Varsity News: Edition 6 by VARSITY

3 June 2020 | Volume 79 | Edition 6

UCT Students Begin a Phased Return to Campus

Caitlin MacDonald

Source: Wordpress

The university administration has presented a plan for the incremental reopening of the campus

inal-year medical students are returning to UCT, heralding a gradual return of the student population to campus. Three categories of students will begin the phased reopening of the campus and university residences. According to university executives, these groups will return in the following phases: Phase One – final-year medical students. Phase Two – vulnerable students. Phase Three – those who need to use campus facilities to complete the academic year. Phase Four – all students to campus, circumstances permitting

that one proposed model would triangulate socioeconomic disadvantage, lack of connectivity, and a consideration of the student’s year of study. Once identified, these vulnerable students will return to university residences, national regulations permitting, in order to continue remote learning with tutorial support. The Student Representative Council (SRC) has called for the urgent implementation of phase two in aid of academically vulnerable students.

During a two hour online special assembly on Thursday, May 14th led by Vice-Chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng and the UCT executive, Pro- “level three of lockdown will allow for a maximum of 33% of fessor Loretta Feris, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Transformation, out- the student population to return to campuses and university residences” lined this four-phased approach to the reopening of the campus. Prof. Feris emphasized that this plan will be enacted in accordance with risk-management, fairness, equity, and National State of Disaster regulations. She went on to detail that incoming staff and students will be This plan will proceed in accordance with the easing of the national screened for COVID-19, provided with personal protective equipment lockdown. On Saturday, May 23rd, the Minister of Higher Education, Sci(PPE), and accommodated in a manner that allows for social distancing. ence and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande, announced that level three of lockdown will allow for a maximum of 33% of the student population to return to campuses and university residences with an additional 33% “this plan will be enacted in accordance with risk-management, of students joining their peers under level two and the remaining student body returning under level one. fairness, equity, and National State of Disaster regulations” A task force from the Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching is developing the criteria for the identification of academically vulnerable students due to return in the second phase of the campus’ reopening. In a virtual sitting of the Student Parliament on Thursday, May 21st, Undergraduate Academics Coordinator, Lance-Selae August, reported

UCT’s prioritised admission of final-year medical students echoes Dr Nzimande’s call for this cohort to complete their academic year. These returning medical students must undergo a 14-day quarantine before commencing their work at Groote Schuur Hospital. According to Prof. Feris, conversations concerning the return of other Faculty of Health Sciences students are ongoing.

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NEWS

Leading UCT Scientist Joins Dr. Gray in Rebuke of Lockdown Several leading scientists on the Ministerial Advisory Committee have criticised the regulations imposed in South Africa’s national lockdown.

Source: News-Medical

Rebecca van Besouw

inisterial Advisory Committee (MAC) member, Dr Marc Mendelson, a UCT professor and Head of the Division of Infectious Diseases & HIV Medicine at Groote Schuur Hospital, has called for restrictions to be immediately revoked. Expressing concern for the state of South Africa’s economy, he has stated that the lockdown is “doing more harm than good”. This belief is shared by fellow MAC member, Dr Glenda Gray. Gray, a physician specialising in HIV medicine and president of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), who has stated that the monthly de-escalation of lockdown restrictions lacks scientific basis. Although she agrees a lockdown period has been necessary to slow the spread of the virus and allow the healthcare system time to prepare, she contends many of the regulations put in place during the lockdown have been nonsensical. Gray has argued that South Africa’s young population are being denied their education due to the closure of schools, observing that cases of malnutrition in children had risen since the beginning of May. She shares the opinion with several other scientists that the national lockdown will have a strongly negative impact on South Africa’s socio-economic wellbeing and should be immediately dismantled in favour of protective measures such as social distancing, handwashing, and the wearing of masks.

“the national lockdown will have a strongly negative impact on South Africa’s socio-economic wellbeing and should be immediately dismantled”

The lockdown, spearheaded by Minister of Health Dr Zweli Mkhize, began at National Alert Level 5 on Sunday, March 26th, and was subsequently downgraded to level 4 on Friday, May 1st. Lockdown regulations have included shelter-in-place orders, restrictions on outdoor exercise, the closure of businesses and non-essential services, and restrictions on buying certain commercial goods such as open-toed shoes. The South African government has asserted that the national lockdown has been beneficial, stating that it has slowed the spread of the virus greatly. Mkhize has criticised Gray, stating that her comments were “devoid in truth”. Considering the continued concern that the government has not listened to the advice of the MAC, the minister said that all of the advisories submitted by the committee have been accepted.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a speech addressing the nation on Sunday, May 24th, that because of South Africa’s quick containment response, the country is now “in a much better position than many other countries were at this stage in the progression of the disease.” President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a speech addressing the nation on Sunday, May 24th, that because of South Africa’s quick containment response, the country is now “in a much better position than many other countries were at this stage in the progression of the disease.” He also stated that the government “continues to ensure that our response is informed by the best available scientific evidence.”

NEWS

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Biden accused of sexual assault

Uganda Court orders the release of LGBT+ members arrested during the nationwide lockdown Ugandan Court ordered the release of 19 LGBT+ people arrested by authorities on March 29th

Source: Business Insider

Presumptive Democratic Presidential nominee Joe Biden has been accused by a former staffer, Tara Reade, of sexual assault in 1993 while he was a US Senator for Delaware. Jeremy Simpson

I Jeremy Simpson

Source: NY Daily News

n Monday, May 18th, a Ugandan court ordered the release of 19 members of the LGBT+ community jailed for almost 50 days on trumped-up charges of negligence.

The shelter residents’ eventual court victory comes after their lawyer from Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum (HRAPF), Patricia Kimera, was not allowed to visit her clients for at least five weeks following their arrest. The Instead of Uganda’s controversial magistrate’s court cited the Direcanti-homosexual law, the coro- tor of Public Prosecutions’ withnavirus-induced lockdown acted drawal of charges in its ruling. as a pretence for the arrests. The raid took place on March 29th in Nsangi, near the Ugandan capital “Patricia Kimera, was not allowed Kampala. 23 people were arrested; to visit her clients for at least five weeks following their arrest” however, only 19 were charged. The shelter, maintained by the Ugandan LGBT+ activist group, Children of Sun Foundation, housed homeless members of the LGBT+ community in a country where homophobia is rife and gay sex is punishable by life imprisonment. Members of the Ugandan Parliament, as well as a government minister, have pushed for laws to punish homosexual acts with the death penalty as recently as October 2019. Since then, attacks on LGBT+ communities in the country have risen. Sitting outside the shelter, the group was interrogated by officials. According to Sky News reports, Mayor Hajji Abdul Kiyimba whipped the occupants with a four-foot cane when the answers were not to his liking. Charles Senna, who works at the shelter, said the police kept asking why there were condoms in the house. “Then they changed to asking why there were so many people in the shelter ... and saying that [the shelter resident’s] were failing to follow the directions of the president on social distancing.”

The HRAPF had previously requested that the charges be dropped as the order issued by the president limited the size of gatherings in public places and did not extend to shelters. This is not the first account of prejudice against the LGBT+ community during COVID-19 lockdowns. In Morocco, numerous gay men have been outed and at least one person has committed suicide after the transgender social media influencer Sofia Talouni encouraged her followers to ‘out’ people. She believes that “it’s better [for them] to just admit it”. In Morocco, homosexuality is criminalized and homophobia rampant, putting these people in danger. Many staying with family during this lockdown potentially face violent reactions from them. The United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS has reported violence against LGBT+ people in other countries including Puerto Rico, Egypt, Cameroon, and South Korea during the coronavirus pandemic.

n March of this year Tara Reade accused Joe Biden of sexual harassment while she worked as his staff assistant nearly 30 years ago. Mr Biden is currently the presumptive nominee who will head the 2020 Democratic ticket in hopes of unseating President Donald Trump.

“According to Ms Reade’s account, Biden pinned her to a wall and digitally penetrated her in a semi-private corridor of the US Senate.”

at the time she had told him that Biden had touched her neck and shoulders. He later clarified in a text message that his sister told him she had been sexually assaulted. On Friday, May 1st, Mr Biden issued a statement in response to the allegations more than a month after Ms Reade made them public. However, he claimed to support a woman’s right to be heard, saying that “when [women] step forward they should be heard, not silenced” and invoking the long-standing post-#MeToo dictum: “believe women”. Mr Biden added that these stories should also be subject to appropriate inquiry and scrutiny– claiming that this story was untrue.

Tara Reade, who initially accused Mr Biden of inappropriate behaviour such as unsolicited touching or hugging, came forward with far more serious allegations in an interview with podcast host, Katie Harper, in March 2020. Accord- “Nevertheless, Mr Biden has ing to Ms Reade’s account, Biden previously been accused of pinned her to a wall and digitally unwanted touching, hugging, and kissing.” penetrated her in a semi-private corridor of the US Senate. On pulling away, Reade alleges Biden said, “Come on, man. I heard you liked Republicans, reeling after backlash for placing men accused of me”. sexual assault in prominent posiAccording to two friends ap- tions of power, have pointed out proached in a New York Times what they believe to be hypocritinvestigation, Ms Reade had de- ical behaviour. Prominent Demoscribed the details of a traumatic crats have challenged this position, sexual attack by the former Vice claiming that evidence against President to them in 1993 and 2008. those men showed a pattern of The Times, however, was unable to abuse, something they claim has corroborate the claims with for- not been the case with Joe Biden. mer staff members. Furthermore, Nevertheless, Mr Biden has previthey claim there was “no pattern of ously been accused of unwanted sexual misconduct by Mr Biden”, a touching, hugging, and kissing. cornerstone of much of the Me-Too According to the New York Times, era reporting on sexual assault. court records from Reade’s 1996 divorce show that she had com“when [women] step forward plained of sexual harassment while they should be heard, not working at Joe Biden’s Senate Office. The records neither mention silenced” Mr Biden by name nor the claim that she was sexually assaulted. Her brother, Collin Moulton, initially told the Washington Post that

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EDITORIAL

The Collective EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tiyani Rikhotso editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za

We Will Not Mask Our Strength

DEPUTY EDITOR Gabriel Vieira editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za MANAGING EDITOR Vacant: Apply now! managingeditor@varsitynewspaper.co.za SENIOR COPY EDITOR Brad Brinkley copyed@varsitynewspaper.co.za JUNIOR COPY EDITOR Savannah Costello juniorcopyed@varsitynewspaper.co.za ONLINE EDITOR Kelsey Maggott online@varsitynewspaper.co.za CREATIVE DIRECTOR Micayla Manthe creativedirector@varsitynewspaper.co.za NEWS EDITOR Jeremy Simpson DEPUTY NEWS EDITOR Caitlin Macdonald news@varsitynewspaper.co.za

Savannah Costello

s the country moves into Level 3 of lockdown, we’re beginning to picture social isolation as something more permanent in the foreseeable future.

With new measures in place, we are expected to continue persevering through this strenuous period. However, adapting to this new lifestyle has caused anxieties to emerge and can affect the way we manage our stress. For us students, these feelings of academic and emotional pressure are especially true. The UCT community is no stranger to hardship, and at some stage during our academic careers, we may have learnt what our limits are.

Although we miss our social freedom, it is crucial we continue adhering to social distancing guidelines, despite the easing of lockdown restrictions. While many of us are only now worried about the uncertainty that awaits us, think of those with terminal diseases, financial struggles, and victims of unsolicited violence. This pandemic has made us more aware of the adversities of our people, and through this turbulent period we have been given the opportunity to be more empathetic towards our fellow South Africans.

“The UCT community is no stranger to hardship, and at some stage during our academic careers, we may have learnt what our limits are.”

“We at VARSITY give gratitude and recognition to all those sacrificing something during this pandemic.”

If online learning is becoming difficult to manage, seek the help you need; speak to your tutors and lecturers about assisting you during this time. Make use of UCT’s services, such as free online and telephonic access to Student Wellness services, or the new ‘Hum Peer’ system where students can be paired together to share support- you may just form an unexpected friendship.

FEATURES EDITOR Natasha Nkutu features@varsitynewspaper.co.za

Additionally, when you start feeling anxiety and panic as a result of the global crisis, allow yourself to withdraw from the influx of information, and take a deep breath.

OPINIONS EDITOR Julia Rowley opinions@varsitynewspaper.co.za SPORTS EDITOR James Braham sports@varsitynewspaper.co.za ONLINE NEWS EDITOR Seth Meyer onlinenews@varsitynewspaper.co.za ONLINE FEATURES EDITOR Hannah Van Teylingen DEPUTY ONLINE FEATURES EDITOR Laylaa Edross onlinefeatures@varsitynewspaper.co.za ONLINE OPINIONS EDITOR Temwani Nyama onlineopinions@varsitynewspaper.co.za ONLINE LIFESTYLE AND SPORT EDITOR Rukaya Mosavel onlinesport@varsitynewspaper.co.za

STAFF WRITERS Sarah Lagardien Abdullah William Barron Lerato Botha Nelisa Khwela Stefan Kirsten Bathandwa Magqaza Ntsako Mlambo Asenathi Ntamo Jack Phillips COLUMNIST Mikhail Manuel columnist@varsitynewspaper.co.z SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Salma Noor Mahomed socialmedia@varsitynewspaper.co.za SOCIAL MEDIA CORRESPONDENTS Kendal Davids Zintle Mfaku

What would it mean for our country to unite in these difficulties? Strength. Compassion. Resilience. Pride. This is what I hope for, and I know this is what the UCT community is made of. We at VARSITY give gratitude and recognition to all those sacrificing something during this pandemic, to whatever degree it may be.

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Applications are open for 2020!

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Brad Brinkley Nelisa Khwela Motsi Macheka Tiyani Rikhotso

DESIGN Micha Mae Cerf Reabetswe Khutsoane Ntsako Moavodi

from the creative team:

5 BOOKS EVERY AFRICAN SHOULD READ Kelsey Maggott 1. Steve Biko, I Write What I Like

Steve Biko’s love for African people and his dream for the world to have a more human face echoes off of each page of this book. As the father of Black consciousness, he focuses much of his writings on seeking to infuse every black person with renewed life by liberating them from the mental shackles of what he defines as their inferiority complex. Biko articulates himself so profoundly and embodies a man so free that no amount of police interrogation, detention and eventually death could take that away from him.

2. Donald Woods, Asking for Trouble: The Education of a White African

Donald Woods, a white anti-apartheid activist, writes about his life as a journalist for a liberal newspaper which led him to Steve Biko. The book recounts their friendship, including debates between them, where Woods grapples with Biko’s worldview, until Biko is killed in police custody. The reader follows Woods journey enduring police harassment forcing him to flee the country in order to publish Biko’s writings and reveal the truth about his murder to the world.

3. Pumla Dineo Gqola, Reflecting Rogue: Inside the mind of a feminist

Gqola shares experiences in her life, from a Black woman’s perspective, in which themes of gender and race intersect. She explores the politics of black hair and the policing of female bodies and critiques how she was socialised. She also reflects on her role as a mother and feminist to her son.

4. Nelson Mandela, Favourite African Folktales

This is a book of thirty-two African tales, old and new, chosen by Mandela himself. These “beloved stories, morsels rich with the gritty essence of Africa” contain moral teachings and explore rich African traditions. Some stories being as old as Africa itself, this book is a treasure to be passed on to future generations.

5. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Half of a Yellow Sun

This novel is set on the backdrop of the Nigerian Civil War in the 1960’s. Historical and cultural events that happened during this time period are recounted. Chimamanda shows the reader the painful effects these events have on the lives of five very different but intrinsically connected characters.

*Book cover images from amazon.com

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FEATURES

Lives vs Livelihoods Reabetswe Khutsoane

Balancing the effect of the national lockdown

he national lockdown was initially announced as a means of delaying the spread of COVID-19. With the hard lockdown bringing most economic activity to a halt, the phased approach to the easing of lockdown regulations was introduced as a way of balancing the fight against the pandemic while salvaging the economy. Alert Level 4 has allowed for some economic activity to resume, including the operation of mines at 50% capacity and the sale of winter clothes. According to the government’s initial plans, the sale of books was limited to educational books and e-commerce would be limited to essential goods, however, these were both amended during the course of this alert level allowing both of these to operate fully, with the exception of tobacco and alcohol. These amendments were originally only permitted under Level 3 of the national lockdown.

“In a statement by the SARS commissioner on Tuesday, May 5th, he stated that there has been an increase of 12% in liquidations.” The ease of regulations from a hard lockdown to Level 4 has still left many companies with closed doors, and the informal economy is still restricted in its operations. The lockdown has left both businesses and employees without an income. This has led to a number of South Africans finding themselves in a poorer state than they were in before the lockdown began. In a statement by the SARS commissioner on Tuesday, May 5th, he stated that there has been an increase of 12% in liquidations.

“The financial relief being offered needs to be compensated for and the government needs to open up the economy to generate some revenue.” While the government is doing what they deem best to save lives, the pandemic has heavily impacted the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of South Africans looking to the government for help. With the government increasing expenditure in the health sector in the fight against the virus, there is little tax revenue from lost tax revenue from the formerly employed and companies that are undergoing liquidation. The financial relief being offered needs to be compensated for and the government needs to open up the economy to generate some revenue. While the economic repercussions of the lockdown may be catastrophic, this should not need to come at the expense of human lives. While economic recovery may seem like a far-fetched ideal, a lost life cannot be revived. With COVID-19 cases on the rise, a move from Level 4 to Level 3 still poses the threat of an increase in infections, however, the economy needs to be salvaged. To best balance the lives and livelihoods of the people it serves, the government should continue the gradual easing of regulations, while monitoring each stage and assessing the related risks and benefits. This approach prioritises both people and the economy, instead of the economy being saved with lives being collateral damage.

So, Adele Lost Weight – Who Cares?

The different opinions on Adele’s new figure and why we’re so obsessed with it Emma Sacco

amous singer-songwriter Adele recently celebrated her 32nd birthday, posting a picture on Instagram that has since received a lot of controversial attention in the media. The photo shows Adele wearing a short black dress and heels, but what has caused the controversy has been the new slim figure that Adele shows off in this pic.

praising this weight loss, with one Twitter user saying, “Adele has always been attractive you’re all just fatphobic”. Another person concerned with the attention Adele’s photo received tweeted: “people just hate plus-sized women”.

It is this unnecessary and obsessive attention that we put on female celebrities and their bodies that has led the vast majority of women in our society to believe they need to attain a beauty standard that is seemingly unreachable. Adele loses weight; she’s All of this talk around Adele and praised for finally conforming to her weight loss begs the question: society’s skinny standard for womwhy is it such a big deal? The short en, but she is also blamed for makanswer: because we live in a soci- ing those with plus sized figures ety that bases our worth on two feel the need to do the same. “Many commented on her photo things; how much you work and about how much “healthier” and how much you weigh. As women we can’t win when it how much “better” she looks comes to our body image. Either since losing weight.” too fat, too thin, too thick, too Source: Smooth Radio All of this talk around Adele muscly – there is no such thing as and her weight loss begs the the perfect female body image. While Adele hasn’t actually com- question: why is it such a big So, here’s a wild idea: let’s stop Adele’s weight loss is ultimately none of our business, and hopemented on her recent weight loss making such a big deal out of it. deal? fully she’s happy about the perpeople have jumped to social mesonal choices she has made about dia to have their say on the matter. Until we, the ‘ordinary’ people her body. But maybe next time Many commented on her photo The fact that Adele’s weight loss of our society, stop treating the another celebrity loses weight, about how much “healthier” and has “blown up” speaks to how ob- weight loss in famous women as instead of taking to social media how much “better” she looks since sessed our society is with the way something earth-shattering we with varying opinions on the matlosing weight. that famous women look; every- will never be able to liberate our- ter, we can instead ask ourselves: one feels the need to express their selves from thinking we need to “Okay, so what?” Other people took to Twitter to opinion about the 15-time Gram- adhere to the same skinny stanexpress their anger at people my Award winner’s appearance. dards.

FEATURES

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Exploitation in the modelling industry ANTM unveiled the hidden realities of the Modelling Industry

Source: The List

Simoné Visser

ay 5th saw Tyra Banks and America’s Next Top Model (ANTM) trending across Twitter as some highly questionable ANTM clips resurface. These clips depicted Tyra, co-hosts, and judges demeaning, manipulating and harshly criticizing contestants, including instances of blackface, fat-shaming, health-threatening photoshoots as well as racist and ignorant remarks.

“The way they were portrayed and treated on the show was often demeaning and regressive.”

Size 8 and higher is still considered ‘plus-size’ and the runways still lack diversity. Models are still minimized to ‘hangers’ for designers’ clothes and subject to racism, sexual harassment, fat-shaming, extreme hours and conditions, and are, with the exception of supermodels, underpaid, in debt to their agencies and unrepresented.

“Models fear standing up for themselves or others in uncomfortable situations in the workplace”

Models often feel voiceless because they are considered “expendable” Banks reportedly started the show to create a platform to showcase – there’s always another hopeful, younger, skinnier model waiting in diversity and help girls achieve their modelling dreams. Although she line. Models fear standing up for themselves or others in uncomfortdid create a platform to represent models of multiple races, ethnici- able situations in the workplace out of fear of being considered “difties, cultures, bodies, and sexualities, the way they were portrayed and ficult” – which would minimize their reputation and their opportunities. This has led to the concealment of what truly goes on behind the treated on the show was often demeaning and regressive. However, the show purely reflected the societal attitudes of the 2000s scenes. While the most famous models may be allowed a say in their - when the show was at its peak – and the dreadful practices within the treatment and conditions, the lesser-known models aren’t afforded the luxury of a voice. modelling industry. The runways and magazine-covers of the 2000s were seriously lacking in diversity; with the majority of models being tall, white, cis-gendered, “They simply push through and conform, knowing that if they don’t, able-bodied, and skinnier-than-ever. It was not uncommon to see vulthey risk replacement and missed opportunities.” nerable 14- or 15-year olds on the cover of Vogue, with the increase in eating disorders becoming a grave concern. This was due to the lack of regulation in the modelling industry and reflected the mainly Eurocen- Thus, models hardly complain when they are paid in clothing instead of cash and rarely speak up about sexual harassment or their agencies tric beauty standards of the 2000s. telling them to lose unhealthy amounts of weight if they expected to Although there has been an increase in representation within the in- achieve success. They simply push through and conform, knowing that dustry in recent years as well as activism for better industry standards, if they don’t, they risk replacement and missed opportunities. America’s Next Top Model was a discomforting symptom of its times the changes have been slow and minimal. and the industry it aimed to feed its contestants into. This should spark an enquiry into what truly underlies the apparently glamorous façade of the modelling industry.

WHAT BEING AN AFRICAN MEANS TO ME A White African Kelsey Maggott

Africa is home. I take great pride in being born in Africa and knowing that my ancestral lineage goes back three generations in this continent. However, I feel obliged to identify as a white African. By doing so I wish to acknowledge my skin colour and culture as a marker of my privilege and positionality within Africa. It acknowledges the oppressive and exploitative history of my people in this land. Additionally, the term reinforces that I should not allow this history to hold me back, but rather to support my commitment to transformation within Africa. This transformation being white Africans shifting their Eurocentric worldview to that of honoring and valuing the African way of being.

Thus, my African identity is very important to me as I feel that I have a responsibility to embody and advocate for equality by engaging in open and truthful dialogue and challenging social constructs in an African context.

The Layered Experience of the African Consciousness Temwani Nyama

Like any other 20-something-year-old, I “stan” my playlist to the extent that I’m convinced that my compilation skills are an inherent personality trait. My playlist ranges from East and West African ‘classics’ by Fatoumata Diawara, Fela Kuti and Khadja Nin to contributors of the contemporary Afrobeats moment like Bongeziwe Mabandla, Burna Boy and Mr Eazi to big names in the Afro-diasporic musical space like Kokoroko, Stormzy and Michael Kiwanuka. But it wasn’t until recently that I realised that my playlist’s cultural and geographical shifts were in some ways reflective of the layered experience of my positionality as an African. My African identity was a world constantly in motion. It was a series of continuous shifts and alternations between subconscious domains of other positionalities that composed my African identity including blackness, ethnicity, national identity and trans-diasporic identity. It was these temporal alternations that framed my lived experiences as means for navigation through this identity—a navigation which revealed the positionality’s positive traits but also its internal problematics.

In Africa there is a diverse amount of black African cultural and religious traditions that have been held sacred and honored throughout time. Being born in Africa I have the privilege of being a witness to the resilience of black African people within a dominantly western culture. This resilience inspires me to keep challenging my western conditioning. Although my lineage departs from European origins, to my knowledge, I have no living relatives who were born outside the continent of Africa. Image: Anita Maggott

Call Us By Name We do not need new ones. Ntsako Mlambo

We are sons and daughters of Krotoa and Maqoma; we have been given names that are prayed for. We have been given names that detail our history and expose the crossings of our lineage. Names are an essential part of who we are as Africans. A person’s name is the greatest connection to their own identity and individuality. Saying someone’s name properly brings satisfaction and shows a deep sense of recognition and respect. Owning your name and being proud of it is a deeper ritual. For me that is what being African means; owning the truth in your name. The world will give you many names, some will bring you joy and some will be heavy on your spirit. But a name that you will certainly be most proud of is your first name, the one you were given in your first moments of breathing, the one you were given when your mother claimed you as her own.

Since we live in such a diverse continent with such a high linguistic diversity, the issue of naming and being named is layered. Many people are often afraid of owning their names because they have been made to think small of their names. In my opinion not saying someone’s name properly, changing or tweaking it so it is easier for you to lift or not putting any effort to say it right is not okay. When you do this, you are robbing them of their existence and their value as human beings. In my instance, my name is Ntsako Mlambo , Ntsako means joy in Tsonga and my surname means river. My name has attached purpose to my life, as I would like to believe that I am a joyous person and just like my surname my joyful energy continues to spread and flow like a river. On many occasions when someone learns my name, they often pronounce it wrong. Most of the time I feel as though it unsettles me and bothers my joy but it is important for me to command respect for my name until it is said correctly, so I don’t feel misunderstood in any way. Clan names are also an essential part of identity as they explain history, saying them wrong would only erase the extent of history.

Saying someone’s name and getting it rightshows your sense of Ubuntu, which is an African philosophy we as Africans live by. Learning and saying someone’s name says, “I see you, I acknowledge you, I value you.” Never make anyone feel afraid of carrying the weight of their name. Saying names right is a ritual we must live by religiously. This is how we know that we are sons and daughters of Krotoa and Maqoma, they were not afraid to be called by their names, correctly.

Image: Provided by writer

Image: bandcamp.com

In terms of the positive navigations, there was the experience of ‘spiritually’ coming into my African identity. This was when I had joined my Jewish uncle and cousin for Shabbat celebrations for the first time. During the lighting of the multi-coloured wax menorah that Friday evening, my nine-year-old mind was preoccupied with the images and posters that decorated the walls with figures like Yaa Asantewaa, Kanyama Chiume, Menelik II, Hatshepsut and Jomo Kenyatta. I felt connected to those figures because in some ways we had shared experiences of existing in this world. However, for the same reason, this metaphysical connection, I experienced difficulties with my positionality. With experiences of injustice in African and Afro-diasporic spaces-- the most recent concerning figures like Collins Khoza, George Floyd, Uma Omozuwa-- I somehow shared in those experiences of social dying. And so, there exists a sort of trans-geographical and trans-cultural connection that makes you share in the death of systemic subjugation.

Image: Provided by writer

These experiences develop(ed) from the matrix of subconscious positionalities that compose(d) my African identity. And so, my identity as an African and its associated experiences are a complex result of constructions of myself within culture, geographical space and continuous time. In some ways it feels like a doubled consciousness—as if my lived experiences exist in continuous motion within multiple dimensions during different temporalities. This is how I’ve come to know the African identity as the world in motion. So, if I ever bring up my playlist in a conversation, know that it’s something worth listening to.

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OPINIONS

Those Words Are Not Welcome Here! We were oppressed differently and we freed ourselves differently

Source: Times Live/ Thulani

Ntsako Mlambo (Child.of.Afrika)

n the 7th of May 2020, black businessman Peter Ngwenya was sentenced with a fine of R24 000 or 12 months imprisonment. Additionally, he is solely suspended for three years for using the k-word against Investec CEO, Fanti Titi. The law of crimen injuria makes it illegal to say the k-word, even if it is said by a black individual addressing another black individual. During the conviction stage, senior prosecutor Yusuf Baba argued that the use of the K-word us derogatory and that the race of the person it is used by is insignificant.

Marcus Garvey, a world icon, started an organisation called UNIA (Universal Negro Improvement Association). He used this organisation to instil pride in black communities worldwide, and after that many started using the n-word as a form of emancipation. The culture of using the n-word transpired into other corners of life like music, literature and art. Since then, black communities use this term amongst each other as it has been normalized. However, it still carries a lot of baggage as white Americans cannot use this term when addressing a black individual as it stands as a reflection of the past.In South Africa the k-word has not been embraced and accepted by the people.

“the use of the k-word is derogatory and that the race of the person it is used by is insignificant.”

Nowhere in South African history was it used as a way of liberating the black community. The prominent movement that instilled pride in being black in South Africa was the Black Consciousness Movement, led by Steve Bantu Biko. There were many other movements as well but they too didn’t use the k-word as a form of freeing the black community. During this time black pride was promoted in music, art and literature. The act of saying the k-word, however, was never promoted in our country.

Peter Ngwenya deserves to be held accountable and punished. A man who is highly esteemed like himself cannot be allowed to dehumanise and strip the dignity of others; with his recent actions he has proved to be very irresponsible with his power. He is well aware that he is in the public eye and that many young people who are looking forward to going into the business sector aspire to be like him – as he stands as a reference of being successful. What moral and values is he instilling in young people? The court’s ruling on Peter Ngwenya is fair: it stands as a point of educating the rest of South Africa that the k-word is not to be tolerated. The historical context of South Africa and of the United States is not at all the same - we cannot possibly be equated. The n-word in America was used as a note of oppression, to strip dignity and to dehumanise black people; the k-word in South Africa was used in the same means. The difference is that in America the term was used against black Americans for quite an extensive amount of time, leading the black community in America to eventually embrace it.

The k-word is derogative and should not be used by anyone. It is true that black Americans use the n-word and it is normal for them but that does not mean it should be the same for us - we are different. Our histories do have similarities but they are not the same.

“Our histories do have similarities but they are not the same.” We are not the same; we were oppressed differently and we have freed ourselves differently. We are not to be compared on any basis.

DISCLAIMER

This section of the VARSITY is a vehicle for expression, on any topic by members of the UCT community. The opinions within this section are not necessarily those of the VARSITY collective or its advertisers. Letters to the Editor need to be kept at a maximum of 300 words and can be sent to: editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za

OPINIONS

@VarsityNews | 3 June 2020 | V79 E6 | Page 11

The Release of Prisoners during Coronavirus Outbreak in SA Prisons Highlights Rights Violations Government Negligence leads to inhumane living conditions - jeopardises prisoners’ health duing pandemic

Source: http://www.scielo.org.za/

Chloe Kingdom

everely overcrowded South African prisons pose a new level of health risk towards its correctional services population. The case is serious, considering the vulnerability of inmates in a system where they lack personal autonomy. The number of confirmed Coronavirus cases has spiked within the last week due to increased testing conducted by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS). As of Monday, 19 May, 605 cases and four deaths were confirmed with both inmates and officials – inmates being disproportionately affected.

“These inhumane living conditions are a violation of prisoners’ rights.” If any other group of citizens were detained by the state for any purpose under the same conditions, there would be a national outrage.The public’s concern about conditional parole is valid given the rampant lawlessness in many South African communities. Parole supervision is expected to mitigate the risk of recidivism (i.e. convicted offenders arrested on similar offences). However, supervision resources will be strained due to the large number of inmates being considered for early parole, which is a concern for communities. The government believes that releasing them in stages will alleviate this issue.

The United Nations has advised countries to reduce their prison populations to comply with contagious disease protocol. In compliance with these regulations, the department will consider the eligibility of 19 000 low-risk offenders for conditional parole, who have either completed their minimum period of detention, or who will complete it within five years’ time. Overcrowding should decrease by 12.15% at the end of parole placement. However, this measure alone is not enough to combat the high The Correctional Supervision and Parole Board will prioritise those with rate of overcrowding and the unhygienic living conditions in prisons underlying health conditions, the elderly (aged 60 years and older), which promotes infection. The department’s 2018-2019 budget of 23.8 and women with infants. Importantly, inmates’ sentences are not being billion rand has been squandered building more facilities to detain ofreduced; rather, their reviews for parole placement are being brought fenders, as opposed to investing in support structures, like education forward to decrease the number of prison residents.The government’s programmes, which have been proven to decrease crime and recidivism hastened response to the outbreak begs the question: Why are inmates’ rates. This hampers the department’s efforts to successfully reintegrate living conditions considered untenable during a health crisis, if the gov- people back into society after serving their time: Inmates face stigmaernment treats them as acceptable under “normal” circumstances? tisation and high rates of unemployment with their lack of experience and skills that development programmes in prison can otherwise pro“Why are inmates’ living conditions considered untenable during vide.

a health crisis, if the government treats them as acceptable under “normal” circumstances?”

Although conditional parole is not a perfect solution, recidivism from early parole placement is only a low risk towards communities at this stage. The gradual release of low-risk offenders on parole continues to Minister Ronald Lamola of the DCS has stated in the ‘Special Coronavirus constitute a violation of their rights whilst conditions in prison remain Covid-19 parole dispensation statement,’ issued on May 8th, that the na- unimproved. tional level of overcrowding in prisons is at 32.58%, with 38 636 prisoners left unaccommodated. Inmates report bed-sharing, sleeping on the floor, and broken urinals as the norm. These inhumane living conditions are a violation of prisoners’ rights.

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@VarsityNews | 3 June 2020 | V79 E6 | Page 12

OPINIONS

Surfing: Can’t it wait? Why the need to surf should be the least of our problems.

Source: Sowetan Live Lerato Botha

he lockdown regulations have presented a multitude of issues for the South African nation. Large families have been forced to accommodate one another under one small roof, whilst some students have started online classes without the proper environment for at-home learning. In addition, women, men and children have been stuck at home with their abusers, employees have been retrenched and left uncertain of where their next paycheck may come from and the poor have been disenfranchised. Unemployment rates are also expected to rise from an already staggering 29% to almost 50% according to the Chamber of Commerce. Yet, amid all this chaos, others’ main concerns are when they can catch their ‘next wave’.

They have expressed that the regulations against surfing “reflect the actions necessary as recommended by scientific advice from world leaders in pandemic medicine” and that they should not be defied. Essentially, the call for surfing restrictions to be lightened is an isolated and insignificant issue.

“Yet, amid all this chaos, others’ main concerns are when they can catch their ‘next wave.’ ”

“the call for surfing restrictions to be lightened is an isolated and insignificant issue.“

On the morning of Tuesday, the 5th of May, a group of surfers at Muizenberg beach protested the prohibition of surfing which had been passed by President Ramaphosa. Many of these surfers stated that they did not understand the risks that their surfing would pose, despite the fact that we are facing a global pandemic. Now although I firmly believe in the right to peaceful protest, I truly feel that there are greater issues at hand during this current world climate. Given that we are in the midst of a global pandemic, without a clue as to when this all might end, I feel that for the time being we should all hold off on large public gatherings such as gathering at the beach to surf. Apart from the fact that their gathering to protest for an inconsequential issue poses a risk in itself, the board of Surfing in South Africa also condemns their actions.

Yes, it has been tough; for months on end we have been confined to our homes, unable to see friends and family and unable to truly enjoy ourselves recreationally without considering the risks of contracting the virus. However, surfing cannot be the main priority at this point in time. There are many things that we would all love to do with our time. I too understand the need to get out of the house and do something worthwhile, nonetheless, I think our first responsibility as a people is to keep both ourselves and those around us safe during these trying times.The more we comply, the less time it will take for life to get back to normal - and surfers will be allowed to get back in the water whenever they please.

“Apart from the fact that their gathering to protest for an inconsequential issue poses a risk in itself,the board of Surfing in South Africa also condemns their actions.“

DISCLAIMER This section of the VARSITY is a vehicle for expression, on any topic by members of the UCT community. The opinions within this section are not necessarily those of the VARSITY collective or its advertisers. Letters to the Editor need to be kept at a maximum of 300 words and can be sent to: editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za

OPINIONS

@VarsityNews |3 June 2020 | V79 E6 | Page 13

Mask Wearing: Politicizing a Product How the politicization of mask wearing is just Trump’s insincere repetition of his voting base’s sentiments. Jack Phillips

hy doesn’t Donald Trump, as the president of one of the most powerful countries in the world, during a serious global pandemic, wear a mask? If you ask him, this is what you’ll get, “This is voluntary, I don’t think I’m gonna be doing it…” and “As I greet presidents, prime ministers, dictators, kings, queens ... I don’t see it for myself, I just don’t”.

can one’s political orientation so strongly determine one’s opinion on something like abortion? How are these things in any way related? Once upon a time, the US government didn’t even know they were, or think they should be. They left that issue to individual states and partisanship played no role. But when Richard Nixon wanted a way to swing catholic voters in his direction, he sought something to get them Is that to say that wearing a mask to help cap moving – abortion. the spread of the virus is unpresidential? It’s a strange thing to think about, surely it’s the Catholics deemed abortion immoral, and when presidential thing to do? Surely it’s becoming the Republicans echoed this sentiment, they of a leader to act in solidarity and in the best in- voted their way. Of course, the Republicans terests of his country? Surely it shows presiden- didn’t care about abortion, and if Catholics were tial authenticity and integrity? A reasonable pro-choice, so would they be. Given that Biden, person might agree it does. Perhaps rejecting contrary to Trump, strongly advocates mask to do so and displaying this same old, narcissis- wearing and indeed does so in public, Trump tic, superficiality we all know so well to “dicta- makes it a partisan issue. He doesn’t wear one, tors, kings, queens”, is a small price to pay for an and he retweets posts mocking Biden for wearelection. It’s very strange to see that mask-wearing one.

Suddenly, like with abortion, if you don’t want to wear a mask, regardless of his policies, and based on one irrelevant issue, you are now on team Trump. If conservatives were pro-mask, Donald Trump would be churning out “Keep America Great” face masks hot from China. The fact that he doesn’t, is a pure and simple case of demagoguery. Those on the right want lockdown to end, those on the left either don’t, or aren’t decided. Trump, the master demagogue, sides with his established team and wants to open up. Hey, he’s got an election to win. Just like abortion, not wearing a mask has nothing to do with leadership or policy, but is a pure case of demagoguery.

“Just like abortion, not wearing a mask has nothing to do with leadership or policy, but is a pure case of demagoguery.”

ing is something that has become politicized in America

“It’s very strange to see that mask-wearing

is something that has become politicized in America,” With conservatives rejecting them, and liberals embracing them. Thinking about it, it must be the conservative repulsion of government intervention that leads them to reject mask wearing in the name of “freedom!” Liberals tend to understand and advocate government intervention when in the best interests of the people to enforce things like welfare, and in this case, masks. But this kind of patriotism to one’s party has always been enigmatic to me. How does, “because it’s the liberal/conservative thing to do”, justify something? Don’t people think for themselves and consider their actions or principles by their own merit?

“Don’t people think for themselves and consider their actions or principles by their own merit?” This mindless ideological patriotism isn’t just an interesting quirk, it is also a powerful tool in the hands of the masters that has some more pernicious implications.Take for example, abortion, a highly politicized and highly partisan issue in the United States. How on earth

Source: Brian Stauffer for the New Yorker magazine

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@VarsityNews | 3 June 2020 | V78 E6 | Page 14

LIFESTYLE & SPORT

‘Free-Wheeling’ Away from Governmental Regulations

Media’s Muted Coverage of Women’s Sports during the Lockdown Chloe Kingdom Male sports dominate media coverage of old games and events

N Image: TimesLIVE

James Braham South African cyclists continue to cycle without masks and in large groups

uring level four of the nation-wide lockdown, it seems apparent that cyclists who cycle solely for exercise and not for reasons permitted with commuting to work, continue to disobey governmental legislation by not wearing preventative masks during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Pedal Power Association (PPA) has recognised that cyclists are taking advantage of the daily, three-hour exercise opportunity – which allows for civilians to step outside the confines of their homes. This time allocation has been between 6:00 am and 9:00 am. Under strict regulatory policies, in association with the global pandemic, everyone who is out in public must be wearing a face mask of some sort to prevent the risk of infection; not only for the individual but for the people around them.

“Many cyclists are also disobeying the regulations surrounding the amount of people that can be grouped together at one time” However, Rens Renzelman (PPA chairperson), has acknowledged that a large number of cyclists are not adhering to the mandatory regulations. he stated the following: “Despite the well-advertised government regulation that compels all South Africans to wear a mask under stage four lockdown there is a clear lack of discipline amongst cyclists and other people out exercising. The regulations are clear and require everybody to wear a mask when leaving your home – or face a fine for being in contravention”. It is worrying that South Africans, specifically cyclists, seem to take the selfish responsibility to decide what is comfortable for them. Many cyclists are also disobeying the regulations surrounding the amount of people that can be grouped together at one time. Large swells of cycling groups consisting of 15 people, 10 people or

even 6 people can be seen during the level four exercising hours. Additionally, level four regulations indicate that one can only exercise within a 5km radius of their home. That has been thrown out the window not only by cyclists, but by runners and walkers too. It seems that many won’t hesitate to break these rules for their own gain. Having said that, there are mental influences associated with these violations; people want more freedom, as opposed to being penned up inside all day which can be ‘heavy’ on the mind.

“It seems that many won’t hesitate to break these rules for their own gain.” Exercise is an important aspect of one’s health. Hence, the government gave us a taste of freedom during level four restrictions as people were allowed to have some form of movement. However, even when exercising, masks must be worn in public. For one to disobey this shows a lack of respect for the people who come into contact with them. As Renzelman has suggested: “We all are enjoying the bit of freedom to go out and ride for a couple of hours every morning and it will be incredibly selfish if this privilege is withdrawn due to cyclists not adhering to wearing a mask when out riding or travelling outside of the 5km radius from their home. Let us not be part of the problem but part of the solution and ensure that we can keep riding by adhering to the COVID -19 government regulations.” With level three lockdown being implemented on June the 1st, it will be interesting to see if the mask situation changes for better or for worse. People will be allowed to exercise at any time of the day, but this does not mean that each individual will obey the adequate preventative policies that have been put in place.

ot much can keep the most dedicated of fans from filling fields, stadiums, and community halls to watch their favourite teams and athletes play. However, the Coronavirus pandemic has forced the sports industry into an unprecedented and lengthy sabbatical, which has only begun to lift around the world in recent weeks. “However, these highlights are predominately taken from men’s sports, side-lining women in the process.” To cater for the lack of entertainment during lockdown, media outlets have been broadcasting highlights of major moments in sport. SuperSport has been replaying exciting games and events: Popular sporting events, like the international rugby union tests and the UEFA European 2012 finals, have been airing throughout this week. However, these highlights are predominately taken from men’s sports, side-lining women in the process. Aside from replays of the Roland Garros Classic Highlights, no women’s sports have been aired. International broadcasters such as ESPN provide better coverage of their female sports players – with channels such as ESPNW dedicated to covering their games. It is questionable if this delineation from the main channel is due to wanting to increase the amount of coverage solely dedicated to women, or if it incidentally replicates the hegemonic sexist attitude expressed towards women’s sports. “Media coverage disproportionately favours male sports players in comparison to their female counterparts.”

Either way, the secondary treatment of women’s sport is reflected in a common practice within the sports media industry: Media coverage disproportionately favours male sports players in comparison to their female counterparts. Furthermore, gender fluid and gender-neutral players remain almost entirely unaccounted for in sports media, and the address of their existence is conspicuously absent. Men’s performances are established as the benchmark for sporting achievement. As such, a high value is placed on their games and events.

When comparing women’s sport to men’s, common talking points suggest that their skills are less refined, and their performances are less entertaining to watch. The high level of skill and athletic ability that women have infused into their play, from Billie Jean King in tennis to Diana Taurasi in basketball, reflect a dynamism that is necessary to mark themselves out from the male sporting crowd to gain their own coverage and break through the muted conversations about female athletic ability. However, conservative media coverage continues to downplay their successes by denying them an equal amount of attention. “conservative media coverage continues to downplay their successes by denying them an equal amount of attention.” Nevertheless, an increasing number of sports media outlets are beginning to expand their coverage of women sports. This is an encouraging move, even if it is implausibly overdue. Official social media pages of international women’s sports have advertised airings of older games on smaller broadcast channels. The Seattle Storm, a US Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team, has been advertising a marathon replay of their 2018 WNBA championship final victory against the Phoenix Mercury, on JOEtv – a media outlet of FOX News. Sports media sites are also sharing iconic highlights from women’s sporting careers over the years: The Equalizer, a media outlet dedicated to covering US women’s soccer, are interviewing female soccer players, and producing profiles on their best plays. Live-streaming site, Hulu, also has a sports live-streaming feature which includes a smattering of women’s sports, making this content available for international audiences. “Nevertheless, an increasing number of sports media outlets are beginning to expand their coverage of women sports.” The key to keeping ‘plugged’ into women’s sports during this lockdown period is to go directly to the teams’ and athletes’ official sites and to find information on where games and events are being aired. However, they remain scant and leave many fans, both female and male, disappointed by the shadow coverage that women are receiving when men’s sporting achievements are on constant replay.

LIFESTYLE & SPORT

@VarsityNews | 3 June 2020 | V79 E6 |Page 15

Mental Detox: Why Mindfulness is Important The power of awareness as an instigator for impactful decision making Rukaya Mosavel

ome people are mindful - while others are mind ‘full’. The difference is striking and can mean a healthy and happy life, or a life where you constantly feel overwhelmed and overstimulated. Mindfulness is a practice by which people are aware and present in the moment that they are living in. They are focused on themselves, the sensations, people and objects around them. To be mindful simply means to be present in a particular time and space.

“Mindfulness is a practice by which people are aware and present in the moment that they are living.”

“Breathing is the best way to bring your attention to yourself and your present moment.” Tip 2) Grounding If you find yourself disconnected or overwhelmed by your surroundings, take a moment to align yourself to your environment. If you’re in a crowd, excuse yourself for a few moments or retreat to a safe and quiet area to relax and reassure yourself. Grounding means to place yourself in an environment where you are conscious, aware and alert. You can practice breathing exercises in your moment of grounding.

On the contrary, people who are not as mindful and present have their thoughts focused on the future or the past. This can make them detached, unfocused and on edge. These individuals are also prone to stress, anxiety and other mental intricacies. So, how can one practice mindfulness in the midst of our busy lives? Here are three tips to help you feel grounded and present.

Another helpful tip is to practice grounding exercises. An easy and uncomplicated exercise is to focus on three things that you can smell, taste, touch and hear. This will alert your sensory processing and focus your brain activity on physical things around you, instead of thoughts or fog that can often arise when you’re anxious, frightful or stressed.

Tip 1) Focus on your breathing Breathing is the best way to bring your attention to yourself and your present moment. Breathing is used in physical, spiritual and wellbeing practices to calm the body, whilst alerting your senses. A simple exercise is to breathe in for 5 seconds and exhale for six seconds. When you exhale, try to imagine yourself ridding your mind from all intrusive, overwhelming, negative or anxious thoughts. Focusing on your breathing will give you a sense of control over your environment and yourself.

“Take a moment to align yourself to your

Instead, replace these thoughts with positive phrases, reassurances and affirmations. Remind yourself that what you are feeling is only temporary, and it is not you, but a feeling you are experiencing. Remind yourself of your worth, blessings and people who you love. Be kind to yourself through reassuring words and allow yourself to de-escalate the situation.

“Remind yourself that what you are feeling is only temporary, and it is not you, but a feeling you are experiencing.”

environment.”

Tip 3) Positive self-talk Whether you are alone or in a crowd, it is still possible to be interrupted by your own thoughts or stresses. Positive self-talk can be helpful in reassuring and calming yourself in a kind manner. When you’re stressed or anxious, you can end up complicating the situation by overthinking your thoughts,

The Beauty Benefits of Rice Water Possibilities for better hair development and other routines

Source: JJMacs Journey

Source: Procaffenation

Nelisa Khwela

owadays, it feels like a new beauty trend comes out every other day. Recently, posts about rice water being used for beauty benefits such as hair growth and skin care have gained popularity online. At first, I thought that it was something more complicated than ‘just’ rice water. However, it is exactly ‘just’ that – the starchy water you get from simple white rice.

“According to hair bloggers and ‘naturalistas’, rice water is great for hair growth and for restoring damaged hair.” According to hair bloggers and ‘naturalistas’, rice water is great for hair growth and restoring damaged hair. Rice water is reported to increase hair elasticity, reduce friction and assists in repairing weak or damaged hair. The amino acids contained in the rice water is what is said to promote hair growth as it strengthens your roots. It also makes your hair look shiny and healthier. As a skin treatment, incorporating rice water into

your skin care routine can help calm down irritated skin as it has antioxidants that help prevent age spots or pigmentation and can help you achieve softer skin. Some claim that it also helps to hydrate dry skin when used as a toner. There have also been claims that soaking your nails can help them grow as well.

“As a skin treatment, incorporating rice water into your skin care routine can help calm down irritated skin.” Using the leftover water from boiling long grain white rice is the most common way of getting rice water. However, another option is fermenting the rice in water for 12 hours to get the most nutrients out of it. To make the fermented rice water, you need one cup of water for each cup of rice and adjust accordingly depending on how much rice water you want to make. After 24 hours, it is advised that you place it in the fridge and it will keep for another three days. After that, it’s best to make a fresh batch.

To make a rice water hair treatment, put the rice water in a spray bottle and spray your hair with it after your normal shampoo and conditioning routine. Spray your hair with the rice water and leave in for 30-45 minutes before rinsing to get the maximum benefits.

“The most popular use is for hair growth.” While there are many other rice water health and beauty benefit claims, the most popular use is for hair growth. Of all the beauty trends that are out there, this one seems to be a simple and cost-effective option in achieving your hair goals.