2018 Edition 3 by VARSITY

17 April 2018 | Volume 77 | Edition 3

The state of mental health at UCT Louise van den Bergh

VARSITY investigates Student Wellness Services and the new Mental Health Policy

Image by Thapelo Masebe

ast year, six suspected suicides took place at residences and private accomadation, and Student Wellness faced a waiting list of over 300 students needing support for mental health difficulties. Since then, a new mental health policy has been implemented. Student Wellness, under the leadership of its newly appointment director Dr Memory Muturiki, claims to have improved their services and that they are now meeting the demands of students. According to UCT spokesperson, Elijah Moholola, the university is making known available resources, and is providing mental health workshops to destigmatize, and increase awareness about mental health challenges. Moholola also claimed that there is currently no waiting list. When asked what strategies the Student Wellness Services (SWS) has implemented to deal with its inability to meet the needs of students, he listed the following: • More staff members have been appointed to increase capacity.

•

SWS has realigned its operations to widen access by introducing a mental health triage service, and a mental health service outreach at the Steve Biko Students Union and at Hiddingh Campus. SWS has commenced providing mental health awareness training/ workshops at residences and at faculties. The Department of Student Affairs (DSA) has put into place a Crisis Intervention Nursing Service, where a nurse qualified in psychiatry is available to students experiencing mental health emergencies in residences. The DSA introduced the UCT Student Careline service, a 24-hour counselling service available to students during term and also during vacation. Students can access the UCT Student Careline by calling 0800 24 25 26 or by sending an SMS to 31393. At Student Wellness,

students are supposed to be seen within approximately two days for an appointment with a clinical psychologist and also within a two-week turn around time for a consultation with a psychiatrist. However, when VARSITY interviewed students about their experiences with SWS, there were mixed responses. One student stated that she found SWS difficult to access in terms of waiting periods and specialised services. “On one occasion I could not access a private psychologist because my medical aid funds were depleted. I sought a psychologist on campus however, she told me she could not help me because I was already seeing someone else.” Another student, Katlego Motheta, had positive interactions with the SWS: “I have had adequate support from UCT; especially from Student Wellness. I was assigned a social worker, psychologist and psychiatrist, and they were all actively handling my case.” SWS has a multidisciplinary team of 18 health professionals who all provide mental health services. The team includes psychiatric nurses, clinical social workers, clinical psychologists, medical practitioners and psychiatrists. In April 2017, UCT created a new mental health policy. In this policy, the University recognizes that persons with mental health disabilities have been subject to multiple forms of marginalisation and exclusion, thereby promoting the redress of inequalities and disadvantages caused by prejudice and discrimination against persons with mental health disabilities. In this document, mental health disability refers to a mental health condition that: has been diagnosed by a registered mental health practitioner, is of long duration (at least 12 months); and substantially limits the student’s ability to perform academically. A 3rd year student returning from a leave of absence due to the state of her mental health explains how she was diagnosed with Conversion Disorder, a rare disorder which occurs when the signals between the brain and the body are not properly converted as they are intercepted by anxiety and depression. Thus, there are days where she cannot

walk and cannot feel parts of her body. She approached the disability centre after reading the new mental health policy, which states that students can register with the Disability Service on the grounds of a mental health disability. According to the policy, students with chronic mental health difficulties are to be accommodated in the same way as those with chronic physical health conditions. However, she stated, “I was told that I couldn’t apply for extra time or disability parking for mental health reasons.” She also had negative experiences with staff members, explaining that their reaction to her mental health condition resulted in her feeling marginalized and excluded from lectures. She describes how one lecturer, “after continuous letters and pleading, still refuses to put lecture slides on Vula and refuses to record lectures”. This excludes her from learning on days when she is forced to stay home because of her condition.

“..-25% of students have mental health difficulties significant enough to impair academic functioning” Regarding the prevalence of mental disorders among university students, Moholola points out that mental health challenges are not unique to UCT, stating that, “the clinical presentation of students at UCT has been reported as being in line with global trends, where 20-25% of students have mental health difficulties significant enough to impair academic functioning”. Sipho Hadebe, University House Head Student, explains how he believes that, as students, we face challenges beyond our control; “coping with diversity, changing your identity, poverty, being away from home, worrying about fees and half the time, we don’t have the necessary support we need.” He added that, “in my situation, as an African student, it is difficult to seek help. “Indoda ayikhali” which means men don’t cry, is what I was taught growing up, it simply means that as a boy/ man you must deal with your issues internally/alone.” Another student,

studying Health and Rehabilitation, describes the extremely competitive environment at university, “staff members send that obligatory email; ‘I’m so sorry you are experiencing this… please let your convenor know, let us know if you need to talk… and get in touch with Student Wellness.’ But, it ends there. You’re left behind in the tracks of a fast-paced train. The work goes on. Missed a lecture? That’s too bad. There’s not much support other than that.” As stipulated by the mental health policy, accommodations on mental health grounds includes flexible assignment deadlines, adjustments to lecture and tutorial attendance requirements, the use of lecture recordings to facilitate access to missed lectures, adjustments to group work requirements, and allowing students to sit for deferred class tests. When questioned about the suspected suicides of last year, Moholola stated, “the university is not in a position to confirm whether a death is a suicide or not. Any unnatural death has to be investigated by SAPS.” Following an inquest and a ruling by a court of law, the eventual cause of death is communicated only to the family and not to the university. Hence, the university refers to such deaths as suspected suicides. “The high rate of suspected suicides is of major concern to the university. We have also noted an increased incidence of stress, anxiety and depression among the student population – and this is a global trend.”

“In my situation, as an African student, it is difficult to seek help. “Indoda ayikhali” which means men don’t cry…” “We urge students experiencing mental health difficulties to seek help early and not to wait. We also urge students to speak to someone, even if it means making use of the 24-hour UCT Student Careline Service, booking an appointment at SWS or making use of our walk-in psychological service at the Steve Biko Students Union,” he added.

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Invisible Africa at UCT? Sinothando Siyolo

CT has always been a space dominated by the West, where the threshold of Africanness only entered in the 1920s; when the first batch of black students were admitted.

inclusivity can never be attained, as financial difficulties are a persistant hinderance experienced by mostly black students UCT has 112 societies which are divided into categories; one of those categories are National or Cultural societies which only consist of 11 societies and 1 organization. The cultural societies are meant to bring Africanism to the campus; they are there for the inclusivity of students from different cultural backgrounds. However, inclusivity can never be attained, as financial difficulties are a persistant hinderance experienced by mostly black students. Thus, these heritage societies struggle a lot as they have insufficient funding for sustainability. This results in them being visible only during plaza week

and days like Heritage Day. The UCT School of Languages embraces and teaches several languages, however, these languages are limited to the select few mother tongues of UCT students. The UCT School of Languages only consists of three main African languages namely, Southern Sesotho, Afrikaans and isiXhosa. The rest are foreign languages. Therefore, a lot of work still needs to be done in terms of bringing in more African languages as, after all, “linguistic decolonialism is one of the primary methods of decolonial thought”- Ngugi wa Thiong’o. The majority of faculties at UCT require the teaching medium to be English and very few courses offer translations. For example, in faculties like Commerce one cannot use their mother tongue to write an essay, it must be written in English. In faculties such as Humanities however, the flexible nature of their courses assist in bringing Africanism into the curriculum. Furthermore, residences should be more equipped to provide African food other than the routine samp and salad, because African culture

has a variety of foods, that are diverse (to say the least).

The majority of faculties at UCT require the teaching medium to be English and very few courses offer translations. Yes, UCT is a free space and anyone can express their Africanism, but UCT doesn’t do enough to promote that. To promote Africanism, UCT can fund the cultural societies with an amount that can actually sustain and allow them to do as many events as possible to encourage Africanism. Students can also do more to promote Africanism in the institution. Instead of changing the way they speak, walk and dress to conform to Western norms, they can resist these urges and embrace their africanness.

African Identities

@VarsityNews |17 April 2018|V77 E3|Page 4

NEWS

UCT PROFESSOR

Tessa Knight & Louise Van Den Bergh news@varsitynewspaper.co.za

HEATHER ZAR

New art unveiled in Molly

RECOGNISED AT WOMEN IN SCIENCE AWARDS

Blackburn

Ntokozo Mayekiso

he UCT Works of Art committee helps evoke transformation through art at UCT. On Thursday 12 April, there was an unveiling of new art in the Molly Blackburn Hall, near the Chancellor Oppenheimer library. The exhibition included performances by the UCT Choir as well as dance performances by students from the UCT School of Dance. The speakers present at the exhibition, included Dr. Nomusa Mokhubu (a lecturer in Art History and Visual Culture), and O’Refiloe Mashope, (a third-year sculpture student in the School of Fine Art). In finding out more about the significance of the exhibition and its contributors, VARSITY spoke to the project co-ordinator of the UCT Works of Arts Committee (WOAC), Nadja Daenke. According to Daenke, the WOAC committee, is made up of both sta� and students from various departments at UCT (including Engineering and the Built Environment and Fine Art), as well as curators and directors of UCT’s Michaelis Galleries and Irma Stern Museum. WOAC (alongside other projects), works on producing rehangings of art pieces around UCT, with the intention of eliciting conversations around

art on campus as well as “embracing change and transformation in art”. When asked about the planning of this particular project, Daenke stipulates that the project in Molly Blackburn began in January of this year. Daenke also states that the art displayed in the exhibition was produced by South African artists. The art centres around the celebration of empowerment, which was echoed by the dance performances that took place; “The dance piece, as well as the choir and the artwork in the hall, allow for new memories and new ways of ‘being’ to be formed. The dance piece also spoke strongly about an empowerment of women”, comments Daenke. She also highlights a particular piece included in the display by Bongi Bengi (titled Tribute 11) which was also a source of inspiration for the theme. In concluding the interview, VARSITY also asked whether or not there would be any future art exhibitions by WOAC to which Daenke commented that “the recuration of the Molly Blackburn Hall was just the ﬁrst of many rehangings of art at UCT and [students should] look out for other changes in numerous other spaces on campus”.

Praise Adejimi

rofessor Heather Zar was recently recognized, along with other female researchers, for her contributions to science. As a result, she received the L’OréalUNESCO Women in Science Award for establishing a research programme on pneumonia, TB, and asthma. When asked what directed the focus of her research specifically to child health, Professor Zar spoke of the significance of this specific work of study, stating that, “In Africa I think we need to be much stronger advocates for pushing forward research that advances child health.”

Our future will depend on our ability to beneﬁt from every aspect of human genius in seeking innovative responses Furthermore, not only was she recognised for her research but, by receiving an award in Science, she played a vital role in representing women. The signiﬁcance of

DA suspends DASO-SRC members

Tessa Knight

n the 28th of March, the Western Cape Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) of the Democratic Alliance suspended DASO-SRC members Mthobisi Mngomezulu and Christopher Logan from the Democratic Alliance Students Organisation (DASO) of UCT. Mngomezulu, who was previously the Residents and Housing Co-ordinator, recently took over the portfolio of President of the SRC during the, now constitutional, reshufﬂing of the council. Logan, who previously occupied the position of Undergraduate Academics Co-ordinator, now serves as Treasurer General of the SRC.

As such, the entirety of DASO-UCT is under investigation. Mngomezulu and Logan were suspended pending the outcome of allegations of “serious misconduct” levelled against them, according to DASO-UCT chairperson Neo Mkwane. However, both students claim that they have not been told why they have been suspended and what the claims against them entail.

According to Logan and Mngomezulu, Phumzile van Damme, the DASO Western Cape Constituency Head, laid a complaint against the two SRC members. As such, the entirety of DASO-UCT is under investigation. Mkwane declined to comment on the situation, citing the legality of public commentary during an o�cial investigation. After the sudden reshu�e of the SRC last month, rumours arose of Mngomezulu and Logan aligning with PASMA and the EFFSC in order to oust other DASO members from the SRC top 5. In a statement made to SABC News, DA Provincial Leader Bonginkosi Madikizela stated that because Mngomezulu and Logan decided to ditch DA principles and side with other political parties, it was decided that they violated party principles and thus, immediate action was taken against them. The two SRC members cited the fact that Madikizela erroneously mentions ANC SRC members as evidence that he was not fully informed of the situation before speaking to the SABC. According to Logan, although he and Mngomezulu have been suspended, they “still operate with the values of DASO, with its principles and with its beliefs and policies.”

the representation of women stems from the gender inequality occurring in various fields, specifically in the field of Science. According to UNESCO, only 8% of science researchers are women and only 3% have been awarded Nobel Prizes for Science since 1901. The lack of adequate representation in research work has been deemed to be quite problematic. According to UNESCO, less than 30% of researchers are women and as a result, they hold very few academic leadership positions. This can impact the quality of research being produced and brings about stereotypes that society associates with women in research. “Studies show that the lack of diversity in the sector of artificial intelligence has led to the development of software that reproduces, or even magnifies stereotypes, especially those related to gender,” says UNESCO. Professor Zar believes that “stereotypes of womens’ work, roles, and a lack of broad understanding of what science is,” are certain factors that have led to the

lack of adequate representation among women in her field. This is what the L’Oréal Foundation aims to combat. Consequently, Professor Zar’s Women in Science Award reinforces the goal of the L’Oréal-UNESCO foundation, to acknowledge as well as empower women for their outstanding work and the key roles they play in society. “We need to rely on our collective intelligence, which also requires us to favour the talent, creativity and insight of women scientists. Our future will depend on our ability to benefit from every aspect of human genius in seeking innovative responses to the challenges we face,” stated UNESCO Director-General Audray Azoulay. According to Professor Zar, women should not limit themselves. They should rather find something they’re passionate about and really interested in, strive for excellence, work, collaborate with others, and should not be afraid to think out of the box and question.

Workers reprimanded for celebrating graduation?

n 11 April 2018, workers decided to celebrate Masixole Mlandu’s graduation ceremony outside Memorial Hall. The workers were subsequently threatened with disciplinary proceedings for this behaviour. One of the workers sent SRC Labour and Services Co-ordinator, Athabile Nonxuba, a voice note detailing what their line manager told them in response to their actions at the graduation. Nonxuba told VARSITY that workers were summoned to a disciplinary hearing for their involvement in the celebration, subject to the footage from CCTV cameras in the area. The cameras would be used to check who was present. When asked about the motivation behind joining the celebration, Nonxuba explained that to African people, speciﬁcally mothers (cleaners) a graduation is a symbolic victory for a child who comes from a

Jarita Kassen disenfranchised community. They decided to rejoice and show gratitude to their children (students) who had been instrumental in winning the ﬁght against outsourcing. In the voice note sent to Nonxuba, the worker adds that they were told that they disrupted proceedings by entering Memorial Hall, but the workers did not enter the hall. Elijah Moholola, media liaison at UCT’s Communication and Marketing Department, told VARSITY that UCT is not considering any disciplinary action against any sta� members involved. He emphasised that sta� members are not permitted to leave their posts during working hours without authorisation from their line managers.

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50% of Science students been Science faculty academic exclusions Have academically excluded? Jarita Kassen

n Wednesday, the 14th of March, at the first ordinary sitting of Student Parliament, the Operational Report stated that over 50% of Science students were academically excluded. However, the Acting Dean of the Science Faculty, Susan Bourne, has stated that this percentage is incorrect. Only 9.9% of Science students were academically excluded. The Operational Report was delivered by SRC Secretary-General (November 2017 - March 2017), Tami Jackson. When asked about the correctness of the 50% statistic, Jackson told VARSITY that all the information in the report was provided by SRC members. VARSITY spoke to Christopher Logan, SRC Undergraduate Academic’s Co-ordinator (November

2017 - March 2018). Logan told VARSITY that Jackson has repeatedly misquoted him on this issue and that he had originally said that the amount of Science faculty academic exclusions was “very high and around 50%”. VARSITY then spoke to Lethabo Maunye, SRC Social Responsiveness Co-ordinator (November 2017 - March 2018), about the Readmissions Appeals Committee (RAC) proceeding statistics. These statistics showed that less than 50% of excluded students who applied to RAC were readmitted. Bourne, said that only 9.9% of Science students were academically excluded, equating to 159 out of 1598 registered undergraduate students. From these 159 students, 94 submitted appeals to the RAC and 59

IRTC starts hearing procedures Tessa Knight On 27 March 2018, UCT’s Institutional Reconciliation and Transformation Commission (IRTC) commenced with the hearing procedures regarding students that were involved in the Shackville protest during the Rhodes Must Fall and Fees Must Fall protests of 2016. The seven students made submissions with full disclosure and took responsibility for their actions in the conflict, while calling for UCT management to also make submissions to the IRTC regarding their roles in the protests. The UCT IRTC focuses on conflict resolution stemming from the protests. Their aim is transformation of UCT, with reconciliation being a pre-requisite to achieve that aim. Although the protests took place two years ago, the IRTC, which claims to focus on objectivity and transparency, felt it best to extend the dates of submissions until this year. The IRTC states that “we are satisfied that all stakehold-

ers, including the students, now feel comfortable and trust enough of the process to appear and make submissions to the Commission. [This is] a vital part in this process.” The seven students and other parties involved have the right to decide whether their hearing procedures should be open to the public or not. According to the IRTC they cannot predict the outcomes as it all depends on the submissions and hearings. As the process continues, the Commission would like to reach as many students as possible, and encourage them to make submssions and appear before the IRTC. The second round of hearing proceedings took place on the 9 th April whereby two out of the seven students put forward their submissions. According to IRTC, the nature of the submissions are confidential unless the students agree to speak to the media or allow their submissions to be published.

ERRATA:

In print edition 2, published on 27 March 2018: on page 3 “Saara Baartman” should be Saara Baartman on page 3 VARSITY retracts the “How does the DSA distribute Grants?” article and will publish a coorected version

were subsequently re-admitted. This shows that 62,77% were readmitted, not less than 50% as stated by Maunye’s report. Following the readmissions, only 6.3% of Science faculty students remain academically excluded. When asked for the composition of students who were academically excluded, Bourne told VARSITY that a preliminary analysis, based on exclusions prior to RAC, shows that the highest proportion (36%) of those excluded were first year students. Bourne went on to clarify the process of academic exclusions, explaining that the Science Faculty Examinations Committee (FEC) meet at the end of each academic year to confirm the full set of academic results of all

students, and determines whether students meet the criteria for progression to the next year. Once FEC decides on academic exclusions, excluded students are

Only 9.9% of Science students were academically excluded. able to appeal through the RAC. Students who remain excluded after the RAC are given the opportunity to meet with the Assistant Dean to discuss their options. Maunye, present for the second RAC meeting, stated that the high level of Science faculty exclusions can be attributed to the number of whole year courses students are required to take. He further stated that the lack

of sympathy from members of the RAC contributed to a low number of students being readmitted. In an effort to ameliorate the circumstances, the Science faculty provides talks designed to address students’ concerns and improve their study skills as well as access to counselling and psychological services. The faculty organizes the annual Science Winter School for first year Science students. In 2016, the faculty appointed a fulltime Assistant Dean who is responsible for directing and improving Student Support. These efforts have resulted in improvements, such as the drop in exclusions from 33% in 2009 to 14% in 2013. The Science Student Council have not received the RAC report and were unable to comment.

UCT’s Smoking Policy not being enforced

n the 30th June 2017, UCT’s new smoking policy came into effect in an attempt to ensure a healthy working environment for students and staff. Smokers are now prohibited from smoking indoors, 10 metres from entrances and openable windows of buildings, 5 metres from any place where food is prepared or consumed and at any official event (such as sport matches). In effect, there are few places on campus that students can smoke as UCT has not made any provisions

50% of smokers die prematurely for “smoking zones.” The effects of smoking, both on the smoker and on the bystander, are undoubtedly negative. According to Associate Professor Richard van Zyl-Smit, a consultant pulmonologist and the Head of UCT’s Lung Research Unit, 50% of smokers die prema-

Catherine Torrington turely. Second-hand smoke has been shown to increase chances of cancer and cardiovascular disease in bystanders. The longer a person smokes, the more likely they are to develop lung or heart disease, and it is almost impossible to undo the damage that smoking causes to lungs. The smoking policy has now been in place for almost a year, but it does not seem to have made much of a difference. UCT spokesman Elijah Moholola told VARSITY that: “Violations of the policy are treated in accordance with general campus disciplinary procedures.” However, despite numerous occasions of smoking in prohibited zones, there seems to be no repercussion for smokers who violate the smoking policy. The policy explicitly prohibits smoking in areas such as the Cissie Gool Plaza, outside the Leslie Social Sciences building and on Jammie Stairs. Van Zyl-Smit argues that the stringent policy is necessary and is a “huge leap

forward in protecting the health of non-smokers.” “The fewer areas available for students to smoke, the more likely they are to give up smoking,” says van ZylSmit. The smoking policy has now been in place for almost a year, but it does not seem to have made much of a difference.

The aim of the policy is to decrease second hand smoke on campus, not to stop smoking entirely, claims Moholola. However, because UCT has not allocated smoking areas, smokers continue to smoke in prohibited areas. This policy is important to ensure the health of all students on campus, but the effectiveness of the policy will depend on how UCT implements it.

Image from @sunepayne

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EDITORIAL

The Collective

On being African…

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jarita Kassen editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za DEPUTY EDITOR Tamutswa Mahari editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za MANAGING EDITOR Michaela Pillay managingeditor@varsitynewspaper.co.za

Jarita Kassen Editor-In-Chief

COPY EDITOR Ntokozo Mayekiso copyed@varsitynewspaper. co.za

ONLINE EDITOR Kate Southwood online@varsitynewspaper.co.za CREATIVE DIRECTOR Viwe Tafeni creativedirector@ varsitynewspaper.co.za CONTRIBUTORS & SUB-EDITORS Lizanne Thorton, Cayla Clement, Bethany Long, Thanaa Jassiem, Nengishon Melaisho, Sitka Lombard, Lara Antonopoulos, Silulundi Coki, Tiyani Rikhotso, Aqueela Bray, Thanaa Jassiem, Sasha Broom, Achmad Ridhaa Davids, Stefanie Simon, Minenhle Nkosi, Rebecca Benoit, Primrose Dumani, Kelsey Scheffers

PRINT NEWS Tessa Knight & Louise van den Bergh news@varsitynewspaper. co.za

PRINT OPINIONS Parusha Chetty & Sumona Bose opinions@varsitynewspaper.co.za

Tamutswa Mahari Deputy Editor

Viwe Tafeni NdingumAfrika. NdingumXhosa. Ndingunyana wasemaMfeneni, ooHlathi, ooLisa, ooJambase, ooSanzanza, ooCanzi, ooZangomva eliweni, ooMsuthu. I am my ancestors (in living colour). I have always known that I am from South Africa, that I am African. However, I knew this when I left the country and the continent for three years to live in England. I didn’t land at Manchester International and begin feeling different. No. It was a rather subtle but persistent awareness of self. It was a loneliness-in-a-crowd kind of feeling.

an Africa that has taken its rightful place in the winners’ circle..

What is this thing: BEING AFRICAN? One cannot describe, absolutely, what it is. For me, being African is the ability to be entirely myself. This includes: appreciating and loving the brown skin that incubates my ideas and feelings; proudly wearing my twisted and knotted hair like the crown that it is; being proud of my birthplace, whether it is a shack or a mansion atop a hill. Being African also means looking to the future and seeing an Africa that has taken its rightful place in the winners’

circle; it means working continuously to empower my neighbours in their situations. Being African, for me, is being queer and being free. If one hasn’t already gathered, the theme for this Wrap Edition is: African Identities. Being Creative Director on this project has been such a privilege! I would like to thank all of those that have made it a wonderful experience: Editor-in-Chief: Jarita Kassen Deputy Editor-in-Chief: Tamutswa Mahari Creative Director: Viwe Tafeni

PRINT IMAGES Thapelo Masebe & Aaliyah Ahmed images@varsitynewspaper.co.za

NEWS REPORTERS Catherine Torrington, Sibongile Ralana

STAFF WRITERS Nolitha Ngamlana, Babalwa Nomtshongwana, Soligah Solomon. Asanda Masoka, Ntombi Khulu, Kelsey Maggott, Thandile Xesi, Zahirah Benjamin, Praise Adejimi, Phophi Tshikovhi

Michaela Pillay Managing Editor

WEB EDITORS Gerald Balekaki & Mukhethwa Ravele web@varsitynewspaper.co.za

ONLINE CHIEF SUBBER Benita Mwinkeu

ONLINE FEATURES Caroline Peterson onlinefeatures@varsitynewspaper.co.za

Make-up Artists: Caroline Petersen & Esethu Khambule

Models: Carl Osborne, Caroline Petersen, Cynic Nemaungane, Fulufhelani Mashapha, Jonell Ngimbi, Kamva Ntapu, Mpho Tsuene, Ntokozo Mayekiso, Benita Mwinkeu Peter Nkuna & Tshepi Nthlane.

ONLINE LIFESTYLE & FITNESS Carl Osborne onlinesports@varsitynewspaper.co.za PRINT LIFESTYLE & FITNESS Kaamil Adams sports@varsitynewspaper. co.za

Photographers: Aaliyah Ahmed, Sipho Mpongo & Thapelo Masebe

Stylists: LJ Kekana & Khosi Mzamo

PRINT FEATURES Ishani Lala & Nwabisa Mazana features@ varsitynewspaper.co.za

Kate Southwood Online Editor

ONLINE IMAGES Sipho Mpongo onlineimages@varsitynewspaper.co.za

HR MANAGERS Beth Dealtry & Annie Ou Yang hr@varsitynewspaper.co.za

ONLINE CONTENT EDITOR Arin Barry online@varsitynewspaper. co.za

ONLINE OPINIONS Raeesa Triegaardt onlineopinions@varsitynewspaper. co.za

FINANCE MANAGERS Jessica Mandel & Teboho George finance@varsitynewspaper. co.za

OPERATIONS MANAGER Nwabisa Mlandu operations@ varsitynewspaper.co.za

HEAD OF VIDEOGRAPHY Advik Beni & Pauline Shrosbree videographers@ varsitynewspaper.co.za

CENTRESPREAD EDITOR Mpho Tsuene centrespread@ varsitynewspaper.co.za ADS MANAGERS Gosiame Tsotetsi & Natalie Speed-Andrews ads@varsitynewspaper.co.za SOCIAL MEDIA CORRESPONDENT Malusi Ngidi

Ntokozo Mayekiso Copy Editor

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This Week in Images

1.Sero by Thapelo Mabotja (@belography_) 2. Mita Ramabulana(@mitaramabulana) 3. @ramiie_g 4. A boy - Alban Bulibirha (@africanvisualist) 5. The good manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diary - Phindulo(@rigby_ranks)

5. 3.

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OPINIONS

Parusha Chetty & Sumona Bose opinions@varsitynewspaper.co.za

A White African Kelsey Lee Maggott

frica 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 as being a marker of my privilege and positionality within Africa. It acknowledges the oppressive history of my people in this land.

Being born in Africa I have the privilege of being a witness to the resilience of black African people within a dominantly western culture. 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 involves white Africans shifting their Eurocentric worldview to

AFRICAN IDENTITIES

honoring and valuing the African way of being. In Africa there is a diverse amount of black African cultural traditions that have been held scared and honored throughout history. Being born in Africa I

I feel obliged to identify as a white African. 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. Thus, my African identity is very important to me as I feel that I possess the responsibility to embody and advocate for equality by engaging in open and truthful dialogue, asking uncomfortable questions and challenging social constructs in an African context.

My African identity; Desi in the Kingdom

Sumona Bose

was the only person in my family to be born in Africa. I have a hearty Indian connection. I am a first generation African-Indian, a proud stakeholder of a wealthy cultural heritage which I plan on carrying forward. Growing up in Botswana, I was made aware that I am not a ‘local’, but I was loved as I was a part of home. I am African, because this is home. I feel that I speak for those who identify as being African-Indians; we may be raised in another culture, but we deeply connect with the wholesome nature of being African. I am proud to be a part of a generation that rightly identifies to be who they are, and that is being African. Being African is the feeling of being at peace because of the serenity of this continent which excites my soul. It is being a person who stands

their ground, knows and respects their surroundings. Being African means bringing a change to the stagnancy of what society builds every day, hence we are the change. And, if you have ever seen an African Sunset, you would know that home is where your heart is.

Being African means bringing a change to the stagnancy of what society builds every day, hence we are the change. Therefore, as an African, it is my responsibility to do my part of the share that ought to be done in this world today; to be a part of history and make it on my own right. I realized my biggest passion was writing in this place I call home, and this is how I will give back to my home, Africa, by writing what I know, what I see and what I hear.

Hunger, Wakanda, Melanin… are you African?

What makes me African

Aleya Ramparsad Banwari

o contextualize, I am a 5th generation Indian living in South Africa. My forbearers came to South Africa as indentured laborers, ordered to work in the sugarcane fields of KwaZulu-Natal. First impressions identify me by my race, which then lead to assumptions about my cultural background, however, before I identify as Indian, or Hindu - I am an African. Being African involves African cuisine, clothing, values, and much more. Yet, most importantly, it is a mindset and an identification with this continent and the people who live here, and a willingness to try to better it. I am an African because I was born here, because Africa is all I have ever known, and because all my experiences come out of Africa. This is my home, and therefore, it is my duty as an African to help uplift the communities and the place I call home.

Khanyisa Hobyane

fricanism seems to be trending to the extent whereof culture appropriation being an issue. At first, I thought that we should be happy about white people plaiting cornrows and wearing African attire but that’s another case; most of them do not know the history of what they are taking from it.

history of cornrows? Are you truly African since you don’t even know how and why Africanism fully came about? In R.J Thornton’s Culture: A

“You cannot sing African music in proper English”Fela Kuti.

contemporary definition, he states how culture changes because of different resources and culture is bound to change. This, however, does not mean one has lost their culture because they don’t wear head beads every day. Back when I was a kid, I would always aspire to look like Beyoncé because of her

They extract it from African culture because they are inspired by the beauty rather than the meaning. The question is also twofold: black child, do you know the

“Being African is about knowing where you belong and being comfortable around it.”

light skin and silky blonde hair. I wanted to live in the U.S. because I thought that’s where life begins but as I got older, I cut my hair to grow an afro. I chose not to desire what I saw on media. I felt at home. As if I belong. My identity is truly important to my interactions with others because I feel super confident with what I blurt out because I know what to portray. Nowadays, being an African is not about the black skin. Being African is about knowing where you belong and being comfortable about it. “You cannot sing African music in proper English” - Fela Kuti.

DISCLAIMER This section of the VARSITY is a vehicle for expression, on any topic by mebers 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 minimum of 300 words and can be sent to: editorial@varsitynewspaper.co.za

@VarsityNews | 27 March 2018| V77 E2|Page 8

OPINIONS

Parusha Chetty & Sumona Bose opinions@varsitynewspaper.co.za

A White African Kelsey Lee Maggott

AFRICAN IDENTITIES

My African identity; Desi in the Kingdom

Sumona Bose

Hunger, Wakanda, Melanin… are you African?

What makes me African

Aleya Ramparsad Banwari

Khanyisa Hobyane

history of cornrows? Are you truly African since you don’t even know how and why Africanism fully came about? In R.J Thornton’s Culture: A

“You cannot sing African music in proper English”Fela Kuti.

They extract it from African culture because they are inspired by the beauty rather than the meaning. The question is also twofold: black child, do you know the

“Being African is about knowing where you belong and being comfortable around it.”

@VarsityNews | 17 April 2018 | V77 E3 | Page 9

TRAILBLAZER Writing ourselves into existence Image courtesy of Ameera Conrad

Ameera Conrad Friends-with-benefits; No Expectation. Just Sex. Zahirah Benjamin

“

Friends-withbenefits” (FWB) has become quite a trend these days, creating a reputation for itself as an ideal relationship for many. These days millennials can barely keep up with their own lives, let alone having to keep track of someone else. Commitment has become more of a chore than anything else for many. Several millennials would lean towards not having to deal with any of those pesky “obligations” that come with being in a committed relationship. This arrangement would generally be called friends-with-benefits, “f*ck buddy”, a romantic friendship, or perhaps even a relationship with no strings attached.

All you are doing is taking a relationship and removing the commitments and responsibility of another human being, leaving more room for hedonism and sexual exploration. Nevertheless, it’s also important to set rules in your friends-withbenefits relationship. The entire point of it is to have fun and avoid any awkwardness and possible heartbreaks.

“Several millennials would lean towards not having to deal with any of those pesky “obligations” that come with being in a committed relationship.”

To end off I will leave you with some thoughts of what UCT millennials have to say about FWB relationships:

Being in a friend-with-benefits relationship allows you to get all the advantages that comes with being in a relationship. You can get cuddles, sex and even just some company, without the responsibilities that one is obligated to adhere to in a serious relationship. For instance, having to help your boyfriend deal with his emotions, or having to deal with your girlfriend’s neediness and mood swings (that’s me – I’m the girlfriend who does it).

You can get cuddles, sex and even just some company, without the responsibilities that one is obligated to adhere to in a serious relationship.

“Yes! I am all in for FWB relationships, itmeans I don’t have to deal with the emotional side of a relationship, but it is important not to get into a FWB if you are lonely and needy” – Jade, 20 “It’s important to know yourself before you get into an FWB relationship. You need to be emotionally and physically prepared for it beforehand”Savannah ,19 “It’s important to communicate and be honest with the person.” Eemaan ,19

rowing up as a little brown girl, and a little brown Muslim girl, and a little brown Muslim girl from Africa, it’s a bit of a mission to find yourself on screens. That is, if you’re trying to find a version of yourself that isn’t portrayed as a terrorist, or an oppressed and silenced woman in the Middle East. So eventually you stop looking. You start absorbing this idea that if you’re not the ‘skollie’ or the silent woman, then you’re invisible. Or you absorb white characters as your role models and you try your darndest to become one of them – because they’re not invisible; they’re not powerless; they’re not the bad-guys. Then one day when you’re in your 20’s, it starts. The tide turns and you’re starting to see black women everywhere. At first you hear voices that mumble things about quotas and diversity guidelines and box-ticketing exercises, but those mumbles slowly fade away when the voices of Taraji P Henson, Issa Rae, Ava DuVernay, Lupita N’yongo, Danai Gurira, and so many others get louder and louder.

You hope that you’ve written other little black and brown girls into existence in a way that will make them feel seen and validated, and beautiful, and powerful, and delicate, and strong Finally, you see yourself. Or not quite yourself. Maybe you see your mother, your aunt, your sister, your teacher or that woman who drove the bus that you took that one time in New York. You see people you want to be, who look a little bit more like you than the heroine from that other rom-com where she breaks up a wedding because she couldn’t tell the guy that she loved him at the beginning. Suddenly, you’re 24 and sitting in the cinema at Cavendish with all of your black and brown friends, and that moment comes when the movie starts, and you all laugh at Lupita’s slightly bad accent when she tells Chadwick that he’s “rrrrruining her plens” and you laugh louder at Forrest when he says that “de strenkt of de blek pentha weel be strrreeped eweh” and your Sotho friend screams in delight when Daniel’s army turns their Basotho blankets into shields because she knows what it means to be given that blanket, and you know too, so you scream with her. You recall her wearing her own blanket to graduation: the pride, the joy. Now your heart is exploding at Letitia and Lupita and Danai and Angela being the black girl magic that you’ve always needed in your life. The face of STEM is a black girl and you think about all the little black girls who will watch this movie and dream of being engineers and changing the world for the better. You look at the Dora, these fierce warriors, these symbols of strength, resilience, beauty, power. You think of your mother who dodged bullets in the 80’s. You want to be these women. You want to feel as strong as them. You do

feel as strong as them just because you can see them and they’re existing and they’re there. They’re not invisible any more. They’re not the ‘skollies’ or the oppressed women or the invisible. They’re there. They’re boldly African. They’re boldly black. When you think back at this moment months later, you consider what it means to be from this continent. African cultures from Cape to Cairo have influenced fashion, art, medicine, and mathematics in ways that you’ll never fully grasp because you’ve been taught your whole life that Africa is backwards - a continent not worth saving.

You grew up wanting to be American and now you see that Americans want to be African. You grew up wanting to be American and now you see that Americans want to be African. You consider Beyonce and how she stays influenced by Africa, but can’t seem to find a way to perform here. Your heart breaks a little, because you know you’d empty your pockets for her. You think about all of the other artists, designers, musicians, writers, who are affected by African culture, art, design, music, writing. You think about yourself - about who you want to be, what you want to do. You think about your art. You hope that it makes a difference. You hope that you’ve written yourself into existence. But more than that you hope that you’ve written other little black and brown girls into existence in a way that will make them feel seen, and validated, and beautiful, and powerful, and delicate, and strong. All of the things they are. You want to write about rage, and love, and beauty, and pain. You want to write yourself free. You want to write other people free. But all you can do, right now, is write.

Write honestly. Write powerfully. Write.

Music that shaped Africa Ali Farka Toure (Mali) Ali Farka Toure is a multilingual Malian singer and guitarist. He is known for fusing African American jazz with Malian traditional music. His most popular album is Talking Timbuktu.

Malika Zarra (Morocco) Malika is known for singing in Moroccan Arabic, Berber, French, and English. Her music fuses different Moroccan musical traditions including Berber and Gnawa with jazz.

Fela Kuti (Nigeria) Fela Anikulapo Kuti was a Nigerian multi-instrumentalist, musician, composer, pioneer of the Afrobeat music genre. He made waves as a musician, human rights activist, and political maverick. Beyonce paid tribute to him this weekend at Coachella! His most popular album was Zombie.

Pierre Akendengué (Gabon) Akendengué’s music does not fall neatly into any existing musical category. His militant lyrics soon earned him a reputation as a protest singer. He also serves as a cultural advisor for the government of Gabon. Stika (Botswana) Stika Sola Molfhi, famously known as Stika,is a seasoned Botswanan musician, who through his work, has accumulated awards such as The Best Traditional Music Award at the 1998 Botswana Music Awards. Stika has also topped the charts with his much accredited debit album entitled “Khubama”.

Oliver “Tuku” Mthukudzi (Zimbabwe) Oliver “Tuku” Mthukudzi is a singer, song-writer, actor, and film director. He is undeniably one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic artits. He is described by critics as being “gifted with a deep and gusty voice plus a talent for writing songs that reflect on the daily life and struggles of the people”.

Anouar Brahem (Tunisia) He is an oud (Middle Eastern lute) player and composer who is widely regarded as an innovator in his field. He fuses Arabic classical music, folk music and jazz and became prominent in his own country in the late 1980s. Listen to his album, Thimar.

Ahmed El Sweasy (Egypt) Mahraganat or electro chaabi is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in Cairo. This genre became very popular in the years leading up to the country’s 2011 revolution. It has since become an intricate part of Egyptian music. One of the most popular mahraganat musicians is Ahmed El Sweasy, with his song, “Hitta Minni” being his most notable track.

Maryam Mursal (Somalia) Maryam Mursal is a Somalian based musical vocalist and composer whose work has been described as both “tragic and inspiring” and her voice as a “triumph of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.” One of her most notable record is titled “The Journey” (released in 1998) features guitars, sequencers and backing vocals by celebrated English singer, song-writer, Peter Gabriel. Khanja Nin (Burundi) Born in Burundi, Jeanine Ntiruhwama famously known as Khanja Nin is recognised as one of the country’s greatest artists. Some of hit songs include “ Wale Watu”, “Embargo” and “Turasa” and have charted

Justin Vali Trio (Madagascar) Justin Rakotondrasoa, Romeo Tovoarimino (known as “Doudou”), and Clement Randrianantoandro (known as “Clemrass”) all form part Justin Vali Trio, a band that hails from Madagascar. The band is most known for their instrumentals, as they make use of acoustic guitar, kabosy and malgasy marcas.

Sankomota (Lesotho) Sankomota is one of Lesotho’s historically rich bands. Formed in 1976, the band is still regarded as prominent as it featured as one of Standard Bank’s acts in their Joy of Jazz initiative in 2014, which commemorated musicians that broke racial and cultural boundaries during the apartheid regime.

@VarsityNews | 17 April 2018 | V77 E2 | Page 12

The reproduction of Eurocentric knowledge through university rankings

Parusha Chetty

hey say knowledge is power. This is what most students have been taught throughout their lives; from pre-school to grad-school. Yet, knowledge epistemologies are subjective, and in most cases in South Africa, it’s based on the sovereign European institutional system. A system which not only elides much of the lived realities of most South Africans, but also invalidates them with the imposition of Eurocentric conceptualizations of knowledge. Although this theory may sound abstract at ﬁrst, it materializes through the placement of power resulting from the operation of

...knowledge epistemologies are subjective university hierarchies in South Africa. University rankings portray a top-down system of intellectual power, and this is far from the truth. The University of Cape Town has maintained a comfortable position at the top of these rankings for many years and as a result, its students have become the caviar of institutional ecosystems. At our career fairs, companies come from far and wide to shower students with luxuries, UCT branded stationary and leading career advancement opportunities. Most of these opportunities are exclusive to UCT students and this makes logical sense when looking at the university’s ranking. However, these corporate selection systems perpetuate a regime of knowledge reproduction that is resistant to change. A form of intellectual bacteria that rapidly absorbs and delegitimizes the potency and agency of forms of intellect that are

birthed from alternative or marginalized epistemologies. It is no secret that UCT fees are exorbitant to say the least, so does that mean only the rich intellectuals with western conceptualizations of knowledge are the future?

...these corporate selection systems perpetuate a regime of knowledge reproduction that is resistant to change

I’m just as important as your academics! Sincerely: Mental Health

here are times in life where we, as human beings, tend to disregard or take for granted the signiﬁcance of mental health and good support structures until it is too late. Henceforth, the issue of mental health, especially at UCT, should be an ongoing discussion that is treated with utmost importance. The Law Faculty has been said to be the epitome of mental health negligence. The lack of adequate support structures, has been an obstacle for students trying to obtain their degrees.

As students, we tend to seek help from people who, in a nutshell, ‘look like us.’ Due to the small number of students in Kramer, compared to any other faculty, the likelihood of students falling into depression is a dangerously high possibility. The lack of knowledge of

The problem is that this cycle of knowledge reproduction is not only being perpetuated in the corporate sphere through their selection systems, but also by those students at UWC, NMU and CPUT, who are altering their conceptualizations of knowledge to ﬁt that which is produced by sought-after institutions like UCT; knowledge which is validated as dominant by UCT’s branding. The rankings of tertiary institutions e�ace the value of individuals’ intellectual capabilities. Thus, on paper, geographical, physical, cultural and personal reasons for selecting one’s tertiary institution are not considered when applying for career opportunities or even when selecting a medical or legal practitioner. As those 3-4 bracketed letters placed next to one’s degree will continue to rank individuals according to their institutions throughout their lives. The rankings of tertiary institutions e�ace the value of individuals’ intellectual capabilities and professional careers.

Dear UCT:

Praise Adejimi

relevant support structures, along with the arduous waiting lines is a severe hindrance to getting the necessary medical attention. Furthermore, the lack of adequate support structures to cater for students’ mental health needs, may be a contributing factor towards the high dropout rates of law students of colour. Lack of equal representation among one’s lecturers can make it di�cult to know who to go to for help. As students, we tend to seek help from people who, in a nutshell, ‘look like us’. This makes it easier to ask for help with the assurance that the person really understands you and your circumstances. Thus, it becomes di�cult to seek help from people who may not relate with your hardships. This not only a�ects students psychologically, but also academically. Yes, there have been certain support structures that Kramer has put in place to remedy this, such as increasing the availability of lecturers and tutors.

Do the ‘Wokey Pokey’ f you’re a millennial who ﬁnds themselves in the cusp of privileged spaces such as universities (like most of you reading this) then give me the grace of allowing me to assume that you have or are yet to encounter the word ‘woke’. ‘Wokeness’ has commonly been understood as a phenomenon of enlightenment and the embodying of a spirit of advocacy in everyday life.

As students and young people who share a collective interest in the overall bettering and improvement of society... More likely, woke people have a vested interest in this movement because of violent lived realities, as a result of artiﬁcial identities assigned to them by the world and the power disparities- involved in the imposition of these identities. However, in the past few years, with the woke discourse gaining traction in the public domain and people seeing an opportunity to capitalize, it has been used and abused by a number of entities: varying from said student leaders to big companies, for gains that may not align with the intended goals of the movement. It’s initial purpose, which was for it to be used as a tool to e�ect social change, has now been somewhat tainted as a result of the commodiﬁcation of wokeness. I believe this problem stems from the individualistic framework in which we have seemed to understand liberation politics, in that everyone is protecting personal interests and uses that as a means to mobilize, rather than the interests of the collective and of the individual in relation to the collective. It is this that has led to many losing faith, in

Though, it is important to note that one cannot solely rely on academic support to ﬂourish in university. Although getting a degree should be its own reward, I believe that an actual achievement worth celebrating is not the degree itself, but the ability to persevere towards that degree.

Naledi Mbaba

this new wave of activism, it seems to present itself as this new radical wave of thinking when in practice, it seems like it takes on very liberal understandings of what social justice looks like, even though it relies on largely leftist rhetoric to propel itself in the public domain.

Social capital and credibility in these spaces are so intrinsically linked that it becomes clear how erasure and violence can go unaddressed in these spaces The self-congratulatory nature of particularly online performances of wokeness also works as a deterrence for many when it comes to engaging the very important issues. This movement has been able to propel into the public domain. Contradictions like this present many problems particularly for people who find themselves at the crossroads of multiple marginalized identities (who are often minorities in these spaces as well), and for well-intentioned people who are willing to do the political work that this project is asking for. Social capital and credibility in these spaces are so intrinsically linked that it becomes clear how erasure and violence can go unaddressed in these spaces. As students and young people who share a collective interest in the overall bettering and improvement of society, we do need to critically reflect on the rhetoric used to mobilize people, and believed norms that become reinforced in these spaces. To avoid the uninterrogated consumption of political rhetoric and to create spaces that allow constructive and reflective criticisms, that keep in mind the intended purpose of this movement. What good is having a degree today, if you were at the brink of suicide yesterday, and the day before that and so forth? As a university, we need to stop prioritising academic support over mental support. The former does not lead to the latter, but rather the other way around. The end does not and should not justify the means!

FEATURES

@VarsityNews | 17 April 2018 |V77 E3 | Page 13

Ishani Lala & Nwabisa Mazana features@varsitynewspaper.co.za

Re-telling our stories

Nwabisa Mazana

t’s no secret that Hollywood is one of the worlds biggest film industries. It is a big money-making machine, a machine that churns out stories in return for profits and accolades such as Oscars and Grammy’s. For years, as African people, we have watched Hollywood make money by showing us the narratives of Americans packaged into movies, sitcoms and series. But over the recent years, this has started to change. We are starting to see more African stories being told within the cinematic sphere. This is because Hollywood is starting to make space for African narratives by producing or financing movies based on African stories. Examples of these stories

The sharing of African stories is important, it helps in archiving history are: Long Walk to Freedom, Blood Diamond, Black

in a neo-colonial and globalized world, where economic resources and capital are still situated in certain Western areas. This means that, as Africans, we do not have the funding to tell our own stories; we rely heavily on big corporates such as Warner Bros and Sony Entertainment. Therefore, it would be better and more beneﬁcial if these Hollywood corporates would invest their time and capital into already existing production houses in Africa. They should give Africans space to help in telling their own narratives. All of this can be done by hiring African actors and not just South African people. There are 54 other countries in the greater African continent. They could also start using more scriptwriters, screenwriters, producers, etc. from the same countries whose stories they are portraying. It is also no secret that Africa is highly underdeveloped because of our shared histories of colonialism. Therefore, by doing all of this, they would be helping employ many unemployed creatives.

Two Weeks Tonight

april

19april

Pop-up Cinema by the Sea Make the most of these last few Summer nights and enjoye a movie whist relaxing in the sea breeze. The movie is a surprise and headphones are provided. Tickets are R120 and available at the beach. Where?: Clifton 3rd Beach

Panther, Queen of Katwe, Hotel Rwanda, Invictus, District 9 and the Winnie Mandela Movie. The sharing of African stories is important because it helps in archiving history and making sure that future generations always have reference to the past, the problem however lies in how these narratives are packaged and how these stories are told. What often happens is that Hollywood would tell African stories from a Western perspective. This results in erasure, because the lens can only portray what it understands, knows and what it sees. These portrayals also end up playing into westernized stereotypes of Africans. This is why these portrayals are often incorrect, from the accents used to the locations and even the real story. We watch as Hollywood retells our own stories in a very di�erent light and often in an offensive way. It is easy for someone to say that Africans should then create their own Hollywood ﬁlm type industry and retell their own narratives. However, we exist

april

Launch of Feminism Is The different perspectives and experiences of some South African feminists will be discussed in the book and at the event. Deﬁnitely a conversation not to be missed. Where: Exclusive Books Claremont.

april

Women’s Wellness Workshop This three-part series, hosted in conjunction with Futurelife and Granny Goose, covers a broad range of issues, challenges and opportunities faced by the modern woman. Tickets are R100 and can be bought on Webticket. Where: Sports Science Centre

27 april FanCon Cape Town Comic Con Described as “Geek- heaven”, join in on the fun of this highly anticipated 2-day geek/ pop fest. International and local guests, comic artists and entertainment. Be prepped for lots of cosplay and live demos as well as exhibits and competitions. Surely that’s enough said. Tickets range from R130 to R230on Computicket.

Mojo Market’s Birthday Bash

1st

Spend the public holiday enjoying the live markets and food stalls as this propular market turns 1! Where?: 30 Regent Road, Sea Point

april

Hamlet In the mood for something tragic and sad? Catch this internationally acclaimed play while it plays for a limited time only, 11-21 Apri. Tickets are R45 and can be bought from Computicket. Where: Artscape

24april Ajax Cape Town vs Boroka FC Catch the Absa Premiership League match. Tickets start at R60 and can be bought from Computicket.Where?: Athlone Stadium

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Have a fun night on a minimum

he experience of student life can be enjoyable, however being broke before month end because you decided to hit Long Street one, two many times this week, is not fun. Being a student comes with heaps of responsibility and learning to budget is one of them. These days going out with friends can be expensive, however it is possible to have a fun night out on a minimum budget. Firstly, getting to and from your destination safely is important, if you can catch a Jammie, please do. The benefit of this shows in your pocket, when money for a Uber is not spent. However, if you are not able to catch a Jammie, Uber with a group of friends and spilt the fare. Taxify is another alternative to Uber, which is in-fact cheaper. Here are some budget friendly trendy spots in and around Cape Town for you to try: The Galileo open air cinema: If movies are your thing, then you will enjoy this concept of an outdoor cinema. The Galileo offers different

budget

movies at different locations all around the city. Tickets start at R89 The Labia Theatre: Ideal for date nights or a night out with friends. Book a movie ticket for just R50. Fournos Pitta: Located on Rondebosch Main – Specials during the week. R150 for 3 pizzas sis without a doubt a bargain. Fournos cater for vegetarians as well.

Chilling at home: It’s always a great idea to plan a night in with your bae or friends, plan a dinner party, everyone can contribute to the groceries (Pick N Pay and Checkers have daily specials from 3pm) and have a fun night cooking together.

Statement

Not in the glossy, air-brushed idea of what Hollywood thinks African tribal clothing is. Nor is there a certain “uniform” or “conduct” which boxes the many distinctly unique cultures within Africa into one item. Each culture and each tribe (and there are many), is represented in some way or another in the movie, through the characters’ clothing. They are as unique and vibrant on the reel as they are in real life. Ruth Carter, the film’s costume designer, found her inspiration through the many tribes you come across in Africa, as well as drawing from fashion designers who create trendy, contemporary fashion using African textiles and traditions. The result: A myriad of Wakandan tribes that resemble actual African tribes. The farmers/ warriors who protect Wakanda’s borders? Yup, they’re actually wearing Basotho blankets which are worn by the Basotho people in the mountainous, highlands of Lesotho. The red-brown locks worn by an elder? That pays homage to distinctive style of the ovaHimba of Namibia. The Masaai people were acknowledged through the use of their Shuka as the uniform of the Dora Milaje. South African cultures were represented through the Ndebele rings, or

These trendy spots are a bargain for all students, so try them out and you will be able to have a fun night out without having to break the bank and even the heart.

Lower Main Obz: Whether you want pizza, burgers, wings or a happy hour with half-priced drinks. Lower Main Obz has a variety of restaurants and amazing chill-out places.

Fashion as a Wakandan

ou know how they state that fashion is a way to express one’s true self? Well, if that is the case, then one would need no introduction to the fashion as seen in the film Black Panther. Yes, the hype has somewhat slowed down and not every conversation is about Wakanda no longer but when does a movie, a big budgeted, fancy Hollywood movie, have that much of heart in it? Well, it’s hard to let that hype die down too easily. The fashion as seen in the movie stands out purely for the fact that it stayed true to what the movie set out to be – A movie set in Africa, about Africans and for Africans and even thw world. The fact remains, the very people and cultures that Black Panther tried to honour, are very much present in the garments the characters wear.

Zahirah Benjamin

Five books every African should read

Ishani Lala

indzila, which were also worn by the Dora Milaje, whilst the literal crown of the closet belonged to Angela Basset’s Queen Mother Ramonda, whose crowning glory was the isicolo, the magnificent head dress which comes from the Zulu culture and is worn by married women. Ruth Carter, the film’s costume designer, found her inspiration through the many tribes you come across in Africa, All in all, there are a total of 12 African cultures which are subtly represented through the costumes of Black Panther, and while African fashion has seen a jump in popularity in the West, it’s just another reason to see it on the big screens too. The use of traditional attire, even if it was subtle, meant that more cultures and people were represented to the wider audiences and African fashion, traditional and contemporary, could finally be appreciated for its significance and artistic excellence, rather than just being another trend for a season on Europe’s catwalks. If fashion is the way personality gets seen, then through Black Panther, African fashion was seen, heard, loud and clear.

Kelsey Meggott

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. Each page of this book shows us this. 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 his 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 Biafrian Civil War in the 1960’s. Historical and cultural events that happened during this time period are recounted. Ngozi Adichie shows the reader the painful effects these events have on the lives of five very different but intrinsically connected characters. Image from jacana.bookslive Image from amazon

Image from ESPN

Image from 4thestate.

Image from goodreads

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Profile Piece:

Coloured Mentality

Sarah Summers and Kelly Koopman are the dynamic duo behind the web-series on YouTube called ‘Coloured Mentality.’ As described on their page, they are “a lesbian couple, trying to figure out their own complex identity as ‘coloured’ 20-somethings in Cape Town”. Their web-series documents their preparations for the 1000km journey in which they walked from the Eastern Cape to the Castle in Cape Town. This is an annual liberation walk that a group of Khoi Activists take in order to reclaim their indigenous rights. cause we have the answers - we started it because we were looking for them. Like us, many people struggle to understand their identity. A big reason for this is the stigma and stereotypes associated with the term. Further, the term “coloured” is easily problematised because it was a product of apartheid and a tool to stratify black people. But this discourse can be elitist and undermines the experiences of the masses of people who are identified as coloureds We wanted to initiate a safe and inclusive space for people who recognise this identity as their own. We wanted to engage with the various complexities that form part of the conversation, without isolating anyone who has a say on the matter.

What prompted the start of Coloured Mentality (where the idea stemmed from)? The platform was launched as part of a personal journey to unpack our identities as coloured people in the spaces we occupy. This turned into a collective movement dealing with both individual and community identities. The point of the platform was never to define what it means to be coloured. We didn’t start this platform be-

How would you describe existing as a Coloured person within the African Context? Given that we often exist as either a black or white continent, coloured is inherently African because we are of this continent and this land. Politically, we understand coloured to be part of blackness. This is not an idea that we impose on anyone else’s identity, as identity is a fluid thing. Still, for us, it is

important to understand the political connotations of our history, heritage and identity. We identify as black politically and coloured culturally. How do you feel about the representation of Coloured people in SA - whether in Media or Politics. Do you think this representation is enough? No, this representation is not enough, which was another motive behind the creation of the Coloured Mentality platform. Representation is an important aspect of recognising yourself as part of the country’s narrative. We wanted to create the representation we wanted for ourselves. If coloured people are perceived a certain way in the media, how would we prefer to

IIIIImage courtesy of Coloured Mentality

What/Who is Coloured Mentality (the faces behind it)? Coloured Mentality has grown to be more than just a web-series. We have conversations and debates that really begin to unpack what it means to be coloured. We consider ourselves facilitators in this way. Sarah has a background in film and Kelly studied theatre: for the two of them it is about making work that speaks directly to people’s lived experiences. As artists, our primary focus is in communication. How do we use our skills and knowledge to communicate successfully? Many people probably wouldn’t read Coloured Mentality as art, but we approached the work as artists looking at the path of self-discovery and wanted to share that journey.

Image courtesy of Coloured Mentality

be ognised and what do we do about that? Representation is just one way that we start correcting injustice. It is important, but we mustn’t be fooled into thinking that adequate representation means that we have racial equity. This is why we try to address social concerns as well. Our next season will be focused on structural violence and its effects. Sarah and Kelly are currently working on the second season of their web-series and will soon upload it on their YouTube channel. They will be further exploring Khoi Culture and how to merge the past and future of Coloured people in Africa.

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How to stay healthy outside of the gym

Tiyani Rikhotso

tepping into the gym might be expensive, time consuming or intimidating. However, regardless of your budget, schedule or complicated relationships with working out, being fit and healthy is within your reach. As a student, it is super important, because being in good health makes navigating a busy and work-filled life easier. Here are a few healthy habits you can easily implement into your life. Image from pixnio

1. Water. Health isn’t restricted to exercise but extends to what we put into our bodies. Drinking water

is vitally important as it hydrates your body and gets your lymphatic system pumping which flushes out toxins. Amidst all the water saving, it’s important to prioritize the recommended 2 litres of drinking water a day. Invest in a bottle that you can sip from throughout the day and if you stay in a residance, swap out juice for a bottle of water during meals. 2. Ditch the fast food. Between the caf, UberEats, Mc Delivery and the enticing fast food chains on Main Road, it’s very easy to find yourself living off burgers, chips and all the fried and greasy things between. Enjoyed in moderation, takeaways can have a place in your life. However, because they are high in saturated fat and very calorie laden, it’s definitely not healthy when they make up the bulk of your diet. An easy switch to make is to get some

fruit, nuts or biltong when you feel like a snack instead of a large order of Steers chips for example. Not only will your body thank you for cutting down on fast foods, but your wallet will too. 3. Get hiking. The beautiful mountainous landscape of Cape Town leaves many hiking trails at your disposal. Grab a buddy or get together with a group of friends and explore. Whether it’s Lion’s Head, Table Mountain or even shorter, Rhodes Memorial that is close by. This is a great way to get some exercise in with great views and some bonding time with friends.

popular favourite and has a variety of strength training and cardio sessions. Otherwise there are dance, yoga, Pilates or Zumba classes available too. For those who prefer jogging, Strava or the Nike running app which allows you to track your runs and even set targets to follow a program which will lead you to your goal distance or running time. Following safe routes, you can run with a friend as this adds some accountability and motivation. Remember that technology is more than just fancy gadgets or social media but can help lead you to a healthier lifestyle too.

4. The internet and apps are here to help. There are many workout videos on YouTube which allows you to do your exercise of choice in the comfort of your own space (and for free!). Fitness Blender is a

South Africans making waves globally Farai Gwanyanya

he rainbow nation: a product of many different cultures and communities living together, each with a different background and story. The result: gifted and hardworking South Africans who have taken the rest of the world by storm. Some are athletic, some artistic, some intelligent, and some just simply hilarious, but all are influential leaders in their respective disciplines. Here are just a few of these global game changers: Laduma Ngxokolo (32) is a fashion expert whose clothing line, MaXhosa, has been endorsed by celebrities like Beyoncé and Alicia Keys. His fashion line is especially popular in the US and the Netherlands. Not only is Black Coffee (42) the King of House music, but he is also the founder of the ‘DJ Black Coffee Foundation, ’ which contributes towards the rehabilitation of our nation. Ninja (43) and Yolandi Visser (33) are part of the international band called ‘Die Antwoord,’ “the best

band you will never listen to”. Charlize Theron (42) is the flag-bearer for South African celebrities. She has been conquering Hollywood since the 90s, landing big roles and winning numerous awards including an Oscar. Mark Shuttleworth (44): as his name suggests the UCT graduate was born to make waves… universally, and is known for being the first African in outer-space. Caster Semenya (27), the middle-distance runner who had made the country proud at various different competitions and meets for lets just say, unique reasons. Like a phoenix, she keeps rising from whatever controversy that tried to bring her down. Candice Swanepoel (30) requires no introduction as one of the most popular Victoria Secrets Angels and a member of the highest-paid models of recent times.

Nomzamo Mbatha (28) actress/ accountant extraordinaire who is a newly capped UCT graduate and an ambassador for various organisations, including the UNHCR (United Nations High Commisioner for Refugees) This list is not long enough for the recognition of every South African doing amazing things globally, so I also have a few notable mentions: the Musk brothers, Kagiso Rabada, Akani Simbine, Pearl Thusi, Trevor Noah and many others.

Image from BrandSouthAfrica

This nation has witnessed many making it “big” and hopefully this inspires others to follow suit. All you need to succeed is a dollar and a dream… eeeh I mean a R10.00 note and a dream, right? Okay, maybe it’s not quite that simple, however by the will of God, we all will get there.

Image from abc

Image from The Telegraph

@VarsityNews | 17 April 2018| V77 E3 |Page 17

LIFESTYLE & FITNESS

Kaamil Adams sports@varsitynewspaper.co.za

What it’s like to be a racial minority in rowing Julia Evans

Image by Kaamil Adams

n South Africa, as an Anglo sport, rowing is seen to be very English, expensive and white dominated. In a country where white people make up the racial minority, this is a problem in more ways than one. The UCT Rowing Club has ten black and coloured rowers combined, four in the main club and six novices, in a club of about 60 members. This lack of racial representation is evident in universities and schools across the country. Jabulile Nkuta, a secondyear Engineering student, is one of UCT and South Africa’s, best rowers having gone to the World Rowing Championships in 2016. Being a black rower in a white dominated sport, Jabulile says that the lack of black representation is because rowing is stereotypically associated with white males.“Coming into the rowing community, if you want to be the best you look at the best boats

rowing, and that is generally white males. And we try to fit into that”. As a traditionally English sport, many white rowers started this because their family rowed and they want to carry on the tradition. While Jabulile joined the sport because her friends encouraged her to, none of her family did rowing. “They didn’t really understand what rowing was for a very long time, but now since rowing has become my life, they’ve learnt to understand it.” Rowing, and sport in general, should be about power, talent and performance – your ethnicity should not affect your experience. However, this is not always the case. Kaamil Adams of the UCT rowing club, said being a racial minority (coloured) has been “admittedly hard”, as “conforming to the social norms were and is not an easy task.” Many rowers come from top schools in South Africa

where rowing with and against one another is common; my little rowing club in the Southern Suburbs didn’t expose me to this.” Jabulile feels that being a black minority in this sport meant that she had to prove herself more than the other rowers, “I had to build a reputation, I had to be at the top to be recognized, versus white rowers who weren’t as good as me but were recognized as much as me.” When asked how she feels about being one of the few black rowers in a sport where she excels, Jabulile said, “I think it is quite sad. Like, if I’m one of the best rowers in South Africa, it is just disheartening that I’m alone here. People come up to me and say, Well done! You are representing us, but I don’t want to be the only one representing us. I don’t want to carry this flag for everyone - I want ALL of us to be here, celebrating this sport. But no, it’s just

me. And that’s sad.”. Like with Olympian Sizwe Ndlovu, who was the only black member his lightweight four that took home the Gold in the London 2012 Olympics, both these athletes are incredibly inspiring - but it shouldn’t be their sole responsibility to instigate ethnic minorities to row, nor should they be the only representatives. If we open it up, we’ll find more power, more talent and more people good for the sport.” It is vital, that in a country that has 79% black people and 9% coloured, rowing opens up to other racial groups. Jabulile said, “I think it is important that we fix the demographics in this sport. If we open it up, we’ll find more power, more talent and more people good for the sport.” By encouraging South Africa’s racial majority to start rowing, the sport will

expand and consequently, more equipment and funding will be provided, leading to more growth and opportunity. Despite its racial minorities and failure to represent South Africa’s demographics, rowing isn’t about exclusivity. In fact, it has the amazing ability to give people a place where they feel like they belong – it just needs to widen its reach. Jabulile said, “Even though it was TOUGH… I love rowing. It taught me a lot of discipline, how to push myself and I’ve met some really cool people in this sport. It’s become part of my life. It’s cool being associated with rowing, because sometimes, you know, you just want to fit in somewhere.” * As a white person, I am not trying to claim ownership of ethnic minorities’ perspective. It doesn’t matter who starts the conversation. It just matters that people are talking about it.

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THE BACK PAGE

@VarsityNews | 17 April 2018 | V77 E3 | Page 18

In this Issue

Invisible Africa at UCT?

Bronwyn White

The state of mental health at UCT

Womxn of Color in Power

centrespread

Music that shaped Africa

a billionaire who, because of his means, was able to support a $250 000 slum project, but rather we should strive to be the average Joe who saved orphaned Reagan Abrahams from drugs and poverty by creating a chance to change. As a rowing coach, it became my objective to target those who, by the blights of poverty, were forced to accept only football as their choice of sport. The most rewarding part of my journey as a coach began last year when the little, undernourished kids from Zeekoevlei High School embarked on their ﬁrst rowing experience. This ended last week, when they walked through Cape Town International Airport, with nine silver medals from the South African Junior Rowing Championships

in Pretoria. This had been particularly impactful to me, due to the fact that this was their ﬁrst competitive tournament. We as students have the chance to evoke change by helping. It is di�cult, yes, but not impossible. Let’s get up and change lives through sport, with a smile. Image courtesy of Bronwyn White

Abdullah Khan

Coloured Mentality

Do the ‘Wokey Pokey’

South Africans making waves globally

ell let’s face it, one way or another, we are all willing to help. From simple smiles to a cup of sugar, helping is a pride pleaser and a character builder. Often, what we ﬁnd is that it is easier to give when we have the means to do so. However, the question asked is: how willing are we in making certain e�orts in cases where money and time is required? Many boast about the good deeds which they have committed, and from these deeds, they are often gloriﬁed in the eyes of society. The irony is, often those who have contributed the most to society do not receive the praise in which they deserve. The impact which we want to leave should not be that of

Tournament in Africa and its beneﬁts to both cricket and Africa

10-11

Africa’s spectacle, for the greater good

A tribute to Winnie Madikizela-Mandela

Cricket is a sport that is oved, respected and followed by millions of people In many cases it dictates the lives of many that are indulged in it. T20 being the most recent addition to the sport is hence a highlight for the followers. Therefore, if a T20 tournament is to be held on African soil not only will it gather much traction from the locals but will expose the sport to hidden talents that have never been discovered before. Since cricket has not su�ciently permeated African soil, there is yet significant potential to be unlocked from the youth that could benefit from the sport with perhaps the next Brian Lara or even the next Sachin Tendulkar. Furthermore cricket, as known by many, attracts a vast amount of businesses and investors to take part in the sport and sponsor the teams involved. Such an influx of income into Africa will enable and facilitate economic growth both locally and nationally. All in all, the presence of Cricket on African soil is a blessing for fans, the continent and the whole world at large.

Anthems for Africa

Ammaarah De Vos

Should foreign coaches be involved in our local African teams, writes Mich Burnside

believe foreign coaches should be able to coach National SA Squads - if it is in the best interest of the team. A sports coach gets signiﬁcantly less representation and publicity than the players do, thus in the interest of empowering African identities, the improvement of the players in order to win is a win for the country. To do this, the team needs the best coach to channel the players towards success. If national squads were coached only by citizens of that same country, this could cause a massive skill disparity. The best countries in a certain sport would stay the best and the

struggling would stay struggling. This is skewing the nature of fair, competitive sport. Nations rich in resources would trump those rich in natural talent, as much of that talent may go unharvested. This is historically common in African countries. However, regardless of the coach’s background, they would need to read the style of play in that country. For a successful team-coach ﬁt, a foreign coach would need to adapt to South African communication and leadership styles. If they can do so successfully, they should be given the opportunity to coach that team.

nity in the form of a song sung before big sporting events. A tradition that has come a long way and is still being continued until this day. To me, it brings the opposing into accord. It puts war aside and achieves harmony even if for a few minutes. It allows for everyone to be perceived as, and perceive themselves as equals. Having them set aside disagreements, di�erences, or anything that could possibly set them apart.

Image from ﬂickr.com

It puts war aside and achieves harmony even if for a few minutes Taking into consideration the unforgiving past that still, to this day discomforts our country, our anthem is able to promote loyalty and pride in our country. A sense of unity or a feeling of familiarity towards one another is produced and in turn, this sense of unity empowers

and motivates players as it reminds them that they are not only doing this solely for themselves or their teammates, but are representing a much larger team of people - an entire nation. After all, it has been said that the ultimate goal of most sports teams is to make their country or better yet, their “family” proud. And what better way to encourage this, than to start o� with the national anthem.

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I would rather not. Thank you For the kind suggestion. But I would rather not Sit down, Keep quiet, Behave, Hold my tongue. I would rather not Fold my legs And open my arms And accept YOUR oppression. I would rather not Do this for you. Live! For you. I would rather Speak my mind And oďż˝end you with the vulgarity of my own decisions. I would rather Fight you For a greater love And a greater living. I would rather burn the bridges built on the backs of my mothers and their mothers and your slaves and their mothers! Because I would rather die Than live a life you love built by the power of your hatred for me. I would rather... I would rather Fight. To my last breath.

In memory of Winnie MadikizelaMandela Rest In Power Writes Tamutswa Mahari

@VarsityNews | 17 April 2018 | V77 E3 |Page 20

Home sweet home?

Life in Cape Town through the eyes of an African American, writes Breana Ross be surrounded by people that looked like me. For the first time, I felt a sense of comfort because of my skin color, a sense of pride. I thought I would finally feel at home.

As I began to immerse myself in life in Cape Town, I realized that, though I am part of the majority racial group, I am still seen as a foreigner. Unanticipated language barriers divide me from some South Africans who look like me, especially when I’m working in the townships.

Being in South Africa, has made me realize that I have been missing a crucial part of my identity as an African American

hen I first landed in Cape Town, I was excited about the journey that awaited me. Coming from a small city right outside of Washington D.C., the idea of traveling all the way to South Africa was surreal for me. I chose Cape Town because it was the only

study abroad program my school offered that included service and I was excited about the opportunity to work with kids in the townships. I was even more excited as I looked around the airport and saw the people that surrounded me. For the first time as a black person, I would

Whenever I speak, heads turn because my accent is different. I felt lost every day during my first month in Cape Town, even though my daily schedule is the same in the U.S. However, the more I began interacting with people around South Africa, I began to feel more comfortable. I have found that people here are much warmer

and much nicer than in America. Through my interactions, I have also realized just how much race is intertwined in South African society. Just walking down the streets, I can see the products of systematic racism, as people who look like me suffer in destitute poverty in a way that I have never seen before. Conversations surrounding race are also much blunter. As an American, I’m used to people avoiding conversations surrounding race in order to be “politically correct”. I have an appreciation for the level of openness in discussing race here in South Africa because it sparks conversations that change minds. That is the type of progress that America lacks. The more I have discussed race and ethnicity with my peers here in South Africa, the more I have realized how uncertain my racial identity actually is. In America, I identify as black. As I asked my peers about their racial backgrounds, I realized their answers extended far beyond just

saying, “I’m black.” Everyone could name an exact tribe and an exact country where their people originated. Everyone knew where they actually come from. In America, black people do not know where they come from. We say we’re “African American”, but the umbilical cord that connected us to the motherland was cut with the slave trade, without a trace. Being in South Africa, has made me realize that I have been missing a crucial part of my identity as an African American. When I hear black South Africans speak their native language or talk about traditions of their tribe, I feel a void, a longing to be reunited with those pieces of my culture. Thus, my time in South Africa has been characterized by a constant shaping and reshaping of my identity as an African American, trying to find my place in what is supposed to be my home, trying not to feel orphaned in the Motherland.