Post Matric - Gauteng 2019 by Yes Media

POST MATRIC 2019 | GAUTENG

WIN SAMSUNG GALAXY A2 CORE SMARTPHONE

OWN YOUR

destiny PLUS BE INSPIRED • PLAN YOUR ROUTE • FIND FUNDING

CAREER IDEAS INSIDE PMGAU2019.indd 1

Visit www.postmatric.co.za for stacks more! 2019/06/21 09:39

PMGAU2019.indd 2

2019/06/21 09:39

FROM THE ED

M A T R IC F IN A LS A RE C O M IN G

y favourite Instagram selfie is one where I’m parking off on my couch binge-watching season seven of Game of Thrones – brushing up on who did what to win the Iron Throne before winter finally came in April this year, as a rushed fiery torrent that felt a bit… meh – with my kitten watching curiously over my shoulder. The expression on Finn’s face was the cutest thing ever, so, of course, I whipped out my smartphone to capture the moment. I admit there are actually about 20 takes of the same shot, with only slight shifts

in angle. But I never did manage to lock that moment down digitally, not the way I remember it anyway. He’s a young adult now: in cat years, nine months; in human years, 18. But he continues to give me moments of joy and tons of cute pics. He’s left the ‘den’, struck out on his own. He’s chosen to attend the University of the Wild. Signed up for a BSoc degree, with hunting, sleeping and purring loudly in my face at 5am as his main subjects (I’m firmly encouraging him to change the latter next semester to cat behaviour 101).

In many ways, cats are no different from humans. They too need love and encouragement to follow their instincts in choosing how to survive in the adult world. But humans have so much more freedom; more choice. And these days, we have all the information we need, literally at our fingertips. Post Matric is one such resource. With inspiration from Candice Thurston, who is breaking down the barriers of beauty and haircare, the latest trends in post-school options and #NabbingThatFund, and a bunch of lit career ideas and

Win

websites to spark you off in the right direction, we’ve got your back, totes! Now, go out there and capture as many moments as you can. But remember not to miss them play out in real life, because there will always be another best-ever moment for the perfect Instagram pic.

Olivia Main

EDITOR: POST MATRIC

A SAMSUNG GALAXY A2 CORE SMARTPHONE

This new kid on the block sports an easy-to-use interface and a design that slips into your pocket or bag without a hitch. But the main pro is that it comes with Android Go software, which makes apps like WhatsApp possible to use. Also, selfie lovers will be glad to hear about its user-friendly 5-megapixel camera. And with 16GB storage and 1GB RAM, keeping your favourite shots close by won’t be an issue.

How to Enter: SMS your name and the name of the school where you got your copy of Post Matric to 072 129 2058. Example: Sipho Nkosi, Victoria Park High School Competition Closes: 30 September 2019 Competition Rules: Only one entry per person will be entered in the draw. The draw will be held by 4 October 2019 and the winner contacted by 9 October 2019, on the number they used to send the SMS.

POST MATRIC 2019 | 1

PMGAU2019.indd 3

2019/06/21 09:39

PMGAU2019.indd 4

2019/06/21 09:39

CONTENTS

EDITOR Olivia Main olivia@yesmedia.co.za ART DIRECTOR / DESIGNER Kamiela Abrahams

CONTENTS FEATURES 6 Own your hair, own your conﬁdence

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Ursula Munnik ursula@yesmedia.co.za

Entrepreneur Candice Thurston is building a brand that breaks down racial barriers and builds confidence… with revolutionary beauty and haircare.

CONTRIBUTORS Jo Spies, Christina Kennedy, Gavin Dudley, Cindy Glass, JS Smit

11 Navigate your next move

NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Jan Weiss jan@yesmedia.co.za PROJECT SALES MANAGER Andy Nicholson

You have to be in it, to win it! Samsung Galaxy A2 Core up for grabs.

5 Gotta have gadgets

The latest in tech trends for the digitally-minded.

31 5 Ways to boost your brain

Up your game with these tried-and-tested tips for focus and positive vibes.

PUBLISHER Yes! Media

32 Grab a pen, pal

CEO Deon Muller

Post Matric is published by Yes! Media. All copyright in material appearing in this magazine belongs to Yes! Media and/or the individual contributors. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or Yes! Media. No responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions in the contents of the magazine. Post Matric ISSN number 2074-4412

The secrets to funding success are revealed to be just clicks away.

1 Competition

TEL 021 447 6467 FAX 021 447 6351 EMAIL info@yesmedia.co.za POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 44383, Claremont 7735, South Africa WEBSITE www.yesmedia.co.za

COVER IMAGE Jo Spies

14 #FundingMadeEasy

ENTERTAINMENT

ADVERTISING SALES Graeme February, Joy Voss

PRINTED BY CTP Printers

A quick ﬂashback, then a bunch of legit advice about all the possible moves you can make after Matric.

JS Smit swipes right for the mighty pen (and for the smartphone).

POST MATRIC 2019 | 3

PMGAU2019.indd 5

2019/06/24 14:58

PMGAU2019.indd 6

2019/06/21 09:39

TECH TRENDS

GOTTA HAVE TO P G EA R FOR A DI GI TA LLY E N A BL ED L I F EST Y L E

FUJIFILM INSTAX SQ20

Instant photo cameras are now the ultimate retro tech. The SQ20 produces the standard square 6cm prints, but it does some other neat tricks too. Film a short clip and, using the screen on the back, you can choose which frame to print. Photos and video are now saved on the included 16GB microSD card.

R3000

NOKIA 9 PUREVIEW

FITBIT VERSA LITE

The Pureview’s five 12MP rear cameras make it stand out in a crowd of identical looking smartphones. Add in the ﬂash and a sophisticated light meter and the constellation of seven sensors on the back give us a little thrill each time we turn it over. Pictures are excellent, as you would expect. For thousands of rands less, the Nokia 9 matches the other top phones spec for spec and, we think, it looks even cooler. 6” screen, R12000

One of Fitbit’s cleverest products, it combines the wellness metrics and long battery life of a health tracker with the ability to add apps and faces like a smartwatch. It will recognise around 15 kinds of workouts, including swimming and gym, but also excels at measuring step count and movement through the day, and the quality of your sleep at night. Waterproof, R3000

ROCKETBOOK WAVE

TRUST GXT 165 CELOX GAMING MOUSE

Gamers like to customise their weapons. This mouse steps up resolution from 200DPI up to 10 000DPI, has eight other programmable buttons, eye-watering RGB lighting effect and extremely generous finger scoops with textured finishes for maximum grip. Fine-tune your movement using the four tiny 4g weights. R700

Scribble your notes and doodles, photograph the page with the phone app, and it gets delivered directly into your preferred cloud service like Evernote, iMessage, Dropbox or Google Drive. No more lost notes! It even converts your handwriting into text which is searchable. The A5 notepad is re-usable: pages magically go clear after a few minutes in the microwave. 80pp, R525

POST MATRIC 2019 | 5

PMGAU2019.indd 7

2019/06/21 09:39

OWN YOUR

hair, OWN YOUR

confidence

F U ELL ED BY PASSI ON AND PERSON A L EXP ERI EN C E, THE F OU NDE R A N D MD OF CA N DI & C O SET OU T T O R EMIND AFRI CA N WOME N THA T SEL F - L OV E ST A RT S WIT H L O VING YOUR HAI R B Y C HR IS TI NA KE N N EDY 6 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 8

2019/06/21 09:39

INSPIRATIONAL PEOPLE

SMART TIPS FOR WOULD-BE ENTREPRENEURS Candice Thurston says that “entrepreneurship is not for everyone” and jokes that “all entrepreneurs are a little bit crazy”, but if you have your sights firmly set on starting a business, she has some advice for you:

hen Candice Thurston was a young mixed-race girl growing up in a small (and often small-minded) mining town in Mpumalanga, she had to endure the indignity of going to a hair salon and being told that the stylists there could either cater to her long, straight hair or her mother’s curly hair, but not both. “Hair was always a big thing in our family,” she relates. “And the hair space for women of colour was not great – you couldn’t find hair salons [catering for ethnic hair] that were neat or clean.” She couldn’t understand why, in an African country such as South Africa, most hairdressers in the formal space still focused on Eurocentric, Western ideals of hairstyling – and beauty. “Beauty was defined as light skin and straight hair, whatever race you were,” she notes. “Growing up in a place like Secunda, we had to overcome a lot of racial barriers. But my parents grew me up with the approach that if you work hard and respect people, you’ll be successful in whatever you do.” So, inspired and encouraged by Ian Fuhr, the founder of the Sorbet group of beauty salons, this brainy BCom graduate decided to take the plunge and act. Pooling her knowledge of beauty, business and brand building that she’d built up while working in marketing and customer service at Unilever and MTN, she came up with a “kick-ass business proposal for Sorbet … And at the end of it, they were like: ‘We love it, where do we sign?’ And so Candi & Co was born.” This chain of classy yet accessible hair and beauty salons under the Sorbet umbrella caters specifically

(but not exclusively) for ethnic hair. From braids, weaves and dreadlocks to curls, twists and knots – and all the natural products needed to keep your hair in tip-top condition – Candi & Co is all about making women feel like a million bucks. “We want you to love your hair, whatever it looks like, and use the right products to get the most out of your hair,” Thurston says. From the original pilot store that was opened in 2014, it has now grown to eight stores in Gauteng, with plans to expand, plus a training school for stylists and women entrepreneurs who wish to own their own beauty business. Over 100 people have been employed since its inception. “I wanted to deracialise hair and create a space where all race groups can sit next to each other and enjoy themselves,” the 36-year-old says. “I often use this analogy about bras: it’s like when girls buy bras, you don’t have Spanish or Portuguese boobs – you have a bra type. Hair is exactly the same – if you pull your hair out and stretch it, it looks the same but when you let it go, everyone’s got a different hair type.” Thurston didn’t stumble upon a winning concept by accident – it was the culmination of personal experience, research, workplace insights and, most importantly, passion and persistence. Having been exposed to apartheid injustice first hand when growing up, she was determined to chart a successful path in life. She initially wanted to be a chartered accountant but then decided to study marketing at the University of Pretoria (UP), while keeping accounting as a major – “I’m both left- and right-brain inclined,” she says.

• Start young: “I’m a firm believer that you need to start running a business from as young as three years old. Start a business today, whether it’s selling socks or sweets or developing an app. You’ll learn different business skills from each business, like how to manage cashﬂow and expenses. Build that mindset from a young age.” • Put together a tight business case: “Make sure you understand your idea, costs, your market, the amount of investment you need. Talk to a lot of people and focus groups – you need others to rip it apart and build it up for you.” • Start small: “Even if you start with R1 000, start small and register your business. Plough money back into it. This will help you when you approach the banks for financing by showing proof of concept.” • Be passionate: “Make sure you are passionate about your business. I’m not passionate about cars, for example, so I wouldn’t start a car business. But I’m passionate about beauty.” • Build a purpose-driven brand: “People don’t want to be part of brands that are just seen to make money. They want to be part of brands that are driven by a purpose to change the world, whether it be through sustainability, changing lives, driving equality, eradicating poverty.” • Put people before proﬁts: “If you look after your people – whether it be your employees or guests – the money will come.” • Prepare and plan: “Do your research. Be the hardest-working and best-prepared person in the room.” • Be humble: “There’s a level of entitlement in the millennial space. Remember that no one owes you anything; you have to work, as no one’s going to give you anything on a silver platter. If it were easy, everybody would be doing it.” • Be a slashie: “Don’t just focus on one skill. Be a forward-slasher with a multitude of skills – become a photographer and a copywriter; learn how to build a website and manage your own social media accounts. I’ve worked in every department of my business and know how each works.” POST MATRIC 2019 | 7

PMGAU2019.indd 9

2019/06/21 09:39

INSPIRATIONAL PEOPLE

“MY MISSION IS ABOUT DERACIALISING, DESTIGMATISING AND REVOLUTIONISING HAIR AND BEAUTY NOTIONS. I WANT TO ENSURE THAT ALL PEOPLE FROM ALL RACES AND CULTURES HAVE THE STRENGTH TO FEEL BEAUTIFUL AND CONFIDENT”

CANDI’S SIX Ps FOR SUCCESS

After graduating with a BCom, she did her honours at the University of the Witwatersrand, before being accepted into Unilever’s Integrated Business Management Challenge internship programme at UP. Thurston laid the groundwork for her future entrepreneurial venture while at Unilever, working on its deodorant and haircare brands, as well as at MTN. This is where the dream of opening her own Sorbet franchise began germinating – as a user of the salons herself. “From my experience in MTN and Unilever, I’d developed concepts from scratch, so I put together a very detailed business proposal, looking at the market and spending time developing the concept,” she recalls. These insights enabled her to carefully craft a “bright and entertaining” brand that appeals to the LSM 6 to 10 market, mainly women with an average age of 30, and children. She knew what it was about the consumer experience that would set Candi & Co apart from the rest of the pack. “We give you an amazing experience,” she says – from a loyalty programme where you earn points and get a 50% discount on your birthday to enjoying free wine, champagne and Wi-Fi in salons, as well as professional stylists and nail technicians, retail products and weekly promotions, not to mention regular trend reports. “As a brand, we’re not just a hair salon, we’re a brand that builds confidence,” says Thurston. “We want women to come in and do their hair and #ownit. We want them to feel they can take over the world, and we help them with that journey.” No wonder Thurston likes to think of herself as a gardener – cultivating confidence, growing self-esteem, nurturing a proudly African concept of beauty that comes from the self-belief within. The sky’s truly the limit for this hair guru!

People (if you focus on them, profits will follow) Patience (in bucketfuls) Planning (lots of it!) Pride (swallow it) Passion (a must) Purpose (another essential)

TAKE FIVE ON CANDICE What are you reading?

More Important than Money: An Entrepreneur’s Team by Robert Kiyosaki (author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad).

What are you listening to?

Spotify playlists according to my mood – hip-hop, romance, ’90s music.

What and who inspires you?

Being part of bringing out the best in people – that gets my heart pumping. Other people’s success excites me more than my own! And my parents. My mom and dad came from poor backgrounds, and they worked so hard to support my brother and me, and instil the values in us to be successful and change lives.

Travel goals?

Ooh, I love travelling! This year I did Tel Aviv and last year I did Vietnam and Ibiza, next up is Croatia and Bali. I’ve done Lagos and Zimbabwe, but also want to travel to more African countries.

Your motto in life?

To be respected, respect. To be trusted, trust. To be loved, love.

8 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 10

2019/06/24 14:59

We actively embrace e a culture of CARE and KINDNESS

We celebrate DIVERSITY

We W e are THOUGHT LEADERS

We are FORWARD-THINKING, ARD-THINKING taking on the challenges of ow the future now

Our teaching and social ND SECUR CURE environments are SAFE AND SECURE and confined to one campus space

We e create a space where one feels a SENSE OF everyone BELONGING ONGING

PICK A BRIGHT FUTUREWITH US T: +27 51 401 3000 | E: info@ufs.ac.za |

www.ufs.ac.za

Inspiring excellence. Transforming lives. Inspireer uitnemendheid. Verander lewens.

PMGAU2019.indd 11

2019/06/21 09:39

July 2019 The Council for Geoscience (CGS) is a multidisciplinary institution empowered by diverse and highly skilled researchers who are encouraged to develop their capabilities and knowledge according to national imperatives. These researchers enable the CGS to develop onshore and oﬀshore geoscientiﬁc information using several specialisations, including Geoscience Mapping, Economic Geology and Geochemistry, Geophysics and Remote Sensing, Water and Environmental Geology and Seismology and Geohazard Research.

BURSARY APPLICATIONS

INTERNSHIP APPLICATIONS

BURSARY APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN TO:

WHEN DO APPLICATIONS OPEN?

Students from Grade 12 with a Level 6 and above achievement in Mathematics and Physical Science, as well as students who would like to pursue an Honours, Masters, Doctorate or Post-Doctorate qualiﬁcation in Geoscience.

There are no speciﬁc dates for internships. Internships are dependent on the needs of the Business Units. You are advised to continually check the CGS website.

WHEN WILL YOU GET FEEDBACK? In December or the beginning of January, depending on when the Skills Development Committee make recommendations.

WHO QUALIFIES FOR INTERNSHIPS? Graduates with Honours qualiﬁcations in the following ﬁelds: Geology, Engineering Geology, Geophysics, Geohydrology, Geochemistry, Economic Geology, Geo-Informatics, Remote Sensing.

HOW LONG DO INTERNSHIPS LAST? The CGS also provides an Experiential Learning Programme to students who are studying towards a National Diploma in Geology for a period of six months.

A period of two years.

DO INTERNS GET PAID A STIPEND? Yes, the CGS pays R13 000 per month to interns.

HEAD OFFICE: 280 Pretoria Street, Tshwane, 0184, South Africa • Tel: +27 (0)12 841 1911 Fax: +27 (0)12 841 1221 • Email: info@geoscience.org.za • Web: http://www.geoscience.org.za

Council for Geoscience.indd 3

2019/06/25 11:49

STEPS TO SUCCESS

NAVIG ATE YOUR NE XT MOV E NEED ADVICE ON FINDING YOUR WAY THROUGH TO THE OTHER SIDE OF MATRIC, AND BEYOND? SPOILER ALERT: YOU DON’T HAVE TO HAVE A UNIVERSITY DEGREE TO SUCCEED AT LIFE. BY CINDY GLASS

emember the tingle of excitement and anticipation about starting ‘big school’? The crisp, slightly oversized new uniform; the satchel or backpack carrying virgin stationery – possibly even an eraser that smelt of fruit. I bet you (or your proud parents) still have your first-day-of-school photo either tucked away safely in their wallet or displayed somewhere prominent: the beginning of the epic adventure that is school. And in a ﬂash, 12 years of firsts – first ‘besty’, first homework, first exam, first kiss, first rejection, first success, first failure – have culminated in the threshold of adulthood: your matric year, and all the (overwhelming) decisions about your future. To some it is clear what direction to follow, while to the majority, the future is a blank page. But that can be a good thing. There are endless avenues to explore. And, it may not feel like it with the pressure of finals and life choices looming large, but you have time, a lifetime in fact, to figure out and grow into what it is that you want to spend your days doing. That doesn’t mean you can just kick back and wait for the good times to roll – here are some practical tips on navigating your next move:

SELF-AWARENESS IS ESSENTIAL

Knowing who you are and what you are interested in or passionate about is key to finding a career that you will fully embrace and stick with. Grab your notebook (digital or paper), take down your answers to the

following questions, and then share them with a few people you trust to help you decide – not make the decision for you! Ask yourself:

• What will make me happiest? Figure out what makes you tick, and do that. But be open to other options if your first choice doesn’t work out.

• What does success mean to me? Create a vision board where you can write, draw or paste examples of what success looks like for you. Remember: you are a unique person with unique views on what you want to achieve. Don’t compare your dreams with others – say no to FOMO!

EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS

• What are my strengths and weaknesses? Be honest and don’t judge yourself. Only you will see your answers and only you will benefit (or not) from them. • What skills will I need to achieve my goals? Think about the skills you have and find out how you can best develop those. Choose skills that will stay relevant in the changing world of work. • How well do I perform under pressure? Some people are slow and methodical, others thrive on adrenalin. If you’re the methodical type, steer clear of careers that require you to think on your feet. • Am I self-motivated and self-disciplined? Think about what you are willing, and not willing, to do to achieve your goals. And whether you have the discipline to be your own boss or need a little external push to get you going.

There are a whole bunch of career and post matric options, and not all of them involve having to get into varsity. The trick is to find your ‘best fit’. Take a look at these: STUDY FURTHER A great option if you’ve got a clear career path to follow. But also if you want to explore what you’re interested in. Not all institutions offer all study options, so where you study will depend on your chosen journey. Universities offer degrees and postgraduate qualifications, which often lead to the more conventional professional careers, whereas Universities of Technology offer a wider range of degrees and diplomas which lead to titles like paramedic, graphic designer, chef. At a TVET college, you can do a certificate course for work in technical or vocational fields. To study at a University or University of Technology, you have to pass Grade 12. However, you can start studying at a TVET college with only a Grade 9 pass. The 50 colleges around South Africa have more than 250 campuses between them and study costs are very reasonable. POST MATRIC 2019 | 1 1

PMGAU2019.indd 13

2019/06/24 15:01

STEPS TO SUCCESS

a learning curve – offer to work for companies for free, gaining valuable knowledge and skills you can add to your CV. Search the online job seeking websites like careers24.com, indeed.co.za, jobs.co.za and careerjunction.co.za regularly and register your application wherever you can – it can’t hurt.

TVET colleges offer a wide range of qualifications: from design, engineering, business studies to education, hospitality, travel and tourism. In fact, it is now possible to complete your matric in the form of an NCV (National Certificate Vocational) at one of these colleges, allowing you to leave matric with subjects in these areas, rather than traditional academic subjects like biology and geography. Distance learning and online study are increasingly popular. And a good option if you want to earn while you learn. It’s cost-effective and you can choose how long you want to take to complete your course. Well known distance learning facilities include UNISA, Damelin, INTEC College, and even Wits University. Whatever you decide, make sure the institution you pick is accredited – ask to see the certificate if you’re unsure. Search their name online for reviews from other students to check their reputation. GAP IT Studying is not the only A game. A gap year is a brilliant way to get to know the world of options out there, and yourself. And it doesn’t have to be all about fun in the sun. Other reasons to take a gap year: • Save money for your studies. • Travel while working – working on a cruise ship and au pairing for an overseas family are popular (have your travel documents and requirements sorted before heading off on these adventures). • Do volunteer work – it could lead to invaluable work and social experiences; many companies leap at the opportunity to have extra hands available. • Learn new skills through short courses – incredibly valuable, especially if

you’re leaning towards becoming an entrepreneur or wanting to explore the latest technologies and digitisation. Check out the National Scarce Skills List (found at labour.gov.za). B E CO M E A N A P P R E N T I CE Combining studying with on-the-job training is perfect if you’re into learning a trade. Internships and Learnerships are exciting opportunities to gain experience and competitive skills. A Learnership is a structured learning programme that includes theoretical and practical workplace experiential learning over a period of at least 12 months, leading to a qualification registered on the NQF (National Qualifications Forum). Learnerships are funded for both employed and unemployed learners through SETAs (Sector Educational and Training Authorities). There are 23 SETAs in South Africa – for example, one deals with the banking industry and another with the food and beverage industry – and one of their roles is to provide skills and training, which is vitally needed in various fields. Have a look at the list of SETA contacts provided to research this opportunity further. LA N D A J O B Finding employment straight after school may be necessary, but a word of caution. A salary that looks ‘good’ now may not be enough in a year or two’s time. Carefully consider whether the job offers you growth opportunities for personal and skills development. That said, it may be diﬃcult to find employment straight after school without any experience behind you. Think of the first few months out of school as

GO DIGITAL There are literally thousands of ways to build a career using social media and other internet applications. Technology is constantly expanding; the world is truly your oyster. Use this unique position to create a platform on which to build a lucrative career. So, if you’re the entrepreneurial type, start your business small and grow it as opportunities arise. Make sure you seek advice from experienced business people along the way. It’s never too late to start working hard and putting in the effort to achieve your goals. I like the inspiring wisdom found in this old Chinese proverb: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” And don’t forget to ask for help when you need it. We’ve all either been or are going where you are.

SOME USEFUL WEBSITES

• Study information: postmatric.co.za • Job descriptions: onetonline.org • Learnerships: serviceseta.org.za/index. php/learners/internships • TVET Colleges: studentroom.co.za/listof-public-tvet-colleges-in-south-africa • Gap year ideas: educonnect.co.za/ﬁvegap-year-ideas-inspire-you/ • Overseas study: globaleducation.co.za

Cindy Glass Founder and Director: Step Up Education Centres

12 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 14

2019/06/24 15:01

PMGAU2019.indd 15

2019/06/21 09:40

#FundingMadeEasy YOUR FUTURE COULD BE CLICKS AWAY

WITH A STREAMLINED ONLINE APPLICATION PROCESS, THE GOVERNMENT HAS MADE IT EASY TO APPLY FOR FREE TERTIARY EDUCATION

reat news for future trailblazers! The process to apply for funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has been revised to allow for applications to be completed in, get this, five minutes. All of which means you have no excuse for not taking action to earn your degree, diploma or certificate and put yourself on course for a higher income – and a better life. Thanks to the #FeesMustFall class of 2015, free tertiary education has become a reality and the time to make use of it is now. And there are many opportunities up for grabs. In 2018, NSFAS disbursed loans and bursaries to the tune of R22-billion for 659 000 (371 368 university and 288 341 TVET college) students. This amount is expected to increase in 2019 to approximately R32-billion, which is estimated to fund about 400 920 TVET college students and 377 050 University students. Here are some tips on what bursaries, scholarships and loans you may be eligible for. This is your moment to shine – seize it with both hands!

ROADMAP TO SUCCESS: HOW TO APPLY WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO GO

• First, secure a place at your university or college of choice.

• You will still have to meet the academic requirements or criteria for a particular public university or TVET college. • Each university will still set its own fees for its various programmes of study, which will be covered by the government bursary if you qualify. • Once you have been offered a place, apply for your university or college bursary online through NSFAS. • NSFAS reserves the right to verify your household income, to ensure that you are eligible for free tertiary education. • If your funding application is successful, NSFAS will pay your fees directly to the institution where you are enrolled. • If you fail to secure a place in an institution, register on the Department of Higher Education’s Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) system once you’ve received your matric results. This online application portal will then share your information with all the universities, colleges, private institutions and SETAs that still have space available.

YOU WILL BE FUNDED IF

• Your combined annual household income (or the income of your family) does not exceed R350 000 per annum. • You’re registering for the first time for an undergraduate qualification at a public university or you are registered at a TVET college for one of the National Certificate Vocational or report 191 programme.

• You’ve passed Grade 9 & 10 to receive NSFAS funding to study at a TVET college. • You’ve passed Grade 12 to receive NSFAS funding to study at a university.

WHAT WILL BE COVERED?

• Accommodation (and/or transport), as well as study materials and meals will also be subsidised for students who qualify, but this will be capped at a certain amount. • Qualifying students will have their tuition and registration fees at a public tertiary institution covered by the Department of Higher Education and Training’s Bursary Scheme. • The bursary scheme started with firstyear students in 2018 and will be phased in over five years. In 2019, first-year and second-year students will be eligible for free education. • Students who have received NSFAS loans in the past, and who are currently enrolled at a South African university, will have their loans converted into grants.

PATHS TO SUCCESS: DIFFERENT TYPES OF FUNDING BURSARY

This is funding from an academic institution, company or government entity that enables you to start or continue with

14 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 16

2019/06/21 09:40

NAB THAT FUND your tertiary education studies after matric. A bursary is awarded based on an excellent academic record and/or proven financial need. It usually covers registration and tuition fees, and often includes accommodation and meals, as well as textbooks and stationery. To keep receiving the bursary, you will need to maintain a certain level of academic performance while studying. In some cases, this might mean simply passing. In others, you may have to maintain an average of 60% or more. Some bursaries give preference to previously disadvantaged groups. Pros: The government bursaries that are now being awarded to financially needy students do not come with any strings attached. And if you receive a private-sector bursary that you have to ‘work back’, it means you’re guaranteed a job after graduating. Cons: Certain bursaries are only offered for the second year of study onwards. Also, some students might resist the idea of being tied down to work back the study grant or complete some sort of training after graduating. Plus, if you fail some of your modules, you may have to repay the bursary or risk having it withdrawn.

SCHOLARSHIP

A scholarship is similar to a bursary in that it is money for tertiary education that doesn’t need to be repaid. But it is based more on merit – such as artistic, academic or sporting ability – than on financial need. Scholarships can be awarded by universities, government institutions, companies or nonprofit organisations. The Rhodes scholarship, which enables exceptional students to study at England’s Oxford University, is a good example of this. Pros: No financial aftershock. A scholarship doesn’t need to be repaid – think of it as your reward for working hard, or having a special talent or ability! Cons: There’s no such thing as a free lunch, and scholarships are often awarded as an investment in the student rather than a gift. Sometimes there are strings attached – you will have

to pursue a certain career, or provide voluntary mentoring or coaching. Many scholarships require you to maintain a certain minimum level of academic performance.

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT FUND

If you’re already working, why not try to get your employer to pay for your studies? Companies with an annual payroll of more than R500 000 have to pay the South African Revenue Service a skills development levy (1% of their total monthly salary bill) to develop and improve employees’ skills. Companies can claim back a portion of the levy to train their own employees through the relevant Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA). Pros: You can get your study costs covered by your boss – as long as it is related to your job. That means you can learn for free! Cons: Read the fine print carefully when enrolling for studies paid for by your company – you may be tied to your firm for a certain period afterwards, to work back your training costs.

ADDITIONAL FUNDERS COMPANIES

• Many companies – especially those in the scarce and critical skills sectors, such as mining and engineering – award contract bursaries for studies in a particular field. You will have to pass your subjects (or risk having to repay the grant), and sometimes you’ll have to work for the company for a few years after you graduate. • Companies that award bursaries include: Spoornet, Transnet, Sasol, Absa, Anglo American, Gold Fields, Anglo Platinum, Eskom, Sasol, Iscor, De Beers, Edgars, SA Breweries, Harmony, Mintek, AECI, Engen, Group 5, Murray & Roberts, PPC, the SA Institute of Race Relations, the SA Weather Service, Vodacom and Old Mutual. • Fundi (previously known as Eduloan) is a private credit provider that gives study loans to students whose parents are permanently employed. Visit www.fundi.co.za

SECRETS TO SUCCESS • Study hard. Find out what the minimum admission requirements are for the degree, diploma or certificate course you want to follow. Try to exceed those requirements to improve your chances of being accepted. • Do the legwork. Attend the open days of universities and colleges, and gather information on all the funding options. Speak to your career guidance counsellor at school for tips. • Be thorough. Have certified copies made of your most recent results and your ID book or card. This can be done for free at your local police station. Make sure you scan and save all your documents (or take photos of them with your phone), as many institutions require you to apply online. Remember that many public institutions such as libraries offer free internet access.

GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS

• Approach your local municipality, or the provincial or national government department relevant to your studies. • The Funza Lushaka bursary scheme, for example, is open to teaching students who intend working at a government school. Visit www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/ for more details.

FOR MORE INFO, CONTACT:

• National Student Financial Aid Scheme on 086 006 7327, info@nsfas.org.za or www.nsfas.org.za • Career Centre on 086 999 0123 or www.careerhelp.org.za • Department of Higher Education and Training on 0800 087 2222 or www.dhet.gov.za • National Career Advice Portal on http://ncap.careerhelp.org.za/ • For lists of bursaries available, check out www.bursaries-southafrica.co.za or www.zabursaries.co.za

BANK LOAN • The four major banks offer loans to students to cover tuition fees, accommodation and other expenses. Once you have been accepted and have registered to study for a course, the bank will pay the amount directly to that institution and, if necessary, the residence. If you have applied for extra funding for textbooks and so on, that amount will be paid directly to you. • If you are not working or if you earn less than R5 000 a month, someone (like a parent) will have to sign surety for you.

This means that if you default on your loan repayments after graduating, that person is liable for your debt. Pros: Investing in your chosen career path will ultimately pay off handsomely. Plus, you can apply for a bank loan to study at any university, public or private college accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority. Cons: While you’re studying, the person who has signed surety for you has to service the monthly interest on the loan. And once you’ve finished your studies, you have to start paying back a capital amount

that could run into hundreds of thousands of rands. Plus, if you don’t complete your degree, you have to repay the full loan amount – immediately. Contact the big four banks: • Standard Bank: 0860 123 000, www.standardbank.co.za • First National Bank: 0860 100 762, www.fnb.co.za • ABSA: 0860 100 372, www.absa.co.za • Nedbank: 0860 555 111, www.nedbank.co.za POST MATRIC 2019 | 15

PMGAU2019.indd 17

2019/06/21 09:40

THE ULTIMATE

ALL-INCLUSIVE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED FREE IN YOUR RATE: Unlimited Wifi

Laundry

Electricity

Water

Weekly Bedroom Cleaning

Parking

Gym

Res-Life

YOU COULD WIN ACCOMMODATION, LAPTOPS AND OTHER PRIZES Enter at www.respublica.co.za Ts & Cs apply

#WinWithRespublica SAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LEADING NATIONAL STUDENT ACCOMMODATION PROVIDER AT

www.respublica.co.za

Respublica.indd PMGAU2019.indd1 18

www.facebook.com/RespublicaStudents/

Tel: 0 100 200 300

2019/06/11 2019/06/24 13:52 14:54

CAREER JUNCTION

GET A GLIMPSE INTO YOUR FUTURE

CHECK OUT OUR Q&A SECTION FOR THAT FLASH OF INSPIRATION

Visit our website and Facebook page for stacks of career ideas

www.facebook.co.za/postmatric

www.postmatric.co.za

A MODEL OF GLAMOUR DID YOU TRAIN TO MODEL? No, I had to learn through experience and watching Fashion TV, and looking through magazines.

OLE MORAPEDI PROFESSIONAL MODEL: ICE MODEL MANAGEMENT • OGORGEOUS MODEL MASTERCLASS (OWNER)

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE A MODEL? When I was young a relative encouraged me to enter a modeling competition. I received 1st position in my region (North West) and went on to represent my region in Gauteng. Coming from a small town, Rustenburg, representing my province in big cities was a big deal; it sparked my love for modeling. I also love travelling, so when I discovered that I would be travelling for competitions, my passion grew even more.

6/11 13:52

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY Modeling is seasonal, but when a gig is on it gets hectic! I usually do ramp modeling like fashion weeks and bridal expos, but I also model for magazines in fashion and beauty spreads. A photo shoot can take hours in cold weather and as a model you must always look on point until the photographer gets the perfect shot. During fashion week, in one day there could be about four to six shows. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST? I enjoy the glamorous side of it. You get exposed to a sophisticated lifestyle. One day you’re wearing a dress worth R100 000 for a shoot; the next you get an allexpenses-paid trip to Cape Town or overseas.

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? I don’t like the ridiculous hours waiting the whole day doing nothing until a show starts, or working in freezing cold weather. ANY HURDLES? I had to overcome dealing with rejection, being concerned about my body weight and how to handle jealousy and competition. ANY HIGHLIGHTS? The highlight was when I was booked for a big campaign in Cape Town for the Italian brand Carpisa during the Soccer World Cup. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE? Currently, I offer a modeling masterclass called Ogorgeous to young aspiring models in Rustenburg. I started it with no capital and no business background, so I studied a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. I now have about

16 students in total. My goal is to guide them and educate them about the modeling industry, so they can identify scammers vs legit modeling platforms and choose the right direction. IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO MODELING? You need to believe in yourself. It’s the era of Instagram – marketing companies don’t look for tall and skinny anymore but rather for people with a huge following or who are inﬂuencers. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOULD-BE MODELS? Do the research and educate yourself. Be respectful, be on time and always follow instructions. Get a degree so you have something to fall back on when there are no gigs. YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Glamorous and cut-throat.

POST MATRIC 2019 | 17

PMGAU2019.indd 19

2019/06/24 14:55

BABY ON BOARD

ANGELA WAKEFORD REGISTERED NURSE AND MIDWIFE BIRTH OPTIONS MIDWIFERY TEAM (PRIVATE SERVICE)

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE A MIDWIFE? After school I did nursing training. During the course we did six months of midwifery. I loved it so much that I went straight on to specialising in midwifery after completing my nursing training. WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO? I did a Diploma in Nursing (Psychiatry, Community Health and Midwifery) at Carinus Nursing College and a BSc in Midwifery Studies in the UK.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY AS A MIDWIFE Every day is different: seeing pregnant women for routine pregnancy care, providing labour and birth care, teaching antenatal classes, doing home postnatal visits to support new families, doing admin. I’m glad I’m not working long shifts in a hospital. Because I work in a team, we take it in turns to be on call overnight for our clients, so I’m lucky to be at home with my family most afternoons and evenings. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK? I can make a big difference to a new family’s beginning. A positive birth experience has a major impact on the mother and her baby and her partner. It is especially rewarding when families come back to you for their next births because they trust you.

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? Being called out at night to go to a birth! Sometimes I work through the night; it’s difficult to fully catch up on sleep during the day. It can be stressful; it’s a big responsibility. ANY HURDLES? Learning to run a business – not something I was taught. WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT? I’ve been interviewed twice on the Expresso Morning Show. That was fun! Being part of the Birth Options Midwifery Team (since January 2016) has definitely been a highlight. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS? I’d like to do a Master’s in Midwifery. I’m thinking about going into midwifery education. EXPERIENCE VS FORMAL TRAINING? You need lots of hospital labour ward experience

before setting up your own private practice. IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK? You need to be nonjudgemental, calm, assertive, open-minded, and always ready to learn. ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT? Choose where you train carefully, and work in the government maternity service for at least five years – that is where you will gain invaluable experience. Do the advanced midwifery course. This will give you a much deeper understanding, and will make it easier to get jobs and with registering to practice in other countries. DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Safe • Supportive • Evidence-based

HOME BREWED VIBE

DANIEL MUDYIWA BARISTA DOLCE BAKERY

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BECOME A BARISTA? I wouldn’t say I chose to be a Barista; it came about because of limited opportunities after I finished my studies. But I grew to love it and I have zero regrets about what I do. WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO? I did a short barista training course at Origin Coffee in Cape Town. DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY The day usually starts with a morning rush, as customers

stop by to quickly pick up our breakfast and bagel special before they head off to work. We also get orders from Uber Eats and OrderIn throughout the day. In the afternoon, we mostly get orders for our main menu meals, but as they say, coffee knows no weather, so it is a favourite in the afternoon too. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST? Making good coffee, pushing sales and offering the best service every day. Seeing customers happy is what brings joy to me. Being a barista has given me lots of friends – my motto is: “Beyond coffee towards making everyone family at the bakery”. WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? Working under pressure gives me a whole lot of stress and I make more mistakes. So, I’ve trained myself to multitask and work fast and smart. When I’m working

under pressure, sometimes my temper gets tested, but I always manage my anger – thankfully, a skill I acquired back in Varsity. WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT? Being mentioned by various clients and them making referrals to their families and relatives to come to Dolce and request their coffees to be specifically made by me. WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS? I’d like to start a business that involves working with people and growing to be a giant in the service industry through providing high quality products and services. IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO BEING A BARISTA? Yes, you need to be punctual, patient, calm and more of an extrovert than an introvert – you’ll be dealing with people and you have

to entertain them while they’re waiting for their coffee. My goal is for people to come to the bakery because they enjoy talking to me, not just to get good coffee. There are plenty of places that sell good coffee, but who’s making the coffee? It’s important to be unique in terms of how you treat your clients and interact with them. ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT? Being a barista is something that people take lightly, but it’s one of the best and most interesting jobs for learning about people and the world. To those starting this journey, you have to stay focused and never be afraid of failing, because making mistakes and finding solutions to correct them is what makes people successful. YOUR JOB IN FOUR WORDS Making coffee brings family!

18 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 20

2019/06/21 13:06

CAREER IDEAS

HANDLE WITH CARE

NASCHENKA DU BOIS AU PAIR PRIVATE FAMILY

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BECOME AN AU PAIR? I have loved babies and young children since I was very young, so being an au pair seemed to be the perfect job for me. I initially wanted to work part time only, while studying, but it evolved into full-time work that I’ve been doing for 13 years now. WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? I didn’t do formal training, though there are places where you can train as an au

pair. I started off babysitting children of all ages in my neighbourhood while I was in school. I also read child development books to gain a better understanding of them. I got my driver’s licence and attended first aid courses. I got my police clearance and form 30 done, which I renew once or twice a year. In my fourth year of studying early childhood education I met the first family I au paired for. I started off babysitting once or twice a week in the evenings, but it quickly developed into five days a week and earning a salary. DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY I am now with my third family. The girls (twins) are 18 months old. I arrive at 8:30am; help feed the kids breakfast and get them dressed. Play at home or leave around 9am to take the kids somewhere fun (park, playdate or a class). Back home 11:15am

and prepare lunch while the kids play. 12:15pm, nap time. 2:15pm, wake the kids. 2:30pm, snack time. 3-4:30pm, play at home or out. 4:45pm, prepare dinner. 5:15pm, dinner time. 5:30pm, parents come home and I leave. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK? Spending time having fun with the children and becoming part of the family. WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? Changing nappies or cleaning up vomit when the kids are sick? Haha, but who likes that anyway! WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? I’ve had to learn to speak up and set boundaries for myself more. ANY HIGHLIGHTS? Traveling overseas with various families! I have been

to England, Switzerland, Spain, Dubai and Thailand. IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING IN AU PAIRING? I would say experience AND common sense is more important and formal training is a bonus. A driver’s license and first aid is a must. Just remember, any amount of experience or au pair training will still not completely prepare you, as all children are different. IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK? This job would best suit an easy-going, happy, friendly, super patient person willing to learn and adjust to different families. YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Fun, challenging and rewarding.

POST MATRIC 2019 | 00

PMGAU2019.indd 21

2019/06/24 14:57

PMGAU2019.indd 22

2019/06/21 09:40

PMGAU2019.indd 23

2019/06/21 09:40

CAREER IDEAS

KEEPING FIGURES IN SHAPE WHAT IS YOUR TRAINING AND WHEREABOUTS DID YOU DO YOUR TRAINING? I trained in full function of basic accounting bookkeeping and business management. I attended Boston College and Achievers Business College.

URSULA MUNNIK BOOKKEEPER YES! MEDIA

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE BOOKKEEPING AS YOUR CAREER? I actually wanted to do personal training, and decided to work parttime as a receptionist to generate a decent income in the meantime. I ended up thoroughly enjoying the reception work, so I enrolled as a part-time student at college and have never looked back.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB AS A BOOKKEEPER I start off with coffee and the most important meal of the day: breakie. Next, I log on, attend to any accounting queries and quotations that are needed, capture all invoices (both debtors and creditors), receipt all payments that have gone out, check the bank statements, and deal with the debt collecting. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST ABOUT THE WORK THAT YOU DO? Interacting with my colleagues and clients is rewarding; my job plays an important role in the finished product.

WHAT IS THE LEAST ENJOYABLE ASPECT? I REALLY don’t like having to harass clients for money that they owe us. ANY HURDLES YOU’VE HAD TO DEAL WITH ALONG YOUR PATH? I had to take a cut in salary due to the poor economy of our country at the moment. I constantly have a battle with my mind, but keep pushing myself to try to remain positive and continue even when the going gets tough. WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT? I’m truly blessed, working with an amazing team; it feels like home to me. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS? To set up a business from home doing bookkeeping, tourism and full-time missions. IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? Yes, formal training is very important, but then so is in-house training. What I experience in the workplace

cannot be taught. I learn daily through trial and error. WHAT TRAITS DO YOU NEED TO DO THIS JOB OR WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY SUITS THIS WORK BEST? You must be a people person, be approachable, and, most importantly, be sharp with figures.

“Try and stay ahead with accounting packages: knowledge is power!” WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WANTING TO GET INTO ADMINISTRATION? I would definitely tell them to try and stay ahead with accounting packages: knowledge is power! YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Stimulating, challenging and rewarding.

HIGHLY CLASSIFIED

RYAN CUMMINGS CHIEF SECURITY ANALYST FOR SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA RED24

WHY THIS UNUSUAL CAREER? I have always had a keen interest in politics, conﬂict and terrorism, and how these phenomena shape both global and continental security. WHAT IS IT THAT YOU DO? We provide a broad range of clients analysis on the political and security risks posing a threat to their safety and interests across Africa. This includes providing bespoke analysis and forecasting on terrorism, government stability, crime and social unrest.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO? I completed a university degree in political studies, and further pursed an Honours degree in the same discipline. During my postgraduate studies, I was offered a position at a Danish-based political risk consultancy, which allowed me to use the skillset I acquired to earn a living. I have been trained in various internal and external research and analytical methodologies, including those used by security agencies such as the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and other related institutions. WHAT SKILLS ARE REQUIRED? This industry is tailor-made for individuals who excel at working under continuous pressure, who enjoy doing research and who are able to make decisions with a degree of spontaneity. Given the amount of written and verbal communication the role entails, candidates should also be confident communicators.

EXPERIENCE VS TRAINING? While experience is always important, the training regimen provided by many organisations in this industry is comprehensive and will definitely compensate for any lack of practical experience for candidates who apply themselves. DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK Monitoring of classified, declassified and open source intelligence, which I then assess and present to clients in written briefs of varying length and depth; verbal assessments; compilation and coordination of contingency and evacuation plans, which are used by our clients in the event of a crisis that could impact their safety or business continuity. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Many facets of my work. For one, as an analyst, you are constantly exposed to information, which provides you with a broad

understanding of many issues that are topical and of public interest. Also, there is a fair degree of dynamism involved in the work. WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT? As our company operates on a 24/7 basis, 365 days per year, I am often required to work shifts that some people would perceive as unsociable. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT TO DATE? There have been many. My analysis of the security threats across the African continent has been published by various media publications and think tanks. I am also often requested to provide insight on topical issues for major news networks such as CNN, Al Jazeera and BBC. I was just recently commissioned to author my first book on the Nigerian insurgent group, Boko Haram; something I consider to be a significant milestone.

22 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 24

2019/06/21 11:06

LE ARNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES!!! Accrediting Your Workplace Experience

Are you unemployed, between the ages of 18 and 33, looking for an opportunity to earn a stipend while you study? Then Advanced Assessments is the company to assist you! Advanced Assessments & Training is a learnership training provider based in Johannesburg (Roodepoort). The duration of our learnerships is 12 months and class attendance is required two – four days per month.

We also offer various Skills Programmes which run over a shorter period. If you are interested, please come through to our ofﬁces with the following documents (we cannot accept electronic copies of ID and highest qualiﬁcation): •

•

Originally certiﬁed ID copy (not older than 3 months)

•

Originally certiﬁed copy of highest qualiﬁcation (not older than 3 months) – the minimum grade passed that we can accept is a Grade 10.

•

SARS Letter

Generic Management NQF Level 4

•

Bank conﬁrmation letter (not a bank statement)

Generic Management NQF Level 5

•

Medical certiﬁcate (if you have a disability)

We are currently offering the following learnerships: Hygiene & Cleaning NQF Level 1 Business Administration NQF Level 2 Business Administration NQF Level 3 Business Administration NQF Level 4 Generic Management NQF Level 3

IT Technical Support You can ﬁnd us at: 50 Constantia Boulevard, Quadrum Ofﬁce Park, Quadrum 3, 2nd Floor, Roodepoort 1709 For more information contact: Genevieve Cassels on 010 110 0081 or log onto our website: www.advancedassessments.co.za Company Registration Number: 2011/006079/07 - Services Seta Accreditation Number: 2291

POST MATRIC 2019 | 00

PMGAU2019.indd 25

2019/06/21 09:40

00 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 26

2019/06/24 15:02

CAREER IDEAS

THE DESIGN SPACE for a building and, with the help of a structural engineer, make the building stand up.

TARRYN CRAIG ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST SELF-EMPLOYED

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION? I was always drawn to detail. In an art composition I would take hours to draw the pattern in the backdrop fabric and the rest would be almost irrelevant. My parents introduced me to an architect when I was 16 and from there my school subjects were steered towards a career in architecture. PLEASE EXPLAIN WHAT IT IS THAT YOU DO We document and resolve structures in the built environment. Basically, we are given a design/concept

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO? I left Zimbabwe at 18 with a couple of A Levels behind me and did a three-year Diploma in Architectural Technology at Cape Tech. The course took me six years in the end, as I worked while I studied to support myself through the course. DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY A typical day would be spent behind the computer drawing. It’s not a glamourous job, but I find the challenge of resolving how a building will become a space where people live, work, play, etc, very interesting. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK? I love drawing! My people skills aren’t great, so I prefer being in the background drawing. WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? I sometimes feel a bit isolated, because I work

mostly on my own. When starting out I would highly recommend working in an office with other people and also getting involved on site. WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU HAD? Creating my own business was a big leap for me and it continues to be a challenge. WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER? Running and documenting a multistorey commercial building. I learnt so much from the team of engineers, contractors and so on that the experience was invaluable to my career. WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS? Bigger and more challenging projects. EXPERIENCE VS FORMAL TRAINING? You have to have a good base of knowledge before starting in the industry, but experience is vital. I worked in architecture and interior

design while I was studying and they both helped me get ahead in the job market. The tech course’s second year is a practical year, where you work in an architectural office. That’s so important, not just for experience but also to get an idea of what you are aiming towards. IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK? You need to have great attention to detail, patience for when that detail changes and a practical/logical way of thinking. ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT? Work hard at college: the course isn’t easy, but if you are consistent you will succeed. In the work environment, remember a building project is a team effort, listen and learn from those around you. YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Challenging, interesting and rewarding.

A STRONG FOUNDATION

SHAMIEL KAFFOOR CONSTRUCTION FOREMAN KATULL PROJECTS

WHAT DOES YOUR PROFESSION INVOLVE? My function starts right at the beginning of the job and carries through to the end. It involves everything, from ensuring straight foundations, to setting out and working the levels to a certain height according to the plans. It’s about overseeing colleagues (I manage around 30 labourers), managing subcontractors, working on roof heights, and other stuff, right down to the finishes – details like tiles and cupboards.

HOW DID YOU GET TO BECOME A CONSTRUCTION FOREMAN? My father was a bricklayer and from when I was about nine years old I would spend school holidays on-site earning pocket money as a labourer. I didn’t like the effect the years of hard graft had on my father – he suffered back problems from all the physical work. He urged me not to follow in his footsteps, so once school was over I fell into tiling, which I did for a few years. While I was tiling, I witnessed countless struggles taking place between clients and builders. I noticed the lack of attention to detail, the faults and poor workmanship. A few years later I was introduced to Yule (cofounder of Katull Projects) and he offered me a position as foreman. WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO? On-the-job training. Everything I know is thanks to experience.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD FOREMAN? You have to be strong, hard but not too hard. It’s about balance, about not being overpowered. I’m a soft person by nature and am a different person at work to who I am at home. The labourers need to know who’s boss. You definitely need to be a good communicator. DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY WORKING IN CONSTRUCTION Every day something goes wrong and I feel responsible! Mistakes mean cost implications. You need to be constantly on the ball. The daily routine depends on the job and the stage it’s at. My work involves all aspects of the job. WHAT PARTS OF YOUR JOB DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST? I love my work, there’s nothing I don’t like. I love being outside, not sitting in an office and working in all sorts of different places. I’m happy working for someone

else too, I prefer it to always having to look for more work and struggling to meet payments. As long as I can put food on the table for my family and take the kids to the doctor, I’m happy. I believe money is evil, it changes personalities. WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE ABOUT WORKING IN CONSTRUCTION? Winter when it’s cold and wet is particularly challenging. WORDS OF ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR PROFESSION? The same advice my father gave me: don’t do hard labour. Choose a trade and become good at it. Be humble, work hard, be prepared to learn and to take direction from others. DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Challenging • Outdoors • Rewarding

POST MATRIC 2019 | 25

PMGAU2019.indd 27

2019/06/21 11:06

SKILLS PROGRAMMES

• Clothing Production • Artisan Training • Gandhi – Mandela Centre of Specialisation for Artisan Skills (NEW) • Centre of Specialisation for fitting & turning (NEW)

LEARNERSHIP

• Early Childhood Development • Community House Building • Building and Civil Construction

Courses oﬀered at Tshwane South TVET College are:

For more info visit our website: www.tsc.edu.za @tsc_tvet Tshwane South TVET College

NATIONAL CERTIFICATE VOCATIONAL

@tsc_tvet

*L2 – L4: • Tourism • Hospitality • Information Technology & Computer Science • Civil Engineering & Building Construction • Electrical Infrastructure Construction • Engineering & Related Design • Oﬃce Administration • Finance Economics & Accounting

Tshwane South TVET College

Pre Learning Programme

• PLP – Pre Learning Programme (NEW)

REPORT 191: GENERAL STUDIES *N4 – N6: • Management Assistant • Financial Management • Hospitality Studies

REPORT 191: NATURAL SCIENCE (ENGINEERING STUDIES)

*N1 – N6: • Electrical, Mechanical & Civil 00 Engineering | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 28

Contact details General Enquiries: 012 401 5000 Atteridgeville Campus: 012 373 1200 Centurion Campus: 012 660 8500/1

Pretoria West Campus: 012 380 5000 Odi Campus: 012 725 1800

Tshwane South TVET College has been selected as one of the Centres of Specialisation for the ﬁelds of Mechanical Fitter and Fitter & Turning.

2019/06/21 09:40

CAREER IDEAS

POSITIVELY ELECTRIC

AUBREY ‘BROWN’ MOHLAKA ELECTRICIAN & DIRECTOR MOHLAKA AND SONS PTY LTD

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE AN ELECTRICIAN? I believe as young kids the majority of males have always been fascinated by toys that are ‘electrified’ with batteries. Even in this modern age it is still the case – boys still love to break down their toys and meddle with the parts inside. I was no different as a child! As time went by, my handiwork improved, so I started fixing things at home – kettle, toaster, microwave – and my love for electricity grew from there. My first choice after school was to study geology, but I didn’t get in. I then opted for my second choice and to this day, I have no regrets.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? Both hold instrumental value with experience you gain knowledge of how things are done practically, whereas with formal training you learn the framework for what you will experience in the field or workplace. This is why we have thousands of graduates sitting with qualifications in engineering without employment – formal training only gives you a kick-start to the world out there full of adventures and new possibilities, it doesn’t prepare you for actually getting down to the nitty gritty of practicing in the electrical field.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? I worked hard and got the opportunity to gain vast knowledge and training from my school of choice, Tshwane South TVET College, where I did my N2 – N6 and practical training for both electrics and a bit of mechanics. I worked for Isazi Energy Holdings Pty Ltd, Voltano Metering Pty Ltd and did some practical training at Maipi Electrical and Civil Construction. I also worked at Group Five, where I learned a lot about safety, conduct, workmanship, etc.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I like that it challenges me and keeps me on my toes. Plus, I get to learn new things from time to time – I’m currently focused more on maintenance and installation of both domestic and industrial wiring. When doing maintenance, you get to do fault finding, which can be tricky, but it allows me to gain more knowledge and grow as a person and as a company.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS PROFESSION? You need to have a positive mindset, be a risk taker to deal with the challenges that come with the territory. When working with people, you need to be very cautious about your safety and theirs. Enjoy what you do and study new concepts to bring change to your existing knowledge. Team work is essential too. Oh, and bring your best energy all the time!

WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT? I’m a bit disappointed that I’m not where I thought I would be now in terms of my company, which I registered in August 2016. But there has been progress in the 5-year plan I drew up then. I’m glad I never gave up when things were tough after resigning in 2017 to focus on my company. As they say, ome wasn’t built in a day. ANY HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR CAREER? My biggest highlight is being the only black artisan trainee that was skilled in

connecting changeover switches during the building of chneider lectric’s new offices in Allandale, Midrand. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE? My goal is to be able to make good revenue, so I can employ people on a permanent basis instead of contractually. Their struggle is my struggle – we all have to put bread on the table to survive.

“When working with people, you need to be very cautious about your safety and theirs” WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR CAREER? Try to be positive in all that you do. Create a space in which you will thrive and never look back. When taking a course or career, be sure that it’s what you want and what you will love. ‘No dream is too big if it doesn’t scare you’. When you fail at something, be ready to stand up and dust yourself off and re-try. Education is an integral tool in developing yourself and the community. YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Fun, Dangerous and Challenging

POST MATRIC 2019 | 27

PMGAU2019.indd 29

2019/06/24 15:03

CAREER IDEAS

FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD

SISANDA SINESIPHO NKONYENI DEMI PASTRY CHEF BELMOND MOUNT NELSON

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE A PASTRY CHEF? My love for food started when I was still in primary school. Whenever I got home I’d watch these cooking shows and sometimes recreate what I had seen on TV. Taking up cheffing as a profession was never part of the plan, until my final term in high school. I went ahead and studied professional cookery, and then worked in various kitchens, looking for who I wanted to be in

the world of chefs. I found a true sense of belonging, but that wasn’t enough for me. I moved on after my three years in hotel school, applying for a pastry position. Since then, I’ve never looked back. I feel at home when I’m in the pastry kitchen. It has taught me a lot of patience. WHAT IS YOUR TRAINING? I studied Hospitality Management: ND Professional Cookery at the Cape Town Hotel School, CPUT. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT CHEFFING? I love it when things come together! It goes with being organised. Working with other people, working in a team. Honestly, it doesn’t matter how good a chef you are, you always learn something from the people you work with, be it at the junior or senior level.

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? I don’t like receiving complaints about work that I was involved in. Hence, it is important for me to do my best every day. ANY HURDLES? I guess it would have to be taking things personally. Over the few years that I’ve been training and have been a chef, I’ve learnt that everyone I serve will have an opinion of their own. Taking criticism in a constructive manner wasn’t easy, but it has helped me; it is slowly shaping me into the person I want to become. AND HIGHLIGHTS? Happy, content guests is a highlight of my every day! IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS TRAINING? Definitely, some things you can’t be taught in class, or in a culinary lab. You get to pick up a whole lot more in

“If it’s done in love, it’s done well” the kitchen. As a chef, you do more practical work, and may find that the theoretical part of it is not as important. For me, if you have both then your work becomes a little bit less difficult. IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK? Passion is key. You have to love what you do. As Vincent van Gogh once stated, “If it’s done in love, it’s done well.” ANY ADVICE? Always keep an open mind to others, and eventually find a style that illustrates your individuality. DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Sweet • Hard (work) • Fun

INDUSTRY BLUEPRINT

JARED MARK VORSTER INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER SELF-EMPLOYED

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE INDUSTRIAL DESIGN? As a kid, I was always getting my hands dirty making things and I constantly wondered how stuff worked. My dad had a background in carpentry and a career in electronics, which helped fuel my passion. My discovery of industrial design was by complete chance when we had someone come to speak about it at our school’s open day. The idea that a person could design products as a career seemed incredible to me.

DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO I design, develop, engineer and help bring to the market a wide variety of the consumer products/physical objects that a person sees around them every single day. These items can be as diverse as household consumer products, electronics, furniture, lighting or even cars. WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? I completed a four-year BTech degree in Industrial Design at what was then Cape Technikon (and is now CPUT). Subjects include design, drawing, theory, business, history, technology and professional practice. IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK? You need to have a passion for design, making things and solving problems. Patience and persistence is also key.

It’s important not to take yourself or your design ideas too seriously. IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? Absolutely! Every day you learn how to do something better through practice. Describe a typical day A typical day could consist of research and design exploration; meetings with clients and manufacturers; preparing product design specifications and briefs; putting together quotations for clients; engineering and detailed design development; rendering 3D models to look realistic for presentations. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST? It is incredibly rewarding to see a concept sketch develop into a finished product on the store shelf. The design process, strategic thinking, problem solving, prototyping and often hands-

on work make for a truly dynamic environment that keeps me on my toes and surprises me every day. WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST KEEN ON? Many clients do not understand the value of design and the lengthy process that needs to happen for a final product to be realised. This is a dayto-day struggle and can be quite draining. ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE JUST STARTING OUT? In order to be sufficiently prepared for a career in industrial design, one needs to do a lot of self-study around materials, processes, 3D modelling and other important computer skills. I would also encourage people to look at existing products to see how they are made and put together. So much can be learned from taking things apart.

28 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 30

2019/06/21 11:06

A career in caring for others

Accredited First Aid Training

Fire Safety Training

First Aid Kits

Home Based Care Training

Eye Care Clinics

Accredited Community Health Work Qualifications & Skills Programmes

Volunteer Programme Branch contact information: Bloemfontein Cape Town Durban East London Fish Hoek

051 444-6276 021 461-8420 031 305-6588 043 722-9840 021 782-3306/20

First Aid at Events

Facebook: @ StJohn.SouthAfrica

Grahamstown Johannesburg Kimberley Port Elizabeth Somerset West

www.stjohn.org.za

046 636-1650 011 403-4227/052-6657 053 838-2519/8 041 364-2701/2 021 851-7394

POST MATRIC 2019 | 00

PMGAU2019.indd 31

2019/06/21 09:40

CAREER IDEAS

THE FUN POLICE

SERGEANT RENECIA AVONTUUR SECTOR MANAGER SAPS, MOWBRAY

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION? It sort of chose me… I wanted to join the army and went to the police station to get my fingerprints done, papers stamped and signed, but one of the sergeants there, who later became a ‘big brother’ / mentor to me, convinced me otherwise. So, I walked out with forms to join the police instead.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO AND WHERE? In 2000, I started in Cape Town Central as a community patrol officer and did my basic police training. Two years later I decided to become permanent police and was transferred to Kraaifontein, where I did Crime Prevention and Complaints. But it was too dangerous, so I joined the K-9 Unit. I did my Patrol Dog Handler’s course in 2006, and in 2008, my Explosives Dog Handler’s course. I went on to do the K-9 Narcotics course in Pretoria. Three years ago I started at Mowbray Police Station as Section Manager.

trusted colleagues and go on searches, finding things like stolen property, drugs. My hours are from 7:30am4pm/12am-8pm/10pm-6am. A crime intelligence officer gives us a pattern analysis once every month and I plan according to that. I decide my hours and I put in my time.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY AS A POLICEWOMAN I start with coffee, check my wall planner, do some admin, then you’ll have a walk in visitor and the day starts to go in all sorts of directions. The homeless people in the area sometimes come in with a tip-off. I brief my

ANY HURDLES YOU’VE HAD ALONG THE WAY? Getting my job done while getting around corruption. It’s only a tiny handful of corrupt people, so we just have to keep doing what we are doing to stamp it out and serve the community.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I love the interaction with people. I missed that at the Dog Unit. WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? People telling me what to do, and corruption.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT? When the community thanks you. They send letters of recognition and thanks to you or your station commander and then you feel that you’re making a difference. The police also rewards you with long-service medals every ten years. WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS? I would like to keep doing courses like the next firefighting course and also, the Basic Ambulance Assistance course (paramedic line; three weeks). IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO POLICE WORK? You have to be on a different level of crazy! You must be a strong person; be able to work with the community; you must be level-headed; be able to take a lot of stress, think on your feet and walk away in certain situations.

commercial diving

EXPLORING THE DEPTHS

ING

WHY THIS PROFESSION? My mother would tell you that I was always a water baby. I grew up in Sea Point, so spent a lot of time in or near the sea. I often boogieboarded, and began diving and snorkelling at the age of 12. I am very comfortable in the sea and have always loved exploring its depths.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO? At the age of 16 I completed my first Open Water I scuba FREDDY LEMOINE diving course at the Dive COMMERCIAL DIVER Centre. I then ventured to the South of France Freddy Lemoine WHAT DOES YOUR JOB AS A and sailed around the COMMERCIAL DIVER COMMERCIAL DIVER ENTAIL? Mediterranean for two I am a commercial opportunity todiver find outby if you years. Upon my return to profession. During the under-water relics, as well as the actually have sea warm legs. South Africa I completed an summer months I dive for quest for finding treasure. Yes, amateur marine archaeology DESCRIBE TYPICAL DAY it is possible to feel passionate scrap metal found Aaround course at the Maritime As a commercial diverfor (perlemoen, Museum, which deepened about both! I strongly believe in shipwrecks, modern and metal and year treasure) I have to the preservation of artifacts the twofor weeks of the I dive my passion for the sea and prepare theperlemoen night before for an sake of history and art,out but also my allocated sparked my interest in both early startmy the next enjoy the challenge andquota. prospect However, realmorning: diving the conservation of ancient packed, safety equipment of seeking a potential fortune. passion liesgear in the great under-water relics, as well permits and documents challenge verified, of researching as the quest for finding WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY on for hand,undiscovered boat fuelled, aqualungs and hunting treasure. Yes, it is possible MAKES A GOOD DIVER? filledshipwrecks with air. We are usually a treasure from at to feel passionate about You need to be passionate about team of three people: one skipper the bottom of the ocean. both! I strongly believe in the the sea and her endless mysteries. to man the boat and two divers. It is also important to enjoy history, WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST searching for clues, and have | POST ABOUT2019 YOUR WORK? endurance and drive –30 you’ll spend MATRIC Escaping the daily humdrum into countless days at the archives just a world of serene beauty. trying to find one clue! You also have to be physically fit and have IS THERE ANYTHING YOU good sea legs in order to withstand PMGAU2019.indd choppy waters when on a boat. 32 DON’T YOU LIKE? The freezing-cold water in the

preservation of artifacts for the sake of history and art, but also enjoy the challenge and prospect of seeking a potential fortune. WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY MAKES A GOOD DIVER? You need to be passionate about the sea and her endless mysteries. It is also important to enjoy history, searching for clues, and have endurance and drive – you’ll spend countless days at the archives just trying to find one clue! You also have to be physically fit and have good sea legs in order to withstand choppy waters when on a boat out at sea. EXPERIENCE VS TRAINING? Formal training is fundamental and the only starting point. But experience gives one the opportunity to find out if you actually have sea legs. DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY As a commercial diver (perlemoen, metal and treasure) I have to prepare the night before for an

early start the next morning: diving gear packed, safety equipment verified, permits and documents on hand, boat fuelled, aqualungs filled with air. We are usually a team of three people: one skipper to man the boat and two divers. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK? Escaping the daily humdrum into a world of serene beauty.

“My real passion lies in the great challenge of researching and hunting for undiscovered treasure” IS THERE ANYTHING YOU DON’T YOU LIKE? The freezing-cold water in the summer months. SHARE A FUTURE GOAL I dream about finding a treasure ship laden with coins!

2019/06/21 11:06

MIND COACH

WAYS TO BOOST YOUR BRAIN

eeling sad, hopeless, depressed? You are not alone! As much as 24% of South Africa’s youth have this experience and a further 21% have attempted suicide at least once. It’s no big surprise – living in a country with hostile politics, high crime, an uncertain future and super expensive living costs can really mess with your mental health (and your matric exam results). But with a few simple tools you can boost your mood and be a happier, more relaxed version of you. The added bonus is the ripple effect: more energy, more focus, better results. So, take charge and try these winning strategies: SLEEP ENOUGH Not getting enough sleep can leave you feeling cranky, paranoid, and even make you hallucinate. Insomnia and irregular sleep patterns can also lead to depression and other more severe mental disorders. Get at least 7-9 hours of solid sleep a night. On nights when you have to cram for tests or exams or have social plans, squeeze in a mid-afternoon nap. While it may seem impossible, stay off your cellphone for at least an hour before bed – those Wi-Fi waves can really zap the quality of your sleep. True story!

LIFESTYLE COACH KATLYN PRATCHETT SPELLS OUT HOW TO KEEP YOUR MOOD IN CHECK BY GETTING THOSE HAPPY CHEMICALS KICKING NATURALLY ACTIVATE YOURSELF Many youngsters in schools around the country get virtually no exercise – no school sports and no active time at home either. When you are active, your brain releases a stack of mood-boosting endorphins. This is exactly why exercise is often seen as a good antidote to stress, depression and anxiety. Be active for at least half an hour a day, even if it means walking around at school during break time. EAT HEALTHY While nothing beats pigging out on a pile of hotwings or a packet of Oreos every couple of days, it doesn’t do your mental health any favours. What you eat feeds your entire body, including your brain. Junk food makes you tired, makes your brain foggy – it brings you down. By eating healthy proteins like eggs and grilled chicken every day, your body will produce enough dopamine and tyrosine – the chemicals in your brain that keep you alert. If you’re a snacker, make sure they’re brain pick-me-ups like nuts, seeds and fruit. Avoid the bring-me-down food at the tuck shop by packing a healthy lunch. Those veggies your mom nags you about, and fish, can also do wonders for your mood and stress levels.

DITCH ALCOHOL AND DRUGS It’s a mistake to think that smoking a joint or downing a few beers (we all know there are those that jump the gun and try it before they’re 18) will take away the stress of a day at school or lift you up when you’re down. The reality is that alcohol and drugs can wreak havoc on your mood and mental health. Psychoactive drugs – weed, alcohol, ecstasy, tik – can enhance certain emotions while suppressing others, with long-term abuse resulting in anything from depression to schizophrenia. Peer pressure may be hard to overcome, but saying ‘no’ to any potentially dangerous substances will seem worth it when you’re living a happy, successful life. HOBBY UP Hobbies relax you and take you on a natural high, helping with anxiety, depression and a bunch of other mental and emotional issues. And being the sport- and music- and art-loving nation that we are, there are loads of options out there: from soccer, netball, swimming or running; to music, drama, art, dancing and martial arts. Many schools offer these as after-school activities, so lack of funds can’t hold you back. POST MATRIC 2019 | 31

PMGAU2019.indd 33

2019/06/21 09:40

LAST LAUGH

l a p , n e p a b a r G

y favourite pen at school was a Parker. It was a bulky device with a huge cap and runny ink I thought would run dry for sure if I didn’t keep the cap on at all times. Even though I had a Space Case, the Parker didn’t ride along with the ballpoints and pencils and other loser stationery. I carried it proudly in the breast pocket of my blazer. If I had had a leather briefcase, I would have carried it in there neatly clipped to the velvet inner lining of the lid. These days I see fewer pens than ever before. What I do see a lot of is students taking pictures of noticeboards with their smartphones and lecture halls filled with laptops – the only person in the room with a writing instrument the lecturer, standing at the front with a piece of chalk in his hand like an idiot. The thing is, I’m with the idiot. I don’t think a world where everything we write is done with a keyboard or our fingertips on a screen is a good thing. As any artist will tell you, using your body to draw or paint – even spray graﬃti – allows for ideas and emotions to ﬂow from brain through heart to hand. Now, writing with a pen (or pencil) does very much the same – it forces you to move your arm from one side of a page to the other. You might roll your tongue and bite down lightly on it to improve your concentration. You might lean in close to make sure you stay on the line, and when you do, you might just hear the tip of the pen scrape along the paper, physically inscribing your thoughts for as long as humanity will have them. What’s written on paper, stays there, especially when done so with an early 90s Parker Refiller Executive. Maybe I’m being paranoid. Maybe a world in which pens have gone extinct is still a way off – a world where Parker pens are on display in museums and the Space Cases the ‘old people’ carried them in are also there. A world where there’s nothing to chew on when the teacher is being insanely boring and, heaven

forbid, nothing to use as a peashooter. Maybe we’ll have many more years scratching itches behind our ears and carving hearts on our desks. Maybe. Even if that is the (space) case, the fact remains we don’t write as much as we used to. And that means handwriting, more specifically, my handwriting, has gone backward. I physically tremble when I have to sign a birthday card, regardless of whether I know and cherish the person or not. In the world of writing, it’s one of the few places you have to get it right the first time and I rarely do. My handwriting is currently limited to all caps print that often comes out as all caps hieroglyphics. Everything I write looks like I’m screaming. (There was a time when I could write beautiful cursive – near perfect, in fact – but sadly the muscles in my hand seem to have forgotten how to draw the curl of a G and have it progress seamlessly into an A.) Many of you might remember, or are sitting at one reading this, the school desks with the tops that open up. The ones where everything slides off onto your lap if you don’t pin it down with your arms. The ones with bubblegum hard as rock stuck underneath the seats, in1978. At the top of those desks, where there’s that little channel for stationery you’ll see a round hole, one on each side. Know what that was for? Ink bottles. True story. Back in the day, people stuck their pens in pots of ink to make them write. In modern times you won’t find pots of ink at universities or colleges unless, perhaps, you’re studying art. And that’s a good thing – pots spill and ink stains. You will, however, still find pens dangling from mouths in libraries and jotting down notes in class. There will still be pens around to press corks into wine bottles with when you can’t find an opener (and have waited until you turned 18, of course). You might even find for sale in the stationery store the new Parker IM Premium Emerald Pearl with Quinkﬂow®. And that, also, is a good thing.

32 | POST MATRIC 2019

PMGAU2019.indd 34

2019/06/21 09:40

POST MATRIC 2019 | 00

PMGAU2019.indd 35

2019/06/21 09:40

PMGAU2019.indd 36

2019/06/21 09:40