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ow, it has been over 20 months since the inception of TYM when it was given life to, last year 2011 – having been heavily involved from the on-set, I got to experience the highs and lows of managing a publication that dedicates itself to inspire, inform and entertain the youth at-large. Despite being inexperience, practically, in media, my ‘then’ team made it easier for me and others to understand the basics and other aspects of media through sharing their experience academic-wise (theory) and practical. That factor (sharing) is the one that enforced us to establish a youth publication that will be the ears, the eyes and a mouth-piece for the youth. And I’m pleased to say we did just that in our previous issues and will continue to do so. TYM under the brilliant editorialship of Doreen Mokgolo and Mmabatho Makotanyane has seen tremendous change, that even management did not anticipate over 10 000 subscribers within a space of 12 months, getting loyal readers beyond borders of Mzansi and so forth when TYM was still on concept level, for that, we salute them and their previous team. I know TYM
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will grow even more with the new editor (Masingita Masiya) and the new team members as we introduce new look and new content, because we felt that; “this is the right time to search for NEW CHEESE, and we found it”. Just like ‘Who Moved My Cheese?’ book advised, as a human-being or business you can’t be on the same station for-sometime, when a need arise to search for new cheese (opportunity, job, strategy etc) go for it without a doubt. Those who know me personally will know I’m a man of few words, well intelligent ones anyway, so I’ll keep it sweet and short. Our first new look issue had to go with the new buzz “The Soil” musical group on the cover, we asked the youth to give us their views on R240million “Nkadla Royal Palace”, and we talked to Nyaope Boys and Girls, and also interviewed Ralf GUM. In fact, we’ve got so much in this issue. So, why are you still here? Lesego Skosana Publication Manager Follow me Chairman
on
@Les_Da_
REAGILE KGOKONG (20) Meadowlands,Soweto
Francis Chikambvi (18) Soshanguve, Tshwane
Pretty Masemola (20)
Aubrey (24)
Zuma is so selfish. I never liked him from the on-set, how can you spend so much money when you know that poverty, basic services and economy downfall is still on the agenda? That’s one of the reasons he does not deserve a second term.
Our President plans for his future alone. He knows very well that his days are numbered as our President, so the better way to exit the position is through accomplishing his own goals, forgetting that he serves a nation. R240 million can take over 5000 matriculants to tertiary, especially for those who cant afford.
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In the glowing sunset of Tshwane I had the privilege of meeting an ordinary young man turn the beat mechanic hailingall the way from mamelodi ext. 4. I couldn’t see clearly cause of the brightness in front of me, wished I had my shades on but there are no shades for the bright future of our October boy next door. Yep real name Casper Khanyile going by the name freaky-Cee, 23 years old Tshwane’s aspiring beat maker. He shares his unremarked views with Mduduzi Ngomane. As a township raised kid, what is your take about heritage? I am not that cultural person because of the environment I grew in. I am a proudly born Zulu but didn’t have the privilege to embrace it; I use to visit my dad in Kwazulu natal but the environment isn’t the
same as where I grew up in Mamelodi, I mostly followed hip hop culture from my early child hood because in townships there are many cultures and norms therefore anyone chooses which one to follow and with influence from psyfing at school I followed the hip hop culture, hence it suits the inner me and considering my careers During the heritage month history was made in wage negotiations, what do you think about what happened at Marikana? I don’t follow such stories and I don’t do TV because I am always busy working on beats and performances, but either than that from the glimpse I got it potrays bad publicity to international, that “crime zone” label will continue and it will affect our economy.
How do you maintain your position in your industry? I maintain my position by being unique in all what I do. I accept criticism from everyone, friends, colleagues and fans, that helps me to improve where I have a short fall. What’s on your stove currently? Am working on a new project with B-bless together wit Oc and it should be coming out soon.
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Karabo Raphohane (31) of Platinum Expandable Motorcycle Club, is one of the bikers who attended the annually rally held at Bundi Inn, during the month of October. With all the noise coming from the motorcycle, we wondered, why did she choose to join the biker club? And as a female biker, what does she enjoy about the “nation” of bikers. TYM caught-up with her at the event where the noise kept raving all-day. What’s best about being a biker? Being a biker has many reasons for different people, but for me it’s therapeutic and we do lot of charity work most of the time which touches my heart. What is the biggest myth about bikers? Well, it has to be the obvious one which is; us being labeled as hoodlums or mafias, where else, we aren’t. I wish people could just visit one of the rally’s that are organized throughout the year and witness what bikers are really about. Which rally do you enjoy most? Without doubt, it has to be ‘Swazi Rally’. You get to travel a long distance with all the bikers; you can just imagine the buzz at that moment. And also the fact that we in a foreign land and you get to experience different cultures and people. Who will you choose to be or continue to be your president between Malema and Zuma? None of the above. But because I have to choose one, I have to say Jay-Z (Jacob Zuma)! I know most people will agree with me on this one, as Jay-Z is grounded and more matured than Juju. But if it was not for that, both won’t get my vote period! How can South Africa be a proud nation in general? Respect! Respect! Respect! If we all could learn to respect our neighbors, elderly people, environment and so forth, we will be a great nation eventually. When you able to respect, it means you able to listen, help and take care of others.
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y now you’ve heard about this blogging thing and you’re not sure what is it, what you need or how to set one up. Here, we’ll give you the lowdown on ‘blogs’ and explain how you can publish your own one. Blogs have been around for about 10 years. The word stands for ’web log’ and they’re effectively online diaries. Anyone can set one up, that’s the easy part. Thinking of something interesting to say each time you blog is the tricky bit. A blog gives you your own online space where you can tell stories about your life, share insights and opinions about a topic in which you have expertise, incite laughter with great photos and videos, or inform clients about your business’s successes. Blogging has become a pastime for some and a way to make money or enhance a business for others. Two blogging platforms stood out from the pack to earn our recommendation and Editors’ Choice award: Wordpress. com and Blogger. Both systems may take some getting used to if you’re an inexperienced blogger, but more seasoned content creators will find they get deep control over their sites, posts, and comments with either of these platforms. Choosing between Blogger and Wordpress.com largely comes down to personal preference. Wordpress.com, with its serious-looking dashboard and well-organized suite of tools, appeals to left brained or type A personalities, while Blogger’s colorful and more highly designed interface seems more
attractive to people whose eyes sparkle at the word “intuitive.” Less experienced bloggers may prefer a tool that will get them completely set up with a personal site in seconds, although anyone who’s truly committed to maintaining a long-term blog should take the time learn one of the more customizable solutions. Whether you’re completely new to blogging and don’t know where to start or are a veteran thinking about switching platforms, one of these four platforms could easily become the new host of your site. How do I set up a blog? Let’s assume you’re through these stages. Blogging is easy. You enter your details where it says “create account”. If you already have a Google account you can use it to log on to ‘Blogger’, as Google’s the owner. Other popular blog platforms include LiveJournal and WordPress. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be taken to the page where you’ll enter your data, upload your pictures and videos, whatever you want to do. You’ll get the option of allowing people to comment or not (whichever is your preference). Then, all you have to do is write your entry, hit “publish” and it’s live. It’s really as simple as that. Remember it has to be well written
and people’s expectations will be of a good website rather than a good book. Short sentences are better than long ones. Mention your subject as often as possible without labouring it in your first paragraph, as this will help your blog get listed prominently on the search engines. There will be a section for ‘tags’ – words you’d want to associate with your blog, which also help it come up in searches. You’ll also find buttons to help you upload pictures, videos, anything you’ve got that you want to put online. Word of caution Be careful. Just because someone’s said you can share something or put it on your site doesn’t mean they know what they’re talking about. Try searching for any Beatles song on YouTube and you’ll find someone has uploaded them and ticked the ‘share with anyone’ box. But they don’t own it. So you’d be best advised to use images and videos that you own, and no others. Keep it well written, keep it lively, tell your friends and they’ll probably tell other people. Before you know it, you’ll start growing a readership and exchanging ideas. - TYM Recommended blogging site you can start your blog on: WordPress.com Blogger.com Posteruos.com Tumblr.com
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There is no doubt South African music is as awesome as the musicians who create it. On any day, you can put this to test. The results will surely prove why it continues to be one of Africa’s most revered treasures. To put it calmly, South African music is that good. The music trade in South Africa has grown from its trial and raw stages to the present, where it is fair to say that it has come of age – literally. The successes chalked over the years, have been enormous if not inspiring. Today, South African music is appreciated not only by its people but also, by a global audience, the likes of Zahara, Freshly Ground, Lira, and HHP are literally international icons. Now South Africa is blessed again with The Soil, a 3-member Acapella group (but they see themselves as a 4-member group with God being a member of the group) is made up of Buhlebendalo Mda, Luphindo Ngxanga, and Ntsika Fana Ngxanga, are part of the new order of South African musicians creating amazingly unique music for the South African people. Mr. Sipho Sithole of Native Rhythms who opened the door for the trio, after other doors closed on their face, because of not understanding their “Kasi Soul” – a genre, which was self-inspired by the group, has given them a great platform to showcase their talent to the nation and it got them extensive appeal. Now, they are able to play to a sea of music lovers, who find “Kasi Soul”, an easily-adaptable genre they can groove to. “The Soil strives to fuse their voices to deliver melodic and harmonious messages that are aimed at uplifting and healing souls all around the world,” they’ve said.
in solo vocal performance to display their most beautiful rendition of the melodic verses embedded in each song,” a review on the quality of their style has suggested. Buhlebendalo Mda, who is also known as Buhle, is a “Soweto-born and only female member of the group”. She has always loved music and the attention that comes with it. For Buhle, The Soil completes her life puzzle: it’s her second home. Her lifelong dream has always been to work with the likes of Miriam Makeba, Mama Busi Mhlongo and Thandiswa. Ntsika, “Also dreamt of being on stage as early as primary school years and used school desks as drums, turning every song into dance music,” an information on their Facebook page read. The trio says “they are simply channels of the songs that they believe come to them from a sacred place where they just serve as mediums that help carry the message through,” hence the reverence for the fourth and invisible hand. Their self titled album, ‘The Soil’ has reached gold status! While many South Africans struggle, they have sold more than 20 000 copies of the album and has seen them perform at festivals and concerts, is “a culmination of years of dedication, hard work and a passion for the art”. In their interview with AFRIPOP magazine, the group who have just had one of their songs used as a title track
The trio met in 2003 when they were in high school at the Tetelo Secondary School in Protea North. From Friday jam sessions to beat-boxing competitions, they left high school with the sole aim of going out into the world, to conquer every obstacle that comes their way. And yes, they’ve almost done that. “We always welcomed individuals to come join us if they felt they were talented enough to join us. We started off with more than 25 people. Not everybody was dedicated. People had other commitments and other project they wanted to pursue,” they told AFRIPOP magazine. Their style has a large following across the world, especially in Africa, where the love for it is almost as touching and inspirational as the effort that goes into creating it. “The group’s musical style is evident in its rhythmic vocal bass line, with constant beat boxing a distinct feature in the music - whilst the remaining voices contribute to the choral and polyphonic accompaniment. Each of the group members takes turns
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for the Movie “Dark Tide” starring Halle Berry, say they are influenced by the works of other South African musicians, who set the tone for what has become a buoyant industry. “This may sound cheesy but we have to mention the South African ladies that have passed. Mama Busi Mhlongo, Mama Miriam Makeba, Brenda Fassie”. “It’s incredible
how we have seen our music transform people and we felt that we needed to honour our purpose. We see it as melodic medication for people’s souls. We understood from the word go that God was a very big part of this. It’s exactly the purpose he created us for”. When asked about their name (The Soil), they said: “The three of us woke up one morning and fell for the name “Particles of the Soil.” At that time, Phindo and I were studying at the Vaal and Buhle was working. We tried calling the other guys who were in Soweto trying to tell them the new name. “As we were about to dial they called us telling us that they think the name should be “The Soil.” It was such a scary coincidence. Same morning, same moment we thought of these names! We had a debate, “The Soil vs. Particles of the soil.” Then we thought why, become particles of the soil when we can just be The Soil”. And yes they didn’t become particles of the South African music industry; they’ve become major players, who are helping to make it better. In one of their interviews they did, Ntsika said, “We have established our own company under our name (The Soil), which was also encouraged by Native Rhythms. They did not say ‘we’ve signed you and now why do you want to have your own company’. Instead they said, ‘open your company and in due time we will invest in it and you will be our major competitor in the industry”. The third member of the group Luphindo Ngxanga, aka Master P, painstakingly kicks the bass drum, which is often accompanied by harmonic bass lines. Talking about their future and they said: “We on a mission of establishing a music academy. We realised that there is a need to know how an artist should get royalties, what’s there for you when your song is being played on radio. About the academy, we are doing it for all those kids who love the arts and we believe that South Africa has a lot of talent: we want people to embrace their talent and go further, they shouldn’t have to stay local but they should be able to stretch their wings internationally and we will be the start”. He continued saying: “The other vision we have is drawn from the soil itself as matter: the soil covers a lot of ground, and it is exactly what we want to achieve with the songs that we get on a daily basis. We would love to perform on all world stages and introduce this melodic medication to everybody out there: whether you’re a kid or old, across all races and genders. That’s the core vision, and of course a few Grammy’s along the way,” he told inspired4writers blog. - TYM
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Pictures: Google
source: thebftonline.com & facebook.com/thesoilkasisoul
By: Tebogo Ngwana & Simphiwe Mgidi
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he topic might sound cliché to others, but truth of the matter is, Nyaope still controls our communities at large. And this drug dilemma continues to harm the lives of families, neighbors and our societies as Nyaope abusers turn to commit crime in a form of stealing cellphones, home appliances, steelhardware and any item that can get them their next fix which cost between R30 to R50, depending on the seller you buy at. Nyaope users are typically between 14 and 27 years old, according to SANCA. Nyaope made a name for itself between 2000 and 2006 in the Tshwane townships of Soshanguve, Atteridgeville and Mamelodi. Now, Nyaope is becoming the ‘drug of choice’ among thousands of youth across South Africa. At other parts of South Africa Nyaope is known as ‘Sugarz’ in KZN, ‘Ungah’ in the Western Cape, ‘Pinch’ in Limpopo and Mpumalanga, and ‘Kataza’ in Johannesburg, Nyaope is not new but it is deadly. Different name,
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different area, but the same potent cocktail of ingredients is sometimes mixed with bicarbonate of soda, pool cleaner, even Rattex, to make it stronger and last longer, its small doses causes euphoria and a sense of warmth and wellbeing while larger doses cause drowsiness, feelings of being content, safe and relaxed. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), which offers talks and workshops in schools across the country on substance abuse there seems to be a predominance of students using Marijuana and Nyaope in many of the schools they visited. “There is also a large amount of alcohol abuse at home among parents and family members”, says SADAG’s Senior Trainer, Lefate Makunyane “The drug is cheap - about R40 a straw - and is easily obtainable”, says Makunyane. A highly addictive drug as it is, Nyaope Nyaope is smoked by heating it up and inhaling the fumes. “Small doses used to make me warm and feel high and happy-like”, says 16-year-old user, Lethabo. The rush
and ‘euphoria’ users feel initially, or the drowsiness and feeling of being relaxed caused by heavier doses, are soon replaced by the harsh realities of a heroin addiction. The heroin in Nyaope forces addicts to use increasingly stronger mixtures of the drug to get ‘high’ until they’re physically heroin dependent. “When I started using, I felt good and chilled”, says Lethabo. “Now, if I don’t use, my body is sore and in pain, and I feel sick”. Nyaope may be cheap to buy, but it isn’t cheap to treat. Treatment for heroin addiction is expensive because of the medication needed to handle withdrawal symptoms, says SANCA. And they warn that with the rise in heroin addiction because of drugs like Nyaope, there may be an increase in HIV infection because users tend to share needles. While Nyaope may make people feel ‘good’ for a while, the consequences are dire. “Addicts often become involved in crime and prostitution in order to get their next hit”, says SADAG. They often lead disorganised lives, don’t think
alcohol and causing trouble”, says David. Then the pain started. “If I wasn’t getting enough of the drug, I had real pain in my body. It felt like I was dying”. One night his mother offered to buy him a hit of Nyaope. “I was screaming and sweating, she was so scared but she was scared that I would die”. He refused his mother’s offer of a fix, instead he realised what this drug was doing to him and those around him. He got the help he needed”. People use until they lose so much weight that they die; people die when they’re high because they do stupid things. I’ll never go back to smoking again. I promise you I will never smoke this thing again. I will just sell it,” he said. So why sell a drug that is so destructive? “What else can I do? I don’t go to school anymore” I failed and was kicked out. And, David admits, R3 000 a day is a lot of money! The use of any heroin mix takes its toll on the body. Heroin is physically addictive and the body goes through serious withdrawals when Nyaope cannot be sourced. Use also leads to bacterial infections of the blood heart valves, damage to the liver and kidneys, and lung injury. Overdose often results in death and a monitory of addicts recover.
“The option for most is theft but women often turn to prostitution. As the drug takes hold and they stop thinking rationally, values and beliefs are forgotten,” Ms Violet Madosi, a therapist at Wedge Gardens substance abuse centre, which is run by non-profit organisation Rand Aid based in Edenvale, said. The majority of addicts never seek help. Of those who go for treatment, heroin addicts account for about 22% of all patients in Mpumalanga (where this mixture is called (pinch), 15% in the Western Cape (tik and ungu), and 10% in Gauteng have heroin as their primary drug. Although some rehabilitation centres offer subsidised beds for those in need of urgent treatment and without the means to pay for it, the reality is that the need often far outweighs availability. Source: SOUTH AFRICAN DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY GROUP (SADAG) Helpline SADAG: 0800 12 13 14 SANCA: 012 542 1121
Lethabo is not alone in his Nyaope-hazed world. Seventeen-year-old David is a dealer and makes about R3 000 a day. David started smoking with his friends in about 2004 when it was school holidays - he was bored and friends were pushing him to try it. “It just kinda became a routine ‘we’d smoke, drink, gamble, chat. By the time school went back, David was addicted and things started going badly, quickly. He started stealing everything he could get his hands on and could spend R3 000 a day on drugs. His mother started hiding things away and taking possessions to family so he couldn’t sell them. When he was an addict, he didn’t wash, eat, or do anything normal. He was failing at school - “ his quest for his next fix his only concern. “I spent my time playing dice, smoking, stealing, drinking
Pictures by: Lee Anne & Jacques
rationally and forget who they are in terms of their values and beliefs. “We lie, cheat, steal, abuse “anything to get the drug. We don’t care who we hurt. We forget about the people who care about us, says Lethabo, who is not in rehab as he thinks it won’t help “because heroin is too strong”.
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agenda where citizen works for what’s best for the country. Political Freedom or Struggle could have with ease been sold as Black against White but it was sold as freedom to all citizens, the Freedom Charter alludes to this too. Hence citizens of the world heard and acted on our plight. Emotions aside, let’s play this rationally; the question no one is asking is what economic freedom really is? It means one thing to the Labor Unions and another to Political kingpins? So where does this leave South Africa, me & you, together? This affects every South African challenge which can be solved without racial polarization or political notching. More so, economic freedom should not be defined by tendering and deal making, to me that is the miscarriage of economic development. Nationalization of mines and other resources is great only if they can be managed and operated better than South African Airways (SAA) and the Department of Education, to mention few. No illusions, economic freedom is not a hand over event, it is a continuous process of hard work, a journey not a destination. The land redistribution program’s performance statistics is a simple indication that, mere ownership and possession of farms do not mean economic freedom. If economic freedom means grants to the unemployed youth, to hell with it, what pride is there to salvage when leaders of tomorrow are relinquished to social welfare queues together with the aged? Economic freedom should never be a political tool used to lure support or mobilizing the poor against the rich or one race against the other. As things stand the economic freedom resonates more with the African youth simply because it was coined and sold to South African citizens as such, not because other racial groups do not subscribe. Economic freedom needs to be repackaged and be a South African
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Adapted from his book titled “Rules for Radicals”, Saul Alinsky is still relevant in his analysis of young people’s reaction to socio-economic challenges, “The young react to their chaotic world in different ways. Some panic and run, rationalizing that the system is going to collapse anyway of its own rot and corruption and so they’re copping out, destroying their own communities, taking drugs, resorting to crime, anything to escape. Others went for pointless sure-loser confrontations so that they could fortify their rationalization and say, well, we tried and did our part. And then they copped out too. Others sick with guilt and not knowing where to turn or what to do went berserk...” I however will like to argue that the young people today are more aware, wiser and with more resources not to cop out. There is nothing annoying like a series of viral emails but, it will be a miscarriage of knowledge sharing if I do not share with you this forwarded email on the “Secret of Nations” by Michael J Bonnel, a very
insightful piece of which I will regret not to have shared with you in the paragraph below. “The difference between the poor and rich nations is not the age of the nation, this can be demonstrated by countries like India and Egypt, which are more than 2000 years old and are still poor countries. On the other hand Canada, New Zealand, Australia which 150 years back were insignificant, today they are developed and rich countries. Rich or Poor do not depend on the availability of natural resources; a practical comparison of Japan and Switzerland versus Africa. Leaders from countries who interact with their counter parts from poorer countries show no significant intellectual differences no matter their race or colour. The difference lies in the attitude of the people, molded by many years of education and culture. Are we in this state because we hide in fear of being ridiculed, criticized and snubbed, and resort to saying “let it be”. Economic freedom will remain a nice tune to sing along to, a decent and noble cause to stand up for, but let’s define what it means and comprehend what it takes before we get carried away. Economic freedom bears transactional benefits to society but it is founded on the cultural transformation.
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‘’Now there were four men with leprosy at the entrance of the city gate. They said to each other, “Why stay here until we die? So, they got up and changed their situation.’’ (2 kings 7:3;7) I remember as a young child of God, every time when I had to introduce myself I would say, ‘’Hi, my name is Paul Light. I did not like the way I was born, so I decided to be born again.’’ From the opening scripture, we see a condensed story about the lepers that used to sit at the city gate all day waiting for hand outs. One day they questioned their situation. They said, “Why are we sitting here waiting to die?’’
You may feel like a failure now. You may have given up on life. You may have dreams that never materialized, and consequent to that, you have thrown in the towel. God is saying you can rise from the ashes. Dust yourself up and get up. (2 Samuel 12:20) ‘’Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate.’’ When you read 2 Samuel Chapter 11, you read about
Many people have given up in life. They are just waiting to die not knowing that waiting to die is tantamount to being dead already. Many folks have failed dreams, pasts full of disappointments and a quicksand of challenges, and as a result, they drown themselves in despair, drugs and alcohol. Part of the reason people who perceive themselves as ‘’failures’’ in life use drugs and alcohol is because these intoxicating substances makes pain more endurable and life more bearable. Life is not to be borne. Life is to be enjoyed. The master says ‘’…I am come that they might have life and have it more abundantly.’’ (John 10:10). He has come that we may live life to the fullest, not bear it. He spoke these words through Jeremiah, ‘’…I will heal this place and this people as well, and let them enjoy unending peace. ‘’ (Jeremiah33:6) It is God’s desire for us to enjoy His kingdom. Jesus says, ‘’ Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.’’ (Luke 12:32).
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how David committed adultery with Bethsheba, got her pregnant, and had her husband, Uriah killed and when you read Chapter 12, you see how Nathan
rebukes David, how the child dies and how David grieves and laments in fasting for the child. The bible records he spent the nights lying in sackcloth and refusing to eat when the child was sick, but after seven days, when the child died, David got up, picked himself up and moved on with his life. This is where many of God’s children fail. They don’t pick themselves up after falling. Failure is not falling down; failure is failing to pick yourself up after falling down. You can change your situation in the name of Jesus. You see, you may blame your past on others. You may even blame your present on others, but your future will be blamed on you. Some people blame their parents for their circumstances, but transferring responsibility will not assist you with anything. Others feel sorry for themselves and lament the whole day, but self-pity and lamentation will not change your situation. John 5:5-7 ‘’ There was a man lying there who had been sick for 38 years. Jesus saw the man lying there. Jesus knew that the man had been sick for a very long time. So Jesus asked the man, “Do you want to be well?” The sick man answered, “Sir, there is no person to help me get into the water when the water starts moving. I try to be the first person into the water. But when I try, another person always goes in before I can.” The master is asking, ‘’do you want to get well?’’ Do you want to be emancipated from your poverty? Would you like to break free from low self-esteem and regress? God says ‘’it is possible with Him.’’ By: Paul Light
Since the inception of BEE in South Africa, most South Africans were under the notion that anyone can now be a business person. Without appropriate research, skill, commitment or even the love of what they want to venture into, the business in the short-run will fail base on factors mentioned before. TYM – went out to gather information on what persuaded other entrepreneurs to establish their own businesses. Godfrey Mathebula (32) Owner: Mooi-Kahle Kitchen Unit It was never his dream to be in the carpentry industry, but after many years trying other business ventures, he ended up getting a learnership in carpentry. He went through training and whiles he was doing that, he researched about the industry and saw a gap in his community that: the current service providers are expensive for no reason. That’s what motivated him to compete with a reasonable price.
if you running everything on your own. One of the reasons that influenced the two to start hospitality business was the 2010 Soccer World Cup, but they also strategized for the aftermath of the World Cup on how they will sustain the business after.
Lee-Ann Heyns (25) & Joseph Pieter (29) Owners: L&J Guest House With Lee-Ann holding marketing diploma and Joseph having experience in hospitality, these two are a match-made team to be in the industry of hospitality, which also needs marketing expertise to direct clients to their business (Guest House). In business, you can’t be jackof-all, as other departments might lack
Aubrey Maseko (28) Director: Bokamoso Business Consultation (BBC) From studying banking in university and later completing his Bcom in economics through UNISA, he took-over his father’s business that was specializing in business research and advisory. Because of his passion in business, generally, he saw this opportunity as a great move to
fuse his academic theory and business knowledge in order to expand ‘BBC’. Zanele Mthembu (24) Co-Founder: BlackEye Fashion Lifestyle Zanele and her brother Derrick, formed a fashion house that not only design wedding garments but also casual wear which is influenced by African colours. What pressed them to establish the business was base on the fact that both have designing skill and also saw a niche – market of African casual wear for most people who want to wear home-brewed clothes, rather than international labels.
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Is saving some money every month something that only rich people should do? According to Tendani Matshisevhe, marketing and communications manager at Sanlam Sky Solutions, while many believe only rich people can save, this is not true. If you don’t start saving now, you could find yourself in big financial trouble years from now. What are the reasons for not saving? Matshisevhe says as South Africans, we face many obstacles to saving. Food prices are rising, petrol prices are high and electricity is expensive – all pushing up the cost of living, and decreasing what we have left to save. But he says while these expenses are very real, it’s no excuse not to be saving. “You must start saving now, and the younger you are, the better. Saving should become part of your daily activities, and you should be disciplined.” He says we can all find one or two ‘luxury’ items that we can spend less on. “Take airtime. We buy on average R300’s worth of airtime every month. Maybe we can look to buy less. Or perhaps don’t buy alcohol for this weekend. Or maybe don’t go home every month (for those that work far away from home), but go home once every three months. In hard times like these, you must be clever about saving.” Matshisevhe says if you earn around R3500 a month, you could try to save around R300. For those earning less, he recommends trying to put away R200 a month. “Then try and put this into a bank account or savings product and leave the money there. You will then see something is happening to that money: it is growing thanks to the interest you are earning on it.”
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He says everyone should speak to a financial expert, who would then do a ‘financial needs analysis’ to assess your specific needs. “This will help you determine your short-term savings goals and your long-term goals. Short-term goals may be saving towards a wedding or a car. Long-term goals would look at saving for the day you retire.” He says it is very important to have money saved for an unforeseen event or crisis. “Put money aside now, because you never know when you might need it. You might need a deposit for a house. Or you might need it if you become ill.” Matshisevhe has a stern warning for both youngsters and pensioners alike. For the youth, he warns against spending your company pension when you change jobs. “Lots of the youngsters change jobs these days. So you work for three years for a company and belong to its pension scheme. But when you change jobs, you ruthlessly spend the pension on shortsighted things. If you do that, then you’ve lost three years’ worth of saving.” He advises rather to keep that money saved in a savings or retirement product. Matshisevhe also warns against using credit cards, and getting into big debt. As South Africans, we spend on average 40 percent or more of our salary paying off our debt. “We live off credit cards, and then stay forever indebted to the credit lender.” He says South Africans particularly get into debt over December. “People spend a lot of money over the festive season. But this is shortsighted. Rather put some money away, so that when January comes, you still have money for your basic bills, like school fees.” - TYM
Don’t give up yet. Try and keep your operational and product costs low. When the season is over you will find yourself siting on a better position and ready to even capitalize more on the upturn of the economy to grow your business even more. Procrastination steals business success. Do whatever it takes to ensure you do not lose momentum.
We live in harsh economic times. The world as we see it today has taken a course which not only has affected large multinational corporations but the small entrepreneur as well. Millions of businesses have shut down because of the recession. The question any entrepreneur should be asking themselves is how will my business thrive during harsh economic times. Will you be counted amongst those who went down with the recession or not. I am also aware that there are those who thrive in the midst of chaos. These are businesses that seem to be blooming when everybody else is collapsing under the yoke of recession. To thrive in the current climate you must be able to think creatively. There are no limited opportunities;only limited minds. Big thinkers make a sale everyday even in this harsh climate. The entrepreneur with a limited mind-setfails to see massive opportunities which can be taken advantage off. He always speaks of how hard doing business is. Here are few things that will help you thrive and never stop growing. 1. Don’t Wait For Tomorrow Now is the time to start your business or even expand your business. Don’t make a mistake of waiting for a turnaround in the economy. If your service or product does not become redundant soon you will be kilometres ahead when the tide turns.
2. Don’t stop marketing In the olden days marketing could only be done through print media and later on TV. If your business did not have substantial amounts of money to keep your marketing campaigns alive you would have it tough. Resilient entrepreneurs went door to door when faced with this challenge. Today it’s easier, social networking has put a powerful tool on the hands of every entrepreneur, even Richard Branson uses it. You can put your brand on the eye of your target market through Twitter and Facebbok and achieve great results. On twitter you can search for people in your area and beyond it who like what you are selling and connect to them. Some businesses use email newsletters and blogs to spread the word. You can go online to print your flyers and business cards for close to nothing.
time in Johannesburg because they make me feel like a king. I tell all my friends and family about it and always take them there. Word of mouth advertising is a result of having a satisfied customer. When you deliver a predictable quality service it will in turn transform into a loyal customer base and these become your ambassadors. Their value can go a long way is growing your business. Tshepo J.Phalwane is the CEO of Mawelane Events (Pty) Ltd, a business & Leadership Management company. He is also the Founder of The Billionaire Mentorship Academy in Johannesburg. He is a passionate speaker and Coach on Personal Development. Twitter: @ThinkLikeAMogul
3. Learn from those who have done it before There is nothing that is so sad like watching young entrepreneurs commit mistakes they could have avoided if they found someone local who has had business success and seek advice from them. Keep learning. Successfulentrepreneurs are students. Learn from your past mistakes, learn from others mistakes, failure can offer you the best business lessons you can ever get. A college diploma or degree will not teach you the million rand lessons failure can teach you. So make sure you associate with those who know what they are doing. It will cut your long road short and save you a lot of money. 4. Remember That The Customer Is King People talk about what they like and places where they get the best service. There is a restaurant I frequent all the
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This is a new page dedicated to Mr Nelson Mandela for spending 67 years making the world a better place. The Nelson Mandela Foundation created an official Mandela Day, to be celebrated annually on 18 July, Mandela’s birthday. Now, the Mandela Day campaign is calling out people to commit 67 minutes of their time “to volunteer by assisting the needy and help change the world around them. Now, TYM will be profiling various organizations and individuals who are still doing positive change in various communities even after Mandela Day has passed, as a way to show others that good deed can still be implemented even after or before Mandela Day. On our current issue, we went through profiles of individuals that are making positive change in their communities/ initiatives.
youth to give back. With the tagline “Love, peace and mo’ cheese”, Cheesekids enables like-minded, privileged youth (those who have “cheese”) to pay it forward to those less fortunate through a range of programmes, from painting classrooms, building houses and cleaning gardens to spending time with children who “need love”. And Sisulu’s approach — making community service “cool” — is working: of Cheesekids’ 8500 member volunteers, half come back to help. And they bring friends. By providing a platform for corporate social responsibility programmes, he’s turning Cheesekids into a sustainable model and an incubator for projects members wish to activate.
Andrew Barrett Co-founder: Siyakhula Education Foundation Shaka Sisulu Founder: Cheesekids for Humanity Shaka Sisulu is the perfect example of how much good you can do when you use your privilege for the benefit of society. In continuing the legacy of the great Sisulu family, 32-year-old Sisulu is an Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellow, sits on the advisory council of the Public Sector Excellence Awards and the boards of both LoveLife and the Foundation for a Safer South Africa. Plus, he’s “The Big Cheese”— the incredible guy behind Cheesekids for Humanity. In 2007, after building houses through Habitat for Humanity, Sisulu and his friends found themselves wanting to do more. In formalising their growing volunteer “movement”, Sisulu created Cheesekids as a fun, accessible political platform for
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Andrew Barrett is convinced that how things are is not how things have to be. He believes that, as South Africans, we have a sad privilege: it is relatively easy to make a significant difference in the life of someone who needs it. Which is exactly what he is doing. As co-founder of the Siyakhula Education Foundation, which supports community-based organisations and grassroots social enterprises, Barrett works with two selfsustaining computer training centres in Gauteng to deliver low-cost, high-quality computer literacy training to the township communities of Ivory Park and Diepsloot. The foundation also provides support to ikamvaYouth, — an academic support programme that helps township students to improve their exam results and gain access to tertiary education. The foundation established two ikamvaYouth branches in Gauteng and has played a significant role in IkamvaYouth’s scaling
participated in the 2008 World Economic Forum and a South Africa Washington International Programme 2010 alumnus. Believing that education is key to poverty eradication and equality, Bosman, at 24, currently manages the basic and higher education portfolios for the British Council in South Africa. We can expect to read much more about Basson — and the changes he’ll be making to illuminate his country’s true colours.
toughest and most rewarding of his life, and encouraged him to start the Sandisa Ubuntu Foundation to help high-potential, under-resourced schools to become true centres of learning. In 2010, the foundation adopted Mbele’s old school, Kholwani Primary, as its pilot; it runs the school and raises funds for a school hall, media and arts centre. Mbele has secured R20 000 from Nedbank, convinced the Soweto Gospel Choir to donate food and equipment to the school feeding scheme and even got Roedean school to adopt the Grade R Centre for a year. With newly painted classrooms and a renovated library stocked with books donated by Morning Live, you can see Mbele’s touches everywhere. It’s all part of his belief to “lift as you rise”.
Articles & Pictures from ysa2012.mg.co.za
strategy to produce an all-too-rare example of a successful collaboration between two independent non -governmental organisations with common objectives. He is passionate about creating sustainable solutions that provide high- quality, affordable and accessible education to improve the lives of those who would otherwise remain trapped in the cycle of poverty. He draws strength from like-minded individuals who are similarly invested in making positive contributions and he is always inspired by those who are working hard to improve their circumstances, often against all odds. It is no wonder then that some of his most gratifying moments include sharing in the joy of a family whose child is the first member to be accepted into university or learning that an ex-student has secured employment or landed a promotion because of new-found skills made affordable and accessible through the foundation’s centres.
For more info visit: ysa2012.mg.co.za
Musa Mbele Founder: Sandisa ubuntu Foundation
Gillion Bosman Chairperson and co-director: youth End Poverty Growing up, Gillion Bosman could never accept a black-and-white version of South Africa. Inspired by Nelson Mandela and encouraged by his mother to expect more from the world, Bosman aspired to change his country. His belief that the youth have a significant role to play in building a better South Africa has translated into many meaningful contributions that continue to inspire and develop an active “now generation”. Basson is not only the chairperson and co-director of Youth End Poverty, a youth-led development initiative, but also a Global Changemaker who
Musa Mbele is not part of the “born free” generation. Instead he embodies the patient, fighting spirit of the man freed in the year of his birth — Nelson Mandela, whom he gave as a character reference when interviewing for a place at St Stithians College. To understand this you have to understand where Mbele was coming from: a Soweto high school he describes as a place where learners went to sleep, not to learn. But unlike his fellow learners, Mbele didn’t equate free time with freedom. At 14 he started educating himself on ways to secure a better education, calling companies to ask for scholarships to study at his “dream school”, St Stithians. In 2006, he worked his way into the VIP section of Youth Day celebrations and a conversation with then-education minister Naledi Pandor, saying “Mama, I’ve been looking for you.” It gave him another door to knock on until, eventually, with support from the Mandela Rhodes Foundation and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, one finally opened when St Stithians offered him a full scholarship. The two years that followed were among the
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I’m no fashion designer or the perfect tailor guy, but I compliment my vision on the value of design, art, detail, functionality, and the most important ‘style’. Don’t judge me on this, maybe some of these tips I’m about to dish out, you might already been exposed to, because one thing about fashion, it sleeps around and spread like a virus gone mad. Listen and pay attention when I say the modern female does want uniqueness and individual style much more than the arrogant male does. Think about the following scenario….. A female walks into a social gathering and sees two other women wearing the same dress as hers. Almost any women would think of this as a nightmare. Now let’s look at it from a male’s point of view. A male walks into a club and sees two other men wearing the same suit as his; trust me when I say most male’s would think of this as a positive. Thoughts l like: ‘looks like I’ve dressed well for the occasion’ or ‘I fit right in’. I’m not saying all males feel like this but this will come to most male’s minds. I’m just saying….. Because women appreciate unique style much more than males, most fashion designers place a much stronger focus n females clothing, than in the males, but all that has changed, the perfect tailored guy puts on a lot of detailed design on his suit, but this can be risky
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By Desmond Mashego @1Mr_Dezzel
at times because too much detailed design can end up making you look like a Christmas tree. I want to advice the modern female & male to try and adapt into the African European look, this style has a bit of both. You can look European and still keep it local, and unique at the same time, since this style is maybe not noticed by many or is underrated. I know the men don’t like shopping at designer shops, because they prefer shopping at shops they see on television.
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I urge the modern male and female to put this significant/unique style to practice. Always remember that accessories are very important since the African beads are in, they will go very well with what u put on. There’s one thing about fashion that people tend to take lightly, I’m talking about the walk guys. The walk is very important you can’t be look so hot and gorgeous, but your walk doesn’t compliment your style. If the walk wasn’t so important we wouldn’t be having the runway. I’m just saying your walk must match the look. I hope the pictures I’ve placed here would give you an idea on your look for this summer.
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Design duo Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have build a fashion empire named D&G (Dolce & Gabbana) which includes clothing, accessories and cosmetics. The Italian brand has been in existence for over 25 years now and it still surmounts the fashion industry on and off ramp. By 1989 Domenico and Stefano opened their boutique in Japan and a year later they D&G hit the American market. The prime factor that raised D&G to more - greater heights was its collaboration with some of the music industry’s most iconic divas such as Madonna, Kylie Minogue and even soccer stars like Fernando Torres, Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard are dressed by Dolce&Gabbana. The company boasts two central fashion lines. Dolce&Gabbana specialize in formal and timeless luxury pieces, while D&G consists of casual, urban style that appeal to younger, more flamboyant dressers. Their fragrance Anthology inspired by the game of Tarot and accessories also have their share in their market.
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Born in the Capital city of Botswana, Gaborone, Diphetogo Dipsy Selolwane is a centre forward player who plays for the newly promoted side in the PSL, University of Pretoria. The 34 year old was born in a family that a person can say is a family that soccer runs through their veins. “My mother is a huge football fan, so I always had a ball around the house. I was born with the love of the game” said Selolwana who first played for Gaborone in the Botswana Premier league. After playing college football at ST. Louis University and being named first- team all-American in 2001,Selolwane was 36th overall in the 2002 MLS Super draft by the Chicago fire. The Botstwana international has represented his country over 100 times. Selolwane ended his illustrious international career with the Zebras after the orange African cup of nations 2012.
Diphetogo’s future plans are to give back to Botswana by helping, grooming and growing young talent. “I’m looking to scout and develop talent in Botswana. I have a lot of ideas and by the grace of God they will come alive,” said a father of a year old daughter Rohle. He ended by mentioning that it won’t be easy playing in the PSL. “The PSL is a tough and competitive league and we as TUKS are taking each game as it comes. We have only played 5 games so we just want to collect as much points as we can” he concluded.
The soft-spoken star paid tribute to all those who have supported him over the years especially his family. “No words can describe playing in the Maiden Nation’s Cup, It will forever live in my heart. I believe I have served my country well and done my part for my country. It is time for me to leave and let emerging young talent take over, I have lived my dream and I retired because I wanted to. I have consulted different people before coming to such a decision. I leave behind many memories which make me proud.”Said the 34 year old. The baby-face player has been changing teams and in some teams he did well and others, he failed to impress. Selolwane was traded to Real Salt Lake after the 2004 MLS session but failed to make an impact and was released during the 2005 season. In four years of limited action in MLS, he scored three goals. He returned to his home soil Botswana and then to South African’s Premier Soccer League making his debut at his first PSL club Santos, before moving to Jomo Cosmos after having a very disappointing 2006/2007 season at the people’s team. He only made two appearences at Ezenkosi and joined Ajax cape town in the early 2008. During his time playing with the Urban Warriors, he was converted into a midfielder and earned a move to the then league champions supersport united in July 2010. Playing for the league champions, he was an alternative midfielder. This is when the newly PSL promoted Tuks snatched him after Matsatsantsa released him. He has found a new home and has even been given the captaincy band. “Playing for Tuks has been a great experience. We have great facilities, good stuff and a good blend of young and old players,” said the Tuks captain.
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By Thabiso Molope @themkingzone
The Chelsea defender John Terry handed a four-match ban and $220,000 after he was found guilty of racially abusing QPR player Anton Ferdinand. The scene took place when the Blues were facing QPR at Loftus Road on 23 October 2011. Terry who has already retired from international football was charged by the Football association on Friday 27 July 2012 with using abusing and insulting words towards the QPR player. The FA confirmed the results of the captain]\n of the Stamford Bridge hearing saying” an independent Regulatory commission has today (Thursday 27 September 2012) found a charge of misconduct against John Terry proven and has issued a suspension for a period of four matches and a fine of $220,000, pending appeal.
Thomas Madigage assistance coach Bafana Bafana was killed in a car accident on the 18th of October 2012. Tributes kept pouring-in from twitter users, especially celebrated people from the likes of John Robbie, Loyiso Gola, Mark Fish, and others . Robert Marawa tweeted; “The route between Burgesfort and Polokwane has sadly claimed one of the most hard-working and quieter Legends of the game. RIP Thomas Madigage” and Kaizer Chiefs FC tweeted; “The Amakhosi fraternity would like to express heartfelt condolences to the Madigage Family and relatives on the sad loss of Thomas, RIP.
The springboks made the nation proud on the home soil by beating the Aussies 31-8 at loftus versfeld in the castle Rugby championship on Saturday 29 September 2012. This looked like it was the best performance since Heyneke Meyer took charge of the springboks in January. The wallabies had horrible night with injuries, and by using all seven subs to play the last nine minutes with just 14 men. The belonged to Brian Habana who scored a hat trick that have the homes boys’ victory. This win enabled the Boks to maintain their 100%record against Australia at Loftus Verfeld
By Thabiso Molope @themkingzone
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Microsoft Surface – This 10.6” beauty comes in two versions: one running on Windows 8, another running on Windows RT. Unfortunately the new Windows RT won’t run your usual Windows softwares, it does measure a bit thin than the Windows 8. Both will offer either 32 or 64GB internal storage. Some outstanding features on this tablet are a full cover keyboard on the backside and interesting ready apps. Let us put it to a test, and see if will forget about Apple iPad mini.
Sony SmartWatch – This Android watch features an easy-to-use, ultra-responsive touch display on OLED screen. You can also download compatible apps for your smartwatch on Google Play, you can see Facebook updates, tweets, emails and calendar on it. For class lifestyle, this baby comes in at the right time of apps apps apps… world!
Sony Xperia P – The Xperia P boast the brightest display of all smartphones on the market. It’s tested and proven – TESTfactory compared the Xperia P display with eleven other high class smartphones. And Xperia was given an approval stamp of being the best from the rest. Apart from HD videos and pictures, Xperia P Android phone, it has Google Mobile Services built-in. Smartphones will always revive its market.
Nike+ FuelBand – The band measures your activities throughout the day as well as counting calories burned, steps taken and telling the time in sync with the intuitive mobile application (app). The band app is designed for Apple’s iPhone 4, iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 as well as iPod Touch 3G. Nike on this one, they just did it!
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Autonet – This device is designed to be a car router which will transform your car into a WiFi hotspot regardless of where you are, and it’s an ideal device for travelers and families on a long journey who loves internet. Your car a hotspot? We hope not everyone will know about it if it does not require password access.
Teargas - Number Number (Hip Hop) Hip Hop trio “Teargas” has finally released their long-awaited fourth album after three years from their previous album, “Dark or Blue”. The new album features 2 Face, from Nigeria on the track Turning Tables, Lily Million on “Forgive Me”, Toya DeLazy on “Paradise” and Ziyon from Liquid Deep on “Put U On”. The most popular track at the moment has to be “Wake Up” which they also shot a video for. Other tracks that got my attention are Party #88 and Number Number. The album is one that can be listened to at any occasion and is suitable for any mood. 9/10
Eastern Cape born and Johannesburg based Xhosa hip hop artist, Ifani has an established reputation in the underground hip hop scene. Pronounced Ayifani or Ifunny, means “not the same “ in isiXhosa. Ifani is best known for his independently released singles, “ewe” and “see live”. He recently sealed a deal with Sony Music Africa, which will result in the release of a single track and music video titled, “shake” in October. Stay tuned for another promised to be a heat from Ifani.
Mandoza and Gabi Le Roux are making a come-back as a brilliant team together, when coming to an artist and producer working together. The once popular cross over kwaito tune “Nkalakatha” which was released 12 years ago, is set to be remixed. The two are reworking on the track to give it today’s new sound elements that relate to current music consumers.
The Sword - Apocryphon (Pop/Rock) The Sword streamed their new songs from the album, Apocryphon on their web. I got a chance to listen to it before it’s official release on the 22nd of October. I must alert you that rock music is not one of my ideal sounds, but The Sword changed my music perspective within 68mins of listening to them. Nothing new has been added to the rock sound or way of singing, but they are cautiously dabbling in new sounds rather than drastically altering their direction. The drummist, Trivett Wingo surely knows how to operate his hands on the drums. This 15 track album has some great tunes to it such as, Cloak of Feathers, Dying Earth, Apocryphon and my favorite Seven Sisters. 7/10 By Mduduzi Ngomane @hussamosa
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47%
39%
Maggie Benedict aka Akhona
Jabulani Tsambo aka HHP
Warrick Stock aka DJ Warras
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One of South Africa’s rising stars “Choko” aka Boichoko Qwabe (27) born in Bloemfontein and bred in Kroonstad, like so many greats before her, is finally ready to step into the spotlight. She rendered an unforgettable performance when she made her first national appearance on the SABC 2 show Gospel Times in 2005, and after years of honing her craft, Choko is finally ready to release her much anticipated debut album. The album which features personal songs such as “Baile”, “Kerobegile” and “Uzenzile”, songs that deal with strong themes of addressing issues of responsibility and making choices that eventually have a great impact in one’s life. The album also has couple of happy easy dance songs. Where did it all start? Choko started her musical journey at church; a background that in so many ways explains the soulful influence in her debut album. What’s next? She will be having her own show set for the 2nd of November at The Promusica Theatre in Roodeport, CHOKO LIVE promises to be the sultry singer’s official introduction into the world of music. Supported by music heavy weights such as Kwela Tebza and Howza, Choko is thrilled to finally share her music which she has been working on for a couple of years. Follow her @boichoko and for bookings: bookings@boichoko.com
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Ralf GUM needs no introduction to house-heads and house-lover.He is one of the most respected figures in the house music scene for the distinctive qualities in his exceptional productions and DJ-sets. Since Ralf’s DJ career started in 1990 he always stayed true to his passion for cool and diverse house music;harmony, Soul & Groove – are the main ingredients, but just some aspects of Ralf’s typical sound. Ralf has worked with a variety of artists from Robert Owens, Kenny Bobien, Wunmi, & Monique Bingham just to name a few. He is the founder of “GOGO Music” and has also released not only well-known but also well received songs such as: the soulful hit of 2008 “Kissing Strangers” featuring Monique Bingham, “Complicated” featuring Kafele followed in 2010 and now “Take Me To My Love” still featuring Monique Bingham, which is the most played tune on radio and clubs currently. Pretty Lebese asked Ralf five questions that everyone would love to ask. 1. You have played in many out-door events and clubs, but which one will still be in your Life-Timeline? It’s difficult to choose from many events that I played at, as many I will not forget them in my career, but one of the events that I will possibly never will forget, It has to be the “Vodacom Festival” that was held in Orlando Stadium in Soweto on the 1st of April 2012. It does not happen too often that deep house music is played to a crowd of over 20 000 wholehearted people, with a set up and stage usually only pop stars have.
2. You seem to be a great team with Monique Bingham, any reason for that? Apart from being a great vocalist, she is also the best lyricist in house music. I like her style of song writing as her lyrics portray a good story. And she’s one artist who puts her undivided time to her craft. 3. Which other ten clubs outside SA and Germany did you play at? Uuhm... That’s if I remember, but you know they are more than ten right? [Laughs]! - 360” (Dubai, UAE), “El Devino” (Ibiza, Spain), “Amika” (Miami, USA), “The Room” (Tokyo, Japan), “ECU/ Echoes” (Rimini, Italy), “Garito Café” (Palma de Mallorca, Spain), “Disco” (Sao Paulo, Brasil), “Volksgarten” (Vienna, Austria), “Soulstice” (Oslo, Norway) and “Oxa” (Zürich, Switzerland). 4. What triggered the decision to emigrant from Germany to South Africa? The answer I’m about to give you, is what I have told other media’s. I made good friends with DJ Christos, Oskido, Fresh, Black Coffee and others in SA and the business opportunities were also a factor as I got more gigs this side. Now that I’m based here, this will give me a chance to assist local talent to get international recognition. 5. Which other up-coming local producers you predict great future for them? SA has many talented producers and dj’s which makes it tough for me to select one as others I’ve already worked with or met, but for now it has to be Da Capo, Trancemicsoul, Sir LSG and Essential I. Follow Ralf GUM on twitter @ RalfGUM and for bookings in SA www. katsaitismusic.com
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AMSTEL GOLDEN HOUR LIGHTS UP MACUFE The Bloemfontein night sky was lit up by Amstel Golden Hour at the Macufe Festival last month as a fireworks display introduced Zonke on stage. Festival goers were promised an incredible musical moment, and they received far beyond their expectations. Proving that SA Music gets better with Amstel, not only was Zonke provided the opportunity to perform with a live band and string section orchestra, but to the delight of the fans, she was joined on stage by her close friend and singing sensation Unathi Msengana. The fans were crazy with delight, and then Amstel Golden Hour provided another surprise when Zonke was later joined by her sister Lulu Dikana on stage. The crowd were driven into a frenzy as Zonke closed off her set with her hits, Jig’Izinto and Feelings. “Amstel Golden Hour took SA Music to another level at Macufe this year. As a brand, we are humbled to have had the opportunity to be part of such an incredible musical event.” concluded Diederik Vos, Marketing Manager Amstel Lager following the performance.
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Mercs Answer BY: ROBERT MABUSELA @Robert_Mabusela Mercedes Benz is taking an aim at the top performing premium hatchbacks within the “Big Three” German brands with its plans to launch the A45 AMG, which is the flagship of the model range from Merc`s A class offerings. Merc has taken a bold step by dubbing the A45 AMG a possible RS3 killer, not because Audi is any greater than its German rivals but because of how Merc has used two top hatchback models as benchmarks for their A45 AMG Competition in the hatchback segment is tight with competitors including BMW`s M135i and their main target the Audi RS3 amongst others. Merc has always benchmarked it`s sports cars amongst the top three German brands. Although from the previous A class range there has not been a model produced in the range that could compete in the less powerful Audi S3 and BMW 130i league, but as soon as Merc unveiled plans of 42a model they didn’t limit creating such the capability of Mercs performance. The A45 will be powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which will be the most powerful fourcylinder engine Merc has produced. It Is one cylinder shorter than Audi`s 2.5 liter turbo engine which powers the RS3 and two of BMW`s 3.0 liter six-cylinder Twin turbo engine, it will be interesting to see all three rivals go head to head. Mercedes plans to use a similar system to Audi`s Quattro system, the A45 will transfer power to all four wheels via a twin-clutch gearbox and a Haldex-alike multiple clutch four wheel drive system. This sounds complicated but essential enough to propel Merc`s “RS3 killer” from 0-100 in five seconds. According to www.autocar.co.uk, “MercedesBenz insiders suggest it will match the claimed (0-100 km/h) time of the M135i “, but the RS3 does the dash in Just 4,6 seconds. On paper the A45 is able to match the M135i`s performance, but will this be another case were figures are
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good on paper but tell a different story when they officially go head to head on the tar? Not to mention that the RS3 will be 0,3 seconds away from the Merc The A class has always appealed more to consumers as a mom’s car, so one would think that it will be more reasonable for the brand to start matching its performance with models like the Audi S3 and most probably the BMW 130i. The A class hasn’t had a model that could compete in the S3 and 130i league but as soon as Merc unveiled plans of creating such a model they didn’t limit its capability of. On paper, this is may seem to be a bold step but we shouldn’t rule out the possibility that Merc could give Audi a taste of its own medicine as we have seen Audi`s smaller capacity engine giving their bigger counterparts a run for their money, in the case of the S3. The battle between Audi and BMW in the hot hatch segment has been going on for years while Merc has been absent, but credit goes to the brand for jumping into the competition.
Pics source: www.google.co.za & www.forcegt.com
r to Audi`s RS3
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French manufacturer Peugeot has always been associated with aesthetic designs, slick lines and futuristic interiors. Peugeot designers have come up with a concept car that`s performance is based on the French Manufacturer`s Le Mans 24 hour racer car. The mid-engined Onyx supercar concept will be powered by a 3.7-litre V8 hybrid engine which is similar to the one that is used for Peugeot’s Le Mans programme. Developing 447kw that will be transmitted to the rear wheels through a six-speed sequential gearbox .The kilowatts developed by the hybrid’s V8 engine are estimated to propel the concept from 0-100 in 2,2 seconds .Extra power will come from the push of a button, the Onyx boosts an extra 60kw with the help of a boost button that will give extra power when needed. Peugeot`s energy system features a Kinetic energy, a light weight supercar that weighs in just over a ton at 1100kg.
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Pics source: www.google.co.za & www.forcegt.com
Byline: By Robert Mabusela @Robert_Mabusela
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Support exchanges hands at Spin City Opening
By Robert Mabusela @ROBERT_MABUSELA
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A challenge when hosting Spin City events has always been the support from spinners and the measure of the events success, petrol heats and motoring fans attending the event. October marked the beginning of a new era in the spinning industry and the beginning of consistent Spinning events at an official spinning venue in Pretoria West. Motoring enthusiast in their numbers attended Westside Connect Crew`s Spin City Grand opening, a day that will go down in the history books of the Spinning industry as contributions to the industry will be made in Pretoria West. The event featured local and guest spinners from as far as Botswana, local spinners showed their support to Zwikhodo “Ziko” Nembambula, who he has always supported other spinners at their events. The Sheriff, Thuto Rasegojwa returned to the opening after making his debut at one of the buildup events to Westside Summer Bash. The Sherriff provided the crowed with spinning from a Botswana perspective during his performance, while other guest spinners included Speed and Sound (SnS) Spin Army spinner, Sunesh Pursad and Vernon Veejaro Hendricks who made his debut at the event. Soshanguve Spin Kingz member, Bongani “RBM” Makhubo and Sunesh Pursad showed comradeship during the event. Makhubo and Pursad were the top two spinners who put up the most performances at the event. Mamelodi Spinners member, Mabitsi Kekana`s reverse and one “RN1” signature move seemed to be a crowd pleaser, as supporters waved their hands back and forth simultaneously to Kekana`s performance Zwartkops and Mayhem Raceway`s were the only venues in the Pretoria West where people can go out and enjoy a day of motoring but both venues didn`t cater for Spinning events on a regular basis and this is where the opening filled in the gap. Apart from performances by people who weren`t featured as spinners which brought up mixed reactions from the crowd, the event set a benchmark that will keep supporters returning for more action.
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