Uncut issue93 (Q1 2015)

loveLife

You’ve had better highs

loveLife

For counselling on drug-related problems, call loveLife’s Contact Centre on 0800 121 900 or send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023 > loveLifeMX on Mxit

life is always on play never on pause

Aweh,

My goodness! Where did 2014 go? It’s already a new year, can you believe how fast time flies? No? Well, neither can I. In fact, I remember writing an Ed’s Note just like this a year ago – although, it feels like just yesterday. I’m sure a lot of you feel the same way and are at very nerve-wracking (but EXCITING) points in your lives.

Some of you are starting high school this year. I can hardly remember my first year of high school, but what I do remember is being very confused. That’s why we decided to do a special feature on Page 6 about coping with high school. Hope that you guys find it useful.

We also decided to do something special for all of 2014’s matriculants. Leaving school is also a big shock to the system, so we’ve laid out some options for you on Page 32. But please, do yourself a favour and check out our bogus college exposé on Page 34. The world is full of people ready to take advantage of the youth, but they don’t know who they’re dealing with.

It saddens me to highlight the features on Pages 12 and 36 which examine some of the social ills that plague our communities.

I wanted to start the year on a good note, but I cannot ignore the effect that violence, alcohol and drugs are having on the communities I grew up in. I hope that 2015 is the year that we all wake up to the fact that things have gone too far. That is the only way we’re going to change things. I am optimistic because change is constant: Life is always on play never pause.

@_MrLo

P

y a l sh p

Whenever you see this TV, scan it with your cellphone and the video will automatically play!

All you have to do is check if your phone is compatible on www.aurasma.com and download the application.

Don’t worry if you can’t use the app, all UNCUT videos are available on www.youtube.com/lovelifemedia. Go ahead, push play.

About loveLife

loveLife is a cutting-edge, highly visible South African organisation with a proven evidence-based record in reducing HIV risk among youth. loveLife promotes a vibrant, youth leadership culture through on-theground healthy sexuality and positive lifestyle programmes aimed at building complete young leaders for an HIV-free future. loveLife addresses the individual, societal and structural drivers of high-risk behaviour through combining multimedia campaigns, community-level outreach, clinical and psychosocial services.

Our leadership programmes are implemented by a national youth volunteer corps known as groundBREAKERs (peer motivators and community mobilisers between the age of 18 and 25 years old) and mpintshis (volunteers). Working together, groundBREAKERs and mpintshis implement loveLife’s empowering positive lifestyle and healthy sexuality programmes in 8 000 schools and 900 bases in loveLife Y-Centres (youth centres), adolescent and youth-friendly clinics as well as social franchises (community-based organisations). The groundBREAKERs guide and mentor mpintshis in the implementation of loveLife programmes. loveLife positions youth leadership as the dynamo for future growth and sustainability. Youthfulness, action, passion and innovation are our core values – anchoring all that we do.

Major funding for loveLife is from the National Department of Health, the National Department of Social Development and Sport and Recreation South Africa. Additional funding is provided by Mpumalanga Department of Social Development, North West Department of Social Development, Anglo American, Berco Express, Royal Bafokeng Nation, Volkswagen, KfW, National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, 2010 FIFA World Cup Legacy Trust, The German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the National Youth Development Agency and Football for Hope.

Executive Manager: Brand and Media Nivasha Hardev Editor Angelo C Louw Content manager Angelo C Louw Tanya Goodman Subeditor Tanya Goodman Staff writers Angelo C Louw & Thabang Ndlovu Contributing writers Antionette Pombo, Martin Headger, Matla Seetelo, Nikayla Naidu, Charl Du Plessis, Precious Magogodi, Thandiwe McCloy, Tshepo Kgonothi & Tunicia Phillips Contributing photographers Cassper Nyovest, Getty Images, Jordan Mahole, Phumalela, Ukhozi FM, Nikayla Naidu, Thabang Ndlovu, Tshepo Kgonothi & Tunicia Phillips Contributing videographers Butlako Mokgope, Soweto TV, Xolisani Tyiwashe Cover Angelo C Louw (art director), Kwambele Brand Communications (concept illustration), Merlene Williams (make-up), Zandile Tisani (stylist), Nick Boulton (photographer) & Mariska Kisten (model) Layout & design White Space Invader Contract Publishers Chapel Lane Media charl@chapellane.co.za Printing Paarl Media

loveLife

Reader Writes REGULAR

Life is unfair and I don’t know if it is because we are from poor families, as we do not have the fortune that other people have. Like now, I’m not working and sometimes it makes me jealous of other people. If you are from a poor family and you don’t work, it builds anger in your life, because nowadays, life is money. So what should I do? Should I turn to crime because it seems as if we are less fortunate in life? It is unfair. – Itumeleng

LIFE IS UNFAIR

Hi Tumi. I was once in your shoes. I sat at home for months without a full-time job – with a nagging mother and bills to pay. I applied anywhere and everywhere, and only found a job eight months later (on Facebook!). It is easy to get into crime because it seems like a quick fix to the situation, but the consequences of crime are worse than you can imagine. If you get caught, that criminal record will probably stay with you forever and you will be blacklisted from most companies – meaning that you will probably never be able to find a good job. Just don’t give up, brah. You will find something. Check out Page 32, maybe it will help you in your job search and if you need to speak to anyone about your feelings, you know you can always send us a PLZ CAL ME on 083 323 1023, right? Good luck, my buddy. – @_MrLo

GLOBAL ID

I am a 24-year-old lad in a small town called Zeerust in the North West Province. I’ve been with loveLife for almost three years now and one of the opportunities I would really like to get is to travel the world. I would like to visit Hong Kong as I am interested in electronics, and I know they are the best. I know going there would open up opportunities for me. Hong Kong is a place for me.

– Stephans Obakeng Madube

Aweh, O-B! I swear you are living in my mind, buddy! I’ve also been thinking about visiting a country in the Far East. It all seems so futuristic there, right? A friend of mine just got back from Japan and is completely in awe of the place. I am glad you’re thinking about opportunities beyond SA – after all, the world is ours. You say you’ve been with loveLife for many years, have you joined the Almuni Online Database (see last page)?

That’s where you’ll find amazing travel opportunities like the SayXchange Programme. Get connected. – @_MrLo 4 UNCUT - Issue 93

UR

REGULAR

SAY

We’ve never been shy about voicing our opinions... none of the loveLife fam’ have! Check out what we’ve been speaking about on our social media pages

On #WorldAIDSDay

On #play4LIFE

Loyiso: Today is the first of my #WorldAidsDay events. First up is my hometown, Uitenhage. So honoured to be given the opportunity to serve my own beloved birthplace. Many thanks to UNAIDS and loveLife for the opportunity. Am most proud to be your Goodwill Ambassador.

Sabata Pitso Zacharia: Some people have no good choice [but to drink]. There are many things that could be fun like sports, movies, and chilling with positive people. Alcohol does not make you have fun, but gets you into many problems usually.

loveLife: For those of you who missed the Soweto TV Channel news tly feature on a former groundBREAKER’s amazing exhibition curren go... running at the Walter Sisulu Square of Dedication. Here you

On loveLife

Kim Nosipho Ngcobo: loveLife to me is synonymous with salvation – in the sense that it salvages the last glimmer of hope a person like me may have! It restores self-esteem, self-respect, self-belief and a culture of “vuka uzenzele” [wake up, do it for yourself].

My only wish is that groundBREAKERs could be deployed into each and every community – rural, urban and suburban – so that every young South African may be exposed to loveLife’s lifechanging programmes.

See Page 1 to learn how to view this video right here!

JOIN THE CONVERSATION www.facebook.com/loveLifeNGO

@loveLifeNGO

www.loveLife.org.za

5 UNCUT - Issue 93

6 UNCUT - Issue 93

Finding friends

Friends are an important part of life as we create the best memories together, stand up for each other and support each other through the worst times. Having the right friends will make your journey through high school easier and much more enjoyable. But, how do you make them…

Making new friends doesn’t have to be a mission; you can make new friends you really like by joining a sports team. Check out your school’s netball, soccer, cricket or basketball clubs. It’s also a good idea to find out about other extracurricular activities offered at your school like choir (if you like singing), poetry, dancing or debating. Besides, getting involved in these activities also has other benefits like travelling and great references for your CV. REMEMBER: It’ll be much easier for you to make friends with people who have similar interests to you. If you’re the type who likes getting your head into a really great book, then you may want to spend more time in your school library. This way, you can make friends with others who have a similar love for reading.

As you make new friends, keep in mind that good friends look out for you, care about you, include you in activities and treat you with respect.

Standing your ground

Let’s face it, we all want to fit in and/or be part of the “it” crowd. It sure beats being teased for sticking out, right? WRONG! Conformity is SO yesterday; individuality is all the rage right now. We’re lucky to grow up in an era that places more value on how different you are than how easily you can fit in.

So, don’t let the pressure get to you. Don’t let it compromise your beliefs and self-worth.

Stand your ground and just say NO – you don’t owe anyone an explanation. Date if you want to date, don’t if you don’t want to yet. Don’t be forced into smoking and drinking; why risk getting into trouble just to impress your new so-called friends? If they aren’t happy with who you are, just choose new ones.

8 UNCUT - Issue 93

loveLife

REGULAR

Take the quiz

Which

SPORT

suits you?

Making friends, dodging bullies and warming up to teachers can be nerve-wracking for anyone starting at a new school. Taking up a sport may be the solution to all of your new-school woes. Think about it: it’s the easiest way to meet people, relieve stress and stay strong. All you have to do is find out which sport suits you best.

Part 1 1. What would be the perfect holiday for you?

A. Heading off alone to chill out and sightsee.

B. Visiting a friend or a romantic holiday.

C. Getting away with your family to a place that has something for everyone.

D. Going on a cruise, taking a group tour, sharing a ski cabin.

2. When coping with bad news, are you most likely to: A. Keep it to yourself.

B. Share your feelings with a trusted confidant.

C. Tell your close friends and family for support .

D. Spread the news so others will understand what you’re going through or offer suggestions.

3. What would you like to be someday?

A. An entrepreneur who sinks or floats on your own merit.

B. A partner in a highly regarded company for support when you need it.

C. Part of a hand-picked team that produces top-notch work.

D. The head of a group in a large company with big budgets.

4. For New Year’s Day, if you could have any of these choices, you would love to: A. Pretend it’s not a holiday.

B. Go out on a date with one special person.

C. Celebrate with a small dinner party attended by your friends.

D. Go to the hottest party or a huge black-tie soiree.

Part 2 1. For dinner with friends, you: A. Cook one of your favourite recipes.

B. Pick up take-aways.

C. Try something new.

2. Which of these places would prefer to visit?

A. A spa or beach resort, uShaka Marine World, or Table Mountain.

B. Gambling at Sun City.

C. Bungee jumping in Limpopo, skiing in Lesotho.

3. When driving, you: A. Cruise along in the left lane going the speed limit.

B. Shift into the right lane and flash your brights at slowpokes.

C. Bail out on a traffic jam even if you don’t know another route.

4. What do you prefer reading?

A. The latest literary novel or a romance.

B. A mystery or science fiction.

C. Nonfiction such as travel, history, or a biography.

5. Which of these movies would you rather watch?

A. When Harry Met Sally, Shrek, Caddyshack… anything starring Tom Hanks or Robin Williams.

B. Speed, Matrix, Thelma and Louise, Miracle on Ice, a James Bond movie or anything starring Bruce Willis.

C. Mr. & Mrs. Smith, What the Bleep Do We Know?, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, a Star Wars or Indiana Jones title.

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Scoring the Quiz Part 1 Which letter answer did you choose two or more times?

A: Solo. You can do an individual activity like swimming or javelin.

B: Partner. Pick a sport that includes someone else, such as tennis or wrestling.

C: Group. Sign up for a small group activity, like golf and bowling.

D: Team. Join a team, as in soccer or cricket.

Making the choice of solo versus group sports also may be a question of logistics: Are you self-motivated or would it help you to get going if you knew that a whole group of people were counting on you?

Perhaps you would prefer a sport like cycling which can be done alone, with a friend, or in a group.

Part 3 1. Your dream job would be one in which you were: A. Left alone to get your work done so you can go home at the end of the day.

B. The veteran in the group who can show others the ropes.

C. Promoted into a position that stretches your abilities — you can do it.

2. At school, your main goal is to: A. Learn, get decent grades, and matriculate.

B. Get into the college of your choice or land a good job.

C. Secure a spot in the Top Ten learners.

3. If you had unlimited time and funds, you would: A. Buy an island getaway.

B. Visit one place on each continent.

C. Climb Kilimanjaro.

4. In games like 30 Seconds, Pictionary or Scrabble, you aim to: A. Have fun.

B. Make a few great moves.

C. Win.

Part 2 Which letter answer did you choose two or more times?

Your answers to the questions in this section could vary a lot. But if one letter came up two or three times, that’s a good start figuring out how you like to spend your time.

A: Revel in the experience of activities at which you excel.

B: Go for speed, get out in front and feel exhilaration.

C: Love adventure and learning new skills.

The categories aren’t mutually exclusive.

For example, you can love both speed and adventure.

But, perhaps one stands more than the other? That is the category you should consider first when picking your sports.

Part 3 Which letter answer did you choose two or more times?

It may seem that all sports are competitive, but some are much more so than others.

A: Not competitive. If scoring goals (or failing to score) is not your idea of fun, then a competitive sport is not for you.

B: Competing with myself. If you need to measure success, then you can choose between sports that encourage you to beat your own personal best like running.

C: Competing with others. These are sports in which you either win or lose based on the score, such as in squash.

Source: Adapted from The Chelsea Piers Fitness Solution by Elena Rover

11 UNCUT - Issue 93

feature

Loved to death

A wave of fatal v iolence among yo ung couples that through the infa swept mous Eldorado P ark township in th weeks leading to e the national cam paign against vio makes it clear th lence, at our war against gender-based vio (GBV) is far from lence over, Tunicia Phil lips writes 12 UNCUT - Issue 93

“T

he most common form of violence experienced by women globally is physical violence inflicted by an intimate partner, with women beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused.” – United Nations The numbers don’t lie. The complex plague that wrecks society with a team of other loyal social ills is a giant, and its mark is making history in the lives of ordinary people around the world.

Year after year, organisations, government and activists zoom in on publicity to activate awareness – and hopefully change something in the complex lives of people in marriages, love affairs and basic families.

Behind closed doors

Behind the closed doors of township houses where drugs, poverty and lack of development is still the order of the day (20 years into democracy), the war between lovers is marred with complete dysfunction and frustration.

South of Johannesburg lies the notorious media-hyped township in Soweto, Eldorado Park. Last year was regrettably not a revolution in the fight to end the violence plaguing an increased number of younger couples in the area. In October, a wave of cases prompted

robust campaigns and activity among police and organisations to rescue vulnerable girls and provide support to families of teenage victims.

A 19-year-old Grade 11 learner, Veldene Jacobs, was among a series of cases to follow when her 22-year-old boyfriend allegedly stabbed her 19 times. Four of those stab wounds were in her face.

Cheryl Pillay, co-founder of Eldorado Park Local Drug Action Community, accompanied Jacobs’ mother after a friend rushed to tell her that her daughter was being stabbed to death.

Jacobs had allegedly walked peacefully home with her boyfriend and close friend after her Saturday classes at Eldorado Park Secondary School. When a disagreement between the pair broke out, the 22-year-old suspect lost it and attacked her. He appeared in the Protea Magistrates Court on 9 December and received a welcomed denial of bail.

In the same week, 22-year-old Marelize Matthews was shot in a robbery, and her case was soon followed by an entire family beaten by a lover of a family member. But, the worst off was another 22-year-old who was left in a coma for four days by her sister’s lover. Both their grandmother and her nine-month-old baby were also victim to the suspect’s alleged outburst of violence.

See Page 1 to learn how to view this Media Wise GBV video right here!

13 UNCUT - Issue 93

A cycle of violence

Pillay and Liesl Valoo (fellow Eldorado Local Drug Action Community cofounder) are all too familiar with these cases. Their organisation deals with drugs, rehabilitation, family counseling and support, with a range of other titles under their daily to do list.

They described for us the day both Jacobs and Matthews were being buried, and the constant calls they receive to attend to new cases.

Soon after these deaths, an adolescent mother was yet another victim when she died of a gunshot wound, allegedly at her boyfriend’s hand in Vlakfontein.

Pillay dismisses the suggestion that coloured females are more likely to become victim to intimate partner and domestic violence.

“I don’t think it’s specific to any racial group. This is a problem everywhere,” she says. “We tend to think that more cases are reported in Eldorado Park so the situation is bad, but what all these cases show is that the education and support programmes are making young girls and mothers courageous enough to report their situations before they are killed.”

Mending the broken fibres

Chairman of the Community Policing Forum (CPF), Victor Olivier says young people are not taught what to look for in a relationship and tend to make bad decisions as a result.

“Sometimes one partner is already abused by her boyfriend, but leaves him for his own friend or acquaintance to spite him [instead of just walking away],” he says. “In many cases, both partners use drugs so they spend days at a lolly lounge [drug house] together, sleeping with multiple partners while they are high. The next day, the jealous boyfriend gets abusive.”

Police station youth desk official Thabang Mdluli, who works in nearby Freedom Park, says door-to-door campaigns are aimed at educating young people on what makes healthy relationships. He says violent relationships sometimes have strong cultural elements.

“I think for a black woman, [some people think that] if her man does not beat her up, he does not really love her. They think that maybe he has another woman,” he says. “Boys who grow up in violent homes usually become violent partners, so it’s good for lovers to understand and know someone’s background in case they need help.”

EVERYONE’S problem

In December, the government launched its annual 16 Days of Activism against Women and Children Abuse, calling for men to take their place in society. The 2014 theme echoed the focus on the campaign asking that men protect the women of the country.

It was met with fierce criticism from parts of the gay community and JHB People’s Pride, who marched shortly thereafter, saying government had reinforced a strong patriarchal stance on violence. They said it was more important to focus on empowering women not to depend on men to save them.

However, during this exploration of the epidemic, we have noticed a number of recurring contributing elements. Approaches to ending the violence may vary as there is no single solution to a problem like this. The important thing, though, is to take a stand.

Stop GBV

Put a stop to gender-based violence in your community; send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023.

14 UNCUT - Issue 93

REGULAR GLOBAL ID

SayXchange participant Tshepo Kgonothi (20) writes to us from Malawi about her love affair with her “new home”

M

alawi is one of the poorest countries in Africa – as we all know – but the unity and love Malawians have for one another, no amount of money can buy. I have been living here for months now; I call it home because I have people who care for me and call me their daughter.

I live in a town call Dedza… well, they call it a town, but it’s actually a village. It’s a big village because it is next to the Mozambique border – lucky me, I can visit another country whenever I want. When I got here, I used to feel like I live on another planet because it was the first time I felt what it is to be a foreigner – even though the community was very accommodating.

People here depend on farming but not all of them can maintain it. Not even everyone has electricity or water. Everyone considers South Africa as a little heaven where there is everything and anything.

Other kids even want to skip school and find greener pastures in Johannesburg, yet there are so many young people unemployed in our country. But I don`t blame them, poverty does that.

Everything in Malawi is so different: food, language, culture, wedding celebrations and transport. They use bicycles and I’m used to it being a toy for kids, but here it’s business, a way that a father can bring food to the table. They are very conservative in Malawi. They consider homosexuality as evil and wrong, and so it’s not allowed. They don’t want to be influenced by the western world.

HIV is everywhere; but here, an 18-year-old cannot buy a condom or talk about sex with their parents.

They have stigma and discrimination towards the HIV-affected people. I don’t know if I can call teenage pregnancy a problem because Malawian law says a

16-year-old is allowed to be married. It really hurts to see dreams of young people destroyed because of early marriages or others running after cows instead of being in class - all in the name of poverty.

The place I am volunteering at is called Family Planning Association of Malawi (FPAM). My duty is to promote a free environment for young people by creating youth clubs.

Despite its challenges, I love this country because they have a culture of resilience.

15 UNCUT - Issue 93

FEATURE

THE FUTURE IS COMING! Just when you thought you had us figured out, BOOM!!! We are switching up the game (again!) with iloveLife soon to be launched in South Africa.

Angelo C Louw and Antionette Pombo log on

E

xcitement does not even begin to describe it! loveLife’s mobile reward programme, iloveLife, is almost ready to go LIVE in Mzansi.

That’s right, pretty soon we will all take a leap into the future and never look back. Wait… so, you haven’t heard about iloveLife as yet? Well, we will just have to break it down for you.iloveLife’s a dope

new mobi site that rewards young people like us just for living right. You could think of it as your own groundBREAKER, right

COMPETITIONS 16 UNCUT - Issue 93

there in your pocket. This programme is the first of its kind IN THE WORLD – and will be a real game-changer, helping young people to live healthier lives!

The best thing about iloveLife is that it is available on all types of phones, including feature phones. That’s because we want EVERYONE to reap the rewards. If your handset cannot access iloveLife through internet browsing, you can access iloveLife through USSD codes (like the ones used to load airtime and for cell phone banking).

MEGA MOVERS

HAVE YOUR SAY

It sounds too good to be true, right?

But, IT IS true! And here is how you’ll be able to earn points on iloveLife:

1

Take a quiz: It’s one of the simplest ways that you can earn points! Watch a video, read a short article or check out a cartoon and then show us just how much you’ve learnt. If you answer a certain number of the questions correctly you EARN points!

2

Rate yourself: We know you love to find out about yourself. By completing a self-assessment on a specific theme you can earn points. These themes will change regularly, so keep an eye on the site for the latest information.

3

Get real Now, we’ve mentioned that participating in activities and accessing health services could earn you points. Attend and participate in loveLife Games events, get contraceptives from a clinic or get tested for HIV and you’ll get a voucher with a code to redeem your points on iloveLife.

By staying active on the platform you’ll be earning points plus you’ll get promoted to a cool new status on iloveLife whenever you reach certain points levels, making you eligible for even more awesome prizes.

What are you waiting for?

Get to know iloveLife better. Sign up today! Simply visit iloveLife.mobi and register to start earning points today.

?

12,830 pt HOME Scotty Matthews

Lover of sports, music and hanging with my friends!

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17 UNCUT - Issue 93

REGULAR

UNCUT DEBATE:

Do you think that condoms should be distributed at school?

Government departments are at loggerheads around whether or not condoms should be distributed at schools. This debate has filtered its way down to the ground, and we decided that the ground would be a good place to start when dealing with the matter. Nikayla Naidu asks her fellow school-goers to give us their opinion

F

or years, pressure groups from the health fraternity have urged the Department of Basic Education to review its policy of no-condom-distribution at schools with no success. However, as SABC News recently reported, it seems the DBE is finally opening up to the reality that pupils are having sex despite the heavy emphasis on abstinence in their approach.

There is still apprehension about the proposal, but are these concerns objective?

Many cite that doing so will encourage pupils to be sexually active. One such person is

18 UNCUT - Issue 93

Mario Klopper (18), who feels that it is a bad idea – although he is open to the idea. “It’s telling kids: ‘Hey, you’re safe, so go have sex now’,” he says. “If they were given condoms they will want to use it – it’s basically encouraging underage sex. I would agree to have it given to women, because men tend to be more reckless, I guess. Women are brought up to be more cautious since, at the end of the day, they suffer more.”

Khothatso Mahlangu (18) agrees about the matter. However, she believes that condoms should be available to youth who want

them outside of the school setting, despite their gender. “It promotes teen sex. Because they have condoms, they will have more sex,” she says. “But both genders should feel free to receive condoms openly.”

Those in support of this development – like Gean Maneenin (19) – emphasise the apprehension of youth to pick up condoms at available access point (like clinics) due to fear of embarrassment and stigma as one of the main reasons why it is necessary for them to be distributed at schools.

“Teens’ hormones are rising and they cannot control themselves,” she says. “They get too embarrassed to go and buy condoms or get them at a clinic. We all know about sex. This is the 21st century; nothing is new to the youth anymore, and nothing is secret.”

James-Teeraphat Doungsri (17) agrees, especially when you consider their affordability:“People in school know that students have sex; condoms should be handed out for free. Most people complain that it costs a lot, so handing them out is ideal.”

Yoland Pillay (17), however, raises the question of whether young people are mature enough to know the consequences of sex – protected or not. “It promotes sexual intercourse. It gives them a sense that the use of a condom will not cause pregnancy although there is a possibility,” he says. “It is easy to influence someone to have sex if there is protection present; it influences the percentage of unexpected pregnancies.”

The verdict Sometimes we need to look beyond how we feel about a situation and understand the reality of it – and that is why we look to expert opinion and decision makers regarding tough decisions like these. If the government recognises a need for condom distribution at school, then I am all for it. Youth should have access to protection, always; otherwise there is no hope of stopping the spread of HIV and teen pregnancy, which have dire consequences for the nation as a whole. Therefore, condoms should be distributed.

Regarding concerns about pupils having sex at school, that boils down to management and supervision. If pupils are able to have sex at school when condoms are being distributed, what is to stop them from doing it now – unprotected and vulnerable?

Yes, many youth may not fully understand the risks of having sex, but the fact of the matter is: they are still having sex.

loveLife says Young people have the right to sexual and reproductive health services and cannot be denied this right. We asked our Facebook followers if condoms should be distributed at schools, and this is what they had to say:

65% - Yes 34% – No 1% - Undecided

19 UNCUT - Issue 93

r e p s s – Ca

t s e v Nyo

at sic th u m uch ake m m y t s a r p fi re really estly n t ’ o nes a n h o o d d “I I o o r. !” o hea ews. The g t e v – LOL i v I lo h e g r u o o tion t me th o c l e atten sw alway

FEATURE

Making Clinics Youth Friendly

Visiting a public clinic doesn’t need to be a scary experience for young people anymore.

Thabang Ndlovu writes about the Adolescent and Youth-Friendly Services programme

Y

oung people have significant needs for health services. However, most would rather suffer in silence than consult the local clinic staff — who are often considered to be judgmental, and sometimes even hostile in their attitudes towards young people, especially when dealing with matters related to teenage sexuality.

According to the SA Demographic and Health Survey 2003, most adolescents avoid public clinics because they are concerned about being chastised, embarrassed or rudely treated by clinic staff. Noting this, the National Department of Health partnered with loveLife to accelerate implementation of sexual health services in public clinics that cater to the youth.

The Adolescent and Youth Friendly Services (AYFS) programme is currently being implemented in government primary health care clinics throughout South Africa. Its overall aim is to provide a package

22 UNCUT - Issue 93

of services to encourage young people to stay healthy.

Sidwell Sekgobela, the Executive Manager of AYFS, explains that the programme aims to optimise the use of available community resources in providing a comprehensive health services package to young people. “Other objectives of the programme are integrating health promotion information, including HIV prevention messaging in all

settings where young people live, work and engage in sports and other recreational activities,” adds Sekgobela.

Through AYFS young people can access: • HIV Counseling and Testing (HCT) • Pregnancy testing and

• • • • • •

counseling, Antenatal and post natal care Treatment and education on STIs Pre- and post-counseling for termination of pregnancy (abortion) Referrals to organisations offering support for drug and substance abuse Advice on oral health And many other services.

AYFS in Action

The Mahwelereng Clinic in Mokopane, Limpopo, runs a successful AYFS programme that resonates with young people in the community.

“Young people flock to this clinic because they know that they can access high quality healthcare services. We allow them to be free and act their age whilst attending to their health needs,” says Sister Manyathela, who is the AYFS Operational Manager at Mahwelereng.

“In order to reach young people, we work with various stakeholders – particularly schools – to create

Word on the Street How do you rate this AYFS clinic?

Happiness Mogatla (17):

awareness about the services offered to young people at our clinic. Community leaders and parents also play a key role in encouraging young people to use these services available to them.”

She says that in order to reach out to young people health workers must be young at heart. “You must be able to speak their language. This enables them to open up about their health problems to you,” says Manyathela.

“Confidentiality is key to gaining their trust. Above all you’ve got to exercise patience and understand who you are dealing with in a young person.”

Manyathela commends the AYFS programme, “Once young people experience AYFS their attitude to healthcare changes. They then visit the clinic regularly and also recommend the service to their friends.”

Sylvia Rathebe (18) is one such young person who uses

the Mahwelereng Clinic.

“I mostly go for HCT, while some of my friends go there for contraceptives. Whenever I am not feeling well, I know I can get help at the clinic.

The nurse is friendly, easy to talk to and answers questions that I have. Services are also quicker than at the main clinic where you have to wait in long queues.”

Also stationed at the clinic are loveLife’s groundBREAKERS and Mpintshis – peer motivators and community mobilisers – who implement loveLife’s healthy sexuality and positive lifestyle programmes.

“Young people know that when they come to the clinic they’ll interact with their peers and engage meaningfully with each other not only concerning health but also other challenges in life,” says Moshita “Khotso” Mamabolo, a groundBREAKER at Mahwelereng.

“The service here is excellent. Nurses are free to talk about our health related problems and have good advice.”

Sello Molefe (20):

“The nurse here is like a mother to us. She treats us with respect and is not judgmental.

I encourage young people to try and visit AYFS facilities in their area.”

Hlukani Makhubele (23):

“I am here for the second time.

The nurses are friendly and very understanding. I feel that they can relate to my problems and are comfortable to answer my questions without ever judging me” 23 UNCUT - Issue 93

FEATURE

BABY MAMA DRAMA (PART 2): THE FLIPSIDE

In the last UNCUT, we explored the concept of baby mama drama from a guy’s point of view, but there is always another side to the story, writes Martin Headger

Drama is an easy label for situations that are out of hand, but some issues are deeper than that. As a young woman, it is difficult to deal with issues, especially when they feel out of your control. This is the story of a young mother trying to give her children a normal life.

BABY MAMA* SPEAKS

“We were together from 2003. I left my studies after matric for him. We’ve been on and off for those 11 years but we broke up last year. Our first child was born in 2009 and is five years old and the second, a little girl, is two.

All the drama started when I got pregnant with our second child. He didn’t want me anymore. We broke up because he didn’t want me to have the second child; he wanted an 24 UNCUT - Issue 93

abortion and I didn’t. As pregnant as I was, he put me out.

I got another boyfriend and moved in with him and when Baby Daddy* found out, he didn’t like it. When I was with my new boyfriend he got very jealous and came back to say that he still loves me and, in tears, I moved back in with him. That was the November before I gave birth to my daughter. That entire month was perfect and I was treated like a queen; but by February, while the baby was only two months old, he put us out again. I lived on the street for nine months with my child. He walked past us every day as if he didn’t know us.

When I got pregnant with this child, his mother threatened that she would put him out and write him off if the baby was his, so he

denied the baby. The baby came out resembling his family; and to make it even worse, they decided to have blood tests done. His mother paid for it – not able to put up a shack for her grandchildren, but able to spend thousands of rand for blood tests?

Before my first baby, I used to work as a hairdresser in her salon. She and I stopped speaking because one day – before I was pregnant with my second baby – he hit me so badly that I got fed up, left and had him arrested. His family supports him and that is how he gets away with so much. Last August, he broke eight of my ribs.

I almost died. I was in the hospital for two weeks. I’m not there for him anymore, we only talk when it is concerning the children. I don’t care about him, just for my children.”

MAINTENANCE

101

POWER TRIP

Malebo Makgaka, a loveLife Contact Centre counsellor, says the behaviour of the Baby Daddy above can only be described as abuse.

“You will see a clear power imbalance, and most of the time you find that men hold the power in relationships because they say things like: ‘If you love me, you’d stay home, raise the kids’. You end up depending on them and they end up dictating what you should and shouldn’t do,” she says.

Makgaka explains that even when Babby Daddy begged the young woman to come home to him, it wasn’t because he loves her, but because he thinks he has enough power over her to control her. Makgaka says most women crave stability in the family and feel as though a father figure in their children’s lives is necessary – and

these women will jump through any hoop to get this. Although a father figure is important, he doesn’t neccesarily need to be the child’s biological father.

“They don’t want their kids to grow up without a father. They hope for family stability; but stability is not possible if the father is not interested. You will end up in situations like these that affect your children in the long run and could lead to a generation that does the same things,” she says.

Makgaka says women need to take responsibility for the situation – especially when it is clear that the guy is never going to change. “She needs to realise that the situation is very dangerous for her, especially as an abuse victim. This man could kill her. It is good that she has chosen to walk away.” * Names were not used, as this is a very sensitive matter

The UJ Law Clinic advises the following to mothers battling to get baby daddies to take responsibility: • Any parent refusing to pay child maintenance runs the risk of receiving a prison sentence.

• A parent being paid child maintenance may still be eligible for social grants (visit www.sassa.gov.za or call 012 400 2000 to check if you are).

• Grandparents can be sued for maintenance if they are able to provide and the parent isn’t.

• When claiming child maintenance, it is important to provide documentation of both earnings and expenses.

• If the parent who should be paying maintenance is unemployed, that parent will be put under financial review and will be made to pay as soon as they start earning.

• Every Magistrate Court is also a maintenance court and the prosecutor in that office is also the maintenance officer.

Need advice?

Ladies, sometimes Baby Daddies can be quite foolish. Perhaps a little advice would be much better than losing your cool with him.

Send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023 to speak to a counsellor.

25 UNCUT - Issue 93

loveLife Games

A Star Dimmed Too Soon

“Z

iyohamb’izinsizwa, kuyosala izibongo” is an ancient IsiZulu adage that aptly describes Senzo Meyiwa’s life and contribution to the soccer fraternity in Mzansi.

Loosely translated, it means: “Although young men may pass on, their praises echo long after they are gone.”

The young man from Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, was a goalkeeping maestro who captained both Bafana Bafana and Soweto football giants, Orlando Pirates.

Meyiwa shot onto the footballing scene as a striker for London Cosmos, a local team in his hometown, and evolved into one of the most talented goalies this country has ever produced.

His death sent shockwaves to the continent’s highest soccer governing body the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

“Losing such a talented player and young gentlemen is a tragedy for South African and African football,” the association’s president Issa Hayatou wrote in a letter to South African Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan.

Meyiwa was allegedly shot and killed in what is reported to be botched robbery in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni, on 26 October 2014. He received a provincial State Funeral.

At the dawn of his remarkable career, 13-year-old

26 UNCUT - Issue 93

Meyiwa represented his province in the Transnet U14 and Coca-Cola U17 Inter-Provincial tournaments in 2000. It was through one of these competitions that young Meyiwa was identified by scouts who suggested he try out with the Orlando Pirates Development Academy.

After impressing the coaches at development level and earning the tag of best keeper of the Academy, Meyiwa got his big break to play for the senior team in the 2005/06 season. He travelled with the team for that entire season but it

s age ty Im t e ©G

UNCUT writer Thabang Ndlovu pays tribute to late football sensation, Senzo Meyiwa

was it was only in 2007 that he made his official For Pirates, he was a regular starter this season, mark at the club. playing in all 15 league and cup matches of the Meyiwa defended the goal posts with such verve 2013/14 season – and for Bafana Bafana, he had that he soon cemented played in all the 2015 his place as Pirates’ first African Nations Cup CAREER HISTO RY PSL debut: 8 Novemb choice keeper, making qualifiers (against Sudan, er 2006 (Orlando Pi ra tes 2-1 Amazulu) a total of 24 league Nigeria and Congo), keeping appearances for the club, a clean-sheet in all four HONOURS: far exceeding his record matches.

• 2014 Nedbank Cu of one appearance in the For his final match as a p Champion • 2013 Africa Cham pions League runner previous campaign.

Buccaneer, a night before up (Orlando Pirates) By then, at the age his senseless killing, Senzo • 2010/11 ABSA Pr em ier sh ip wi nn of 27, Meyiwa became led his teammates to an er, Nedbank Cup winner, MTN8 Cup winner instrumental in the emphatic 4-1 victory over (all with Orlando Pira tes) Orlando Pirates’ Ajax Cape Town in the • 2011/12: ABSA Pr emiership winner, campaign in the 2013 CAF quarterfinals of the Telkom MTN8 winner, Telkom Cup winner.(all with Orlando Pirates Champions League. In that Knockout Cup. ) • 2008/09 Telkom same season, with Meyiwa Bafana Bafana coach Charity Cup winner, SAA Supa 8 runner-u in goal, Pirates went on Shakes Mashaba recalls p, Jet Club PSL Ro ok ie of th e Mo nth (January), Telkom to reach not only the final Meyiwa was a happy Charity Cup runner-u p, Vodacom of the CAF Champions young man. “We have Challenge runner-up (all in 2007/08), League, the final of the to celebrate the life of PSL runner-up, Voda co m Ch all en MTN8 Cup and the Senzo Meyiwa,” says ge winner (both in 2005 /06). final of the Telkom Mashaba. “Senzo had a • National level: 16 Under-23 caps, Knockout Cup final positive energy which Under-20, Under-17 international. but also the final • Senior man National was always good for the Team call ups: fou r (4) of the Nedbank national team. We have Cup – playing a to celebrate his life, and club record of make sure we carry the 51 matches. legacy he left behind.”

SA Champs take the capital

A

round 13 000 pupils from all over SA came together in the nation’s capital city to battle it out in the 2014 National School Sport Championship last month. In association with loveLife, the Department of Sport and Recreation held the third annual Championship recognising some of the SA’s top up-andcoming sporting talent. The event took place between 8 and 14 December at five separate venues around Tshwane, including the University of Pretoria and Mamelodi.

During the course of 2014, schools competed in the School Sport League at intra-school, inter-school, district and provincial level. The overall winners at provincial level were invited to participate at the National School Sport Championship.

Over 16 sport codes were played and participants – both able bodied and disabled – were selected from all nine provinces. loveLife not only participated at the event, but set up its mobile Y-Centre too!

27 UNCUT - Issue 93

WORK IT

REGULAR

SA’s

black diamond IN HORSE RACING S

Thabang Ndlovu speaks to Mzansi’s number one black jockey

manga Khumalo is Mzansi’s most revered thoroughbred horse racing jockey. In 2013, the 29-year-old garnered international attention when he became the first black jockey to scoop the prestigious Vodacom Durban July – Africa’s biggest horse race – in its 117 year history!

Emerging from humble beginnings in KwaMashu, a township near Durban, Khumalo is a charismatic rising star of a sport long associated with South African white privilege.

He has defied the odds in order

28 UNCUT - Issue 93

to become a household name in a changing sport. At the age of 14 (when his friends still called him “Bling”), Khumalo had never heard of horse racing until a scout from the South African Jockey Academy visited KwaMashu’s Mzuvele High School on the hunt for prospective candidates.

“I was very small and couldn’t play any sports at school. When the scout came and spoke to us about becoming a jockey, I didn’t have a plan for a post-school career, so I thought I’d give it a try,” he says.

Fifteen years on, Khumalo leads the South African Jockey Championship with more than 100 wins in the past season.

Enthused by his equestrian studies and the prospect of travelling the national racing circuit, Smanga worked hard at the Durban Jockey Academy in Shongweni before moving to Johannesburg in 2004 for his apprenticeship. He turned professional in 2006 and became a fixture in the country’s top 20 jockeys, riding 80 to 90 horses a month, often seven days a week.

Risky job

Long journey

Khumalo said he was terrified of horses when he met his first. Today, he says they are his best friends and that he trains, plays and talks to them every day. During his five-year apprenticeship at the academy, he had to clean horses, muck out stables and stick to strict timetables and workouts. There were a couple other black jockey trainees there; but so far, he’s been the only one to make it.

“Winning South Africa’s richest race in Durban was like a dream come true,” he says. “Crossing the finish line was a feeling I’d never change for anything in my life. I was electrified!”

The crowd of 50 000 cheering fans sent shivers down his spine: “If I had wings that day, I would have flown.”Despite having won pretty much every race in South Africa, he remains humble. “I was just glad to be a part of it.”

The win was especially significant since black people were not even allowed on the turf in the past. He saw his winning the major race as historic. “I just proved to a lot of trainers and a lot of owners that as black people, we can do it as well.”

Historic win

Khumalo is now one of the Top 10 jockeys in the country, and enjoys his success – although he has to work hard. He rides 80 to 90 different horses a month, usually seven days a week.

So far, he has bought a big black German car, a house and a flat, and he has moved his mother into a more affluent area.

However, he adds that horse racing is a harsh business. A 500-kilogram horse can easily crush a jockey if he falls, and trainers “just want you if you are good at that time – if things go bad, they can’t use you.”

Rivalry and jealousy amongst the jockeys is rife as well, so Khumalo also fears sabotage.

Khumalo frowns as he recalls three serious accidents. As a father of two small children, he remains aware that “you have to look out for yourself”.

However, Khumalo chooses to look on the bright side. He’s busy living his dream, and already has his eyes on the next title. “My next big goal would be to become the first black champion jockey of South Africa.”

What he means is that he wants to win more races than anyone else in a single season. If that happens, Khumalo could make history – again!

Become a jockey

Ever considered becoming a professional jockey as a career after matric? Contact the South Africa Jockey Academy on the following numbers to see if you’ve what it takes: •Kwazulu Natal Academy 031 769 1103 •Western Province Academy 073 640 9335 •Gauteng Jockeys’ Academy 011 314 2398 •Eastern Cape Academy 041 364 3317 29 UNCUT - Issue 93

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Citi never sleeps Citi never sleeps SM

SM

FINANCE

REGULAR

The Price of

Money

T

he world goes around trading goods and services. Tangible items, like food and clothes, would be considered goods. Services, on the other hand, would be instances where people offer their labour to do something to your benefit, like working on your teeth (dental services) or driving you to a destination (transport services).

What goods and services all have in common is that to obtain them, you pay a certain price.

That price is typically determined by people’s willingness to pay their hard-earned money in exchange for something they value, whether it is a good or a service.

What do banks offer? Are they in the goods or in the services industry?

If we consider the ease with which one can walk up to an ATM virtually everywhere today and simply slide in a card with a PIN in order to get access to cash, banks are evidently in the services industry. But, what is not so commonly known, or considered, is the fact that banks are also in the goods industry. They have a tangible product that they sell. They sell

R

money. Yes, you heard correctly; they sell money.

Banks sell money by calling it “loans.” You go to the bank, show them your salary slip and identity document, and based on your assets and credit record, they will determine whether you qualify for the amount of money you require. Maybe you want to buy your first car? Or perhaps you had someone who was really ill in your family and where medical or funeral bills need to be settled urgently?

If you qualify for a loan, the bank basically sells you money, at a price, which they call “interest” or “the interest rate.” If you borrow R1 000 from the bank, promising to pay it back within one year, and if they charge you a price of 10% interest, it means that you will

have to repay them two things.

Firstly, you will repay them the R1 000 that they lent to you. But, secondly, you will also have to repay them the price of money, namely 10%. So, 10% of R1 000 is R100. On top of the R1 000 borrowed, you therefore also pay another R100. And on some long-runing loans, you may find yourself paying interest on interest!!

As with any other item, one should consider whether the price is affordable before one buys. If you are looking at buying a new pair of shoes, but they cost R3 000, almost the equivalent of your take-home income, most people would argue you cannot afford those shoes.

When it comes to “buying money“ though, we tend to be less careful and easily get ourselves into trouble.

Beware. Banks are not in the market to help you, despite their very fancy marketing campaigns. They are there to make money, and the more uninformed decisions you make, the easier it is for them to keep some of your hard-earned cash.

If it looks too easy, there is most certainly a catch. Always ask yourself: “Is the price right?”

R

31 UNCUT - Issue 93

FEATURE

Life (Begins) Just when you thought passing matric exams was your biggest life challenge, you realise that now that you’re done, you are faced with an even bigger one: what’s next!?! Thabang Ndlovu gives the lowdown on the options at your disposal

F

or 12 years (or more), school has been your world. You’ve been cocooned in its safe embrace, locked in a bubble of certainty and security. But now the world of adulthood and responsibility is looming large – and you’ll soon have to leave your comfort zone and start mapping your own path through life.

Some of you will already be fairly confident about the path you want to follow. You may have started applying at universities and colleges, and have a clear idea of your future career. Others may not have the foggiest notion, and the pressure to make a decision that will affect the rest of your life is weighing you down like a ton of bricks.

Fortunately, there are options available to you. The main thing right now is to start considering the options and assess which would best suit you.

Higher Education Full-time study is perfect for those who have a crystal-clear idea of what career they want to embark on, and who are disciplined enough to be diligent in their studies… and not get too distracted by the sudden abundance of freedom and the non-stop partying that goes with student life!

“The first thing to note, is that graduates generally earn more throughout their lives than those without post-school qualifications and they are more likely to find employment.

If you are in a position to get a higher education, you must certainly choose that route rather than just go straight into the workplace,” advises Dr Felicity Coughlan, Director of The Independent Institute of Education.

Rewriting Matric So you have your heart set on studying further, but your matric marks just aren’t good enough? If you’re really brave, you can go back to school full-time and rewrite matric. Many schoolleavers opt to rather take certain subjects part-time, through a public or private college. There’s also the option to register to rewrite subjects through your school shortly after your results have been released. Using private tutors or special rewrite preparation courses could further boost your marks. Whatever the case, remember that there’s nothing embarrassing about rewriting matric subjects.

32 UNCUT - Issue 93

Getting Employed Not everyone wants to go and study, and not everyone has the financial means to do so. Bear in mind, however, that your chances of finding a job – and decent work, in particular – are increased several times if you have some kind of formal qualification, according to Coughlan.

“If finances are an impediment to studying further, find a job – be prepared to waitress or do menial work – and start earning money and self-respect, while at the same time putting something away for your future studies.”

Studying and Working This is the perfect happy medium for those who are desperate to study, but for whatever reason are unable to. The first possibility is studying through correspondence, via a distancelearning institution such as UNISA. You need excellent selfdiscipline to study in this fashion, without the motivation of attending classes or lecturers breathing down your neck!

You also have to make time between work and personal commitments to attend to your studies.

Another way is to apply for a learnership with one of the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), whereby you will earn a small salary while you are studying and learning on the job. There’s also the option of a vocational apprenticeship. Go to www.skillsportal.co.za for more.

A Gap Year Although taking a gap year is a popular option for many matriculants, and can be an attractive prospect after having spent 12 years on school benches, its pros and cons should be carefully weighed, says Coughlan.

You can use the gap year to hone a particular skill, volunteer at an NGO (like loveLife!) or foster your personal growth. loveLife’s groundBREAKER programme provides young people with the oppurtunity to not only uplift their communities, but also develop crucial lifeskills. Gap years are great for gaining perspective and maturity. But be careful: once the studying momentum has been lost, it’s hard to regain.

After Matric For rewriting: Checking with your schools for the dates, they should have more information. Alternatively you can contact the Department of Education via their website www.education.gov.za or email info@dbe.gov.za or call 0800 202 933.

Late registration: If you have missed the application deadlines at the various universities, you can still register either at the beginning of the year or for the second semester. Inquire with your preferred institution about this.

According to the Council on Higher Education, South Africa has 23 universities and universities of technology, as well as a number of private colleges and further education and training (FET) colleges. Academics may not be for you, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t be a qualified professional! Visit www.colleges.co.za to find out who’s who in the zoo. And with the launch of the FET Graduate Placement Project, finding a job will be a breeze.

For a handy reference about FET and their various courses visit: www.fetcolleges.co.za/Site_Public_FET.aspx

Handy Online Resources: www.thecareersportal.co.za www.gal.co.za sa.gostudy.info or www.gostudy.mobi www.studentbrands.co.za

Remember: Whatever path you choose will require dedication and hard work. That, above all, is the way to success!

You can also send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023 for advice on how to deal with life after school.

33 UNCUT - Issue 93

34 UNCUT - Issue 93

35 UNCUT - Issue 93

ENTERTAINMENT

play4

LIFE

Celeb Profile:

Chilli M This past December, we rounded up SA’s top radio personalities to support a summer of alcohol-free events with our play4LIFE campaign. Martin Headger speaks to play4LIFE ambassador, Ukhozi FM’s Chilli M, about his struggles with booze 36 UNCUT - Issue 93

T

here is a very thin line between supposedly looking kool and looking like a fool when alcohol is involved – especially because we are not always able to draw that very line!

But it is important to make the right decisions, says Vukani Masinga (better known as Ukhozi FM’s Chilli M) who has had firsthand experience with this.

When I get the flu, normal medication won’t do because I can’t take cough mixture or Bioplus, as they contain alcohol

Turning up

Media matters

His highly publicised experience with alcohol started when he was playing in clubs, club hopping and hosting.

“I first started with weed then moved to alcohol then ecstasy, and finally cocaine.

It made me seem ‘more rich’, and I thought it was cool. After this I went to rehab. Coming back from rehab I started drinking again and this caused a cross addiction to alcohol. It was a cheaper drug than cocaine where I would spend R4 000 a day to about R8 000 or R10 000 a week.”

Chilli M had really hit rock bottom, having lost his job, house, furniture… everything.

“It split my family apart. I didn’t want to be a part of a family because I thought they wanted to tell me what to do, and that is a sad case,” he says. “So now, I had to re-establish myself after losing my job. I am grateful to have a good support structure and whatever happens from here on out, I know my bad decisions will be at my own peril.”

He believes that alcohol is attractive because of the “koolness”advertised on our screens, billboards and through other media. “A lot of money is spent on promoting it and it is perceived as being ‘cool’. We always see a half glass of alcohol but we don’t see the accidents which happen after the drink,” he says.

Mostly advertisers should be blamed.

Cigarette adverts have been cut down but alcohol hasn’t. No one reads the fine print on the alcohol labels but, and in most cases, the more expensive the alcohol, the better your image will be and yet you find the people who drink very expensive brands don’t even work.”

This happens due to social pressure at an early age. We tend to want to belong, as most people do, but sometimes it spirals out of control. “This normally happens when there are other issues. Alcohol will affect your job, you won’t get enough sleep, and when you do get fired, the drinking becomes worse.”

Addiction has also affected

See Page 1 to learn how to view this Media Wise play4LIFE video right here!

his career in other ways.“In entertainment, you can talk to people and say whatever you want to say and think about them. You ended up burning a lot of bridges because some people and radio stations are conservative. You end up thinking that you’re indispensable. You’re not the same and it depends on the level of abuse and the substance that you take.

Like the time I fired my whole team on air and I got fired.”

The road to recovery

Chilli M’s alcohol abuse has also harshly impacted his health.

“I’ve had an intake of alcohol from an early age and now, after the cross-addiction, my liver is 60% nonfunctional,” he says. “I can’t sleep at night, I am on painkillers and I take six to ten types of medication at a time. The medication supports my liver but when I get the flu, normal medication won’t do because I can’t take cough mixture or Bioplus, as they contain alcohol. The cravings never go away; it’s those daily demons you must fight.”

His daughter’s birth impacted his view of his health and the future. She is what keeps him strong.

“When I look at her, she is an innocent soul, who makes me think how I should handle things and how to be a dad, how to look at the future of the kind of daughter I’d like to have in future,” he says. “When I was hospitalised, she couldn’t even see me. The last thing I want is a daughter who lost her father at an early age.”

We got you!

Want more information on the play4LIFE campaign and how to deal with other alcohol-related issues? Send us a PLZ CAL ME on 083 323 1023 now.

37 UNCUT - Issue 93

r e p s s a C vest o n o y i t N ni

ENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

C

fi e d w e n p o e h h t p i h A S f o

all this boi a cleaner because he keeps sweeping up ’dem awards! With his singles “Doc Shebeleza” and “Phumakim” dominating the airwaves, it is no wonder that Cassper Nyovest has earned himself some of SA’s most sought-after titles. UNCUT’s Matla Seetelo gets frank with one of the dopest SA rappers to date.

You’re hot property right now! What does success taste like?

Bittersweet, on the one hand, there’s an emerging group of people that just want to see me fail and fall… on the good side of it, I’m living my dreams and really grateful for all of this and my fans. I’m really blessed.

There have been mixed reviews of the album. How does audience feedback affect the way you make music?

I honestly first make music that I love to hear.

I don’t really pay much attention to reviews.

The good ones are always welcome though – LOL! What was it like kissing Amanda du-Pont in front of er’body?

It was electrifying.

Why is the album called Tsholofelo?

That’s my little sister’s name. It also represents hope, so basically we gave birth to hope.

IN

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38 UNCUT - Issue 93

Quick facts

His real name is Refiloe Maele Phoolo He was born on 16 December 1990 in Mafikeng He was discovered by HHP He has been on stages with international acts like Kid Cudi, Kendrick Lamar, Nas, Talib Kweli and Wiz Khalifa

SAVAGE DRIFT

RED LEAVES

Author: Emmy Laybourne Publisher: Hodder The third book in the Monument 14 trilogy follows the different journeys of 14 teenage survivors, separated and fighting against the odds to reunite lost lovers Niko and Josie. This book has the action part down as we endure heart-pumping chapters where you find yourself screaming at the characters as you would at the movies. I enjoyed this one because it kept me face-deep in it. It did justice to all of the genres it touched on.

Author: Sita Brahmachari Publisher: Pan Macmillian The lives of three very different – yet three really compatible – teenagers are crossed when they all meet after running away from their tough situations. Aisha is a foster kid, Zak’s parents are getting a divorce and Iona is becoming more and more hopeless about her dreams because of her bleak family setting. This is one heck of an emotionally loaded journey that speaks to the realities of many teens out there.

- Nikayla Naidu

- Nikayla Naidu

Rating:

Rating:

SPUD 3 LEARNING TO FLY Director: John Van De Ruit Starring: Blessing Xaba, John Cleese, Troye Sivan John Van De Ruit does it again with the third instalment of the Spud series! It is their third year of school and John Milton’s (Troye Sivan) scholarship is under threat. Unless he can bring glory to the school or become a prefect, he will be kicked out of school – problem is, the Crazy 8 make a pact against becoming prefects! Spud now has to choose which is more important to him. The humour is relatable and the storyline keeps you on the edge of your seat – even though nothing major has changed from the first movie to now.

– Nikayla Naidu Rating:

Into the Woods An updated mishmash of all our childhood favourites – including Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk and Rapunzel! Starring the one-andonly Meryl Streep.

39 UNCUT - Issue 93

REGULAR Dear MizzB

z Miz

I’m a 19-year-old guy. I have a problem. I had sex with my girl and afterwards I saw blood on my penis. I didn’t protect myself. Can I get any diseases?

– Worried

B

Firstly, and most importantly, engaging in any unprotected sexual activity exposes you and your partner to any sexually transmitted infection (STI) that both of you might have. The blood that you saw on your penis could be as a result of the friction caused during sex causing vaginal tearing. It does not necessarily mean it is an STI but if you experience itching, sores and a smelly discharge then it is possible that you have contracted one. When you do experience any of these symptoms, it is very important to go to your nearest health clinic with your partner to get treated – and please make sure to use a condom in future to avoid scares like these.

Dear MizzB I’m a 19-year-old girl and I live in eMnambithi [KwaZulu-Natal].

The other day, my bf went to the clinic and they told him that he has TB. I am worried.

If he has TB, does that mean he has HIV too – since a lot of people with TB have HIV? Should we get tested?

– Confused Being diagnosed with TB does not automatically mean you are HIV-positive. TB is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is airborne – which means it is spread through the air and mainly affects the lungs.

It is curable when you complete the treatment given to you by your health practitioner. Regarding getting tested, it is important to know about your HIV status especially when you are sexually active. This is one way of taking responsibility for your sexual health. So go for it! There is a lot of info available on how to cope and manage with both conditions – including the loveLife contact centre. With a healthy lifestyle and the right medical care, many HIV-positive people are living long, productive lives and have healthy relationships.

40 UNCUT - Issue 93

Send your questions/letters to MizzB UNCUT to PO Box 45, Parklands, 2121 or email mizzb@lovelife.org.za For more info and help, call 0800 121 900 or send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023 and a counsellor will call you back as soon as one is available. You can also go onto loveLife Mxit at loveLifeMX.

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For counselling on alcohol-related problems, call loveLifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Contact Centre on 0800 121 900 or send a PLZ CAL ME to 083 323 1023 > loveLifeMX on Mxit

life is always on play never on pause