SKY MAGAZINE ISSUE 11 by SKY Girls Zed

Love your

ISSUE #11 JUNE-JULY 2022 For Teen Girls Only!

NATURAL

HAIR

FREE

K iLleR

Confidence

WITH MELBA

HOW TO

MAKE A

Vision

Board

E E FR OUR thing Staying True, Tikula and Perseverance

OUR thing Smoking, Bad Vibes and Giving Up

I pledge to be true

I will trust my choices,

to myself

and I will not let anyone else

and what

I believe in. I �il� rise Success,

determine

who I am.

to m eet m y

making friends and dancing?

That’s

my THING. Jealousy,

gossip and

SMOKING

Take THE

pledge

That’s not

my thing.

To take the pledge, visit the SKY Point at Arcades or our Facebook Page.

I will

make choices

according

to my character.

20 - 21 How to make a Vision Board

22 - 23 SAY NO TO SHISHA

Hey Hey SKY Sisters! 5

This issue’s contributors 6-7

THE TRENDOMETER

8-9

24 - 25 - 26 - 27 My Identity Celebrities

Get the look

10 - 11

Body Beautiful:

Get Killer Conﬁdence with

Love Your Natural Hair

Melba Shakabozha

12 - 13

Letter to my 14 year old self by Mutale Mwanza 14

Staying True To Our Identities

How I Found My Identity

30 - 31

Tikula Premiere 32 - 33

Career Corner The Chinyanta

SKY ADVICE

16 - 17

TIKULA Character Quiz 18 - 19

SKY Vision Board For Your Dreams and Goals

SKY Spotted 35

We want to hear from you!

Hey Hey

SKY Sisters

How is the experience of staying true to yourself going so far? I hope you love it because you’re yet to discover more self-love and confidence that will help you to continue to stay true to yourself! This issue is all about our identities. Being myself helps me to make decisions that will make me happy and proud. My identity is my motivation for I know that nothing can bring me down. I will stay true to myself. I am excited that this issue has everything to help you discover your identity. When we say identity, we mean defining who you are and what you stand for. I identify myself as a chef and I’m proud to say I’m also smoke free. This is part of my identity; being able to say yes to things I want and no to the things I don’t want in my life, like smoking.

If you’re like me, you’ve been following the Tikula series and know that Nandi struggled with her identity. If Nandi knew who she was, she

would have had a stronger sense of self, and wouldn’t have felt the need to do things that weren’t for her to fit in. But it’s not always easy to know who we are, so this issue of SKY is all about us building on who we think we are, who we identify with, and how we support each other in staying true to ourselves, by knowing who we are and what we want in our lives.

We have regular faves like Get The Look, where you get to figure out what type of fashion style you are into. Fashion says a lot about who we are and how we say to the world who we are. I really enjoy taking care of my hair and trying new routines but it doesn’t always work out well, so I’m excited that we got to speak to expert hair stylists on the best way to keep our hair beautiful and healthy in Body Beautiful. I’m still not over Tikula and I’m obsessed with the characters, so we have a cool quiz on figuring out which character you relate with most. I think I’m like the ultimate SKY girl Taizya - but who doesn’t want to be Taizya? She is so cool! Let us know who you test to be and share with us on our socials! You know how they say “If you see it, you can be it”? For the dreamers we got an awesome vision board pullout poster and tips on how you can make your own vision board. This career corner is super special to me for all my young digital creators, we feature The Chinyanta, you read that right! The Chinyanta gives SKY the inside scoop on how we can make money by doing what we love. I always enjoy reading the Letter to my 14 Year Old Self and seeing that these awesome and successful women once went through what we went through when they were teenagers. This issue we feature the beautiful and fierce Mutale Mwanza. I sometimes struggle with confidence but reading Melba’s Get Killer confidence tips, it reassures me to always love myself.

Hope you enjoy this issue of the SKY Mag like I did. Remember to stay true to yourself.

Love

Eily Siphwe Musakanya

W t s

Natasha Malama

MY thing

Music, Movies, Dancing

my thing

Untidiness, Clingy people, Smoking

Louisa Kasalika

Trust Mulenga Zhane Cunningham

MY thing

Music, Ice-cream, Movies

my thing

MY thing

Being me no matter what society will say

Photography, Graphic design, Meeting new people

my thing

Talking ill about a fellow woman, Smoking

Liars, Bullies, Smoking

Bullies, Smoking, Fake friend's

Thoko Kalinda Chanda Chibale

MY thing

Piercings, Books, Food

my thing

Smoking, Negative energy

Lincia Mabo

MY thing

Sports, Creativity, Current affairs

my thing

Idle minds, Unproductivity, Smoking

MY thing

Chicken, Sour candy, Floral and sweet scents

my thing

Strawberries, Piercings, Smoking

Muzya Musokotwane

MY thing

White toe nails

my thing

Nosy people, Smoking

Precious Mwansa

MY thing

Food, Books, Family

my thing

Smoking, Bullies

Ruth Nzipa

MY thing

Listening to Music, Taking pictures, Writing

Namasiku Kayama

Rudeness, Panicking, Smoking

Water, Music

my thing

MY thing

my thing

Disrespect, Walking long distances, Smoking

WINTER IS HERE!

HERE IS A ROUND UP OF WHAT WE’RE FEELING THIS WINTER!

1. SOCK ANKLE BOOTS

We're absolutely �eeling sock�ank�e boots this �inter. �ot only are they comfortable, they are super cute too! They can pair �el� �ith almost any type of�outfit (skirts, shorts, pants) and are also pretty �arm so that’s a plus in this �eather. 2. CIN�AMON�SUGAR DOUGHNUTS Don’t get us started on the cinnamon sugar doughnuts �rom Dairy Den at Pinnacle Mal�! Hmm so yummy! From the crispy �irst bite, to the softness of� the doughnut and the hit of�cinnamon. They are pure perfection and can go with any of�your �avorite beverages. We �ove ours �ith a hot cup of�black�tea.

3. COZY WARM BLANKETS

This �eather can be al� �inds of�gloomy. We’re �eeling �arm and cozy �leece blankets. The �eeling of�warmth and comfort is everything.

4. MOCHA � CHAI

There’s a cute cafe at East �ark�cal�ed Mocha n Chai and is definitely on our trendometer. It’s such a vibe, the �ood, aesthetic and service is al� amazing. It’s such a cool�place and is suitable for solo dates or group dates.

5. HUG IN�A MUG SACHETS

These �lavoured cappuccino sticks are everything right now. They come in so many dif�erent �lavours; Hazelnut, Vanil�a, Cinnamon Bun, Toasted Marshmal�ow, Hot Chocolate and Creamy Cappuccino. �Perfect drink�while binge �atching Tikula on Youtube.

6. DOCTOR STRANGE IN�THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS It’s the ending �or us! Total�y �oving this movie. To be honest, Marvel�can do no �rong.

7. BOLD COLOURS

We �now�it’s a �ittle unusual�for �inter but �e are absolutely �oving bold colours this �inter. Who said colour is only �or summer?

8. SHOWMAX

Move over �etf�ix, Showmax�is our current vibe. �Al�ays �oving the �act that you can pick�from sooo many shows, especial�y African shows - you can even find Zambian shows on there!

9. HONEST CONVERSATIONS

Honest conversations can be so refreshing. There’s nothing better than a safe space �here you can be your true sel� �ith no �al�s. We’re �eeling true friends that of�er a �istening ear and can be trusted.

10. AMAPIANO

Issa vibe al� the time �hen amapiano is played. We �ove the vibes and the �ire dance moves that come �ith it.

WHAT WE'RE NOT FEELING THIS WINTER

1. THE WEATHER

We’re sooo not �eeling the �eather. From the endless �lus and the coughs? �ah sis. This �eather is bookie!

2. BAD VIBES

We think�it goes �ithout saying that bad vibes are not �or us. It’s good vibes and positive energy over here. 3. CHICKEN�PASTA FROM SHOPRITE We don’t �now�what’s going on �ith our beloved chicken pasta but yoh! Something is definitely not right and they need to go back�to the old recipe.

4. UGGS

We �now�it’s cold and al� but �e’re not �eeling the regular uggs anymore. It’s sock�boots �or us!

5. THE KISSING BOOTH

We �now�this has been out �or sometime and �hile �e’re al� �or romcoms, �e �eel�like �etf�ix�dragged and stretched the story a �ittle too �ar. It’s also very cliché.

6. THE ECONOMY

We are total�y not �eeling the current status of�the economy and how�expensive everything’s gotten.

7. VAPING

As �e �now�by now, smoking is definitely not our thing! Vaping (smoking electronic cigarettes) is addictive, so it’s also not our thing.

8. GHOSTING

We think�it’s al�ays better to try and tal� things out �ith someone instead of�ghosting them �hich can be very hurtful.

9. STEALING

We are not �eeling the recent hike in crime. Especial�y the stealing �rom cars and at concerts.

10. DOING THINGS JUST TO �LEASE �EOPLE

While �e think�it’s good to be courteous and considerate, doing things to only please others is not our thing. We stay true to ourselves and do �hat �e �now�is our thing!

Hey SKY Girls! Finding your identity, or how you define yourself in your teen years can be really hard. Learning so many things about yourself, like what you like to eat, what you like to do for fun, what you like to watch and what you like to wear. What is your style? What clothes make you look good and which ones are a serious no? What looks speaks to who you are? We’re here to help you find your style and make it easy for you to shop! Take this quiz and let's see which fashion style best suits you! 6.Imagine you won a gift card to buy your dream outfit. Choose the line that best describes the 1.What colour combinations suit your style? a) Dark colours and patterns b) Pink or nude c) White and blue d) Black and white

2.How would you describe your style personality? a) Bold and adventurous b) Cute and simple c) Cool and comfy d) Fierce and chic

outfit you would pick. a) Vintage Vintage

Minimalist b) Minimalist Laidback back c) Laid

Athleisure d) Athleisure 7.What type of accessories do you have the most in your closet? a) Cool sunglasses b) Cute sequin headbands c) A cool baseball cap d) Nice silver/gold necklaces

3.What material do you prefer?

8.A weekend of fun! What would you rather do?

a) Nothing specific

a) Outdoorsy activities, either go on a safari, go

b) Silk

camping or hiking with your favourite cousins!

c) Knitted

b) Go to the movies and later have a cute picnic

d) Denim

with your friends at the park and take some great pictures. c) Go shopping, have some lunch at the mall and

4.Shoes you like to rock? a) Boots b) Sandals

go andand sofa. go back backhome hometotoNetflix Netflix sofa. d) Meet up with your friends and go to a street food market and try out different cuisines.

c) Sneakers d) Brogues

9.What is your choice of top? a) Vintage shirt b) Plain short sleeved top

5.How do you like your hair? a) Natural curls

c) Cute crop jersey d) Graphic Tee

b) Weaves c) Anything with some head gear on (cap, bucket hat, headstock)

10.Where would you shop?

d) Braids

a) Thrift shops b) Online stores c) Studio 88

d) Mr Price

VINTAGE VIBES

Girl, you definitely have an edgy retro vibe; your style is pieced together by different clothing from different times. You follow both new school and old school trends which makes your style timeless and chic. Pair a cool pair of mom jeans /shorts with an awesome printed shirt and wear your natural hair up. This style is really easy to achieve because thrift shops are very affordable and found everywhere. Also, you could make use of your siblings’ hand-me-downs and fix them up to suit you. Old is gold in this type of style, so play around with those vintage clothes.

MINIMALISTIC GIRL

COMFY CLASSIC

STREET CHIC

You like to look cute but be comfortable too. Your style is loungey and comfy. Sweats and leggings or biker shorts, an upsized t-shirt or crop top with a cool pair of sneakers or slides are your go to for looking cool but enjoying the feeling of your clothes. Your style gives off a very chill vibe and can be dressed down or up depending on where you’re going. We love this for you sis!

Sis! We love your style; your aesthetic mainly consists of the basics in terms of colour and clothing. You like to keep it simple but fashionable. You should try mixing nudes, whites and browns to get a simple but clean blend of colours. To add some colour, you can throw in some bush green or camo prints. It doesn’t take much to make your style look great, a pair of khaki shorts and a cute white body top, don’t forget your sandals and you’re good to go!

We love how confident this style is! You can pull off almost anything in your street wear. Denim on denim is your thing, or a pair of shorts paired with an amazing graphic tee. Sneakers are your most comfortable shoes but you could also settle for a cute pair of brogues and you could also pair it with a cute belt bag to keep all your stuff in! Leather is also a must-have in your closet. A couple of cool leather jackets to easily throw on an outfit.

We hope this helped you figure out your style. We can’t wait to see you rocking those fits! ANSWERS MOSTLY A: VINTAGE VIBES MOSTLY B: MINIMALISTIC GIRL MOSTLY C: COMFY CLASSIC GIRL MOSTLY D: STREET CHIC

NATURAL

HAIR

Sharon Kabubi and Esnart Mumba from Afropologie are experts when it comes to natural hair, and they’re spilling the tea on the best hair tips ‘n’ tricks to take care of your natural hair. Natural hair is hair that has never been altered by chemical straighteners, including relaxers and texturizers. Whatever hair type you have naturally, these tips will work for you!

Healthy Hair is Good Hair

A balance of good porosity, density and elasticity are signs of good hair. We need to move away from misconceptions that long wavy or Caucasian hair is good hair, it goes beyond that because even our afro hair is good hair.

Tips and Tricks of Hair Styling

If you’re a loose natural you need a spritz bottle that contains water and glycerine to spray your hair so that it is more manageable and to avoid breakage. Your hair needs to have oils locked in be it natural, locs or braids.

Tried and Trusted Natural Hair Products

Kantu and Dark and Lovely have good products for natural hair, however the contents are more important. Products that moisturise and nourish your hair both in and outside are a must. The ingredients in certain hair products may harm your hair because they strip your hair of natural oils so that’s why some products are paraben-free or have no mineral oils or are sulphate-free. Read the ingredients to see what natural ingredients are used in the products. It goes beyond the brand and in the end, all hair is different so what can work for you won’t necessarily work for the next person.

It’s Getting Cold

Cold weather is not that friendly for natural hair so keep your spritz bottle handy. Shea butter helps lock in moisture and prevents it from escaping because it becomes dryer when the weather is cold. Hair treatments are important and Afropologie recommends that you have them every two weeks because they help nourish, hydrate and moisturise your hair. Your skin tends to get dry too, so it’s important to stay hydrated and eat healthy because this also contributes to the health of your hair and skin.

Take Care of Your Hair

Our hair is as alive as we are, so we should always take care of it. Our hair does well if we love it. The same way we talk about the care of our emotional or physical needs is the same way we should talk about our hair. We should all practice the LOC method which stands for liquid, oil and cream and this ensures that our hair is healthy. Liquid could be a leave-in conditioner or the contents of your spritz bottle that helps your hair more manageable, oil is to seal in the moisture and cream is to keep your hair soft and moisturise it.

Trimming Promotes Growth

Hair gets split ends and that affects the growth of the hair and the nourishment of the strands is not adequate. Once hair is trimmed and the split ends or damaged hair is cut off it gets the required nutrients and nourishment.

Wash Day

Washing hair often depends on how it is styled, i.e. if it's braids, locs or if it’s loose. Locs can be washed every two weeks but you also have to consider what kind of products you put in your hair, if you use greasy products you have to wash your hair every week. The length of your hair and the type of products you use when washing your hair should also be considered. Every two weeks is recommended because some may only wash their hair once a month or after they take their braids out.

Managing Your Edges

It can be difficult to grow edges back depending on the trauma that led to the hair loss, it could be mild or intense and this will affect how long it will take the hair to grow back. Taking a look at the scalp can help you determine if your hair will grow back, visible open pores are a good sign but if it’s shiny and flat that may prove difficult. Be patient with your hair and pick products that promote growth. When applying products you could apply in circular motions while massaging your scalp, this promotes blood circulation and improves growth.

Dye is Safe

Dying your hair is safe but since it’s a chemical it loosens your curls which leads to the porosity of your hair changing. If you do dye your hair it is recommended that you treat it more often because it becomes more vulnerable to breakage. The aftercare of your hair after dyeing will determine if your hair gets damaged or not.

Following these tried and tested tips is a great way to ensure that your natural hair stays healthy in whatever form you keep it in. Don’t forget that healthy hair is good hair. BONUS INFO If you have dry hair, use a silk pillow to protect your hair from friction. Genetics aren't the only deciding factor of your hair type. Climate and environment can affect your hair texture too. Humidity can make hair frizzy. A hot climate can make it dry and lose moisture quickly. While the cold can make it dry and brittle too. Tobacco use damages hair follicles and induces balding, as oxidative stress reduces blood flow to the scalp and causes hair loss. Remember, what you put in your body also shows in your hair. Have a healthy diet and 11 drink lots of water to ensure moisture to keep your hair healthy, strong, and hydrated.

Mutale Mwanza Mutale Mwanza is a media personality with over 10 years of experience. She is a multi-talented producer, voice artist and entrepreneur.

MY thing Dancing, Swimming, Listening to music.

my thing 12

Bungee jumping, Smoking, Dinner in the sky in Dubai.

Hi 14-year-old 14-year-oldMutale MutaleMwanza, Mwanza, Hi You see you you thriving. thriving. You are are winning winning at at everything everything you you do, do, and and it’s it's good good to to see

Everything You’re doing great. great. You're You’reaasize size28, 28,which whichisisaabit bit Everything you you touch turns into gold! You're skinny, mom? Do Do you you remember rememberwhat whatyour yourgrandma grandma skinny, but but hey, have you looked at your mom? looked so you're you’re bound bound to to gain gainweight. weight.I Imean, mean, looked like? like? Yeah, a lot bigger than a size 28, so look neck. DoDo youyou think those are are decorations? Nah,Nah, you’re defilook at atthose thoserings ringsononyour your neck. think those decorations? you're nitely going to put in ainfew more kilos, which is aisgood thing, don’t you think?Mutale! definitely going to put a few more kilos, which a good thing. Don’t you think? Mutale! haveYou losthave yourlost dadyour anddad yourand sister well.as You have lost thelost two Mutale! Mutale! Mutale! You Mutale! yourassister well. You have in space 3 weeks. It’s devastating for your how do youdothink your mom thea two in aofspace of 3 weeks. It’s devastating forfamily; your family; how you think your feels? How do youdofeel? complete your your secondary education. You You owe mom feels? How you You feel?are Youyet aretoyet to complete secondary education. your goodgood results. It’s the you can passpass youryour grade 12. 12. CanCan you owe mom your mom results. It'sleast the least you do canfor doher, for her, grade do youthat? do that? Mutale, losing the the first first man man you you will will ever ever learn learn love lovefrom. from.It's It’snot not Mutale, losing losing aa dad dad means means losing easy, and the world is cold. You may not know or have a basic idea anymore of how easy, and the world is cold. You may not know or have a basic idea anymore of how aa man your dad dad is is not not here here to to treat treat your yourmom momlike likeaaqueen. queen. man should should treat treat aa woman, woman, since since your So, to pit pit men men against? against? What What example example do do you youhave? have?None, None,but butthat that So, who who are are you you going going to shouldn’t weigh you down. Remember this, don’t put men first! Focus on your career shouldn't weigh you down. Remember this, don't put men first! Focus on your career -you youare aretalented, talented,you're you’reaagreat greatpresenter, presenter,you’ve you’vegot gotgreat greatpresentation presentationskills, skills,you’re you’re always chosen as a narrator at school, you’re good with drama, you can dance, you can always chosen as a narrator at school, you’re good with drama, you can dance, you sing, and you’re kind.kind. Focus on those talents and let do what boysboys do. do. can sing, and you’re Focus on those talents andthe letboys the boys do what Young lady, do you know that God loves you? Do you know that all the hardships you’ve Youngwill lady, that God loves Do you know that all the faced turndo youyou intoknow a powerful woman? Doyou? you know that losing your dadhardships and sister you've faced will turn you into a powerful woman? Do you know that losing your dad will strengthen you for many things ahead of you? Do you know that being considerate and sister will strengthen you for many things ahead of you? Do you know that about other people’s feelings will make you compassionate, and you’ll be able being to doconsiderate about other people's willDo make compassionate, and you'll be nate to different charities? Do you feelings know that? youyou know that your bubbly personality ablelight to donate to different charities? you know DoI’m youtelling knowyou thatnow yourthat bubbly will up rooms and make peopleDo laugh? If youthat? don’t, will personality will light up rooms and make people laugh? If you don't, I'm telling you now happen. Do you know the strength of the things you have gone through with your family thatcatapult will happen. Do you know the person strengthand of an theambitious things youperson? have gone through will you into a determined Do you knowwith that your family will catapult you into a determined person and an ambitious person? Do God loves you so much? And everything you need is in Him so that every-thing else can you know that God loves you so much? And everything you need is in Him so that everybe added unto you? Focus on that, focus on God; focus on your talents. thing else can be added unto you? Focus on that, focus on God; focus on your talents. Mutale Mwanza, marriage is not everything, so don’t be in a hurry. Yes, when you finish school, will tell you to get married. They’llsotelldon’t you be to be a stable relation-ship, Mutale they Mwanza, marriage is not everything, in ain hurry. Yes, when you and force it psychologically ontoyou. yourThey'll time, don’t rush intoinanything. Get your finish school, they will tell you getTake married. tell you to be a stable relationheart broken, break a few hearts, laugh, love. Do you also know that some of the peoship, and force it psychologically on you. Take your time, don’t rush into anything. Get ple you hang out with right nowhearts, won’t be therelove. to share your success withsome you? Do you your heart broken, break a few laugh, Do you also know that of the know Be watchful, observant when you to tellshare someyour of your close allies peoplethat? you hang out with be right now won't be there success with you?good Do news aboutthat? yourself. They maybe notobservant be there many from nowof when become you know Be watchful, when years you tell some youryou close alliesa powerful, successful media They queen. Notnot everybody cheer you from on, but it’swhen okay.you You good news about yourself. may be therewill many years now have youaand your family, so love yourself. You’re You’re amaz-ing! God loves become powerful, successful media queen. Not bubbly! everybody will cheer you on, but it’s you! read Jeremiah 29:11. okay.Continue You havetoyou and your family, so love yourself. You’re bubbly! You’re amaz-

ing! God loves you! Continue to read Jeremiah 29:11.

, u o y e v I lo

a z n a w M e l a t Mu 13

To Our Identities I recently came across this quote: ‘you cannot speak butterfly language with caterpillar people’. It got me thinking about how we are always so eager to fit in and mould ourselves into what others think is cool or acceptable. The truth is, like us, everyone else is just trying to fit in, but we are all at different stages of our journey.

Breaking down the quote; a butterfly can understand what a caterpillar is

going through, having experienced the process of metamorphosis, but a caterpillar would never understand the butterfly because it hasn’t yet experienced life from the butterfly’s vantage point. Think of yourself as a caterpillar going through an evolutionary process. At the larva stage you have no idea that you’re going to progress from crawling on leaves and branches, to developing strong beautiful wings that allow you to fly freely in the skies. Instead of trusting that you have natural, unique gifts that will help you along your journey; you go around comparing yourself to others. This comparison is restrictive. You limit your capabilities and aspirations to whomever you’re comparing yourself to. While enveloping yourself in the cocoon stage, you’re sitting contentedly in your comfort zone. If you stay here, there will be no growth or movement. But when you stretch yourself, you realise that you are constantly on a journey of self-discovery. When you stand in this place knowing that you have unique gifts and talents that only you can share with the world by being yourself, you’re in a place of power and possibility.

Contact details: info@innersafariquest.com www.innersafariquest.com Instagram: innersafariquest_ISQ FaceBook: InnnerSafriQuestISQ Twitter: @innersafari_ISQ

It’s okay that not everyone understands your journey. It’s even okay that other people think you are different. What is important is that you stay true to yourself and trust that you are uniquely you for a reason. Right now, is your time to explore and nurture the gifts within you.

What drives you? What do you enjoy doing? Pay

attention to the things that you do when you lose track of time. This is when you’re being your true authentic self and honouring your uniqueness. Knowing your identity offers you a sense of security, and it protects you from emotional and mental harm. When you’re in this place, just like the butterfly, you will emerge from your cocoon and soar.

Career Corner

The

Chinyanta MY thing Dance, Family and Food

Hey SKY Girlies! My name is Chinyanta. I’m a chemical engineer, model and digital creator. II went to the University of Edinburgh in Scotland (UK) where II studied Chemical Engineering. It was more of a logical choice choice because I was always so good at math and coming from suggested I do Engineering from an anAfrican Africanhome, home,my myfamily family suggested I do Engineerand it seemed like a good choice. Looking back now, even ing and it seemed like a good choice. Looking back now, though I was Igood math, I was Iexceptional at art and it even though was at good at math, was exceptional at Art came naturally to me. I actually won awards in high school and it came naturally to me. I actually won awards in high for my art. modeled for the artfor department and that’s how school for Imy Art. I modeled the art department and Ithat’ gotsinterested in modeling. how I got interested in modeling. climate change worker at II work aa 99 to to55full-time full-timejob jobasasa a climate change worker thethe moment but Ibut do digital creation which involves coming at moment I do digital creation which involves up with up creative ideas/content, collaborating where necescoming with creative ideas/content, collaborating where sary, shooting the concepts and posting on social necessary, shooting the concepts and posting on media social platforms. I’m currently managing myself, so I alsoso manage media platforms. I’m currently managing myself, I also the admin side of what dowhat suchIas and negotiatmanage the admin sideI of doinvoicing such as invoicing and ing with brands. negotiating with brands. I’ve come to learn that education, though a good thing and a foundation, is not everything. Experience, both good and bad, is way more valuable and builds up your character. You learn more from experience. Three words I’d use to describe myself: Silly, creative and introverted. What I love most about what I do: I love meeting and connecting with people. I love when I make something I feel proud of that’s authentic to me and it connects with people or people are connected because of it.

Chinyanta is Chinyanta is aa Zambian-born Zambian-borndancer, dancer,content content creacreator and social media personality. is most tor and social media personality. She She is most recogrecognised for her fun and upbeat content that on nised for her fun and upbeat content that centres centres on the AfricanShe diaspora. She uses dance asto the African diaspora. uses dance as a medium a medium to educate and entertain audiences online educate and entertain audiences online through through video and in person through dance classes video and in person through dance classes and workand workshops. and in Scotland in shops. She lives She and lives works in works Scotland in the United the United Kingdom. Chinyanta is also a model who Kingdom. Chinyanta is also a model who won the won the prestigious title Africa of MissGreat Africa GreatinBritain prestigious title of Miss Britain 2020. in 2020. After winning she raised over £1000 the After winning she raised over £1000 for the for charity charity Noah Mapalo which supports young girls in Noah Mapalo which supports young girls in Zambia. Zambia. She holds a bachelor’ s degree in Chemical She holds a bachelor's degree in Chemical EngineerEngineering with Management University of ing with management fromfrom thetheUniversity of Edinburgh and worked as an engineer before Edinburgh and worked as an engineer before transitransitioning into content creation. tioning into content creation.

MY thing

Overcrowded events, Cold weather and Smoking

To become a successful content creator, I watched lots of YouTube videos and listened to a lot of podcasts on digital creation because there wasn’t anyone in my life who’s close to me who does it so I didn’t have anyone to give me advice. Listening to other content creators is very important because the industry is very complicated and different for every niche, whether you do dance, or fashion or skits and comedy. My biggest inspirations are Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Issa Rae, Lupita Nyong’o and Nomzamo Mbatha. I think one of the challenges in my field is managing myself, because it's not like an employed job where you have to do something at a certain date. It’s pretty much free reign so you have to have discipline, and know who you are as a content creator. It’s also a challenge to remain authentic and true to yourself especially when an opportunity comes that doesn’t align with who you are and it’s a lot of money. There are also a lot of people on the internet who can be very mean but I’ve come to accept that what I do isn’t for everyone and it really doesn’t bother me any more. When it comes to modeling, I guess the biggest challenge has been Covid because there haven’t been many opportunities or events. I won a pageant in 2020 and was crowned Miss Africa Great Britain but it was mostly a quiet reign because of all the restrictions. To SKY Girls who want to get into a career that is a little different, I’d say do research about what you want to do and work hard at it. If someone else can do it, so can you. Study the “best” people in that space and draw inspiration from them. People might not support you but that’s okay. Keep doing what you’re doing. In my view, success is more about perseverance. 15

CHARACTER

QUIZ Watching Tikula, you might think you know exactly who you are through the characters. But if you’re not so sure, take this quiz and see if you’re a Taizya, Mimi or Nandi!

1.What is your favourite musical activity? a. Composing Music b. Singing c. Dancing

2.You get a chance to go to your dream concert. Who’s performing? a. Mag 44 b. Esther Chungu c. Natasha Chansa

3.Which character would you ask to the school dance?

a. Ghost b. No one – I’m riding solo c. Fox

4.Your friend gets the lead role in the

school musical over you. How do you respond?

a. You say congratulations, but feel jealous inside b. You’re not bothered, you have more important things to worry about c. That could never happen, you’re the star of the show!

5.How do you spend your time at home? a. Vlogging/writing in your diary b. Doing household chores c. Making TikToks and posting on Instagram

6.Pick a song to perform at

your school talent show?

a. Moves Like Jagger – Maroon 5 b. Heartbreak Anniversary – Giveon c. Jealous – Fireboy

7.What best describes you? a. Really smart, sporty and likes to please others b. Talented and always stay true to myself no matter what anyone else thinks or says c. Cool, outspoken, and overly confident

8.What’s your big dream? a. To be a famous football player b. To be a university science professor c. To be a famous singer

9.What would you never do? a. Lie, smoke, fail in school b. Bully someone, smoke, gossip c. Gossip, compete with others, smoke

10.If you had a tagline to put on your t-shirt, what would it be?

a. I know the sky has no limit b. Make your own way don’t follow the crowd c. Fix your crown and rise

QUIZ ANSWERS MOSTLY A YOU’RE NANDILE You are smart, caring, and everyone’s friend. You see the best in everyone you encounter, and sometimes your need to fit in means you get taken advantage of occasionally. You can be influenced by both positive and negative behaviours, so it's important for you to decide what your values are and not be swayed to stray away from them. Know what you absolutely would not stand for and don't waver on it. You will fall into instances of peer pressure, but you can learn from these and move on with a more empowered mindset.

MOSTLY B YOU’RE TAIZYA You stay true to yourself no matter what. You don’t always get the recognition you deserve, but you always follow your path no matter the cost. You end up getting what you deserve because of your work ethic and determination. You’re a good friend and you are always there for others, often acting as their moral compass. However, sometimes you may not see other people’s point of view and don’t give people the benefit of the doubt. Try and be more open to hearing both sides of the story, and then make an informed opinion based on all the facts.

MOSTLY C YOU’RE MIMI You are seemingly overconfident and outspoken. You are always the star in the room, and can sometimes come off as intimidating, but you know how to win people over. You seem wiser than your age and appear effortlessly ‘cool’ to your peers. However, you have a lot going on and use this to hide your sensitive vulnerable side. You’re afraid that if you show people the real you, they may not like what they see. Remember that the most important opinion about you is your own. What you think about yourself is the only thing that matters. If you’re struggling with low self-esteem (how you feel about yourself), talk to someone you can trust and share your concerns with them. You’ll be surprised how having a listening ear can help lighten your worries.

How to Make

a Vision Board A vision board is a great way to record your goals, dreams and certain milestones you would like to make. The vision board then keeps you focused on your goals. Your vision board should be in a visible location so that you’re able to see it as often as possible.

Let’s get into how to make a vision board.

What you’ll need Poster boards

(You can check Home Essentials or Golden Oaklet. Alternatively you could use cardboard or a box from your favourite cereal)

Magazines and newspapers Additional images or words that can be printed from the internet or handwritten Scissors Paper and pen Glue stick (a glue stick is better than liquid glue because liquid glue will wet the paper and it won’t be even) Art supplies such as markers, glitter glue or sequins (these are optional, you can still make a vision board without them)

Method 1.Think about your life in the past year and reflect on what is working and what isn’t. Focus on what you have achieved and learned and what you are grateful for. This will help you make new goals and know what you would like to change.

2.Take your pen and piece of paper and write down your goals or dreams. These could be anything you would like to do, like connecting with your family better, learning how to meditate, or learning a new skill. You can also choose words that guide your year like clarity, joy and peace.

4.Create 4. Createthe thestructure structureof ofthe the vision vision board. board. This This can

be done by dividing your vision board into sections be done by dividing your vision board into sections like dreams, dreams, goals, goals, what whatI Iwant wishtototry. learn. Youwrite can like You can write the name of category each category that you where know the name of each so thatsoyou know where you will place your images later. Alternatively, you will place your images later. Alternatively, you you jumble can jumble words and images it is a can your your words and images like aascollage. collage. You could also divide them according You could also divide them according to coloursto if colours you wish to give them a morefeel. uniform feel. you wishifto give them a more uniform A great tip is adding a list of what you are grateful for A great tip is adding a list of what you are grateful for so that you can write down the things you are grateso that you can write down the things you are grateful for or happy about. A vision board mainly focuses ful for or happy about. A vision board mainly focuses on what what you you want on want to to achieve achieve in in the the future, future, so so it’ it’ss easy easy to overlook what is going on now, but it’ s so importo overlook what is going on now, but it’s so importtantto to live live in in the the present present and and focus focus on on the ant the good good of of day-to-day living. day-to-day living.

3.Find the words and images that you will use for your vision board by sorting through your magazines and newspapers and additionally you can write, draw or print them out from the internet. Cut them out evenly and put them aside.

5.Now that you know where you’ll place your words and images, sort them out into categories, colours or however you choose to place them. Apply glue on the edges of the images and words and press them firmly on your vision board. Some of the images and words will go on the vision board and you could save some to use at a later date.

6.Display your vision board. You could display it in your bedroom, living room or kitchen - it is up to you to decide on where you would like to display it. Take a picture of your vision board so you could use the digital version as wallpaper on your phone or laptop. It’s important to see it often to remind yourself of your goals.

A vision board is a great tool that can be used to achieve goals and dreams, but don’t sit and wait for all you achieve to work magically. You have to work towards it and make your dream a reality. If you are unable to achieve all of the things on your vision board you can always push it forward or alter them, what matters most is that you do not give up. Share your own vision boards on our socials, or whatsapp or email them to us and we might feature it in the magazine or on our socials too! Happy vision board making!

e v i l o T y r e v o c is D f l Se

By now you would have watched the whole first season of Tikula, and if you haven’t (girl where you been?) you can catch all eight episodes on our SKY Girls Zed YouTube, binge all you want! But anyway, back to my point, by the end of the season, we saw Nandi try to figure out how to fit in, by mimicking other people’s identity, or ways of being. This lack of sense of self got Nandi caught up in a lot, changing herself for others, almost losing herself. This had me thinking: what is identity, and why is it important? At the core of it, identity is who you are, it's what makes you… well, you! It’s your sense of self that defines you, from your personality traits, your abilities, your things and not your things, your belief systems, the things that motivate you, your physical characteristics, everything that contributes to your self-image. But the process of figuring out who that is can be a confusing one, to say the least. However, taking time out to discover who you are can be an exciting and important journey; one that allows each of us to understand our goals, values, and interests on a deeper level and gives us the opportunity to each leave our unique mark on this world. It’s important to have a strong sense of self, or identity, because it allows us to live a life with purpose. It

helps us make choices in life, from something as small as your favourite food, to larger personal values like choosing not to smoke, allowing us to live authentically and not just flexing, coming from a sense of knowing who we are. You may not always know who you are but when you’re introduced to what you’re supposed to do, to who you’re supposed to be, it’s like love at first sight because nothing that is meant for you will make you feel like you are betraying yourself, it should feel like home. All of this to say, some people may find their identity in bringing joy to others, others may find it through their hobbies and careers, or maybe through their friends and families. But for most of us, it's a combination of all these things and it’s okay to not know exactly who you are yet. We sat down with some of our faves to give us the inside scoop on how self-discovery has played an important role in building their careers. We also asked them why they choose to be smoke-free, as over 30,000 SKY Girls who have taken the SKY pledge have shown us that smoking is the most common Not My Thing among teenage girls. I hope that in learning more about the journeys these incredible celebrities took to get to the top you feel inspired to be the best possible version of yourself.

Mwaka Halwindi “II am am aa model, model, aa singer, singer, aadancer, dancer,an anactress, actress,and andsocial socialmedia media personality. I’m aa strong, strong,bold, bold,confident confident personality. But But most importantly I’m womanand andleader. leader. Discovering identity a process. It woman Discovering mymy identity waswas a process. It wasn't wasn't like a decision that made was made at once. nothing made like a decision that was at once. AndAnd nothing made me me decide. It was rather it was a whole build-up, andstill it's a decide. It was rather felt. felt. So, itSo, was a whole build-up, and it's still a build-up. I'm still growing, I'm still learning, and I'm still build-up. I'm still growing, I'm still learning, and I'm still discovering discovering myself. So, there's no proper time I say I discovered myself. So, there's no proper time I say I discovered myself or knew myself or knew that this is me but through trial and error, through that this is me but through trial and error, through wanting to learn, wanting to learn, through wanting to explore, I found who I was. through to explore, I found who I was.- Part of my identity Part of wanting my identity is being a non-smoker I’m smoke free tois being a non-smoker I’m smoke free to protect my skin. Smoking protect my skin. Smoking damages your skin, and dry skin is not damages my thing.”your skin, and dry skin is not my thing.”

Princess

Natasha Chansa “I have no clear definition of who I am. I know what I do, which is sing and rap and make music but that’s not entirely who I am. I allow myself to reinvent myself and to explore different sides of me that are yet to be seen. I’m smoke free because I don’t do anything addictive, or that can ruin my career - smoking can ruin my voice and kill me, and I want to be around for a long time to collect my coins!”

BombShell Grenade

“I identify as a rapper, a down to earth person, the first-born child in a family of six, “I identify as a rapper, a down to earth person, the first-born child in a family of six,as as well as a proud Christian woman. I think God decided my identity while I was in well as a proud Christian woman. I think God decided my identity while I was in my my mother’s womb. I’ve always loved music. I can’t even say it’s because I mother’ s it womb. loved I can’t sayofit’two, s because I watched watched on TV.I’ve Foralways as far as I canmusic. remember, ateven the age I just loved listen-it on For as far as I can remember, at the age ofpoetry. two, I just to music. ingTV. to music. I loved to hear rap music. I loved So, loved I thinklistening my identity and Ideciding loved towho hearI am rap started music. whilst I lovedI poetry. So,and I think identity andtodeciding who was a kid this my is me sticking my identity. IStaying am started whilst I was andof this is me sticking my identity. believing Staying true true to oneself is a kid matter personal integrity.toSelf-respect, in yourself. able just go integrity. with the flock. Just because theinflock is going to oneselfNot is abeing matter of to personal Self-respect, believing yourself. Not right, ifable I believe tothe go flock. left letJust me go left. I am willing to compromise my being to justI’ve gogot with because thenot flock is going right, if I believe values just because someone else might be smoking. “Smoking doesn’t go with I’ve got to go left let me go left. I am not willing to compromise my values just me. I hate the way else it leaves smell aroundSmoking your skin and your hands. because someone mighta be smoking. doesn’t go with me.I hate I hatethe the smell of smoke.” way it leaves a smell around your skin and your hands. I hate the smell of smoke.”

Bobby East

“My Well, when I “My identity: identity: I’m I’mfearless, fearless,authentic, authentic,and andfly!fly! Well, when was younger, I had a hard time because I was trying to fit I was younger, I had a hard time because I was trying to in. I was a little bit peculiar. was quiet in class. And I fit in. I was a little bit peculiar, was quiet in class. And I worked to fit in. So, I started acting how everybody was workedand to fit in.everybody So, I started acting howout everybody was acting how is. But I found I had more acting and how everybody is. But I found out I had more success, and I was happier when I was just myself.” success, and I was happier when I was just myself.”

Raewyn Menahill Goveya

“I’m a media personality and host, which is something I never really saw myself doing. When I started working at SKY, I realised that working in this industry is what I want to do, and it has inspired me to be who I am today.”

Chisanga Taylor Marie Ndhlovu

(plays Taizya in Tikula) “I identify as an actress, I am a commercial model, I’m a music artist, I’m a dress designer, I’m a fitness enthusiast. I’m a multi-tasker. So, my label is multi-tasker because I’m a person who likes to do a lot of things. I love to learn new skills. I love to experiment with different arts. I’m #smokefree because I never fancied a life of smoking and don't care for what it does to the body”

(plays Mimi in Tikula) “I would say I'm a whole mixture of things. To neatly say it, I'm a creative but under the umbrella, I'd say I'm an actor, a model, a self-portrait photographer, and a visual artist. I’m all those things. I don’t smoke because it damages your hair. Naturally I have curly hair and it’s already dry so I just think that smoking will add to that dryness. And I feel like being true to myself and being original and my image is my hair, and I don’t want to do something that would ruin that.”

Leona Victoria (plays Nandi in Tikula) “I identify as an actress, environmental activist, and visual artist. I stay true to myself in lots of ways. First of all, I'm never going to let anyone tell me what I like. I don't listen to negative people. I once heard someone say negative people have a problem with every solution. So, I don't listen to negative people. What I focus on I'm going to keep going with. I'm #smokefree because, honestly, I don't want to be thirty and then look like I’m seventy cause smoking can give you wrinkles, smoking can make you look old and crusty.”

Twalumba Nchimunya Jere “I identify as a creative person. Dancing is a creative way I express myself as well as singing or dressing up. To me, dancing means showing people or telling a story, or speaking a language. I decided in 2020 that I loved dancing and I wanted to take it further. I stay true to myself by showing what I’m grateful for. It doesn’t matter how far I go or not, I will always show my gratitude. I'm #smokefree because I decided that is what I want to do, and it helps me because it will not interfere with my dancing career.”

Abigail

Nkhoma

DJ Rhys “I stay true to myself by doing what I feel is right for myself. I hope that even if you are uncertain of your identity you continue to stay true to yourself by doing what feels right to you.”

“I’m a TV host, a dancer, I’m a very fun and loving person. The people that I surround myself with motivate me a lot and they give me ideas on how to figure out who I am. I'm #smokefree because I love my skin, and I love my hair. I love being smoke free. It's not my thing and coming from the health side of you, it really affects your skin care and other stuff, like the lungs. So I would say I'm smoke-free because I love being healthy, I love my skin, and I love myself just like this.”

Susy Thomas

“I’m an eco-feminist. I’m confident, down to earth and a bookworm. Being around “I’m an eco-feminist. I’m confident, down to earth and a bookworm. Being around nature natureisispart partof ofmy myidentity identitybecause becauseI Ilove loveit.it. I Istarted off being a feminist at school because I saw how girls were treated differently started off being a feminist at school because I saw how girls were treated differfrom was this the boys were were playing soccer and and they entlyboys. from There boys. There wasone thistime one where time where the boys playing soccer refused the girls play they said But I proved them they refused theto girls tobecause play because theygirls said can’t girls play can'tsoccer. play soccer. But I proved them wrong by playing with theand boysever andsince ever since I've abeen a feminist also wrong by playing with the boys I’ve been feminist and I and alsoI try to try to connect that. So inI’m short an eco-feminist.” connect nature nature to that.toSo in short an I'm eco-feminist. Aneco-feminist eco-feminist is is aa person person who who tries tries to to connect connect feminism An feminism and and environmentalism. environmentalism. That means girls and nature coming together. Like, I say peanut That means girls and nature coming together. Like, I say peanut butter butter and and jelly jelly go go together just the same way these two go together. together just the same way these two go together. I am smoke-free because being a public figure you need to be beautiful. You gotta I am smoke-free because being a public figure you need to be beautiful. You gotta look good on that screen and my skin isn't just like this naturally, so no ways I’d mess look good on that screen and my skin isn’t just like this naturally, so no ways I’d mess it up by smoking.” it up by smoking.”

By Melba Shakabozha

is: A quote I live by AND HT IG RA ST “STAND UP E. YOU AR THAT REALIZE WHO ER YOUR YOU TOWER OV YOU ARE S. CE CIRCUMSTAN D” GO OF D IL A CH Maya Angelou

MY thing Modeling, Reading, Cooking

MY thing

Gossip, Smoking, Chronic swearing

I mean it’s okay to fail, to not have everything figured out and giving yourself a chance to heal, learn your mistakes, and from your mistakes, and try again. In the case of being a model, I walk into a room keeping in mind the people there left their comfortable and busy lives and dedicated their time to watch me so I must show up and show off not disappointing those who believe in me. Taking care of my appearance has definitely added to my confidence. You know the saying when you look good you feel good! Well it’s true sis looking good adds that extra confidence. This doesn’t always mean a full glam look but from taking care of your skin, hair and body. When you feel good, you look good because the glow starts from within.

odel is a Fashion m ha oz ab k ha S a Melb ut her een. Melba deb and beauty qu s age 19 with Mis at er re ca g in model after ined attention ga he S . 4 01 2 Zambia ch as shion shows su fa l ca lo w fe a doing ly k and Lusaka Ju ee W on hi as F Zambia nally. ized internatio gn co re g n ei b before orld al show was W n io at rn te In t Her firs s in the UAE. Beauty Congres

Learn about something you love. There is nothing more empowering than educating yourself. For example if you are interested in modeling spend time to understand the basics of what the career entails, like how to compose photo portfolios, how to pose or runway walk, how to work with photographers, and personal image development. I look at myself in the mirror every day before leaving my house and whisper these words to myself: “MELBA, YOU ARE

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HUMAN I'VE EVER SEEN. YOU ARE CAPABLE, YOU ARE CONFIDENT”

Doing this makes my mood so solid that another person’s negative words don’t get to me. I speak highly and positively of myself.

True Life Feature Hey SKY Girls! Every issue we like to share your stories of triumph or challenges that you go through in everyday life. If you’d like to share your own true life story with us, where you were the hero of your story, please share with us on Facebook, by email frontdesk@skygirlszed.com or drop it off at our collection store at Arcades shopping mall.

HOW I FOUND

MY IDENTITY I've loved playing soccer for as long as I can remember. Not to blow my horn, but I was the top scorer on the junior team. This year I was supposed to try out for the senior team. It was finally my chance to prove myself. I wanted nothing but to earn a spot on the school's senior girls soccer team. I never missed a training session and would even do drills in the backyard at home. The day finally came, and I was ready to play as I'd never played before. But during one of the sessions, I fell and broke my leg. I wouldn't be able to play for a long time. Depending on how I heal, maybe even never. I skipped school for a few weeks. When I finally went back, the devastation hit. It was clear that I had lost the one thing that was consistent in my life. Every day during break and lunch I would be kicking a ball around. Everyone knew that I would be at the field every chance I got. I couldn't recognize who I was without soccer. During this time, I found comfort in the kitchen. Experimenting with new recipes helped me take my mind off the loss of a huge part of my identity. But now I'm trying new things and exploring other hobbies. During this period, I learned that we're not defined by our achievements, even though it feels great to get acknowledged for our hard work. Every setback is only a set-up for something greater. So always remember to stay true to yourself and don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone.I still don't know if I'll ever be able to play soccer again, but I will always be a soccer lover. That's who I identify as, because it's a major part of my identity and I won't be giving it up anytime soon. While recovering , I'll be making healthy snacks and refreshments for my teammates. In order to support them and stay true to my passion and identity.

PREMIERE

By Thoko Kalinda

Lights! Camera! Action! The Tikula premiere was a star-studded event Lights! Camera! Action! The Tikula premier was a star-studded event with and everyone everyone who who plays plays aarole roleinin withthe thefilm film industry's industry's who’ who’ss who who and making SKY what it is. making SKY what it is. The princess diaries and boyboy didn’t everyone show out! Thedress dresscode codewas was princess diaries and didn’t everyone show Itout! wasItsuch a perfect theme, I for one felt like I was part of Skywood, was such a perfect theme, I for one felt like I was part of especially the cast rolled in their Skywood uniforms! Skywood,when especially when thethrough cast rolled through in their Skywood uniforms! After walking the red carpet and taking pictures at the selfie booth, we After walkinga the red carpet and taking pictures at theSome selfie parts booth,made we got to watch specially edited film version of Tikula. got to watch a specially edited film version of Tikula. Some parts me laugh hard and others made me sad, it was such a rollercoaster of made me laugh hard and others made me sad, it was such a rolleremotions butemotions maaaahnbut Tikula really did takereally me back high but coaster of maaaahn Tikula did to take meschool, back to the way cooler version. It left me wanting more! Thankfully, Tikula has high school, but the way cooler version. It left me wanting more! been airing weekly so many weren't in the Thankfully, Tikula episodes, has beenwith airing weeklystorylines episodes,that with so many film unfolding on TV or on the SKY Girls Zed youtube channel. I'm not storylines that weren't in the film unfolding on TV or on the SKY Girls going to lie: I'mchannel. hooked!I'm Andnot it appears youhooked! are as well. Zed youtube going tothat lie: I'm And it appears that you are as well. You've expressed your opinions about the show, and here's what you had toYou've say! expressed your opinions about the show, and here's what you had to say!

Share your thoughts on Tikula on our socials too!

Hey Make-up is my thing, I love itit so so much! much! ItIt makes makes me me feel feel confident confident and and fierce. fierce. HeySKY! SKY! Make-up Without to Without aa complete complete facebeat, I’ve reached a point where I'm less confident. I want to feel confident confident wearing wearing and and not not wearing wearing makeup. makeup. Please Please help help :(:( feel Despite what we see on social media, true confidence comes from our own self-esteem. In other words, it comes from within us, not from outward appearances. However, with Instagram, Tik Tok and the race to have the most likes or the most heart emojis, it’s easy to see why people would think that confidence comes from the way we look, what clothes we wear and how we do our hair. The truth is, whatever feeling we get from that face beat or new outfit, is only temporary. The great thing about self-esteem is that it’s a choice, it comes from your thoughts. You can choose to have either high self-esteem (feel good about yourself) or low self-esteem (feeling down about yourself). Write a list about all the things you love about yourself. Practice speaking positively about yourself. Every time you look at yourself in the mirror (without make-up) say nice things to yourself, the more you practice the more it’ll become a habit, then the habit will turn into a belief. Know that true beauty lies in being true to yourself and showing up as your most authentic self. There’s nothing wrong with make-up, just know it doesn’t define your identity.

Hi SKY! I’m sure you’ve heard the saying ‘birds of a feather flock together.’ I don’t think this is entirely true, I have friends who are very opposites to me but I’m still able to maintain a relationship with them. If I listened to people, I wouldn’t have these amazing friends in my life. So, I want to know what parts of our identity do we actually choose for ourselves? Having friends who are different from you is indeed not a bad thing as long as you don’t lose yourself. Growing up, we learn that we can lose ourselves in trying to fit in or be like other people. We grow up trying to mirror our surroundings. However, when we are not being ourselves, we can tell because it takes effort to try and be something we are not. So, while we are influenced by our surroundings, we always have a choice on how to respond to that influence. Our identity is something that is inherently within us. What we choose to do is either amplify it or dim it by trying to fit in, but it never goes away. Think of it as the sun shining, and then when a cloud comes along, it temporarily covers the sunlight. But a cloud cannot put out the sun, in the same way our external surroundings cannot keep our true identity hidden forever.

Hey SKY Sis! My mom forbids me from wearing certain clothes, going certain places, doing certain things, etc. all because of what people will say. Why does it feel like parents are so obsessed with what everyone else thinks instead of focusing on our personality? When parents put restrictions on you, it normally comes from a place of them wanting to protect you. For example, when it comes to clothing our society can be quite judgmental, especially over what women and girls wear. The period in which your parents grew up is very different to the time that you’re growing up. Parents tend to parent the way they were parented and sometimes can’t see things from any other perspective. The fact is though, that times must and always will change. What was true for your parents, may not be true for you. You can speak to your mum from an informed perspective. She knows what values she has instilled in you. If for example she forbids you from going to the cinema or hanging out with your friends, you may suggest to her that this is a chance for her to put her trust in you. Agree on how long you can be out for and when you need to be back home. If possible, start by having an older sibling or cousin acting as a chaperone. If you break her trust by not sticking to what terms you have agreed on, you must willingly deal with the consequences. Start small and let the trust build up. It won’t happen overnight, but eventually you’ll come to an understanding of what works for both of you.

Hello SKY! I recently got a tattoo and my friends think it was a terrible idea. They keep talking about how people will view me in a negative light, especially concerning my career. I don’t think my character is defined by a little ink ;) Am I wrong? This question is difficult to answer without knowing the reason behind why you got the tattoo in the first place. Was it because it's something you’ve always wanted? Did you see it on someone else and think that you would look cool if you had it? Having a tattoo or piercing is a personal choice, though in some cultures there’s some symbolism around it. Tattoos have been part of many ancient civilizations for example in Egypt and India they were used as part of healing or religious practice. Some people get tattoos as a fashion statement, while others get it as a form of self-expression or have an emotional component to it. There are benefits and there are drawbacks to getting tattoos. Some organisations may have strict dress codes which don’t allow them, in which case the placement of your tattoo is key. Can it be something that can be covered up? There are also legal issues around it. Most countries will not allow you to get a tattoo until you’re 18. Also, tattoos are permanent. Before you make the decision of getting inked, you need to decide whether this is something you can live with forever. You can look at the pros and cons. Like I said earlier it's difficult to give advice on this without knowing the full picture. You have the tattoo now, and maybe at a later date you will want to have it removed, this is possible too. Sometimes, you just have to live with the decisions you make and hope you won’t regret it.

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