who are living with blood borne viruses like hepatitis or HIV, and understanding their situation better,” says Sumbo. “That is what led me to pursue the Diploma of Counselling.

Sumbo Ndi with Relationships Australia SA colleagues Karshen Low and Ben Yi

I wanted to know more about the human side of these diseases and learn ways of supporting people with what they need.” Relationships Australia SA practitioners contribute to, review and teach AISR courses. Sumbo says the real-life scenarios and knowledge gained from people working in the industry have been invaluable. “The skills we’ve learned in this course help you to relate better with yourself, with your team, and with your community,” says Sumbo. “Whether you are studying counselling for work or not, at the end of it, you become a better person.”

STOP WAITING START DOING. TM

Study with us

Work placements available at Relationships Australia SA. Now is a great time to get qualified, start your career today!

Accredited courses in

Counselling, Youth Work, Mental Health, Family Dispute Resolution, Relationship Counselling & Community Services. Online Family Violence and Universal Screening courses + Professional Development Training (in class and online).

www.socialrelations.edu.au (08) 8245 8100 The Australian Institute of Social Relations RTO 102358 is a division of Relationships Australia SA

ISSUE E LE V E N

A poem for South Sudan By Flora Chol

I am the land When they ask me who I am I tell them I am the land I am the land of a thousand blistering suns Suns for many decades have risen over Scorching desserts I am the land of generations long gone A new era where ancestors are reborn, reincarnated Into cultivated thinkers Chained by Systems of Oppression Corruption And destruction I am the land of flowing rivers Rivers that trail far and beyond Connecting valleys of Hope Forgiveness And redemption When they ask me who I am I tell them I am the land of vast vegetation The land where majestic beasts continuously Decimated into lifeless limbs now hang as false trophies in the living rooms of Privileged lives

Sierra Leone Community in SA Inaugurates First Female Leader By Sidique Bah

The Sierra Leone Community of South Australia turned out in force to celebrate the inauguration of their first female Community Leader, Mrs Constance Jones, on the 3 March 2017 at the Thebarton Community Centre in Adelaide South Australia. The event was marked by traditional performances, a colourful fashion display, and was attended by the Minister for Multicultural Affairs the Hon. Zoe Bettison MP and a host of dignitaries and service providers. SALT Magazine caught up with Constance after the well-attended event for a chat about her new role and

I am the land who has birthed many sons and daughters Yet watched them return to me in blood Bone And soil

the future direction of the Community.

I am the land where the of the familiar beat of drums The Rhyme and rhythm of the songs of the clans has been suffocated by the menace Music of machine guns I am the silent land I am the silent mother Under the weight of metal tanks listening to the cries of my children And the whispers of thanks uttered by the gentle souls Who survived to live another day

of leadership of the Sierra Leone Community and to be

I am the land of blood stained legacies Histories and regimes of courage that were supposed to yield Periods of prosperity Freedom Peace And unity When they ask me who I am I tell them I am the land whose anthem is hope I sing Hope for the future

She started off by saying that it is empowering and a good feeling for her as a woman to take on the mantle in a position wherein she can motivate other women and “make them feel that they can do it”. “It’s just a wonderful feeling being a woman and being able to support my Community; and being that woman [the Community Leader] just adds that extra value to it.” Migrating to Australia from the UK with her husband and son about three years ago as a skilled migrant, Constance said her new role as a Community Leader is just a natural transition. “My background has always been in human resources management and people development. I’ve been in that role for over twenty years. Supporting and developing people has always been what I’m about.” Being head of the Sierra Leone Women’s Group for over a year has given Constance an insight into the workings of the Community.

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Constance Jones (middle) pictured with Hon Zoe Bettison, Minister for Multicultural Affairs and the newly elected SILCOSA Executive Committee

“It wasn’t easy to bring the women together. I went

you. Once you earn that trust, you can come in. So

knocking on doors, talking to them, motivating

I’m looking at it as a positive challenge, and it makes

them and just being positive about it; and, because

me more passionate and confident to try and make

I’ve already been the Women’s Leader, I can identify

that change that I think my community needs.”

some of the issues and get some strategies in-hand as to how I’m going to tackle them, making sure people are included.”

Her parting message for our readers is that as a Community Leader she is happy and willing to work with her Community and the general public.

“I consider myself not a leader but a servant." NEWLY ELECTED SILCOSA CHAIRPERSON, CONSTANCE JONES

Constance said that after identifying the needs of the

“I consider myself not a leader but a servant. I’m

Community she will formulate a strategic plan to work

not only focusing on the Sierra Leone Community;

towards.

I’m focusing on working with the African

“My ultimate aim is to try and bring the Community together and then deliver those services that they so desire.” Community leadership is a challenging task that Constance is well aware of and is prepared to take on.

Community and mainstream organisations to build up that Community connectedness. The Australian Government wants to see us working collaboratively together in partnership, then they can believe that we all want that same change.” SALT Magazine appreciates having the opportunity

“It’s not always a smooth journey. Everybody has their

to talk to Constance. We wish her all the best

opinion, needs and experience, and change is not an

steering the Sierra Leone Community into a new

easy thing. People need time to accept; there has to be

chapter.

evidence of what you can do. They have to believe in

ISSUE E LE V E N

BOOK REVIEW

How Music Dies (or lives) - Ian Brennan by Sidique Bah

It took me a while to set aside time to read How Music

always intended more to

Dies (Or Lives): Field Recording and the Battle for

raise questions and stimulate

Democracy in the Arts written by Grammy-nominated

thought than provide answers.

record producer Ian Brennan. It turns out to be an eye-opening experience that is worth the time. The down-to-earth approach and honesty of his book makes it a book for all times, taking the reader on a historic journey about the transformation of sound into what is modern day music and its intricate genres. Ian is a man on a quest to resuscitate dying traditional music in disadvantaged societies using basic recording gear to bring hidden songs and rhythms to life. He continues to travel extensively across Africa and Asia to search for raw musical talents, and his book lays bare the exploitation of sound – a natural force of nature

“If even one person gleans something from the book’s pages and that element makes their life slightly better in some very small way, then to me the whole thing is a success. “In general, I feel like the only audience for noncommercial releases are hard-core music lovers who have big ears and hearts. There is always that core of people in every generation that are the keepers of the flame culturally and who work actively to discover moving material, whether it be books, films or music.”

– for money and personal aggrandisement. It reflects

In terms of assessing his efforts, Ian states that it’s not

his experience recording with the disadvantaged, and

about him.

presents a unique insight into the live of struggling musicians who rely on hawking there art for sustenance.

“I try not to think of myself at all. If they care enough to, evaluating my work or not is up to other people,

Full of wisdom and empowering messages, the book

not me. I can only try to focus on objective elements

opens one’s eyes to the endless opportunities that can

– releasing the first full-length popular music albums

be sought via music. He talks about the power of music,

internationally from many countries (Rwanda, Malawi,

highlighting the important role music has played in

South Sudan, et al) are things that can be measured.

bridging the gap and improving social interaction since

Whether it is ‘good’ or not is an entirely different and

the beginning of humanity’s civilisation.

highly subjective matter. And I learned a long time ago

Ian shared his thoughts and insights with SALT Magazine about his work and what keeps him going. Essentially, Ian states that everything he does stems from his love for music. “It may sound clichéd or trite, but if a project doesn’t move me, I won’t do it. If art lacks intimacy it is mostly superficial – entertainment maybe, but not something

that the music and art I love most are not the majority of people’s cup of tea. So being social and liked is a far less tangible goal than trying to be consistent, and the work itself having an internal integrity.” In relation to his desire to help the underdog, Ian states that anyone who is empathic naturally gravitates to wherever there is injustice.

particularly spiritually enriching. Communication at

There is so much to learn and enjoy from reading this

its strongest benefits both the sender and the receiver.

book ranging from insight in to the art and history of

These are literally ‘labours of love’ – my wife and I lose

sound recording to the impact of traditional culture in

money, but we make certain that the artists always make

music and how human ingenuity creatively survive in

some money, no matter how modest the amount.”

the midst of poverty. It is a book worth reading, visit

Asked about his target audience, Ian states that he is unconcerned with demographics and his books are

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Ian’s website www.ianbrennan.com which has links to independent retailers, or you can order it through iTunes or on Kindle through Amazon.

International African Student Experience By Valérie Baya

Mauritius-born and University of South Australia (UniSA) Student Association’s International Student Representative 2016, Valérie Baya shares her student experiences helping form the African Society at the University of South Australia.

he people close to me are aware of my

students there were more united having established

willingness to tell the truth and speak aloud

various student unions among the universities, and

even if it is unfavourable. I think this trait

organising endless numbers of events and gatherings.

comes from the Mauritian way of life. Grammy award-winning Hip Hop artist Scott Mescudi aka Kid Cudi once echoed that “The people I’ve met and the places I’ve been, are all what make me the person I so proudly am.” This is certainly the case in my lifetime’s experience. Coming from a multicultural and religiously

In Australia, I was shocked to find out that many African students at the universities were isolated and not united as one. This was certainly something I was not accustomed to. As such, I thought of establishing a student union or association for African students.

diverse nation (Mauritius) and being of mixed origins

Creating the African Society at UniSA was the first step

(French, Indian and Madagascan) created acceptance

for uniting African students. The establishment of the

and made me more open towards different cultures.

society enables us to express our knowledge and cultural

After high school, I went to study a Bachelor of

heritage with our fellow non-African peers.

Interior Architecture with great joy in Malaysia’s

The Society’s goals are to assist new and existing

Taylor’s University. Despite a number of African

students with any educational matters, such as finding

students attending various universities in Malaysia, I

affordable textbooks, getting help with assignments

was surprised at the lack of knowledge among many

from their peers of a higher year level and assisting the

of the students regarding Africa. Over time, African

students in any other university-related matters. The

students were faced with questions such as: “Is it true

Society also aims to bring to attention the beauty of

Africans live in trees among lions?”; “Is it true you

the African culture and our way of life to non-African

came to Malaysia by swimming over from Africa?”;

students by organising events that showcase our food,

“How do Africans survive without the internet?”;

traditions, customs, crafts, fashion, musical instruments

“Do you grow vegetables in Africa?”, and the most

and diverse range of languages.

obvious misconception that Africa is a country. Perhaps blockbuster films such as Madagascar, The Gods Must Be Crazy and Tarzan aided in the formulation of such insights. However, one would expect that individuals studying at tertiary level ought to differentiate fact from fiction, and must try to understand that Africa is a continent which has more to offer than what is portrayed in the media. Having completed my undergraduate degree, I proceeded to undertake a life-altering Masters of Interior Architecture at the University of South Australia. From my experiences in Malaysia, African

ISSUE E LE V E N

Like me, a number of African students have been confronted with an endless web of stereotyping of our motherland. The misconception of Africa as a continent in dire circumstances stuck in the Stone Age can only be altered by Africans sharing their cultural heritage and changing such mindsets. Prominent civil rights advocate Mahatma Gandhi once said: “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” One of the most valuable lessons I have learned throughout my tertiary education and experience as a student representative is that we must never give up on what we have always believed in.

Inna Modja during her 'artist in conversation' at Womad

africa shines again at WOMADelaide Festival 2017 By Sidique Bah

Over 80,000 local, interstate and international guests mingled to and savoured a diverse range of music from a rich variety of more than 400 artists from 30 different countries around the planet at the 2017 annual WOMADelaide festival in South Australia. Sensational African artists and divas were part of the lineup which showcased the ever-growing power of African music.

Inna said she started playing music in Mali when she was fifteen and has been touring with her band for her latest album for over a year and a half. She said her music is a mixture of traditional Malian blues with hip hop. Her message for aspiring African-Australian artists is to believe in yourself. “No matter where you come from, your dreams and your passion for art is something that you have to preserve and carry on. I started in Bamako; now

WOMADelaide Director Ian Scobie said that he was

I’m going to play in Australia. You have to just be

delighted with the response to this special program

passionate about what you like, and keep on doing it

marking the event’s 25th anniversary.

until the world listens to what you have to say.”

“It has been a tremendous celebration for our 25th

The multi-talented Inna is very outspoken on many

anniversary – a fantastic program – which was

injustices facing African women.

embraced by a wonderfully receptive and appreciative WOMADelaide audience,” said Mr Scobie. SALT Magazine caught up with some of the Artists. First we spoke with the Malian-born multi-talented

“I use my music to talk about Africa, my culture, and issues that are very important to me. So for me it’s not about been famous or popular – it’s all about the music or art.”

Inna Modja, whose alluring mix of desert blues,

We also spoke to one-string guitar Jamaican-born song

electronica and hip hop with powerful lyrics kept

man Brushy about his ingenious plucking skills backed

people on their feet throughout her performances.

by a deep and soulful voice. Brushy said it all came to

Her first time in Australia, Inna said she was enjoying

him in a dream as a kid.

the experience. “We were in Sydney for a few days and

“When I wake, I went to my uncle’s room. I said,

we arrived in Adelaide yesterday. Yeah, I’m having the

‘Uncle, I got a vision last night playing a one-string

time of my life; I love it.”

guitar’, and he was like, ‘Oh yeah, you are stupid man.

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A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

Bamba Wassoulou Groove during their performance

No guitar plays one-string; guitars have four strings.

“You can’t just go to the gate and stop. You got to

And then his girlfriend comes out laughing. She said,

follow through. Once you know that you should be in

‘Where is you guitar?’ I said, ‘It’s broken; it’s under the

it, you should live it; because I have been sitting down

bed with one string on it.’ She said, ‘Vision can come

for 15 years training – just banging, banging – ’til I get

true. You go play that guitar.’

discovered. You know, there is always someone there to

“I went outside, find my guitar. I wiped it off, and I begin to practise; and at the end of the day, I found a

discover you. All you got to do is keep trying. Never do less than your best.”

song – Oh Mr DC from one of Jamaica’s best artists,

When it comes to his style, Brushy is a man for all

Sugar Minott – and I started to practise. And the next

seasons.

day, I went to the nearest market and become Brushy One-String.”

“I mix reggae with rock, blues and every type of music because music is just music for me. They say there are

No matter where you come from, your dreams and your passion for art is something that you have to preserve and carry on. INNA MODJA, MALI

different genres, this genre, that genre; but for me, it’s no genre. It’s just music.” It was an awesome experience at WOMADelaide meeting with so many talented artists from Africa and beyond. Also present at this year’s WOMADelaide festival was the majestic and gifted Oumou Sangaré, endearingly

Still living in Jamaica, Brushy said his music is all about

referred to as “The Songbird of Wassoulou”; South

promoting togetherness to all.

Africa’s great A cappella harmony group, The Soil; plus

“I’m just trying to tell people we all need each other. It doesn’t matter the race or colour, we are all one people

the Bamba Wassoulou Groove led by Moussa Diabate of the revolutionary Super Rail Band from Mali.

and we are all earthlings. No hate, just love, and this

As the year steadily rolls by, we can’t wait for the

world will be a better place.”

next lineup of international acts to be announced for

Brushy said that once you love music you have to go all

WOMADelaide 2018.

the way.

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Artists find Self-Sovereignty in the City of Kings by Ruth Bickle

The role of the artist is to create meaningful works of art that inspire people. ‘Art’ manifests itself in the corporal world as paintings, sculptures, stories and poetry. However, the inspiration for these artworks comes from within. Thus, the artist searches inwards, to find self-sovereignty. Shuna Herscovitz co-ordinates many art and music projects on behalf of Beautiful Bulawayo and Heal the World. Shuna together with Talent Kapadza are co-ordinating an exhibition titled The Heal The World following the theme of Spiritual Resonance, to be held at the National Gallery of Bulawayo, on 24th August

to inspire local artists to create artworks for the exhibition. Lauryn is an international Visual Artist, winner of the 2006 Association of Commonwealth Universities Art Prize in a competition called a Place in the World with her drawing Journey Home. She facilitates workshops on Art and Transformation across the world and is well known in Bulawayo art circles as a past chair of the Visual Arts Association of Bulawayo (VAAB). Bulawayo is called the City of Kings. So it was fitting and thrilling when the Bulawayo’s Natural History Museum’s Regional Director, Dr. Moira Fitzpatrick offered the Hall of Kings in the museum for the venue, with access to authentic artifacts relating to the theme

2017.

of Kingship and leaders. The Hall of Kings was a

In January Shuna approached Adelaide based

Kings. The room is draped with old and new historical

Zimbabwean born visual artist, Lauryn Arnott, to facilitate an art workshop titled the City of Kings

perfect setting for a creative workshop on the City of flags, and littered with symbolic artifacts from powerful men that have risen and fallen. PHOTOS: Adam Herscovitz

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A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

The word ‘maya’ is an ancient Indian concept. In its

Cynthia Chamisa enjoyed acquiring the observational

simplest meaning, it signifies the visions created by

skills and drawing techniques learnt which helped her

our minds through our five senses. Depending on our

focus and to be more in tune with her inner being.

state, these can be illusions—constructed reality—or memories of true experiences. Often, they are not a true representation of what actually exists before us nor do they convey what those sights really mean.

Artist Dumisani Ndlovu’s highlight was learning the Grisaille technique of drawing. A technique in which the surface of the paper is covered with Charcoal, thus creating a mid-tone, upon which the artist then draws

Lauryn introduced drawing exercises opening up

using an eraser. Sanguine (Terracotta), White and Black

perceptual pathways between the right and left brain;

pastels were applied later to create the illusion of depth

using the mantra- draw what you see, not what think

and form in the drawings.

you see. Thus participants were guided to draw the model and the set from life, applying drawing exercises to release old habits of visualising; to look beyond for a deeper meaning - beyond naming - to experience an inner connection with their subject.

The intention of this workshop was for participants to learn and share, themes and techniques pertaining to the idea of reclaiming artistic self-sovereignty. An experience heightened by the act of drawing a model in the Hall of Kings. Knowledge accumulated during

The feedback was positive from Sally Ferguson,

the workshop, would in turn be shared by workshop

“Very clear explanations about observing shapes,

participants with other artists and students across the

making one look carefully to become more aware….

region. VAAB members agreed to continue with weekly

Beautifully explained and presented. The aspects of

drawing classes.

self- transformation and problem solving were most therapeutic and good. I was amazed to discover how the creative process is transformative and inspiring. This is powerful stuff. I have always found somehow this is a blessing on the creative process one can’t account for. Engagement of every person with every story is what we are made for! The objective of share, care and inspire was achieved … we are Kings”.

The workshop ended with a critique and group discussion on the Grisaille technique of drawing from dark to light, assessing the diverse approaches on the theme of finding one’s inner light in a world full of darkness and chaos. Bulawayo’s Natural History Museum offered a rich resource for artists to draw from for artworks for the Heal the World exhibition to be held at the National Gallery of Bulawayo this August.

Established Zimbabwean painter, Rashid Jogee found the workshop therapeutic and would like to have more workshops using museum interventions. Nozinhle Ncube felt that her ability to focus on the theme of the workshop positively enhanced her and assisted her in

Contact Lauryn Arnott for art workshops: lauryn.arnott@gmail.com www.laurynarnott.com

realising her abilities and capabilities.

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A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

RECI

STIRRING THE POT

NIGERIA

Moi Moi INGREDIENTS olive oil

2 cups of cool or warm

In this edition of SALT Magazine Adelaide resident Geraldine Matiwane who was born in South Africa and raised in Nigeria shares with us a popular and versatile traditional Nigerian pudding.

1 Â˝ cup Beans (Brown/

water

Black eyed)

Salt (to taste)

2 tab of crayfish

Aluminum foil cut into 5

1 Maggi cube

cm squares.

1 medium size red

Oil spray

capsicum

15 ramekins

Moi Moi (also known as beans pudding,

Â˝ tsp of nutmeg

Large oven proof baking

steamed beans paste) is one of Western

Medium size onion diced

dish

Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest side dish. It is commonly seen accompanying Jollof Rice, Fried Rice, Fried

2 tbsp of olive/coconut oil

Plantain, Custard, Akamu (Pap, Ogi) etc. It can even be eaten alone as a snack with a chilled soft drink to wash it down.

METHOD

I enjoy preparing this dish especially when

1. Soak and wash the beans few hours prior to preparation to remove the coat. When the entire coat has been removed, place the beans in a bowl and pour enough water to cover it. Leave to soak for three hours. This is so that the best consistency will be achieved when you blend the beans.

I have my family over. This is one of my grandmotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite dish of all time and a massive way to consume healthy protein without compromising its taste.

2. Blend the beans, capsicum, onions, crayfish, and ground nutmeg together with water and pour the mix into a large bowl. 3. Turn on oven on 165C. 4. Slowly add more water (if necessarily) and stir the mixture at the same time till you get a good mix of all the ingredients. 5. Spray ramekin with oil. 6. Add 3 cups of hot water to baking dish and set aside. 7. Pour 3 large table spoons of beans mixture to ramekin. Cover with foil (this is to retain moisture and keep pudding from drying out during cooking process) and place in large baking dish.

Follow Miss Gee's kitchen on instagram @missgeeskitchen

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8. Cook for 25-30 mins in the oven. Serve hot with rice or as a complimentary side dishđ&#x;&#x2DC;&#x160;

Imposter syndrome By Francis Gala

o you have just finished University and it’s

I went to work early on the first day so I could get

time to get out there and show the world what

acquainted with the work place, but then that feeling

you’ve got. You’ve spent all your youthful years

started creeping up on me. I started feeling like I don’t

studying for an uncertain cause but you have hope that

belong and that I had fooled myself into thinking that I

you will make a difference in the world by trying to

am more competent than I actually am. I started getting

perfect your profession. But does it feel like every time

performance anxiety and feeling that I did not deserve

you try to apply yourself you get this feeling that you

the job. Remember I had gone for an interview and

are not good enough? That feeling is like a thief in the

did well on the interview and legitimately been given

night, that creeps up on you and leaves you unstable,

an opportunity to apply myself and here I was second-

especially if you had to second-guess your abilities. I

guessing my abilities – this is one of the most paralysing

often wondered, was it just me who was suffering with

feelings you could ever encounter.

these fears? To my surprise, a lot of people go through the same feelings; it even has a name - “imposter

I decided to do more research about this “condition” and which people I could look up that it had affected,

syndrome”. What a cool name for such a lousy

the list was long – I soon realised that almost all of us

condition.

go through this but it’s a secret kept within us - a secret

Upon completing my degree, I got my first professional

that grips us because we let it... so I wasn’t alone. Soon

job with a building designer in Melbourne CBD; it

the time came for job change, I went through the same

was a big deal for me, as I didn’t have any local work

process of employment and managed to get myself a job

experience.

in the same industry but a much bigger organisation, and guess what - this new role brought out my old fears. An irrational “fear of being exposed”, despite the fact that I had rightly earned my place. Over a period of time I started to realise that these fears paralyze us, they cause us to over think, second guess

Migrating to Australia? Need professional advice?

our abilities and get fixated on peoples judgement of us which might poison our interactions. We start to feel

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Being outside our comfort zone breeds grounds for this feeling to creep in but you soon start to realise the benefits of being a novice are that you don’t have to be correct and you can focus more on what you are taught me more about presence and self awareness – the more we are aware of our anxieties, the smarter we are about how they operate and the more we communicate

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that’s how I began to feel in this new role.

learning rather than how you are performing. It has also

Student

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powerless and this starts to suffocate our presence –

25/09/2016 9:23 pm

A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE

1 2 3

through the SALT Magazine

lens

6 8

10 11

12 13

9 15

1. Africultures Festival, Sydney. PHOTO: Johanna Mbere 2. Estella Imanirakiza at SANAA African Street Party. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 3. Performance at Africultures Festival, Sydney. PHOTO: Johanna Mbere 4. Skye Grieg and Choirmaster at the Ghana Independence Celebration. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 5. Rumbi M and Fanaye Solomon at the SANAA African Street Party. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 6. SANAA African Street Party. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 7. Attendees at the Ghana Independence Celebration. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 8. Kenyan artist Swift9 with his artwork at the opening of SANAA: A better world through creativity. PHOTO: Sidique Bah 9. Attendees at the Ghana Independence Celebration. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue

10. Chetanna & Sonya Mmadike at the SANAA African Street Party. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue

11. Africultures Festival, Sydney. PHOTO: Johanna Mbere 12. Africultures Festival, Sydney. PHOTO: Johanna Mbere 13. SANAA African Street Party. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 14. SANAA African Street Party. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 15. Zainab and Sheila at the Ghana Independence Celebration. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 16. SANAA African Street Party. PHOTO: Alee Bonnue 17. Malian artist Inna Modja (R) pictured with Geraldine Louison at WOMAD. PHOTO: Georgi Bah 18. Salt Magazine editor Sidique Bah pictured with the Governor of South Australia, His Excellency Hieu Van Le and fellow community members at Government House.

ISSUE E LE V E N

Clean, affordable and reliable energy is something all South Australians depend on. But the national energy market is not working. That’s why the State Government has a plan to take control by: • Building a new gas fired power station • Investing in the nation’s largest battery • Changing laws to ensure our energy security

South Australian power for South Australians

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To find out more – visit ourenergyplan.sa.gov.au A F RICA N AU S TR A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I NE