ALSO READ: Lynn Forbes to Kairo: ‘There is not sitting on Santa’s lap’

AQUARIUS  (JAN 20 – FEB 18)

Aquarius is ruled by the planet Uranus which represents technology and innovation. Being an air sign, they are accustomed to using their minds at every opportunity. The perfect gift for this sign is electronic goods and gadgets. 

Aquarius is the sign of the Water Bearer, so they may also appreciate bath salts, travel accessories and essential oils.

Have a look at the qualities and various uses of essential oils here.

PISCES (FEB 19 – MARCH 20)

Pisces is ruled by both Neptune and Jupiter which represent imagination and positivity respectively. You could play on their sentimental side by gifting them with romantic novels, poetry books or handwritten letters. 

You could also gift a Pisces a self-care package. Find some tips and advice on how to create a “self-care treat box” here.

ARIES (MARCH 21 – APRIL 19)

Aries is ruled by Mars which represents passion, aggression and assertion. Aries tend to have an adventurous, competitive and hardworking personality. You could gift these organised individuals with home or office accessories. 

Formal clothing and fitness equipment are also good picks for an Aries. 

TAURUS (APRIL 20 – MAY 20)

Taurus is ruled by Venus which is all about earthy pleasure and they are known for their love of the finer things in life. You can gift a Taurus high-end perfumes or beauty brands, a spa day or houseplants. 

ALSO READ: ‘Nostalgia’: Layla Kolbe reacts to Rachel Kolisi’s family vacation

GEMINI (MAY 21 – JUNE 20)

Gemini is ruled by Mercury representing communication and intellect. Gifting ideas range from a good book, journals and fancy stationery. They also like to travel, so even an overnight bag or travel pillow could do the trick.  

CANCER (JUNE 21 – JULY 22)

Cancer is ruled by the Moon representing home and anything associated with it. They tend to be family orientated, so a photo album would definitely hit the sentimental spot, as well as home accessories such as kitchenware or decorative items.  

LEO (JULY 23 – AUG 22)

Leo is ruled by the Sun which is the centre of the universe. Put simply, they like nice things. You could gift them their favourite high-end fashion brands or create one of those trending make-up or chocolate bouquets. 

VIRGO (AUG 23 – SEPT 22)

Virgo, like Gemini, is ruled by Mercury which represents communication and intellect and they are also earthy signs. You could get them organic beauty products, houseplants, scented candles or jewellery with earthy gemstones. 

LIBRA (SEPT 23 – OCT 22)

Libra, like Taurus, is ruled by Venus. They are loving and sensitive individuals. Why not gift them silky pjs or luxury skin care products? 

SCORPIO (OCT 23 – NOV 21)

Scorpio is ruled by Pluto, the planet of passion and force of will. Their ideal gift is black or leather clothing and accessories or a bottle of good wine. 

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 – DEC 21)

Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of positivity and optimism. They are free-spirited, sporty and travellers at heart, so an outdoor adventure, travel gear or adventure sports gadgets would be right up their alley.

When it comes to jewellery and clothing, keep it simple but elegant.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22 – JAN 19) 

Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, the planet of discipline and conservation, so vintage clothing or decorative items would be a good fit.

These workaholic sea goats would also appreciate a coffee machine to keep them going while flipping through their weekly and monthly planner — another great gift for these natural planners!

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALICIA NAIDOO

Easy three-ingredient biscuits tips

These crumbly cookies like to be decorated. You can of course use white chocolate glaze or just melted chocolate for these cookies. You can roll them out and use any cookie cutter to make them into fun shapes that can be colourfully decorated. This recipe is so easy, that you should definitely get the kids involved because it’s that fun to make. They’re also great for holiday cookie tins and best enjoyed with some tea or coffee.

ALSO READ: Butter and chocolate cookies recipe

When it’s the holidays, you need to bake with the kids. Start them off with these easy three-ingredient biscuits and enjoy together.

Last updated on 29 December 2022

Easy three-ingredient biscuits recipe

4 from 4 votes

Recipe by Nokwanda Ncwane Course: TreatsCuisine: GlobalDifficulty: Easy

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

Ingredients

• 250 g 250 butter

• 1/2 cup 1/2 white granulated / icing sugar (depending on what you have)

• 2 cups 2 cake flour

Method

• In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy or pale in colour, using a whisk or wooden spoon. 
• Sift the flour and gradually add it, when it starts to resemble crumbs, you can use your hands. Just make sure you have enough flour so that the dough doesn’t stick in your hands. 
• You can place the dough in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, but if the craving has really got you, you can skip this step.  
• Dust some flour on the working surface and rolling pin. You can use a glass to make sure that your dough is flat if you don’t have a rolling pin. 
• You can use a glass again to cut your biscuits into a round shape or you can cut them into any shape you desire. 
• Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. 
• You can go a step further on the biscuits and melt some white chocolate. Dip the biscuits in the melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles. 

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Looking for more tasty recipes to prepare for your family and friends? Just have a look at our recipe page, we have excellent suggestions for you to try.

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They said video game access could be used where conventional therapies are not available because of cost or location – or in addition to traditional treatments for problems like anxiety.

Video games an alternative to improve mental health

“It is worth considering commercial video games as a potential alternative option for the improvement of various aspects of mental health globally,” Lero’s Dr Mark Campbell said.

Campbell led a team attached to the University of Limerick (UL)’s Health Research Institute and Physical Education & Sport Sciences department to publish their latest research paper in the journal JMIR Serious Games.

Easy access to video games

He said commercial video games are freely available to youngsters and there are an estimated 2.7 billion video gamers worldwide.

“The overall accessibility and pervasiveness of commercial video games within modern society position them as an invaluable means of reaching individuals with mental health disorders, irrespective of age and sex, and with limited access to mental health care, particularly relevant during the current COVID-19 pandemic,” he added.

Many mental health disorders go untreated

Lead study author Magdalena Kowal of Lero and UL explained the financial and healthcare service burden of mental illness, which affects more than 14% of the world’s population, and stated that many go untreated.

“There is a heightened demand for accessible and cost-effective methods that prevent and facilitate coping with mental health illness. This demand has become exacerbated following the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent increase in mental health disorders, depression and anxiety in particular,” she said.

Virtual reality games suited for exposure therapy

They hope that virtual reality (VR) video games also have great potential in treating mental health issues – whether people are gamers or not.

“These are well-suited for the implementation of cognitive behavioural techniques for the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders in the future,” she explained.

“Given the immersive nature of VR technology and the controllability of the virtual environment, it could be particularly well-suited for use in exposure therapy.”

The snippet was posted on the rapper’s Instagram story during the early hours of Saturday 12 June. 

AKA BACKTRACKING ON ‘PISS ON YOUR GRAVE’?

This emotional song follows the backlash AKA received after he used Travis Scott’s Piss On Your Grave on his Instagram story last weekend which many thought was disrespectful as he had just lost his fiancée Nelli Tembe on 11 April when she plunged to her death from the 10th floor of the Pepperclub Hotel in Cape Town. 

In the Instagram Story, AKA is seen smoking and dancing in his personal return to social media after taking time off from the public eye to mourn Tembe’s death. At the time, he handed over his social media accounts to his public relations team to handle. 

AKA took back control of his social media last week by going on a posting spree with pictures of himself and his new puppy named King Louie the 13th Forbes, nicknamed Mr Lou. 

Mr Lou was set up with his own Instagram account which racked up more than 2 500 followers in just over a week. 

‘TEARS RUN DRY’ FOR NELLI

The snippet of the song shared on AKA’s Instagram Story is titled Tears Run Dry where the rapper talks about how hard it is for him to live without his beloved and therefore it is safe to assume that the song is dedicated to Tembe. 

AKA’s teaser of new music comes after his “top fan” and promoter Rubu Thulisa tweeted that AKA is back in the studio and Mpumalanga-born artist Oscar Mbo hinted that a collaboration was in the works.

Have a look at the lyrics that have been teased:

“First thing on my mind/When I wake up. I cannot feel sunshine with you not waking up by my side. Nothing else can replace us. Try to break down and cry, but all my tears run dry,” the teaser begins with. 

LISTEN TO AKA’S‘TEARS RUN DRY’ TEASER

THUMBS-UP FROM TWEEPS

Twitter users seem to be impressed with AKA channeling his emotions through his music. Many Tweeps took to the platform to share their thoughts on Tears Run Dry. 

ALSO READ: Please explain: Cassper Nyovest’s R100m deal with Drip Footwear

The theme is a rallying call for youth to play their part in curbing the spread of coronavirus.

“As we try and transition to a better world, you, as young people, will be the leaders of that world, and therefore, this is probably the most important month of June that will be commemorated in our democratic history,” said National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) CEO Waseem Carrim at the virtual launch.

Over the month of June, the following activities will take place:

• The NYDA is currently running a Youth Month competition until 30 June. The weekly prizes to be won include data, routers and tablets, etc.
• The NYDA is leading the Biz Alive Campaign, which calls for young entrepreneurs to submit information about their businesses to be marketed on the platforms of the agency. The campaign kicked-off on 2 June.
• The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture is leading the Youth in Creative Industries webinar series to showcase and profile young people within design, performing arts and visual arts. The creative webinar series runs until 30 June 2020.
• On 14 June, the NYDA will also host the National Youth Service Day to showcase programmes and works that have been undertaken by 13 National Youth Service Programmes of several departments.
• The NYDA will on Monday 15 June host a nationwide webinar on the Youth Micro Enterprise Relief Fund to outline the progress and to showcase the beneficiaries of the fund.
• The South African State Theatre will stage a drama called, “The Fall” from 15 June – 5 July 2020. This frank collaborative work is based on #RhodesMustFall, #FeesMustFall and subsequent student movements’ demonstrations in 2015 and 2016. “The Fall” will add its voice to the national and worldwide debate and youth-led revolutions against injustices, inequality in education, cultural representation and many other contemporary conflicts.
• The Mpumalanga Provincial Department of Government will host the provincial Youth Day on 15 June 2020 as a buildup event to the National Youth Day. This will be a virtual commemoration followed by the cultural programme.
• The virtual Commemoration for the National Youth Day on 16 June 2020 at 10:00 will take the form of a dialogue with young people, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
• The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture will host an online art exhibition showcasing the suffering and traumatic experiences of the youth during the South African War. The exhibition takes place from 17 June to 30 June 2020.
• The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities will host a webinar on menstrual health management to look at how young women are affected by the pandemic. Supply lines for sanitary products distributed via schools was disrupted as a result of the lockdown. This webinar will look into how government is responding to this, as well as other challenges facing young women when it comes to managing their menstrual cycle with dignity. (Date: TBC)

The entire country is encouraged to participate in Youth Month by recognising the present and future role of the youth in shaping the social and economic landscape of the country.

Researchers from McMaster University found that while the shutdown of bars and pubs decreased binge drinking, the psychological impact of the virus was apparent due to rising numbers of young adults becoming depressed.

Depression and anxiety increase among young women

The team analysed data from almost 500 people aged from 18 to 25, and observed a reduction in problematic drinking during the first few months of the pandemic, but found there was an increase in rates of depression and anxiety symptoms among young women.

Senior author James MacKillop said that the results showcased the “complexity of the pandemic”, and suggested the rise in mental health issues within the group could be down to restrictions on socialising.

“The study participants were young people, who typically drink in social settings. If you take away bars, restaurants, and group events, like parties, it’s not surprising that binge drinking in this group goes down too,” lead author Meenu Minhas added.

DRINKING A COPING MECHANISM

Among the study participants, young women showed a substantial increase in the odds of meeting the threshold for clinical depression, but a similar effect was not found in men.

High levels of stress, irritability and sadness – all related to the pandemic – were felt more strongly by females, and it was suggested that the lack of social support for young people amid the global crisis was to blame.

“Although certain public health measures were important in controlling the spread of the virus, the benefits of social support and interaction, which often act as buffers against the effects of stress, have also been reduced due to the pandemic,” MacKillop noted.

WHO IS MALALA YOUSAFZAI?

Malala Yousafzai is a 23-year-old Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner at the tender age of 17 in 2014 after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban. 

At the age of 11, Malala Yousafzai began campaigning for a woman’s right to education.In October 2012, a gunman shot Yousafzai while she was travelling home from school. After the incident, she continued to speak out on the importance of education and in 2013, she gave a speech to the United Nations (UN) and wrote a book titled I Am Malala.

“When it comes to people I admire, Malala Yousafzai is right at the top,” said editor-in-chief of British Vogue Edward Enninful.

MALALA EXCITED FOR MCDONALD’S IN UNIVERSITY 

While attending university, the activist said that due to the incident she didn’t really spend time with people her own age, so she was excited for everything, including McDonald’s.

“I was excited about literally anything. Going to McDonald’s or playing poker with my friends or going to a talk or an event,” said Yousafzai to Vogue.

“(I have) never really been in the company of people my own age because I was recovering from the incident, and travelling around the world, publishing a book and doing a documentary, and so many things were happening,” she continued. 

Since then she has completed her degree in philosophy, politics and economics at the Oxford University in England. 

MALALA’S VOGUE COVER SHOOT

The cover is titled “the extraordinary life of Malala – survivor, activist, legend”, as she appears in a fiery red shirt and a matching headscarf by Stella McCartney.

The headscarf comes with a message, the 23-year-old states that for Pakistani girls a headscarf is often associated with oppression and patriarchy but she wants everyone to know that you can have both a voice and equality within your culture. 

“It’s a cultural symbol for us Pashtuns, so it represents where I come from,” said Yousafzai to Vogue.

“And Muslim girls or Pashtun girls or Pakistani girls, when we follow our traditional dress, we’re considered to be oppressed, or voiceless, or living under patriarchy,” she continued.

“I want to tell everyone that you can have your own voice within your culture, and you can have equality in your culture,” she added. 

The cover images were shot by artist Nick Knight. Here’s a look at the others. 

WATCH: THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE OF MALALA YOUSAFZAI

ALSO READ: North Korean ‘fashion police’: Kim Jong-un bans skinny jeans and mullets

The new Gen Z word for Millennials — “cheugy” — has been trending on social media. Here is what it means, how to use it and how to pronounce it. 

The new term – which gained traction a few weeks ago when the 24-year-old copywriter Hallie Cain’s TikTok explainer went viral – is pronounced “CHEW-gee” and is used to describe “someone who is out of date or trying too hard,” according to the New York Times.

WHAT DOES ‘CHEUGY’ MEAN?

The term used by Gen-Zbasically refers to an entire aesthetic or subculture a.

According to Parade, a “cheug” is:

• A Millennial (24 to 40 years old);
• Focuses their identity around certain brands or aesthetics;
• Tries too hard to be cool or into something;
• Has outdated style (tassel earrings, skinny jeans and Gucci belts are definite signs of a cheug); and
• Is super-aware of said outdated style.

TIK-TOK EXPLAINS ‘CHEUGY’

Verified TikToker @trishlikefish88 who has 6.2 million followers shared the different ways you could be “cheugy”. 

Cheugy fashion throwbacks

In a fashion sense, Cheugy is the opposite of trendy, but it had to have been the height of fashion at some point.

Holly Madison shared the top five reasons why people may think she is “cheugy” with outdated style throwbacks.

Don’t forget the men…

TikTok influencer Rod explained that men can also be cheugy. 

“Men, suck it up. We are basic too,” he said in a TikTok video. He then went on to call Axe body spray, cargo shorts, Buffalo wild wings and a few others the male version of cheugy.

@cheuglife

For a more comprehensive outlook on all things cheugy, have a look at @cheuglife on Instagram:

ALSO READ: Durban July 2021 fashion programme takes flight

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP

The scholarship was officially launched back in 2013 and offers students an opportunity to study both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Mauritian universities. 

According to Business Insider, between 2013 to 2019 the scholarship saw around 80 students completing their studies. It was thereafter decided to expand its full time on campus programme in 2020, however, when Mauritius reported their first case of covid-19 last year, the scholarship was suspended. 

The expansion came with some additions such as including South Africa’s Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). DHET can process and shortlist applicants in their country of citizenship.

WHO CAN APPLY FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP?

The scholarship is open to students who are residents of all member states that make up the African Union (AU) or African Commonwealth countries. These include but are not limited to South Africa and its neighbouring countries Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia and Mozambique. 

Undergraduate and postgraduate (Masters and PHD) students have different application criteria. 

BASIC CRITERIA FOR APPLYING THROUGH DHET

• A South African citizen
• Proficient in English
• Meet the minimum academic requirement for a similar course at a South African university.

UNDERGRADUATE CRITERIA 

• Bachelors pass for their National Senior Certificate
• Above 18 years old
• Under 26 years old – Must not have reached their 26th birthday by the time of application

POSTGRADUATE CRITERIA

MASTER’S APPLICANTS

• Must have completed their honours degree with a 60% average.
• Not older than 35 years old
• A study plan will need to be submitted 

PHD STUDENTS 

• Must have completed their Masters degree with an average of 60%
• Younger than 40 years old
• A study plan will need to be submitted 

WHAT THE SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS

The scholarship covers annual tuition fees and other course-related costs of MUR 100 000 which equates to just over R36 000. Students also receive a monthly living allowance of MUR 12 500 equating to about R4500. Students will be refunded for their flight costs. 

THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE SCHOLARSHIP

Business Insider reports that the scholarship will refund students for covid-19 related expenses such as the mandatory 14-day quarantine and associated tests. These costs are covered provided the student progresses through the academic programme.

HOW TO APPLY 

Applicants first need to apply for a full time – on campus programme at a public higher education institution in Mauritius before submitting documents to DHET. 

A completed DHET application form must be submitted to internationalscholarships@dhet.gov.za before 18 April 2021 for successful applicants to begin their studies in August.

The form requires certified copies of the following documents,

• Post-school qualification certificate
• Post-school academic transcripts
• Letter of conditional offer by Mauritian higher education institution or proof of application.

ALSO READ: ‘Chegging’ along? UCT, Wits reports increase in students’ virtual cheating

Tembe tragically lost her life when she fell from the 10th floor of the Pepperclub Hotel in Cape Town on Sunday 11 April. Despite being engaged to rapper AKA, having a well-known businessman as her father and being related to Generations actress Nondumiso Tembe, she mostly kept her personal life under wraps with her private social media accounts. 

NELLI TEMBE’S ASPIRATIONS IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY 

Tembe attended the Jackie Cameron School of Food and Wine in Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal, where she was enrolled for an 18-month cooking course between 2018 to 2019.

In an interview with TimesLive, Jackie Cameron revealed that the young lady was a bright student who had a fire within her, confidence and she was headstrong. 

“I know her father, Moses Tembe, and family. They were regulars at a restaurant I was at. When I heard Nelli wanted to be a chef, I spent pretty much the whole interview telling her how hard the industry is. She said she was going to prove us all wrong, this is what she can do and will do,” said Cameron to Times Live.

“And she ended up doing it,” she added. 

DREAMS OF A MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT

As part of her cooking course, Tembe was placed at The Test Kitchen in Cape Town and was said to have performed so well that she was later offered a full-time position. 

Cameron went on to mention that Tembe’s father, Moses Tembe, owned lots of restaurants and that AKA’s fiancée wanted to run her own luxury Michelin star restaurant in South Africa. 

“Her father owns a lot of restaurants and she wanted to run a Michelin star restaurant in SA.” 

CHEF JACKIE CAMERON’S TRIBUTE POST

Days after the shocking death of the 22-year-old qualified chef, Cameron took to Instagram to share an emotional post appreciating the student Nelli Tembe. 

“The Anele I knew: I loved our many in-depth chats. I loved the way you extended yourself. I loved that you had a deep desire to impress,” she wrote in the caption. 

In remembrance to Tembe, Cameron thereafter also shared an advertisement video starring her former student. 

“Anele you will always be remembered like this…Confident and ‘ready to get-up and go’ – and that giggle of yours at the end of this video is a joy,” she wrote in the caption. 

ALSO READ: Nelli Tembe latest: Couple at hotel say they heard hysteric screams before fatal fall

DJ ZINHLE IN NELLI TEMBE TRIBUTE VIDEO?

South African DJ Ntombezinhle Jiyane, known as DJ Zinhle, is AKA’s ex girlfriend and the mother of his daughter, Kairo Forbes. Needless to say that her appearance on Nelli Tembe’s tribute video compiled by AKA and someone who helped him, left many people shocked and puzzled.

A selfie of the DJ appeared on one of the slides of the tribute video played at Nelli Tembe’s funeral service.

TWITTER TRIES TO MAKE SENSE OF IT ALL

Nothing misses the keen eye of Mzansi’s Twitter users. Tweeps took to Twitter to question the DJ Zinhle insert, trying to make sense of what went wrong with this otherwise touching tribute. 

To put it mildly — Most tweeps were utterly confused: 

‘Honest mistake’?

One particular Tweep thought it was an honest mistake made by the person who compiled the video.

The tweep explained that the person who compiled the video was unaware of DJ Zinhle and added in the picture because if you Google search “Anele Tembe”, the picture of DJ Zinhle does pop up. 

Another Twitter user agreed to this theory.

However, Tweeps asked how it could happen that someone who is compiling a tribute video, not know they are adding pictures of someone else? Nelli Tembe’s fiancé’s ex to be specific…

Therefore, other Tweeps thought that the person who compiled the video, was being shady and insensitive to the soul that was just lost. 

DJ ZINHLE BEING DRAGGED UNNECESSARILY

DJ Zinhle fans feel she has stayed in “her lane” and does not bother anyone, so her being brought up at a time like this is unfair to her. 

NELLI TEMBE’S FATHER DOES NOT BELIEVE IT WAS SUICIDE 

Another jaw-dropping moment from the funeral service of Nelli Tembe, is that her father, well-known businessman Moses Tembe, said that he did not believe this was a suicide as his daughter is not someone he believes would have committed suicide..

He also mentioned that over-use of alcohol and drugs “bedevils” the youth. He further told AKA that he knows the pain he is going through and he invites him to turn to the Lord to become a better man.

ALSO READ: A tragic love story: Timeline of AKA, Nelli Tembe’s romance [photos]

However, following the outcry caused by the suicide of bullied teen Lufuno Mavhungo this week, Musida shocked Twitter users when she rather tweeted about pizza than mental health on Tuesday 13 April.

TWO YOUNG LADIES LOSE THEIR LIVES 

This week has been heartbreaking for South Africa with the loss of two young ladies. On Sunday 11 April, rapper AKA’s fiancée Anele “Nelli” Tembe plunged to her death from the 10th floor of the Pepperclub Hotel in Cape Town. Rumours circulating around her death predominantly focus on the fact that the 22-year-old has been suffering from depression. 

On Monday, 15-year-old Lufuno Mavhungu committed suicide after a clip of her being bullied in a Limpopo school yard went viral. Police confirmed that the suicide was linked to the bullying incident in which the girl was beaten up by another learner, as Lufuno locked herself in her room on her return from school and overdosed on pills.

MISS SA TROLLED FOR PIZZA POST

The Twitter timeline is currently filled with condolences to family of the teenager as the topic of mental health issues came to the fore. Twitter users have been sharing their personal experiences in an attempt to raise and also continued to raise awareness around the subject.

Needless to say, Twitter users expected a mental health advocate such as Miss South Africa to weigh in on the matter and come out in support of #JusticeForLufono. Tweeps pointed out that mental health is one of the key issues Miss SA pledged to focus on during her reign.

However, Miss SA instead posted a light-hearted comment about pizza which ruffled a few feathers…

“I believe that a slice of pizza tastes nicer when you fold it,” wrote Shudufhadzo Musida in a tweet. 

REACTION TO MISS SA’S PIZZA POST

Tweeps questioned why Musida was quiet about the suicide of Lufuno Mavhungu. 

The reasoning behind these Twitter users’ comments is that at a time like this, they expect influential people, especially those who advocate for mental health to use their platforms to help raise awareness and fight for justice. 

However, other Twitter users jumped to Musida’s defence saying it was just an innocent tweet and she may not have seen the news yet or she needed more facts. 

MISS SA SAYS SHE WAS ALSO BULLIED

Following the backlash she received from Twitter Musida, took to her Insta Stories — which are no longer available — to share her own experiences with bullying.

“When I was between the age of 11 and 12, I got beaten up so badly by a group of guys and girls, and I remember apologising so much. I remember the girls cheering on the guy that was kicking my ribs until I realised that it wouldn’t stop. So I didn’t bother crying because I knew it wouldn’t help,” said Musida.

“My mom knew little about the bullying, but never knew how bad it was. I was in pain for about a week, but I couldn’t tell anyone. The Lufuno story is so triggering. All I can see is how she stood there and didn’t do anything because you get to that point,” she added.

ALSO READ: Who was Nelli Tembe, the woman behind AKA? Six things you didn’t know

Forbes stated that Chegg has become a $12 billion company profiting from enabling students to cheat. 

HOW DOES CHEGG WORK?

Chegg has a database of 46 million textbook and exam problems and allows users to turn them in as their own, so basically to cheat. 

According to Forbes, Chegg is based in Santa Clara, California with the heart of its operation actually being in India, where the company employs more than 70 000 experts in advanced math, science, technology and engineering degrees. 

The experts work as freelancers and are online 24 hours a day, seven days a week and supply step-by-step answers to questions posted by subscribers. The company also offers other services for students, such as tools to create bibliographies, solve math problems and improve their writing. 

However, the most popular use of the app is Chegg Study, described by Chegg CEO Dan Rosensweig as an “always-on tutor” that is “ready to help students with detailed answers to problems”. 

WITS, UCT REPORT ISSUES WITH STUDENTS CHEATING

Both the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) and the University of Cape Town (UCT) have reported that students have been found cheating through Chegg. 

“The university had noted an increase in the number of cases of academic dishonesty – which included cheating on tests and exams – referred to the Legal Services & Secretariat department between 2019 and 2020,” said UCT spokesperson Elijah Moholola to My Broadband.

“The university has found that in some of these cases, university test and/or exam questions were loaded to the Chegg website and answers were provided by industry experts and submitted by students as their own work,” he added. 

“The university became aware of some students used online resources and platforms to assist them in answering assessments contravening assessment requirements and university rules,” said Wits according to My Broadband.

“These matters have been duly processed in terms of the Rules for Student Discipline by the University’s Legal Office,” continued Wits statement. 

CHEGG ATTEMPTS TO COMBAT CHEATING 

The company notes that cheating is a problem among students and this has increased since the pandemic led to virtual learning and they intend on addressing the issue, while universities also aim to deter students from “Chegging”. 

“We are not naive that [cheating] is a problem. And the mass move to remote learning has only increased it. We remain 100% committed to addressing it, and are investing considerable resources to do so,” said Chegg president Nathan Schultz in a written statement. 

“We cannot do it alone and are working with faculty and institutions, and will continue to do more, including educating students,” he added. 

The information was shared via a tweet on Wednesday 14 April.

YOUNG LADY SCREAMING ‘LEAVE ME ALONE’

A screenshot was posted under a comment of a tweet where a woman claimed she and her husband, who stayed at the Pepperclub Hotel, woke up on Sunday morning to a “young lady hysterically screaming”. 

“My husband and I were on the 15th floor of the Pepperclub hotel when we woke up to the sounds of a young lady hysterically screaming, ‘Leave me alone! Don’t touch me’,” read the screenshot. 

The couple then heard a loud crash and a man’s voice screaming “Oh my God! Oh my God!” The woman says her husband went down to the ground floor and a young girl was laying there naked and unconscious but still breathing. 

“I don’t know what happened before the incident where she lost her life, but this young lady was beyond upset,” the woman added. 

However, another Twitter user weighed in and said that what was heard is open for interpretation. 

While another supported this theory.

IS AKA UNDER INVESTIGATION?

A report by the Daily Mail claims that AKA is being investigated following his fianceé’s death. 

The South African spoke to Western Cape police spokesperson Andre Traut on 14 April after the report surfaced with the headline, “Police investigate South African rapper AKA after his fiance’s death.

Traut however did not confirm that rapper AKA is ‘under investigation’ for the death of Nelli Tembe.

According to the police spokesperson, Cape Town police are “currently investigating the circumstances surrounding her death” and that is “all I can say at the moment”. 

ONLINE SLEUTHS CONTINUE TO LOOK FOR ANSWERS

Rumours circulating her mysterious death have been circulating on social media since the news broke on Sunday. 

According to some Tweeps, Nelli Tembe suffered from depression and this was not the first time she attempted to take her own life. Last year, she also is rumoured to have tried to commit suicide by jumping off the Hilton Hotel in Durban. 

Other Tweeps questioned this by saying that Nelli Tembe had no reason to feel depressed as the recently engaged Tembe was seen happy and dancing with AKA hours before the news of her tragic death broke.

Others are still questioning why she was found naked. 

ALSO READ: Who was Nelli Tembe, the woman behind AKA? Six things you didn’t know

A group of supporters from the Ntethelelo Foundation was seen outside the court wearing white T-shirts with hashtags “Justice for Enhle”.

Judgment for the protection order was reserved as both parties will be issued with a summons. The matter is expected back in court on April 28.

ENHLE MBALI THANKS GBV SUPPORTERS

The famous DJ’s wife, Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa, thanked the GBV activists for coming out to support her at the court in a video she posted on her Instagram on Monday 12 April. 

In March, Enhle Mbali applied for a protection order against DJ Black Coffee after accusing him of physically abusing her at her 33rd birthday party which was held at their marital home. 

Following the abuse claims, many GBV activists stepped out in support of the fashion designer and actress. 

In the recent post, Mbali is seen with GBV activists holding placards, of which one reads “Enough is Enough”, in her support.

“GOD. ???????? thank you,” she captioned the post.

GBV GROUPS DEMAND JUSTICE FOR ENHLE MBALI

Aside from the GBV activists showing up at the court, various other activists also weighed in on the matter. Activist Ntsiki Mazwai previously called out Black Coffee regarding the abuse claims.

She called Black Coffee a “vile human being” and labelled all the guests at Enhle Mbali’s birthday party as “cowardly” for not standing up for her. 

Non-government organisation (NGO) Mzansi Act Now, who act on GBV and femicide and is headed by Tebogo Edward Lerole, also released a statement in which they raised their concerns for Mbali. 

“Act Now is deeply disappointed by what is reported to have transpired in this regard. We wish to place it on record that as an organisaton we have no tolerance for womxn abused and take the allegations seriously and urge both parties to fully cooperate with law enforcement,” said the statement in regard to the Black Coffee abuse claims made by Enhle Mbali.  

AMBASSADOR OF WINNIE MANDELA CUP

About a week ago, Mbali announced that she is an ambassador for the Winnie Mandela Cup 2021, a platform for women empowerment through a soccer tournament to intensify the fight against gender-based violence.

“I pledge to in my personal life and career to stand up against GBV. Pledge to be a mini Winnie in the fight, as that’s what the cup stands for,” wrote Enhle Mbali on Instagram.

She also mentioned fellow ambassadors, including Ghana-based actress Marie Humbert and international soccer player Juliano Belleti whom she described as:

“A man who supports woman in their fight against GBV.”

Police is currently investigating the matter in which AKA’s fiancee fell to her death from the penthouse on the 10th floor of the five-star Pepperclub Hotel, in the CBD of Cape Town.

Although Tembe was a private person who didn’t like much of the spotlight, from the 33-year-old AKA’s posts alone, the couple appears to have had a very affectionate relationship.

“We are still in shock and are dealing with our emotions, as she was an exceptional and gifted young woman, with so much life ahead of her. She had a sweet nature about her and was always nurturing to those around her,” said a statement by the Tembe and Forbes family.

TIMELINE OF AKA AND NELLI TEMBE’S RELATIONSHIP

JANUARY 2020

In January 2020, a video of AKA and Tembe surfaced on Twitter while many people thought he was still in a relationship with the mother of his child, DJ Zinhle. However, AKA jumped in to clear the air and confessed his love for the new fresh-faced beauty we later learnt was Nellie Tembe.

Towards the end of January, AKA posted the first picture of Tembe to his Instagram account which left fans guessing.

FEBRUARY 2020

In February 2020, AKA took to Twitter to thank the person who shared the video of him and Tembe, saying it was one of the “biggest favours someone ever did” for him.

MAY 2020

In May 2020, AKA posted one of the first pictures of him and Tembe stargazing into each other’s eyes. The picture was captioned “cross my heart”.

A few days earlier, he posted a “teaser” picture with Tembe’s back turned to the camera.

JULY 2020

In July 2020, AKA announced that he had contracted COVID-19 and that Tembe was taking care of him on his road to recovery.

FEBRUARY 2021

To the surprise of many, AKA put a ring on Tembe’s finger in February 2021, showing the world how serious he is about their relationship. He posted a picture of the sparkling diamond ring to his Instagram.

MARCH 2021

A few weeks later, in March 2021 AKA paid the traditional “lobola” toTembe’s family to secure her hand in marriage.

APRIL 2021

The couple spent the Easter weekend together along what seems to be the KwaZulu-Natal coast.

The soon-to-be bride at the time modelled merchandise alongside AKA in a shoot for AKA’s Bhovamania brand.

The Saturday before her shocking deat, AKA shared on his Insta Stories images and videos of their time spent together in Cape Town — from shopping to their night out.

A look at their last moments together.

MORE PICTURES OF AKA AND NELLIE TEMBE

ALSO READ: LATEST: Nellie Tembe’s shock death – Everything we know so far

BOITY RESPONDS TO WOMAN’S TWITTER PLEA

On 11 April, a woman asked for financial assistance to pay her rent of R1 800 which was due by Tuesday 13 April and the businesswoman responded to the tweet requesting the woman’s number.

Boity then sent the woman the money and asked if she received it. The woman replied,

“I got it thank you so much Loudly, may God bless you.”

Boity then replied “Good bless YOU,” with red heart emojii’s to the woman.

Twitter reacts

Other Twitter users seemed to be inspired by the sudden act of celeb kindness.

BOITY’S ACT OF KINDNESS

Boity also urged her followers to be kinder towards one another following the tragic death of rapper AKA’s 22-year-old fianceé Nelli Tembe. Boity retweeted several posts in relation to depression after Tweeps’ remarked that Tembe was apparently struggling with depression.

“The darkness on social media can be unbearably overpowering. Please let’s all choose kindness as often as possible. Please,” tweeted Boity.

One of the posts Boity retweeted, expressed sympathy for the “inconsolable” AKA.

“Nellie’s death hit hard.. It triggered a lot of emotions. I feel for AKA..  the turmoil and probably the self inflicted guilt of not doing enough to help her in her final moments. Be kind to AKA.. this man will never be the same again.. Lala ngoxolo MaTembeBroken heart #RIPNellie,” wrote @Averyrichqueen.

“she looked so happy” please, depression doesn’t have a face or mood,” wrote @@neomokss_.

Boity also tweeted her disbelief at the news when she got news of Tembe’s death on Sunday 11 April.

“Think about your worst, most painful moments. Consider how you would have wanted people to extend their warmth and kindness to you. Then do exactly that for the next person,” Boity further advised her 3.3 million followers.

BT SIGNATURE LAUNCH PARTY

Aside from the kindness Boity spread over the weekend, on Friday 9 April she also hosted her launch party for her alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage brand BT Signature.

“I’ve wanted to create a ready-to-drink product for some time now, so naturally, I had to grab this opportunity with both hands. It’s been one of my dreams, so I felt it was the right time,” said Boity to IOL.

ALSO READ: LATEST: Nelli Tembe’s shock death – Everything we know so far

However, the South African Police Service (SAPS) are yet to give an update and are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. And for good reason…as rumours surrounding her mysterious death has been circulating on social media since the news broke yesterday.

NELLI TEMBE FOUND NAKED IN STREET

A security guard who was one of the first people to arrive on the scene, said he first thought it was a car crash because of the loud thud. When he went to investigate, he then heard someone shouting that there was a person lying in the street. 

The security guard then disclosed that when they went to have a closer look, they found a naked young woman who was still breathing at the time.

“We went closer and saw a naked young woman…she was still breathing at that time,” the security guard told IOL. 

“Medics assessed the patient who had sustained critical injuries and was treated on the scene by an advanced life support paramedic. While stabilising the patient, her condition rapidly deteriorated and she was sadly declared deceased on the scene,”  said Netcare 911 spokesperson Shawn Herbst.

DEPRESSION RUMOURS

On Saturday, the couple was seen on AKA’s Insta Stories shopping at the V&A Waterfront before having lunch with some friends. AKA later performed at Ayeyep Lifestyle Club where he was joined by Nelli Tembe joined him.

In a video of the pair dancing, Nellie seems to be happy and in love. To this some Twitter users who think she might have committed suicide, commented that depression is “real” and can catch you off-guard. 

Some Tweeps’ thoughts on Nelli Tembe’s alleged battle with depression:

NOT NELLI’S FIRST SUICIDE ATTEMPT?

Nelli Tembe has apparently attempted to jump off a hotel building before. In December 2020, IOL reported that a 22-year-old woman was rescued from the top of the Hilton Hotel in Durban after she attempted to jump. 

The report states that the young lady was the girlfriend of the prominent rapper from Gauteng, which is the only clue that points to Nelli.

AKA ‘inconsolable’

Tembe’s tragic death comes just two weeks after AKA had paid lobola to the Tembe family for her hand in marriage.

A joint statement release by the Tembes and AKA’s family yesterday, described AKA as “inconsolable”.

“It is with deepest regret that we, the Tembe and Forbes families, confirm the untimely passing of our beloved fiancée, daughter, sister, and daughter-in-law, Anele Tembe,” read the statement.

“We are still in shock and are dealing with our emotions as she was an exceptional and gifted young woman with so much life ahead of her. She had a sweet nature and was always nurturing to those around her. Her fiancé, Kiernan Forbes, is currently inconsolable and surrounded by family and closest friends. At this hour of our grief, we humbly request that our families be given privacy and time to heal.”

ALSO READ: Lobola negotiations: AKA is getting ready to visit Nelli Tembe’s family

Lion’s Head is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cape Town loved by both locals and visitors. The view at night is nothing less than spectacular. Have a look… 

WATCH: RARE FOOTAGE OF LION’S HEAD

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mike Eloff (@lifeofmikeza)

The video shows a time lapse of Lion’s Head being lit up from one side to another as the camera pans out to give viewers a bird’s eye view. 

The beauty of the view captured the attention of many admirers. 

“This is so trippy and absolutely breathtaking! ????❤️????” wrote @campsbaygirl.

“Wow can’t describe with words! Incredibly done ????❤️” wrote @olena.mikhanosha.

“Amazing ???? love the music paired so well with the time lapse” wrote @bettybake.

“Flawlessly adding the theme song to this visual. ????????????” wrote @southon.ly.

“Wow…. that’s incredible!!! Kind of a star trails shoot but with all that other light!?? 2 separate images? Overlapped!!! I’m totally in love with this!!! ????????????” wrote @candice.eaglestone.

INSTA REELS CONTINUED: MORE LION’S HEAD, CAPE TOWN FOOTAGE

The esteemed photographer posted more aesthetically pleasing videos of Lion’s Head and other places in the city and the Instagram reels are nothing short of beautiful.

“Sunrise from the Kloof Corner beacon never disappoints, especially when the low clouds pull in,” Eloff captioned the post. 

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A post shared by Mike Eloff (@lifeofmikeza)

There are also scenic time-lapse videos of the low clouds and sunsets in Cape Town.

“When the low clouds start rolling into Cape Town, make sure you’ve got front row seats,” he captioned the post. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mike Eloff (@lifeofmikeza)

“Sunset Season in Cape Town LOADING…,” reads the caption for the following post. 

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A post shared by Mike Eloff (@lifeofmikeza)

LION’S HEAD DURING COVID 

On clear days, the iconic Lion’s Head offers a breathtaking view of Table Mountain, Camps Bay, Signal Hill, Robben Island and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range. 

According to Cape Town Magazine, Lion’s Head is opened for hiking under the lockdown with the following COVID-19 restrictions in place: 

• Keep a distance of 1.5m from other hikers; 
• Wear your mask at all times;
• Sanitise your hands before and after making use of the staples/ladder and chains;
• Picnicking and gathering in social groups is not allowed; and
• Limitations on the number of hikers may be imposed by the sergeant ranger if necessary.

ALSO READ: Top five places to get out and about in South Africa

The Californian institution’s Humor: Serious Business course runs from 6 April to 25 May via Zoom.

WHY A COURSE ON HUMOUR AT WORK? 

The course was created to encourage humour as a positive change in the world while also reaching business objectives. 

“This class is about the power (and importance) of humour to make and scale positive change in the world, and also – surprise! – to achieve business objectives, build more effective and innovative organisations, cultivate stronger bonds, and capture more lasting memories,” according to Stanford. 

“You’ll learn why humour is one of the greatest competitive advantages in business (and life), why it’s underutilised, and how YOU can use more of it, better.  More better.  Welcome to your (re)introduction to humour,” the university’s course description reads. 

OUTCOMES OF THE COURSE

The course aims to allow students to discover levity in their stories and life and understand their own unique humour style and the styles of others, as well as apply techniques from comedians and play with incorporating humour in serious moments. 

It will also teach students to use humour in their leadership styles and how to activate humour and create cultures of levity in teams and organisations. 

WATCH: ‘HUMOUR AS A SECRET WEAPON’

Aaker and Bagdonas’ YouTube video, titled Harnessing Humor as a Secret Weapon, discusses the power of humour in the workplace, as well as look at their book Humor, Seriously: Why Humour Is a Secret Weapon in Business and Life. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF HUMOUR IN THE WORKPLACE

Fortune reported the following findings on the use of humour in the workplace:

1. Leaders who show a sense of humour are seen as 27% more motivated and admired subsequently their employees are 15% more engaged and their teams are twice as likely to solve a creativity challenge.
2. When pairs of strangers laugh together for an average of five minutes before completing a task their interactions were 30% more intimate than the control condition.
3. Workplaces that add in humor to their culture are 16% more likely to keep employees at their jobs, feel engaged and experience satisfaction.
4. Adding a lighthearted line at the end of a sales pitch can increase customers willingness to pay by 18%.

Five ways adults can create their own Easter egg hunts:

1. MONEY EGG HUNT

What adult does not love some extra cash? Instead of buying chocolate Easter eggs, slip a R10 or R20 note into a plastic egg and hide it somewhere around the house. If you’re feeling more generous, you could hide a R50 note for that lucky somebody.

Instead of money, you could also add in gift vouchers to keep things interesting. 

2. BATH BOMB HUNT

Buy bath bombs for your friends and family to hunt for along with other self-care goodies, such as face and body scrubs or bath salts. 

Or you could of course make your own bath bombs if you are feeling adventurous…

An Easter-themed self-care box would work well for presenting your Easter egg bath bombs. You could add in a few chocolate Easter eggs, scented candles and other sweet treats to accompany your do-it-yourself creations.

3. ALCOHOLIC EASTER EGGS

You could fit small single-serving alcohol (gin, whiskey, etc) bottles into plastic Easter eggs for your over-18 guests to enjoy.

Alternatively, cut off the ears of some store-bought chocolate bunnies (and gobble it up, o course!) to create edible drink holders and pour in some liqueur.

Wine gift boxes have also recently become a trend.

4. GET CREATIVE WITH CHOCOLATE

Why not make an Easter hamper with some chocolate-covered strawberries and cake-sicles?

5. EASTER-THEMED GAMES

While the kids are on the hunt, the adults could play Easter egg drinking games with alcoholic beverages or non-alcoholic beverages for those who do not consume alcohol. 

“Never Have I Ever” is always a fun game, you could pre-plan the questions and add them into plastic Easter eggs with each person picking a different question from the hidden eggs. 

Happy Easter!

ALSO READ: Seven unique Easter celebrations from around the world

In a recent article for The Sun, well-known astrologist Lisa Stardust and Bed specialist Time4Sleep teamed up to connect sleeping habits with people’s horoscopes. And it showed that the “magical” eight hours sleep a night varies greatly between the various star signs.

How much sleep does your star sign need?

AQUARIUS (JAN 20 TO FEB 18) 

The water babies require nine hours of sleep a day. Spa-like treatments may also help sleeping patterns as they are most relaxed in water. 

TIPS: Before going to bed every night, soak in a warm tub full of water or fill a portable foot spa with warm water for a few minutes. Alternatively, get someone at home to massage your feet with essential oils before bed.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Light grey and cream.

PISCES (FEB 19 TO MARCH 20) 

Pisces actually require the most sleep of all with a whopping 11 hours a night. 

TIPS: A relaxing bath with epsom salts and lavender. Back massages with lavender oil may also help. 

BEDROOM COLOURS: Blue and lavender.

ARIES (MARCH 21 TO APRIL 19) 

The fiery sign of Aries requires the average of six to seven hours of sleep per night.

TIPS: Jotting down a list of things you’re grateful for before bed will assist the ram to stay appreciative of their lives and slow down the overthinking that may threaten their nights sleep.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Bright colours.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 TO MAY 20)

Taurus individuals require eight to 10 hours of sleep a night. 

TIPS: Calming essential oils and aromatherapy.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Earthy.

GEMINI (MAY 21 TO JUNE 20)

The air sign of Gemini requires the average eight hours of sleep.

TIPS: Reduce late night screen time and shut off electronic devices when you’re ready for bed. 

BEDROOM COLOURS: White with little pops of colour.

CANCER (JUNE 21 TO JULY 22)

Cancer requires six to eight hours of sleep a night. 

TIPS: Make the room dark before bed. Power naps during the day may also help with getting enough sleep.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Black and other dark colours.

LEO (JULY 23 TO AUG 22) 

Leo, close to Pisces requires 10 hours of sleep.

TIPS: Meditation and herbal tea would do the trick.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Champagne-coloured sheets and velvet throws.

VIRGO (AUG 23 TO SEPT 22)

Virgo requires seven to eight hours of sleep a night.

TIPS: Journaling before bed. Similar to Aries, a gratitude list would be ideal before attempting a full night’s sleep.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Simple with browns and creams. 

LIBRA (SEPT 23 TO OCT 22)

Libra requires the average eight hours of sleep a night.

TIPS: Self care before bed is essential.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Pastels and shades of cream.

SCORPIO (OCT 23 TO NOV 21)

Scorpio requires eight to 10 hours of sleep a night.

TIPS: A dream journal as they tend to be lucid dreamers.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Deep-red hues.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 TO DEC 21)

A Sagittarius needs only five hours of sleep a night.

TIPS: Avoiding screen time and electronic devices before bed.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Shades of purple.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22 TO JAN 19)

Capricorn’s need seven hours of sleep a night.

TIPS: Place a lepidolite crystal under your pillow.

BEDROOM COLOURS: Shades of green.

ALSO READ: Trap Gardener digs his green fingers into a houseplant horoscope

In the first two episodes of her YouTube documentary series, Losing Control: Dancing with the Devil, which aired on Tuesday 23 March, Lovato spoke about how she “went to town”, mixing meth with ecstacy, cocaine, weed, alcohol and oxycontin before her 2018 drug overdose.

DEMI LOVATO ON ‘LOSING CONTROL’

The first episode of the four-part documentary series takes viewers on the journey of how the Disney sweetheart turned to drugs.

Lovato, her family and friends open up for the first time about what led up to her near-death experience. The episode has already been viewed more than 4.8 million times.

The Cool for the Summer singer aims to set the record straight on the reasons why she actually started taking drugs. These include the death of her alcoholic father, whom she had cut off because he abusive to her mother. She also cites her struggle with her weight. 

‘SHOPPING SPREE’ FOR DRUGS 

In Losing Control: Dancing with the Devil, Lovato describes her drug use before her overdose as a “shopping spree”.

“I just so happened to run into my old drug dealer from six years before and like the odds of that happening was crazy and he had like a duffel bag and I just went to town. I just went on a shopping spree.

“That night I did drugs that I’d never done before. I’d never done meth before, I tried meth, I mixed it with molly [ecstacy], with coke, weed, alcohol, oxycontin and that alone should have killed me,” she added. 

WATCH EPISODE ONE 

‘MINUTES AWAY FROM DEATH’

In Episode Two, Lovato and her friends provide a first-hand perspective of the aftermath of the overdose as she woke up in the hospital, being minutes away from death.

The Camp Rock star also opened up about being taken advantage of sexually by her dealer.

“When they found me, I was naked, I was blue. I was literally left for dead after he took advantage of me,” said Lovato.

“And when I woke up in the hospital, they asked if I had had consensual sex and there was one flash that I had of him on top of me. I saw that flash and I said yes,” said Lovato.

She later realised that she was in no state of mind to have given her consent. 

WATCH EPISODE TWO

The third episode will air on 30 March on Lovato’s YouTube channel. The synopsis of the episode reveals that it is based on the road to recovery.

“Demi goes to rehab and begins her road to recovery, but with bumps along the way. As she returns to the stage for the first time since her overdose, she needs to find balance in her life,” is written in the episodes description.

ALSO READ: Demi Lovato ‘dances with the devil’ on new album set for April release

NZIMANDE COMPARES STUDENT PROTESTS TO SOAPIE

The minister said that the national shutdown of universities across South Africa needs to urgently be called off as the academic year is already short. He then went as far as to compare the student protests, which flared up nationwide due to student debt and financial exclusion issues, to the US daytime soapie The Bold and The Beautiful.

The minister was also concerned about the country reaching the third wave of covid which would result in further delays.

“The shutdown must be called off as soon as possible because we are worried the academic year is already short,” said Nzimande.

“Every year, it’s like a soap — ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’. Every beginning of the year there is instability,” he continued.

GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS ‘HAVE BEEN MET’

The minister also said that the government has met all their obligations in terms of the financial assistance of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). 

“The heart of the issue is as simple as this: NSFAS students are catered for, which is the government’s policy with the means test, which is family income of R350,000 per annum. That is catered for and dealt with,” said Nzimande.

He added that the country continued to have free education for the lower and working class however, the herdle is currently with the “missing middle”.

He also stated that he is liaising with vice-chancellors of universities to evaluate the nature of debt to determine whether the debt can be written off. 

Student leaders from the South African Union of Students (SAUS) have asked the police to stop using rubber bullets to disperse of students during protests following the death of Mthokozisi Ntumba during a #FeesMustFall protest near the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) on 10 March 2021. The 35-year-old Ntumba was fatally shot by a rubber bullet.

CELEBRITIES SHOW STUDENTS THEIR SUPPORT

Local celebrities, such as Lasizwe, have stepped in to raise funds for the students unable to register due to historical debt. He intended on raising R1 million towards the fees…and he did. Standard Bank matched his efforts and donated R1 million to his #R10GoesALongWay fundraising initiative, which now totals R2 million.

Other celebrities, such as Prince Kaybee took a more hands-on approach to show support and joined the students at the protests in Johannesburg, Gauteng. 

Students still enraged by tertiary education situation:

THE TWEETS THAT MADE ALEXI MCCAMMOND RESIGN

The tweets were posted in 2011, when Alexi McCammond was still a teenager. McCammond, who is a black woman, had tweeted about Asian features and made derogatory stereotyping comments about Asian people. The tweets have resurfaced amid the current incidents of Asian hate that have been happening in the United States. 

McCammond also tweeted negatively about gay people back in the day. She apologised for her tweets back in 2019, and deleted them. However, screenshots of those tweets quickly recirculated on social media after she was hired as Teen Vogue’s new editor-in-chief.

“I should not have tweeted what I did and I have taken full responsibility for that. I look at my work and growth in the years since, and have redoubled my commitment to growing in the years to come as both a person and a professional,” McCammond said in a statement.

ALEXI MCCAMMOND RESIGNS BEFORE HER FIRST DAY

Alexi McCammond, who made a name for herself as a politics reporter, was appointed as Teen Vogue’s editor-in-chief on 5 March. Barely two weeks later, Condé Nast, Teen Vogue’s publisher, decided it would be best to part ways with McCammond due to her past racist and homophobic tweets.

“My past tweets have overshadowed the work I’ve done to highlight the people and issues I care about — issues that teen Vogue has worked tirelessly to share with the world — and so Condé Nast and I have decided to part ways,” McCammond said.

TEEN VOGUE STAFF OUTRAGED AT MCCAMMOND’S APPOINTMENT

Following the announcement that Alexi McCammond would get the job, more than 20 Teen Vogue staff members posted a note on social media saying they had complained about the tweets to company leaders. 

As criticism over her appointment grew, major advertisers Ulta Beauty and Burt’s Bees suspended their campaigns with Teen Vogue.

‘CANCEL CULTURE’ RUNS ITS COURSE 

Social media may currently be the most influential medium and the so-called “cancel culture”, though criticised by many, has thrived through this. “Cancel culture” — or call-out culture — is a modern form of ostracism in which someone is thrust out of social or professional circles, whether online, on social media or in person. 

It seems like social media users have successfully “cancelled” Alexi McCammond’s professional career through their posts. Diana Tsui took to Instagram to express why she thought McCammond’s hiring had been questionable for Teen Vogue. 

Twitter users also shared their views on the racist and homophobic tweets. Many felt the “cancel culture” had effectively cancelled one of its own as Alexi McCammond had previously tried to call out former NBA player Charles Barkley. 

McCammond receives some support

However, some social media users jumped to Alexi McCammond’s defence, making reference to double standards.

“I hope to have the opportunity to to rejoin the ranks of tireless journalists who are shining light on the issues that matter every single day,” Alexi McCammond said.

ALSO READ: ‘It’s cancel culture’: Helen Zille defends Adam Habib’s use of the N-word

70 years of Exclusive Books

Exclusive Books is celebrating 70 years of getting more books to more people. The company opened its first store on King George Street in Johannesburg in 1951. Since then, it has expanded to 41 bricks-and-mortar stores and its virtual www.exclusivebooks.co.za store. 

Exclusive Books is marking the milestone with various promotions, book donation drives, story-sharing and extra Fanatics rewards. Members of the brand’s Fanatics rewards programme received a R70 gift voucher on 3 January and will receive another R70 voucher in their birthday month.

Exclusive Books’ must-reads for March

Exclusive Books displays 25 recommended titles at the front of its stores every month. These books been carefully curated in different categories – local authors, fiction and non-fiction, young adult and children’s titles.

Fanatics members earn a whopping 200 bonus points on their purchases from the list during March.

Fiction titles

The nine fiction titles from Exclusive Books for March include An Astonishing Achievement for a Girl, by Abigail Dean. Grown Ups by Irish author Marian Keys is superb, warm-hearted and highly entertaining, and His Only Wife, by Peace Adzo Medie, is a crazy account of rich Asians in Ghana, West Africa.

The Chanel Sisters, by Judithe Little, is delicious and absorbing — a book to be savoured. TJ Benson’s The Madhouse, set in Nigeria, is unique and colourfully eccentric, and creates a mesmerising kaleidoscopic story that will grab hold of you and not let go.

‘’Rarely is a book this finely wrought, the lives and histories it holds so tenderly felt, and rendered unforgettably true,’’ said Ocean Vuong about The Prophets, by Robert Jones Jr.

Fascinating tales of pathos and tragedy

The Push, by Ashley Audrain, will set your nerves jangling and is not to be missed. And The Smallest Man by Frances Quinn Is a fascinating tale of extraordinary accomplishment, and a story about how anything is possible and how love is a beacon of hope.

You Never Really Know, by John Hunt, is filled with warm humour. According to Exclusive Books, it serves up a double shot of pathos as it moves from playful satire to true tragedy while examining the inner workings of power.

Non-fiction titles

Exclusive Books has selected 11 non-fiction titles for March. At Any Cost, by Stephen Timm, is an age-old narrative about ego and flying too close to the sun, as well as a modern version of greed in the tech world.

Beyond Order is the sequel to Jordan B Peterson’s 12 Rules for Life. According to The New York Times, Peterson is “the most influential public intellectual in the Western world right now”. Connect, by David Bradford and Carole Robin, is “a practical and timely book and highly recommend”, says Ariana Huffington.

How to Start a Side Hustle, by Nic Haralambous, is practical, personable, searingly honest. Everyone should have a side hustle — just not before reading this book.

In Nuts and Bolts, by McLean Sibanda, readers will gain unique perspectives on challenges faced by leaders overseeing a turnaround in any organisation. Intelligence Isn’t Enough, by Carice Anderson, should be part of every corporate onboarding programme.

Rattling the Cage, by Brent Meersman, provides critical perspectives on and insights into South Africa’s recent past and current political, economic and social undercurrents.

The Billionaire Mindset, by Daniel Strauss, (also available in Afrikaans as Dink Soos ‘n Miljardêr) is an excellent roadmap for success that will benefit all entrepreneurs. Julia Cameron, author of The Listening Path, is “the queen of change”, according to The New York Times.

And Think Again, by Adam Grant, is “a must-read… the lessons in this book are more important than ever”, Bill and Melinda Gates said.

Books for young adults and children

A Court of Silver Flames, by Sarah J Maas, brims with suspense, romance, intrigue and action.

In Forever Ends on Friday, author Justin A Reynolds weaves themes of friendship and tragic loss into a sensitive tale, deftly using humour throughout this fast-paced, engagingly written book.

Hawk, by James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet, is an accessible novel offering a new entry point into Max’s world of evil corporations and superhuman hybrids, splitting the narrative’s first-person perspective between Hawk and her mother. The Hatmakers, by Tamzin Merchant, illustrated by Paola Escobar, is a charming adventure full of wildness, wit, magic and heart.

And As Jy Droom, by Daniëlla van Heerden and Megan Werner, is an Afrikaans tale of courage, determination, hope and hurt — an adventure with so much adrenaline you might think it was far-fetched if it wasn’t the truth.

Follow Exclusive Books on:

• www.facebook.com/ExclusiveBooks
• www.instagram.com/exclusivebooks/
• www.twitter.com/exclusivebooks

ALSO READ: Summer days and the reading is easy with Exclusive Books

Underneath a close-up of the glimmering grill, which is set with opal stones and pavé diamonds, she wrote: “New opal birthstone grill alert.”

Kim and Kanye and no skimping on Skims

Meanwhile, the 40-year-old reality star – who is divorcing rapper husband Kanye West – recently admitted it was “such a proud moment” when Martha Stewart told her she loves her shapewear line, Skims.

The businesswoman founded the brand in 2019, and has revealed some of the celebrity Skims fans

Kim recalled how the 79-year-old television personality and fellow businesswoman once told her at a party: ‘I just need Skims; I love it.’

She continued: “I was just like, ‘Anything for you.’ It was such a proud moment.”

Actress Kathy Bates, 72, is also a fan and Kim would love to get the ‘Richard Jewell’ star in one of her campaigns.

Should she end up shooting for Skims, Kathy would follow in the footsteps of the likes of Kim’s daughter, North West, seven, and famous faces such as Paris Hilton, Rumer Willis and La La Anthony in promoting the brand.

Kim – who also has Saint, five, Chicago, three, and Psalm, 22 months, with her estranged spouse – also explained why she decided to launch her own shapewear line.

She added: “I always try to see what I’m obsessed with and what’s a necessity in my life. And if it’s not perfect, how can I try to make something that is?”

ALSO READ: Good Life: Kanye West becomes richest African American man in history

ELLIOT PAGE’S TIME MAGAZINE COVER

The Inception star is dressed in jeans and a sweater for his Time Magazine that reads “I’m fully who I am”.

The piece in the March/April edition was Elliot Page’s first interview since coming out as transgender in early December 2020.

The cover was shot by transgender photographer Wynne Neill, who took to social media to express that this had been a “dream assignment”.

“I have been wanting this and working towards this for so many years. I’m so proud of Elliot and I am so grateful to the trans elders who risked everything to make this moment happen,” Neill said in his caption. 

Elliot Page was born Ellen Page and acted under that name in numerous films. Page said he expected the news that he was transgender to receive both support and hatred. 

“What I was anticipating was a lot of support and love, and a massive amount of hatred and transphobia,” Page told Time.

TOP SURGERY CHANGED PAGE’S LIFE

The X-Men: The Last Stand actor has undergone top surgery, which is a surgical procedure to remove breast tissue. Though surgery is not chosen by all transgender individuals, Elliot Page felt like his top surgery helped him finally recognise himself and be happy with what he saw in the mirror. He also spoke of the “total hell” of puberty and feeling uncomfortable in his body, which eventually resulted in the surgery. 

“It has completely transformed my life,” Page told Time Magazine.

ELLIOT PAGE ON IDENTITY

Elliot Page made a huge impression on our screens in 2007 as the pregnant teenager in Juno. Page now stars in Netflix’s The Umbrella Academy and plays the role of Vanya Hargreeves in the popular series. The third season is now filming in Toronto, Canada. 

Page said he had struggled for years between how the world saw him and how he saw himself, especially when watching himself in feminine roles.

“I just never recognised myself. For a long time I could not even look at a photo of myself,” Page told Time Magazine.

This led to him suffering from anxiety, depression and panic attacks. 

Page said he didn’t know “how to explain to people that even though [I was] an actor, just putting on a T-shirt cut for a woman would make me so unwell”.

Elliot Page was attracted to the role of Vanya in The Umbrella Academy because the character is crushed by self-loathing, believing herself to be the only ordinary sibling in an extraordinary family.

” I related to how much Vanya was closed off,” he said.

ALSO READ: Mum’s the word: Drew Barrymore calls time on film career for now

WITS STUDENTS PROTESTS

The South African Student Congress (Sasco), along with other student organisations, called for a national shutdown of all universities across South Africa following the week-long protests by outraged Wits students who were not able to register due to historical debt. 

During the Wits protests, the 35-year-old student Mthokozisi Ntumba was shot dead allegedly by a member of the South African Police Services (SAPS) last Wednesday 10 March. Ntumba’s death sparked strong emotions in Prince Kaybee which led to him joining the protests himself.

“Joining the national shutdown protest today for students. Still heartbroken by the life lost during the free education protest last week. See y’all in the streets comrades,” said Prince Kaybee in his Instagram story.

PRINCE KAYBEE JOINS PROTESTS

In light of the ongoing #FeesMustFall campaign, students are taking to the streets to protest for free tertiary education. Many celebrities are voicing their opinions and contributing towards the campaign with Prince Kaybee taking time off from his busy schedule to be present in person at the protests. 

On Monday 15 March, Prince Kaybee took to Twitter to ask where the protests are taking place so he could join.

To the surprise of many, Prince Kaybee kept his word and joined the protests. He also mentioned that he is inspired by the students who are protesting “even when they are bullied, beaten and shot by the police, they kept fighting”. 

WATCH PRINCE KAYBEE HELPS INJURED STUDENT

A female student got injured during the protest and Prince Kaybee offered transport and support for the student. A Twitter user posted a video of Prince Kaybee assisting students to which the popular DJ humbly replied:

“She was shot right in front of me, its the least I could do.”

TWITTER REACTS TO PRINCE KAYBEE AT #NationalShutdown

Many people were in awe and appreciation of Prince Kaybee physically attending a protest that most celebrities would sit back and attempt to help in other ways.

Here is what Twitter users thought of Prince Kaybee joining in: 

Students also shared pictures of Prince Kaybee at the protests on their Instagram stories.

ALSO READ: #FeesMustFall: Lasizwe starts campaign to help students pay tuition fees

LASIZWE SAYS R10 GOES A LONG WAY

The Fake It Till You Make It star, alongside choreographer Nkateko ‘Takkies’ Maswanganye and AyandamantombazaneKayise Mhlongo, started the campaign at the weekend and it has already collected more than R400,000. 

The campaign urges people to contribute as little as R10 to the initiative to reach the goal of R1m to help assist students with unpaid tuition fees.

The campaign gained momentum quickly, raising R300,000 within 24 hours. 

SOUTH AFRICAN COMPANIES JOIN TUITION FEES CAMPAIGN

Big brands and companies like KFC and Africa Bank have made significant donations to the campaign. In celebration of KFC South Africa’s 50th birthday, the fast-food restaurant has contributed R50,000 to #R10GoesALongWay. 

Africa Bank said it was inspired by the campaign and has contributed R10,000 to the initiative, as well as 10 laptops.

CAMPAIGN FOLLOWS WITS STUDENT DEATH

The #R10GoesALongWay campaign follows the tragic death of a University of Witwatersrand (Wits) student who was shot by a member of the South African Police Services (SAPS) during a protest on 10 March. 

The students were protesting their outrage at being excluded due to unpaid tuition fees from previous years.

Lasizwe was not the only celebrity to extend a helping hand in the context of #FeesMustFall.

ANDILE MPISANE STARTS ANOTHER #FEESMUSTFALL INITIATIVE

In celebration of the actor’s 20th birthday, he decided to gift 20 students R10,000 towards their tuition fees. Mpisane wrote this on Instagram:

“In light of the current #FeesMustFall situation and in celebration of my 20th birthday this year, I would like to give back by gifting 20 university students that have recurring debt from 2020 with R10,000 towards their fees. You can also nominate someone in need of this financial aid,” he wrote.

HOW TO APPLY

Mpisane also revealed how interested students could apply:

The actor is generously reaching out to help students in need. However, it was revealed not too long ago that Andile Mpisane and his mom Shauwn Mkhize are facing eviction from four mansions, and owe more than R3.2m in arrears.

Nando’s ‘Tin for Tjips’ in aid of preschoolers

JAM will distribute the tinned food to vulnerable South African’s through their network of charity organisations that focus on taking care of pre-school children through early childhood development centres.

Nando’s creative team came up with the idea to even out the excessive panic-buying of tinned foods South Africans when the first lockdown was announced almost a year ago.

If you have been binge-buying tinned foods throughout the lockdown period like many South Africans have, this is a good way to donate the excessive food you have stored for someone in need as Nando’s will collect and distribute them to hungry children.

“We suspect that Mzansi pantries are filled with tins of food we don’t really need. So, we thought we’d offer a way to donate them to those that do in return for a portion of Nandos’ freshly prepared chips,” Nando’s South Africa chief marketing officer Doug Place said.

“At Nando’s we believe that all South Africans deserve a life well fed. We hope that Tin for Tjips will play its part in making that belief a reality. After all, the government isn’t looking to put chips in you, but we are happy to,” he added.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

1. Order any Nando’s meal on the Nando’s app or via their website (Android, iOS or Huawei);
2. Click the “Tin for Tjips” option before you checkout; and
3. Hand over your tinned food at delivery in exchange for a portion of chips.

However, you need to make sure that: 

• The tin contains actual food (Shoe polish doesn’t count!);
• It has its original label;
• It hasn’t expired and won’t for at least another three months; and
• The tin is not damaged in any way.

‘BEST FRIES’ IN SOUTH AFRICA?

Content creator @TMCrazzzy recently posed the question “Who makes the best fries?” on Twitter: McDonalds, Steers, KFC or Nando’s? 

Twitter users seemed to be in favour of Steers chips and Nando’s Twitter page, known for their no-holds-barred commentary was not having it and retweeted the post with the caption:

“We’re all good with the spice mara do the others give you an extra portion of chips when you donate tinned food? Pick your fighter! #TinsForTjips.”

Nando’s also fired back with even more spice in the comments section.

So, what do you think? Who makes the best chips?

ALSO READ: The Saucy Details: Why HP Sauce is off South African shelves

The social network launched its alternative to invite-only Clubhouse back in December, which it described as “a small experiment focused on the intimacy of the human voice”.

Now, a spokesperson has confirmed to CNET that the in-app feature — which lets users create their own rooms for others to join and share audio clips in tweets and DMs — will be available worldwide in April.

Twitter’s Spaces to provide ‘additional layer of connection’

Earlier this month, Twitter expanded its beta test to include Android users after an initial period focused on iOS devices.

Announcing the upcoming feature last year, Twitter promised it would give an “additional layer of connection” to its users.

They explained: “Audio adds an additional layer of connection to the public conversation. Musicians and authors have used it to bring their works to life, while other people used audio to tell stories, share emotion, and be their true, funny selves.

“We also know that people want to feel comfortable and in control when having conversations on Twitter.”

WHAT HAPPENED TO MAPULA KHUNE?

Mapula, sister of Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, died in a tragic manner when the room she was in caught on fire in the early hours of Thursday 4 March. 

Mapula’s burnt body was found in the backroom of her parents home near Ventersdorp in the North West Province.

The neighbours informed Mapula’s parents that their house was on fire, but Florah did not believe it and she went as far as to send away the fire fighters that came to their house. However, she soon realised the backroom was on fire.

“After sending them away, I found out that the backroom was indeed on fire. My husband and I screamed, hoping our daughter was not inside,” said Florah to the Daily Sun.

MAPULA KHUNE’S VISION OF HER DEATH

Florah also revealed that the night before her daughter’s death, a young boy came looking for her to help him with his homework. Mapula’s cousin later joined in to help the boy with his homework, but Mapula was too rattled as she told the boy that she had a disturbing vision. 

“He wanted her to help him with his homework. I directed him to where Mapula was, but her cousin came later and helped the boy instead as Mapula told him she had a vision,” said Florah Khune to Daily Sun.

Interestingly, Mapula said she had seen fire trucks in her vision and she was killed by a fire.

“She said she saw ambulances, fire trucks and police,” her distraught mother added. 

17-YEAR-OLD SUSPECT RELEASED DUE TO ‘INSUFFICIENT EVIDENCE’ 

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on Friday 5 March as a suspect in connection with the death of Mapula, but was later released due to “insufficient evidence”.

“What transpired today [on Monday] is that after going through the docket, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) realised that there is no sufficient evidence for us to institute a prosecution. So the docket has been send back to the police for further investigations. The suspect will be led free,” said North West NPA spokesperson Henry Mamothane, according to the SABC.

The Khune family plans to bury Mapula on Thursday 11 March. The date may change as the family is still awaiting forensic results. 

MAPULA THE FASHIONISTA

Mapula, who was also known as “Meiki”, was a fashion content creator and a marketer by profession and she held a honours degree in business management. 

She was also the CEO of her brother’s charity, The Khune Foundation.

Here are six tips to help you through the process.

FOLLOW ALL COVID-19 PROTOCOLS

Adhering to COVID safety regulations amid the “new normal” can feel more like an irritation than a necessary protocol, but the measures are in place for your safety. Therefore, wearing a mask, religiously sanitising your hands and maintaining social distancing are essential, especially in environments like universities and other places of learning. 

Many of us, including students, tend to get more comfortable around friends and family. There is also the habit of lowering their masks to speak. This cannot happen in an environment where students, lecturers and staff will gather on a daily basis.

STUDENTS NEED TO CONNECT WITH PEERS

It is important to connect with fellow students and colleagues to keep on top of your studies and for support purposes. Class or course group chats are an efficient way of communicating with your peers.

Do also keep in contact with your friends and family outside of campus, especially if you’re studying away from home. Now more than ever a support structure is vital.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

You need to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Exercising, eating well and getting enough sleep will take care of your body physically. You may also want to take vitamins to boost your immune system if you were previously staying at home and are now worried about the potential risk on campus.

Taking a little time out from academics can be a good way to clear your mind and destress. Practising self-care is good for your mental health as a student. Schedule a little “me time” into your day, even if it’s to do something pampering or fun unrelated to your studies.

POMODORO TECHNIQUE A HELPFUL STUDENT AID

Many students find the Pomodoro technique a useful way to structure study time.

The Pomodoro technique is a time-management method that focuses on productivity. The technique consists of 25 minutes of distraction-free time and a five minute-break that continues for as many sessions as you can.

The distraction-free time allows you to be productive in a shorter space of time, allowing you to finish what you need to do quicker than you would if you were distracted by your cellphone, for example.

It all helps towards having a clearer head space, allowing you to focus better.

PRIORITISE YOUR STUDIES

Student life can come with a lot of distractions, whether you are attending classes physically or virtually. You will need to prioritise dedicating time to your studies to stay on top of academic life. 

STUDENTS SHOULD ASK FOR HELP

Your class representatives, tutors and lecturers are all at your disposal to assist when you need help – -remember that! Do not hesitate to contact them to help ensure that you stay on the right track. 

ALSO READ: What will returning to university after lockdown look like?

Tlhabi took to Twitter on Wednesday and shared that she had gone to the designer’s store to try on clothing. She alleged that, after she could not find her size, she was fat-shamed by Quiteria and called by names like “fatty boom boom”.

The media personality said she was hurt by the incident and felt she was being discriminated against for being curvy.

Lesego Tlhabi tweets about body shaming

A clearly hurt Lesego Tlhabi said:

“I was made to feel like less than nothing today because of my body. My body is not good enough for his dresses and he let that s***t be known. He could’ve said that to the stylist on the phone.”

“Hey I’m hurt. And of course, I have to shake it off because it’s for work. Your day really can get ruined on account of you being a big girl in a way that no-one else will understand. The industry literally doesn’t want us. It’s wild,” she wrote.

Outpouring of support for Lesego Tlhabi

Twitter users sent Tlhabi many messages of support while also sharing their own experiences of body shaming. They asked the comedian to name and shame the designer involved.

Tlhabi was reluctant at first, citing a work contract. However, she ended up naming Quiteria Kekana of Quiteria Atelier, formerly known as Quiteria and George, as the alleged guilty party.

“Actually nah. It’s Quiteria and George. What happens from there is above me. It was sh*t sh*t sh*t. If I lose this opportunity, I lose it. I will never, ever wear something from there. And it was ‘Q’ himself,” she alleged.

Quiteria responds to the charge on Instagram live

Amid the growing backlash, Kekana responded to the claim on his Instagram live feed. The designer denied he had fat-shamed Lesego Tlhabi and accused her of defaming him. He said he would not apologise to her as he had not done anything wrong.

“There’s no statement I’m writing. I’m not apologising for anything because I didn’t have a conversation with her. I’d never call her fat … She’s lying and that’s defamation of character.

“The wardrobe manager was present at the time and there was no way I could belittle any person,” Kekana said.

Here’s a wrap of the thread for those who missed it:

Lexi Van claims she was also fat-shamed

Lesego Tlhabi is not the only person to allege she was fat-shamed by Quiteria Kekana. Lexi Van, of Big Brother Mzansi, shared an experience she allegedly had with the designer back in 2015.

“I’m not surprised, Lesego. I was [allegedly] told I’m fat too in 2015 whilst doing a fitting with them. The way Q pulled his face when I tried on a dress was pure disgust. He said my body needed ‘some major work’ ’cause there isn’t really a dress for me,” she tweeted.

South African celebrities rallied behind Lesego Tlhabi and called on Kekana to apologise to her.

ALSO READ: Casting news: Coconut Kelz joins cast of ‘Tali’s Baby Diary’

VICTORIA BECKHAM’S TAKE ON PANDEMIC FASHION

The traditional Autumn/Winter 2021 in the fashion world has largely been replaced by a more seasonless approach due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Beckham has also done things differently this year. Instead of pre- and main collections, she has presented just one hybrid collection with a focused edit. 

“While I want to acknowledge the circumstances  we’re in, I didn’t want it to dictate what we created. It is something different, something that feels right for now, captured in a space I love,” said Beckham in a personal statement via her Instagram account.

SOFT JERSEY AND GEORGETTE

Soft jersey and georgette in denim and dresses are the focal point of Beckham’s latest collection.

These pieces can be worn at home or dressed up with corset belts for when to be worn out. She displayed “toughness” through the collection with trenches and overcoats with military detailing. According to her, knitwear has been one of the bestsellers since lockdowns have been implemented across the world.

“It has always been my ethos that I want women to get wear out of my clothes. If we all came out of lockdown focused on buying stuff we want to wear for years, that would be a great outcome for the environment – although don’t get me wrong, I still want women to buy my stuff,” said Beckham to The Guardian.

A LOOK AT THE COLLECTION

Beckham chose not to participate in this year’s digital-only London Fashion Week that concluded on Tuesday 23 February but instead showcased her collection “through her eyes” on Instagram.

Beckham lives in Miami where ther soccer star husband David Beckham’s own soccer team, Inter Miami, is based.

“Instead of a traditional show or presentation, I wanted to show you the collection through the eyes of myself and the team as we brought it together to life,” said Beckham on Instagram.

OPTIMISTIC BUT REALISTIC

Posh Spice is optimistic but realistic about post-pandemic fashion for this year’s seasonless fashion looks. 

“These are seasonless pieces that are rooted in reality,” said Beckham to The Guardian.

“Since we don’t know when we will get out of lockdown. Some people’s toes curl at the mention of commerciality, but I love wearability, so long as it has that sparkle of fashion,” she added. 

Beckham’s 12-year-old label, like many other fashion houses, has been financially affected by the pandemic. 

“There’s no doubt that COVID has affected my business – I’m not alone in that. But we are addressing the situation head on and we’ve had a good start to this year,” said Beckham to The Guardian.

ALSO READ: Rihanna’s Fenty Fashion House is put on ice after just two years

The phrase actually comes from the French Revolution. The philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau famously said: “When the people shall have no more to eat, they will eat the rich!”

The current #eattherich trend follows the much-publicised Reddit rebellion against seasoned Wall Street investors.

‘EAT THE RICH’ REBELLION AGAINST WALL STREET

The #EatTheRich trend was started by TikTok user Gigi Bologna, username @iamproudofus, after Reddit’s rebellion against Wall Street in late January.

Newbie investors are taking on Wall Street veterans by buying shares of US video game retailer GameStop. This was done as an apparent crowd-sourcing attempt to beat billionaire traders in their own trade. GameStop was previously seen as making a loss and therefore a losing bet.

According to the BBC, the shares went from being worth very little to climbing up to $350 (about R5,130). The surge was the result of independent traders swapping tips on social media. This was the rebellion that sparked the Eat The Rich trend.

Shares of GameStop continued to rise on Thursday ahead of a US House Financial Services Committee hearing into January’s trade frenzy.

THE IDEA BEHIND EAT THE RICH

Gigi Bologna made a video explaining that what was happening with the stock was “kinda cool”.

“So I’ve gone down the rabbit hole and I know about the stocks and I know that the rich are freaking out and I know us poor people are like, this is kinda cool,” Bologna said in her video.

“Do you want to freak them out a little bit more?” she asked.

She added she used to work in marketing and knew how much celebrities like Kylie Jenner were paid for having large social media followings.

“Unfollow them. Unfollow them all. I know you might love them but do it. This is how we ‘Eat The Rich’,” she said.

WATCH THE ‘EAT THE RICH’ VIDEO

Bologna’s intention was to address the unequal distribution of wealth. In a video that followed she wrote:

“This is more than making celebs cry. Take back our planet. Take back our wealth. Take back our health. WE ARE ENTITLED. WE ARE THE ELITE. #eattherich”

She revealed that if an influencer’s social media engagement rate was good, they could earn up to $5,000 (more than R73,000) for every 1,000 followers they had.

TREND HAS BOTH CRITICS AND FOLLOWERS

Bologna received criticism from some social media users for creating the Eat The Rich trend. Many believed it would not work and that a few thousand unfollows would make little difference. Bologna responded:

“You’re missing the point. The point is I had knowledge that could shake things up. You have knowledge that could shake things up. Share that knowledge. Share it for free.”

Many TikTok users have felt inspired to get behind Eat The Rich:

ALSO READ: ‘TikTok made me buy it’: Platform to unveil new online shopping features

WATCH: Mr and Mrs Ostrich’s day on the beach

In the Instagram reel, the ostriches are first seen getting into the ankle-deep water, before a close-up “photo shoot” of Mr and Mrs Ostrich.

The Instagram reel was captioned:

“Only in Africa ????.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kayleigh Tuck (@kayleigh.tuck)

HOW DO YOU DO?

Kayleigh Tuck, a social media manager and content creator from Cape Town, spotted the ostriches on her trip to the beach during the past weekend. She said that the pair of ostriches were not too concerned. 

She also mentioned that she once thought they were walking up to her, so she moved, but they were just walking towards another ostrich. 

“The ostriches seemed wary but not really too concerned. At one point, I thought they one was walking towards me and I moved, turned out he was just walking towards another ostrich which was behind the dune,” said Tuck.

“So yes I was a bit intimidated but my boyfriend just stood still and they passed him,” she added. 

The pair of ostriches look happy to be enjoying their hot summer’s day on the beach. Tuck posted a photo that she took of the pair. The post was captioned:

“Not my usual content, but I somehow feel they deserve their own post ???? We need names for the famous ostriches that I captured taking a swim on a hot summers day in Cape Town.”

MEETING UP

The ostriches did not bother anyone on the beach for food or invade their space. They did not seem to be there for a beach day either but rather a stop along their way. Once the pair spotted another ostrich, they went off to join the bird. 

“The ostrich and his female friend walked along the beach and came right up to us which was crazy. They walked past and went on their way again,” said Tuck.

OSTRICHES AT CAPE POINT NOT UNCOMMON

Seeing these beautiful big birds at Cape Point is actually not uncommon. they can often be seen roaming the nature reserve and they are known to walk on the sand, so most people weren’t shocked. However, seeing them actually get into the water was an unusual sighting. The male ostrich went in for a little dip while the female ostrich just watched. 

“Some of them weren’t shocked but the male ostrich going into the water was a bit mad,” said Tuck. 

Since the lockdown, wildlife seems to be roaming more freely. Late last, year a hippo was found wandering across someone’s lawn in Johannesburg and this year a crocodile was found swimming in the pool of a couple in the North West province!

A statement released by his family confirmed that Arendse struggled with depression and he had tragically succumbed to the disease in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Ceagan Arendse’s battle with depression

“It is with sad and heavy hearts we inform friends and fans that our beloved Ceagan Arendse passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning, 14th February 2021,” said the family to Channel 24.

“Ceagan, unfortunately, lost his battle with depression and succumbed to the disease by suicide,” the family added.

The actor leaves behind his wife, Ziggy Arendse, his children, parents and his brother.

Talented actor

Aside from his current role on Arendsvlei, Arendse was known for his role in various KykNET soapies including Frankie in Suidooster and Theo in Project Dina.

In October 2020, the actor filmed a Showmax Original series titled Skemerdans which is set to release this year. In the series he plays Warren, the black sheep of a powerful family.

CEAGAN ALLEGEDLY HUNG HIMSELF

According to IOL, an inside source revealed that the actor from Paarl hung himself from a tree in the district of Goodwood.

“He was found hanging from a tree. Nobody knows why he would kill himself. He was successful, he was in season two and then three as well of Arendsvlei,” said the insider.

The insider also mentioned that he had shown no signs of anything according to cast members.

“This is heartbreaking, he is due to appear in ‘Skemerdans’ this year, it’s really sad. He showed no signs of anything from what fellow cast members were saying,” the insider added.

TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR CEAGAN

KykNET posted a heartfelt tribute to the actor on Twitter. Translated into English, the post reads:

“#Memoriam: REST IN PEACE CEAGAN ARENDSE. This weekend we received the bad news that actor Ceagan Arendse has passed away. He was a beloved actor who was seen in many programs such as Arendsvlei, Suidooster and Project Dina. We think of his loved ones and family.”

The producers of Arendsvlel, Penguin Films, said that it was always a pleasure working with Arendse on various productions and he will be remembered as a “kind, hardworking artist”.

More Twitter tributes for Ceagan Arendse:

The family thanked everyone for their condolences.

“We wish to take this time to thank everyone for their condolences and although we are unable to respond to everyone at this time, we appreciate the well wishes,” said the family in their statement.

ALSO READ: Lockdown: How to cope with stress, depression and anxiety

According to Financial Times, TikTok’s new offering could pose a threat to Facebook which announced a digital shopping channel on its main site in 2020. 

TikTok has been preparing to formalise its e-commerce division following a partnership with Shopify in October 2020.

Though details surrounding the rollout aren’t yet available, this is what we know so far. 

WILL TIKTOK MAKE YOU BUY IT?

The viral-video sharing app is set to drop several features aimed at bringing a new meaning to the #Tiktokmademebuyit hashtag. This is a hashtag to encourage users to buy products featured by content creators. 

Lined up for the rollout is the ability for brands to showcase their product ranges on the platform.

TikTok’s e-commerce features will also include tools that will allow select users to share links to products. They’ll then earn a commission if a sale results, according to senior advertising executives familiar with the initiative.

Creators will be able to link to any products they like without being affiliated with the brand.

Watch as one creator gives her take on products she favours:

NEW HORIZONS WITH LIVE-STREAM SHOPPING FEATURE

TikTok plans to bring traditional television shopping channels to its mobile screen. Its live stream feature will enable users to buy products shortly after seeing them showcased by TikTok content creators. 

The live-stream service follows a previous trial with Walmart to sell its wares — as seen on popular TikTok creators — directly from the social media app. 

TIKTOK A GROWING RIVAL FOR FACEBOOK

The viral video app’s new e-commerce feature could be TikTok’s big attempt at unsettling competitor Facebook.

According to a report by mobile app intelligence agency Annie, viewers spent more time on TikTok than on Facebook in 2020. This suffices as its biggest pull for online shopping.

In 2020, the video-sharing site caught Facebook’s attention as a threat. Facebook’s response was Instagram Reels, which allows for scrollable video feeds on the Facebook-owned platform.

However, with four social media apps under its name, Facebook as a company is expected to defend its title of most popular social networking service.

TIKTOK HAS OTHER BIG PLANS TOO

TikTok is projected to record more than 1.2 billion monthly active users by the end of 2021. It is expected to build on the growth of mobile-facilitated at-home activities fuelled by the coronavirus pandemic, techcrunch.com said.

In addition to the online shopping tool, features that will soon roll out include user access to Universal Music Group’s full catalogue of music and the new TikTok TV app compatible with Google and Android TVs.

ALSO READ: Education at your fingertips with the new digital learning tool on TikTok

Kolisi also made headlines this weekend after news broke that the Springbok, Stormers and Western Province skipper has elected to part ways with Western Province rugby.

SIYA KOLISI TALKS HEALING HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH HIS FATHER

Siya Kolisi posted a picture of him and his father, Fazakele Kolisi, at The Boardwalk in his home city of Port Elizabeth on 11 February, just days before news broke at the weekend that he and the Western Province Rugby Union were going their separate ways.

In the lengthy caption he said he could now sleep lighter after having had a heart to heart with his father.

“I slept with a light heart phezolo because I had a much-needed deep conversation with my father,” Siya Kolisi said.

He added that, over time, he had developed the courage needed to work towards the process of healing.

“I’m not sure about the relationship between time and healing, but I now know that in time we can grow the courage we need in order to take the first steps towards healing.”

He said the relationship between him and his father was important to him and he would fight for it.

SIYA KOLISI’S UPBRINGING

The Springbok captain hails Zwide township in Port Elizabeth and was raised by his paternal grandmother. His parents had him at a young age — his mother was 16 and his father was in matric.

Siya Kolisi previously did not have much of a relationship with his father and has spoken about the tough times he experienced as a child. However, he made sure his father was present to watch him lead the Springboks to victory in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

As he seeks to heal his relationship with his own father, he remains an amazing father to his own children, Nicholas and Keziah.

WATCH LITTLE KEZIAH’S HAPPY DANCE

While in Port Elizabeth, the Kolisi family have been enjoying some down time. Siya’s wife, Rachel Kolisi, posted a cute video on Instagram of the couple’s three-year-old daughter, Keziah. The little girl was dancing down the street with her father encouraging her from the sidelines.

Keziah is dressed in a pink tutu with a Grey Nike T-shirt and black boots. While she dances, a fan in the background calls out her name. She turns around and does a little wave.

In the caption Rachel said:

“She got it from her mama ????????‍♀️ Also the fan wave for me ????.”

ALSO READ: Watch | Siya Kolisi singing Happy Birthday to his wife may break the internet

Los Angeles plastic surgeon Obeng spent four hours in surgery working on Brown’s gluey head, reportedly performing the $12,500 (about R183,000) procedure for free.

TMZ reported that Obeng did the sticky procedure on Wednesday after Brown’s hair had been stuck fast for a month.

The “Gorilla Glue girl” was finally able to let out a sigh of relief and run her fingers through her hair once Obeng was done, saving her from the horror of a “permanent” hairstyle.

‘Gorilla Glue girl’: The back story

What do you do when you are getting ready to go out but run out of hairspray? Um, use the next available “hairspray”, right? Someone should have told 40-year-old Brown that an adhesive spray intended for use wood, stone, metal, ceramic, glass and other materials was not the best alternative.

Social media went into a frenzy after Brown posted a video of herself last Friday 5 February, asking for help after she used Gorilla Glue on her hair.

She did this because she thought Gorilla Glue Spray would be a quick fix, only the results were definitely not what she was expecting. Brown had styled her hair in a ponytail, and the glue made it completely stiff and solid.

Social media in a frenzy over Gorilla Glue girl’s hair

After vigorously washing her hair 15 times, using numerous treatments and even taking a trip to the hospital, “Gorilla Glue girl” was frantic as her hair still wouldn’t budge. She shared a video to get advice on her predicament.

Social media users were fascinated and eagerly waited to see how things would turn out for Brown. The video has been viewed more than 16 million times on TikTok and almost four million times on Instagram.

Watch the ‘Gorilla Glue girl’ video here:

Dr Obeng saves the day for ‘Gorilla Glue girl’

Just when everyone had given up hope, Obeng came forward and saved the day, his efforts earning wide-spread praise on social media.

Obeng, who was born in Ghana but lives in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. He was able to remove the glue from Brown’s hair and actually save her hair at the end of it.

“All it took was a combination of medical adhesive remover, aloe vera, olive oil and acetone,” Obeng explained.

‘Gorilla Glue girl’ grateful to Dr Obeng

The procedure took four long hours to complete and the successful outcome left Brown emotional and very grateful.

Here’s how the procedure unfolded:

More about Dr Michael Obeng

His caring gesture aside, it didn’t take long for internet users to dig up dirt on Obeng. It turns out the plastic surgeon was once married to a woman from a reality show on E! called Second Wives Club and has eight children from several marriages.

The marriage allegedly ended because of Obeng’s continuous cheating.

“Great doctor, horrible spouse,” read one comment.

In a statement released before her treatment, the company that makes Gorilla Glue said it was sorry about Brown’s mishap, but was not responsible. The product “is not indicated for use on hair as it is considered permanent”, the company said.

The couple welcomed their first child together in May 2020, and have been allowing fans little glimpses into his life.

They initially named him X Æ A-12, but had to change the name to X Æ A-XII as California laws restricted numbers from being included in legal names. They then replaced the number with roman numerals.

HAIRCUT INSPIRED BY ‘THE LAST KINGDOM’

In January, the indie pop star now known as “c” — her initial and symbol for speed of light — gave baby X a haircut herself. Grimes’s inspiration for the cut was the Netflix series The Last Kingdom.

On her Instagram stories she posted behind pictures of the baby from behind.

“Not sure this haircut went well but he’s a Viking now. Haircut inspired by ‘The Last Kingdom’ on Netflix, which is a masterpiece,” she said.

Taking to Twitter, Elon Musk captioned the picture of him and X tugging at his shirt collar “The Second Last Kingdom”.

Grimes also shared a mom moment, affectionately holding X in her arms, with the caption:

“Tell me of the waters of your homeworld.”

GRIMES HAS BIGGER ROLE IN PARENTING

In an earlier interview, Elon Musk revealed that babies are just “eating and pooping machines”. Grimes has a bigger role in parenting their son at the moment, he told The New York Times.

“Right now there’s not much I can do. Grimes has a much bigger role than me right now. When the kid gets older, there will be more of a role for me,” Musk said.

He explained that when the baby was older he would be able to do more of what he does for his other children, like take them on trips. The tech billionaire has five children with his ex-wife, Justine Wilson: Twins Xavier and Griffin, and triplets Damian, Kai and Saxon.

“I think just doing what I’ve done with my other kids. If I have a trip for Tesla to China, for example, I’ll bring the kids with me and we’ll go see the Great Wall or we took the bullet train from Beijing to Xian and saw the Terracotta Warriors,” Musk told The New York Times.

ALSO READ:

Grimes teases new album; boyfriend Elon Musk ‘deciphers’ X Æ A-XII

Dogecoin: The joke cryptocurrency worth billions

In his nomination papers, Eide highlighted the impact Black Lives Matter (BLM) has had across the globe in raising awareness and consciousness about racial injustice.

He said BLM was a broad movement that mobilised people from all groups of society — not just African-Americans and not just the oppressed.

BLACK LIVES MATTER RAISES GLOBAL AWARENESS

According to CNN, in his official nomination papers Eide referred to the movement’s “struggle against racism and racially motivated violence”.

“BLM’s call for systematic change has spread around the world, forcing other countries to grapple with racism within their own societies,” Eide said.

Eide woke up to an inbox full of angry Americans claiming the BLM movement was not peaceful. However, he was prepared for the backlash and compared it to when Dr Martin Luther King won the Nobel Peace Prize.

“Those arguments also came up when Dr Martin Luther King received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 – exactly the same arguments,” Eide told USA Today.

HISTORY OF THE BLACK LIVES MATTER MOVEMENT

In the form of hashtag activism, BLM was started online seven years ago by Alicia Garza, Opal Tometi and Patrisse Cullors. The movement was originally a response to the acquittal of the vigilante who had killed Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old black teenager, in 2012.

The movement picked up momentum in 2014 after the death at police hands of Michael Brown and Eric Garner. It was reignited in 2020 by the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor.

THE FACES BEHIND BLACK LIVES MATTER

ALICIA GARZA

Garza is an American civil rights activist, political strategist and author of The Purpose of Power. She is also the host of a political commentary podcast called Lady Don’t Take No, where she discusses social contemporary issues and features special guests.

OPAL TOMETI

Tometi is a Nigerian-American human rights advocate, writer and strategist. She is also the first woman to win the International Peace Honors.

She took to social media to share her excitement about the Nobel Peace Prize nomination. She said BLM was not about individuals, but about the power of people rising up for justice.

PATRISSE CULLORS

Cullors is an American artist and activist who has written and spoken about the BLM movement in-depth. She also advocates for prison abolition and LGBTQ rights.

She also took to social media to reflect on the Nobel Peace Prize nomination.

The matrics won their places after entering a competition, Manser’s brainchild, at the start of the lockdown in 2020. The competition drew more than 3,000 entries from across South Africa. Matrics had to answer this question:

“If saving nature and the environment is a world problem – how can YOU help? What can you do in your own hometown that you believe will make a positive impact on the planet and possibly Antarctica?”

Matrics to spend five days in Antarctica

The winners were announced on 11 January and flew out to Antarctica with the Antarctica Logistics Centre International (ALCI) to spend five days on the virtually uninhabited continent.

The team from Stellenbosch University will be led by Professor Jonathan Jansen.

Ayakha will be joined by Cobus Burger from Hoërskool Duineveld in the Northern Cape, Boiketlo Lamula from Sedaven High School in Gauteng, Thea Earnest from Mountview Secondary School in KwaZulu-Natal and Kelby Barker from Diocesan School for Girls in the Eastern Cape.

Young climate activist’s dream of a low-carbon future

Ayakha is a young climate justice activist whose entry focused on her work as a spokesperson for the African Climate Alliance. In 2020, she attended the World Economic Forum in Switzerland to urge world leaders to take drastic action on the climate crisis.

In February, she will be inaugurated as a member of the Presidency’s Co-ordinating Committee on Climate Change. Like several pupils at Cosat, she is part of Project 90 by 2030, an organisation advocating for a sustainably developed and equitable low-carbon future. 

Cosat principal Phaldiela Cooper said she was proud of Ayakha whose efforts were rewarded by her being chosen for this unique opportunity.

“I am very happy that a learner from Khayelitsha can represent the Western Cape. She has been working very hard in the community to bring attention to the climate crisis and urge people to take care of the environment.”

Matrics learn about sustainability

Fadli Wagiet from Stellenbosch University said he was impressed with the calibre of the winners. In the week before they left, the matrics were exposed to a holistic programme focused on sustainability and alleviating poverty.

“Through this programme, we want to develop future leaders who are ethical and have a passion to be part of change. We expect the students to plough back what they have learnt in their communities and the projects that they are involved in,” Wagiet said.

“They are all very passionate about the environment and positive change. Our role is to facilitate and guide them.”

What they will learn and see in Antarctica

While in Antarctica, the pupils will do experiments and go on an overnight adventure camp. They will learn about Antarctica and the scientific research being done there, while also being enriched through personal development.

Manser said the trip was focused on environmental education and enrichment, exploration and developing future leaders with a strong environmental ethos.

“The group will be challenged to craft solutions to environmental issues such as pollution, water scarcity, food security and finding sustainable energy sources while including people and planet health.

Matrics will also get to have fun on icy continent

“They will get the opportunity to do hands on experiments analysing freshwater in Antarctica, biodiversity observations, a litter clean-up on the ice, as well as human physiology investigations with regards to the body’s response to the icy conditions.”

The matrics will explore the Queen Maud Land area, visit ice tunnels and walls, tour the nearby Russian research station and view incredible rock formations.

“With 24-hour sunlight, they will have plenty of time for fun activities such as ice tennis,” Manser said.

Manser, who himself has plenty of life experience gained during his adventures, said the group would return “with a much broader understanding of their impact on this world and how they can inspire their communities to work together to reduce their carbon footprint”.

Group’s lockdown marathon before departure

The five spent seven nights quarantined at Cape Town’s luxurious Table Bay Hotel in the V&A Waterfront before flying to the ALCI Airbase in Novolazarevskaya. While isolating at the hotel they learnt about various sustainability initiatives.

With their educator Delecia Davids and Two Oceans Aquarium Education Foundation CEO Maryke Musson, they also attempted a co-ordinated ultra-marathon from their individual rooms.

The group ran a combined distance of 50km made up of at least 5,000 laps from window to door. Musson ran 21km with the rest of the team clocking the remaining 29km. They also calculated the overall carbon footprint of their expedition.

To follow their journey, visit “Matrics in Antarctica” on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, or visit the Matrics in Antarctica website.

Watch and listen: ‘THE HILL WE CLIMB’

Seven things you should know about Amanda Gorman:

1. SHE IS THE YOUNGEST INAUGURAL POET IN HISTORY

The 22-year-old is the youngest known poet to perform at an inauguration in the United States (US). President Joe Biden is also only the fourth president — after John F Kennedy, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama — to have a poetry reading at his inauguration. Biden’s wife, Jill Biden recommended Gorman for the recital as she is a fan of her work.

Following in the footsteps of great poets like Maya Angelou and Robert Frost who were also inaugural poets. When delivering her poem, she wore a ring with a caged bird which was a gift from Oprah Winfrey to symbolise Maya Angelou.

2. AMERICA’S FIRST-EVER NATIONAL YOUTH POET LAUREATE

In 2017, UrbanWorld and Library of Congress named her the first ever National Youth Poet Laureate in the US.

3. SHE WANTS TO RUN FOR PRESIDENT IN 2036

The young lady has her eyes on the prize and said she wants to run for president in 2036.

“This is a long, long, faraway goal, but 2036 I am running for office to be president of the United States,” she said to The New York Times in 2017.

Hillary Clinton was so impressed by her poem she tweeted a selfie beside Gorman with the caption,

“Wasn’t @TheAmandaGorman’s poem just stunning? She’s promised to run for president in 2036 and I for one can’t wait.”

4. SHE IS A HARVARD ALUMNA

Gorman attended Harvard University where she studied sociology and graduated cum laude.

5. SHE IS AN ACTIVIST

Gorman is the founder of One Pen One Page, a platform for student storytellers to change the world. Her poetry also addresses social issues such as oppression, transphobia, feminism, islamophobia and a firm supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement.

6. SHE GREW UP WITH A SPEECH IMPEDIMENT

Growing up, Gorman had a speech impediment and this was what led to her passion for poetry, as she learnt to author her voice on the page.

“I couldn’t use my voice, then I would author my voice on the page. So it’s really been a godsend and a lifeline for me,” she told CBS News in an interview.

“And so once I arrived at the point in my life in high school, where I said, ‘you know what? Writing my poems on the page isn’t enough for me. I have to give them breath, and life, I have to perform them as I am.’ That was the moment that I was able to grow past my speech impediment,” she added.

7. SHE HAS A TWIN SISTER

The young activist has a twin sister named Gabrielle and another sibling who were raised by their single mother, Joan Wicks.

ALSO READ: Vogue to release revised Kamala Harris cover after photo outcry

WATCH: ASHLEY GRAHAM SHARES HER INSIGHTS ON MOTHERHOOD

Here is a list of the 12 things the model and TV presenter learnt in her first year of being a mom.

JANUARY – LOVE

“Hello January, you were ground-breaking and earth-shattering for me,” Graham began as she reminisced about the day she gave birth to her son. She said the first month of being a mom taught her to love in a new way.

“I learnt how to love in a way that I never knew I could love. Never. People will tell you, people will try to explain it to you but you don’t know love until you have a child of your own,” she said.

FEBRUARY – SLEEP

In February the model learnt that her body can survive on a lot less sleep than it is used to. She admits that prior to the mom life she used to go to bed early, sleep in late and take naps. That changed.

MARCH – KEEP MOVING FORWARD

March was when the global coronavirus pandemic affected lives across the globe with the introduction of national lockdowns and other precautionary measures. This taught Graham that, whatever happens, she has to keeping moving forward.

APRIL – TEAMWORK MAKES DREAMWORK

In April, she learnt to appreciate her husband and mother for all their help.

“Thank God for my amazing husband, thank God for my amazing mother because we made it work, in Nebraska, in the house that I actually grew up in,” she said.

MAY – ‘BOOBS, THEY’RE AMAZING, PERIOD’

In May, Graham learnt to appreciate her body and the purposes they serve, such as breastfeeding.

JUNE – REACH OUT TO OTHER MOTHERS

Close to six months in, the Do It For the Graham star learnt the importance of having other mothers to reach out to and said that she was grateful for her “mommy community”.

JULY – BODY POSITIVITY

The body positivity activist learnt she did not need to achieve a post-partum weight goal. To prove this she recently shared a nude video of herself with the caption: “I love me, not every day, but most!” as she continued with Megan Thee Stallion’s Body Ody feel-good body song.

AUGUST – HOME IS WHERE THE SON IS

“Home is wherever I am with you,” Graham said.

SEPTEMBER – WORK

In September, Graham realised that you should not feel guilty for being a working mom, and you should show your child what a true role model is.

OCTOBER – TIMES FLIES

October taught her that time flies, so it is important to appreciate the little memories, like all the giggles and the smiles.

NOVEMBER – THE IMPORTANCE OF THE FUTURE

“I want to fight for a better future for you and for all the other children out there. It is important that we all stand up for what we believe in today,” Graham said.

DECEMBER – SEEING THE WORLD THROUGH A BABY’S EYES

The proud mother said that she was blessed to see the world through her son’s eyes and watch all his firsts.

Harris will make history when she becomes the United States’ first woman vice–president, and the first black woman and the first woman of South-Asian heritage, to occupy the office. Her inauguration is set for 20 January.

KAMALA HARRIS IN INFORMAL SORORITY-STYLED SETTING 

Two images were released by Vogue for its February edition which features the politician. The first shows Harris in a Donald Deal blazer and her signature Converse sneakers in front of a pink-and-green backdrop — the official colours of her Howard University sorority house Alpha Kappa Alpha, historically an African-American sorority.

Vogue said the styling choices for this image were her own. 

SECOND PICTURE MORE AUTHORITATIVE

The second image — for the magazine’s digital cover — shows Harris in a powder-blue Michael Kors suit with her arms folded and looking straight into the camera. The backdrop of the picture is fabric in different shades of yellow.

In this picture, she looks more authoritative and many consider that this picture would have been a better choice for the magazine’s print edition as well.

CRITICS SAY HARRIS LOOKS ‘WHITEWASHED’

Some critics have said that Harris’s skin tone appeared washed out and that the standard of glamorous aesthetic that Vogue prides itself on was not evident, particularly when it came to the sorority-staged picture.

New York Times contributor and author Wajahat Ali tweeted that the cover was “a mess” and that Anna Wintour, Vogue’s editor-in-chief, “must really not have black friends and colleagues”. 

Robin Givham wrote in The Washington Post: “This informal picture, against a backdrop of pink and green fabric that alludes to the colours of her Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, lacks any of the signifiers of authority and grandeur.

“Her history-making rise is not telegraphed by a formal setting, a business suit or a confrontational stance. The only thing that announces the importance of the picture is the woman in it.” 

VOGUE RESPONDS TO CONTROVERSIAL COVER

Vogue released a statement saying it chose an informal image of the future US vice-president because it captured her “authentic, approachable nature which we feel is one of the hallmarks of the Biden-Harris administration”.

The magazine also said it had released both images to “respond to the seriousness of this moment in history, and the role she has to play leading our country forward”.

The cover images were shot by New York-based photographer Tyler Mitchell, who made history in September 2018 when he became the first black photographer to shoot a US Vogue cover. The subject at the time was Beyoncé.

AQUARIUS  (JAN 20 – FEB 18)

Aquarius is ruled by the planet Uranus which represents technology and innovation. Being an air sign, they are accustomed to using their minds at every opportunity. The perfect gift for this sign is electronic goods and gadgets. 

Aquarius is the sign of the Water Bearer, so they may also appreciate bath salts, travel accessories and essential oils.

Have a look at the qualities and various uses of essential oils here.

PISCES (FEB 19 – MARCH 20)

Pisces is ruled by both Neptune and Jupiter which represent imagination and positivity respectively. You could play on their sentimental side by gifting them with romantic novels, poetry books or handwritten letters. 

You could also gift a Pisces a self-care package. Find some tips and advice on how to create a “self-care treat box” here.

ARIES (MARCH 21 – APRIL 19)

Aries is ruled by Mars which represents passion, aggression and assertion. Aries tend to have an adventurous, competitive and hardworking personality. You could gift these organised individuals with home or office accessories. 

Formal clothing and fitness equipment are also good picks for an Aries. 

TAURUS (APRIL 20 – MAY 20)

Taurus is ruled by Venus which is all about earthy pleasure and they are known for their love of the finer things in life. You can gift a Taurus high-end perfumes or beauty brands, a spa day or houseplants. 

Also read: Trap Gardener digs his green fingers into a houseplant horoscope

GEMINI (MAY 21 – JUNE 20)

Gemini is ruled by Mercury representing communication and intellect. Gifting ideas range from a good book, journals and fancy stationery. They also like to travel, so even an overnight bag or travel pillow could do the trick.  

CANCER (JUNE 21 – JULY 22)

Cancer is ruled by the Moon representing home and anything associated with it. They tend to be family orientated, so a photo album would definitely hit the sentimental spot, as well as home accessories such as kitchenware or decorative items.  

LEO (JULY 23 – AUG 22)

Leo is ruled by the Sun which is the centre of the universe. Put simply, they like nice things. You could gift them their favourite high-end fashion brands or create one of those trending make-up or chocolate bouquets. 

VIRGO (AUG 23 – SEPT 22)

Virgo, like Gemini, is ruled by Mercury which represents communication and intellect and they are also earthy signs. You could get them organic beauty products, houseplants, scented candles or jewellery with earthy gemstones. 

LIBRA (SEPT 23 – OCT 22)

Libra, like Taurus, is ruled by Venus. They are loving and sensitive individuals. Why not gift them silky pjs or luxury skin care products? 

SCORPIO (OCT 23 – NOV 21)

Scorpio is ruled by Pluto, the planet of passion and force of will. Their ideal gift is black or leather clothing and accessories or a bottle of good wine. 

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 – DEC 21)

Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of positivity and optimism. They are free-spirited, sporty and travellers at heart, so an outdoor adventure, travel gear or adventure sports gadgets would be right up their alley.

When it comes to jewellery and clothing, keep it simple but elegant.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22 – JAN 19) 

Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, the planet of discipline and conservation, so vintage clothing or decorative items would be a good fit.

These workaholic sea goats would also appreciate a coffee machine to keep them going while flipping through their weekly and monthly planner — another great gift for these natural planners!

WHO IS ELLIOT PAGE?

Elliot Page, formerly known as Ellen Page, is a 33-year-old Canadian actor who is famous for her role in the 2005 film Hard Candy and Jason Reitman’s Juno in 2007 which was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award.

She is also well known for her role in Inception and Netflix original series The Umbrella Academy. 

THE ANNOUNCEMENT  POST

The actor’s announcement post was celebratory but scared, angered and emotional due to the challenges faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community. 

He asked for patience as his joy is “real, but it is also fragile” which is a concept that many people from the LGBTQ+ community feel deeply. He further addressed the issues transgender individuals face on a regular basis.

“I’m scared of the invasiveness, the hate, the jokes and of violence,” said Page.

“The statistics are staggering. The discrimination towards trans people is rife, insidious and cruel, resulting in horrific consequences,” said Page.

CHALLENGES FOR TRANSGENDER INDIVIDUALS 

He further mentioned that this year alone, 40 transgender people had been murdered and the majority were Black and LatinX transgender women. As well as other facts, such as 40% of transgender adults report attempting suicide. 

“Enough is enough. You aren’t being cancelled, you are hurting people. I am one of those people and we won’t be silent in the face of your attacks,” said Page. 

PAGE CAME OUT AS QUEER IN 2014

The Inception star announced that he is queer in 2014 at a Human Rights campaign where he gave an empowering and heartfelt eight minute long speech. 

MARRIED TO EMMA PORTNER 

In 2018, Elliot Page married professional dancer and choreographer Emma Portner. Portner has been supportive of her husband’s transition as she shared a post with a touching caption. She stated how proud she is of her husband and also asked for patience and privacy as well as to be joined in the support of trans life daily.

“Elliot’s existence is a gift in and of itself. Shine on sweet E. Love you so much,” she said in her Instagram post.

NETFLIX UPDATES CREDITS TO ‘ELLIOT PAGE’ 

According to the New York Post, Netflix will update “Ellen Page ” to “Elliot Page” on all titles he is involved in, across the streaming platform. 

Since the announcement, The Umbrella Academy’s credits have already been updated. 

Also read: Pride Month 2020: Here are the top five Netflix series to catch