Issue 2 High Culture

Home , Benni McCarthy, Jomo Sono, Niggas in Paris, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Siyabonga Sangweni, Thulani Serero

MindMap- LEARN-THINK-INNOVATE

I see no marks of Wordsworths’ style of writing or style of thinking in my own work, yet Wordsworth is a constant presence when I write about human beings and their relations to the natural world. SA i

FORK, KNIFE AND GLASS- DINER’S CLUB

Introduction

The Fork, Knife and Glass Club is a dining club, first and foremost. It’s centered around three main elements which are; palate + company = ambience.

The club is born out of the lack of alternative nightlife in Durban. It is a member conscious and orientated club that slaves for consumer satisfaction. It is particularly aimed at young professionals and creatives as the founder is an arts fanatic. The club offers young professionals an alternative to what is prescribed by popular culture. We’re showing people how to dine, where to dine and heightening their palate sense.

The Fork, Knife and Glass Club is also creating a meeting field for individuals with fresh green ideas and similar traits. It’s the dinner table where a musician meets a fine artist, where a writer meets a product designer. We’re matching independent and small boutique brands with its market at the dinner table.

The club is a magnet which pulls together a handful of cultured individuals once a month.

We want the club will be an ongoing experiment with the different restaurants and alternative venues in and around the city.

Being part of the club also offers you invites to other alternative events hosted by the team. By now you should realize that the club obviously lends itself to more than just being a dining club.

We are creating an authentic memorable night at every convention.

An important and almost determining factor will be the budget aspect. We want to promote affordable yet uncompromised quality on every plate. Hence we negotiate a flat fee with the chosen restaurant/ venue. Usually between R100 and R120 and this usually covers a starter and main dish on the menu. We’ve been particularly mindful of location, budget and service excellence. WHEN 7TH SEPTEMBER 2011 TIME 18:45-19:00 FEE R140 FLAT FEE (INCLUDING WINE PAIRING) CONTACT RUSSELL HLONGWANE 073 678 1901

FORK, KNIFE AND GLASS- DINER’S CLUB

Introduction

The Fork, Knife and Glass Club is a dining club, first and foremost. It’s centered around three main elements which are; palate + company = ambience.

The club is a magnet which pulls together a handful of cultured individuals once a month.

We want the club will be an ongoing experiment with the different restaurants and alternative venues in and around the city.

Being part of the club also offers you invites to other alternative events hosted by the team. By now you should realize that the club obviously lends itself to more than just being a dining club.

We are creating an authentic memorable night at every convention.

Map’D INSEditors notes...... 10 A thought on the state of the culture

Photo Essay...... 12 By Saaiqa Ebrahim

Beyond croissants and blue cheese...... 24 By Sihle Mthembu

Dining with Russell Hlongwane...... 28 31 By Nomvula Sikakane Best young designers...... 31 A look at the next generation of creators

Special Report---Arabia Burning ...... 52 By Charity Shezi

Mapping out...... 58 Seoul-city guide

A woman’s take...... 66 By Mina Maboja

Special Report-Barack Obama: What now?...... 64 By Khulekani Magubane

The game of kings...... 68 By Francisca Mtshali

Culinary couture...... 70 By Nomfundo Mgabadeli

Wanna play?...... 72 By Ndabenhle Mthembu

Just Add color...... 74 By Style Guru

This roadside life...... 86 By Lauren Beukes 52 IDE 100

Ferrari’s next generation...... 106 No riots please-we’re British...... 90 By Mathew Veeran By Shivana Naidoo The year of the gods...... 108 This Township life...... 94 By Sihle Mlambo By Sthe Ngcobo Reviews...... 112 Q and A...... 98 The best in film and music With Megan Erasmus The last word...... 114 Urban voices...... 100 By Pumla Luthuli By Amava Kamana

Act like a layman think like a snob...... 102 By Sabelosami Dlungwane

From China with love...... 104 By Nosipho Mngoma

[email protected]

MindMap Publishing Published by MindMap Publishing Copyright MindMap 2011

To view MINDMAP online visit http://MINDMAPSA.COM Editor ‘s notes

All things considered the term native high culture in a city or “High culture” is about as easy to any other place, a lot of people define as “American liberalism”. could take offense to that and It has social circle related conno- you might encounter a lot of tations that mean different things resistance. to a lot different people. And Interestingly in putting this depending on whom you ask, it issue together I have also discov- might be viewed as good, bad ered that there are people who or otherwise. In a bid to track were pleasantly surprised by the down what seems like a utopia, first issue of our E-zine. Despite at MindMap-SA we have found the various teething problems ourselves in a place where we we have received a lot of posi- have to stretch out own public tive feedback and it is that which comfort. will help us grow. To our readers Recently I posted on Facebook that were there when we wrote that I liked the New Yorker and a our first blog post months ago, Facebook “friend” was quick to and are still here now as we have rebuttal my sentiments. Stating formally registered our online that a black person reading the platform at http://mindmapsa. New Yorker is nothing more than com/ we thank you, and we look a “snob”. It was this exchange forward to interacting with you that had me thinking that High as we have done in the past. To Culture is much like morality. It our new readers and subscribers is a personal thing. It can only be thank you for joining us, we hope defined by the social spaces in you enjoy your stay. And after which the individual finds him- you have taken in this month’s self. What might be regarded as issue, do drop us a mail and tell high culture in Milan, London or us what you think. Forward it to Paris might not be regarded as you friends and tell them to do such in Joburg, Seoul or Rio. the same. From me I say keep In this issue of MindMap-SA mapping out. we look at (to use the cliché) the melting pot that is people that subscribe to high culture in one form or another. This issue is more about understanding what Sihle Mthembu High culture is and less about redefining it. As a friend of mine recently pointed out “when you say you are out to redefine alter- Newsdesk Nonhle went to Twitter It’s sad what happened to Nonhle. She was amongst the most beloved of South Africa’s darlings. But after the criticism leveled at her for the relative failure of her show, its more than fair to nonhle.com image: say she has lost some of that love along the way. Many who were part of #teamnonhle have since resigned citing the ranting and raving of the 29 year old via Twitter. She has even gone as far as to say that Minnie is a drunk and @ khayadlanga was so in love with her. This came after the column- recent bad taste Nonhle is Nonhle Thema has over 70 ist had gone ridiculed her in a 000 followers, and with tweets still loved by many and would like “I’m so rich i can buy the article on news24. Saying “I’m do well to go back to being the whole market”, its easy to see not sure whether Nonhle needs why her time line is amongst lovely girl we used to know. the most popular in mzansi. if Chuck Norris or Jesus. Or both.” After all we do not really need you want see that the fuss is all The two have since exchanged about search @NonhleThema a female Juju doing the rounds. and decide for yourself pleasantries that are not quite as But whether she heeds this ad- pleasant as pleasantries should vice remains to be seen, all we be. But regardless of can do is watch her timeline. Leave Jeff alone The show? The West stated guitar and a soft too busy learning am pissed. Wing. The episode? voice humming away, how not to use BBM. Then two minutes Posse Comitatus. It’s begging to break and The next morning later I read that there the final episode of submit itself to the I read that there is a is another movie being the 3rd season of the mic. Jeff Buckley sings movie being made made about Buckely. series. A master hand- “Hallelujah”. Aaron about Jeff Buckley. I’m No its not a HBO do- book on how American Sorkin is god. I am excited I hope Sorkin cie, its another planned capitalism fucks up the haunted by the melody writes the script. He blockbuster. Robert rest of the world. on for days. isn’t. I’m hurt but I Pattison is the front the screen Secret Ser- Fast forward a few read on. Penn Badgley runner for that role. I vice bodyguard, Simon years later its 8pm. has got the lead. What can’t trust Hollywood Donovan has just been The venue, Amsterdam the hell is this, some anymore. To many shoot by two boys in bar, North of Durban kind of misconstrued heartthrobs and no shop, who were prob- and East of nowhere. joke. Its not, Opps! balls, I smell a con ably up to rob the Jap My friends is slightly you might not know spiracy. It’s a legends shop owner to get tipsy. He has drank to who Penn Badgely is. for profit campaign. some money for meth. many Zappa’s. He tells He is the handsome Someone is involved. Donovan lays slain me, how he hates it troll that plays in Gos- Someone should be ac- on the floor in a pool when people who were sip Girl. He looks a bit countable. Don’t ruin it of his own blood. Tar- on the fringes become like Buckely but that like you ruined James antino would be proud. popular. “I hate it when does not give him the Dean. Leave Jeff the In the background I alternative culture goes right Fuck alone. can here a familiar mainstream” he says. I to hack us. KAK I rhythm. That under- pay no attention, I’m

Photo Essay

Nobody‘s Home By Saaiqa Ebrahim

Photo Essay

Beyond Crossaints

blue cheeseby & Sihle Mthembu South Africa has interesting middle and upper classes, Sihle Mthembu looks at how they make the choice between what is high culture and pop culture?

Recently a friend and I had a friends of mine to the theatre for critical debate whilst attending no other reason that they would Lebo Mashile’s Threads at the not appreciate the work. As a crit- Playhouse. It was (and still is) my ic I have always maintained that position that as much as we are at the end of every performance I addicted to advertising campaign always clap, no matter how maca- friendly slogans and words like bre or terrible the work was. This ”diversity” and “unity”, there is is because I appreciate the work, still a greas degree of separatist the effort and the creative strain it elements in South Africa. And takes to start a work o fart. And I away from the race question not think that is perhaps the most dis- all of these are bad. I was spe- tinguishing factor between “High cifically referring to the arts and Culture” and “Pop Culture”. that ever changing world of city Pop culture comes for a tradition subculture. My mate was some- of the veracious need to express what surprised when I told him and unfortunately that need is that despite the love I might have often overridden by an unmeas- for some of my friends there are ured disrespect. This is not to say just some of them whom I can- that those who appreciate “High not take to the theatre or an arts Culture” cannot subscribe to show. This sounds elitist I know. “Pop culture”, in fact the contrary Am I afraid they might embarrass remains true. me? Hardly. Kaizer Cheifs losing . Just last week at the opening twice to Orlando Pirates during night of the Jomba contemporary the pre-season has made full use dance experience I saw more or of my embarrassment quota for less a lot of the same faces I saw the year. when SUM41 was head banging I would not rather take those at the Wavehouse. image by Photojojo

The real divide between “High Cul- ture” and “Pop Culture” is the same as the divide between a resident in Khutsong and man in Sandton. It is the issue of access. High cultured activities are more likely to get a platform and funding then pop cultured ones. This is despite the fact that Pop cultural activities are more likely to sell, because if their simple mass appeal. Some of you might not know what I am talking about, allow me to contribute evidence towards my point. Have you ever heard that the National arts Council is going to fund a rock concert? Or perhaps been forwarded some spam mail from your friends pontificating on how The State Theatre is going to host a workshop for Rappers. Certainly not. The mainstream, well to do, well established, elitists have for the last generation decided to ignore the alternative cultural scene. Because high culture has been billed as an acquired taste and mass appeal will just be inconvenient to this narrative. It’s for this same reason that people like John Lennon and Bob Dylan took such a while to break the shackles if red tape and being shut out. Unfortunately in some cases it has not just been ing the best art is coming to an end. No longer can mere incidents of shutting people out; it has also we afford to donate R20 via sms for the burial of meant shutting people down. This was recently good artists. As Elizabeth Gilbert so keenly points manifested in an incident where several Durban out in her TedTalk we are tired of the idea of art as artists were arrested for painting on a public wall. a process of suffering. We want our artists (both Did I mention that they were not preaching hate, or subversive and not subversive) to have the same tagging a gang but rather they were paying trib- creative space and resources. We want them to eat ute to a deceased friend? They were subsequently Croissants and Blue cheese (if they want to) but named by The Mercury newspaper as a gang. The above and beyond that we want them to produce case is still pending. As a speaker pointed out pleasing pieces of work, away from that critical in her opening night speech at Jomba “we have divide of being mainstream or alternative High conveniently forgotten how it was graffiti artists cultured of Pop cultured. We can longer afford to that were at the forefront of expressing their views create a generation of artists that are one thing and during the anti apartheid struggle”. not the other. It is acts like this that at times make me cringe to think that I in varying degrees can be regarded as a person who subscribes to high culture. There is a mode of self righteousness that seems to be coursing its way through our circles and it shows no signs of relenting. I would love to say something inspirational like “Fight the power” or “we need a revolution”, but I am a reasonable man and High c I have conceded that even Rock n Roll in the 60’s couldn’t do that, neither could drugs and alternative sexuality in the 70’, or slam poetry in the 80’s or even Hip-Hop in the 90’s. I will however say this; that people in the mainstream need to go beyond their comfort zones, and although there are lots of loud and meaningless noises in pop culture there acquir are lots of beautiful ones as well. There is a lot of creative output that is the hybrid of the commercial appeals of Pop culture and the aesthetic impera- tives of high culture. This can be clearly picked up in the musical works of artists such as Common. His discography could meet and surpass an aesthetic quality test despite the fact that it is expressed in a medium that by an large has been viewed as It is acts like this that at times lacking in that area. make me cringe to think that A lot of people might be skeptical of this, citing that no two bulls ever run the same ring. I however I in varying degrees can be do not hold this view. In fact I think there have regarded as a person who sub- been some very interesting cases in recent history scribes to high culture. There where artists of an elitist nature have opened themselves up to the mainstream and been pleasantly is a mode of self righteousness surprised. Think of the last great American authors that seems to be coursing its (Cormac McCarthy, and Jonathan Franzen) both way through our circles and it being on the Oprah show. The opposite has also been quite fruitful. When artists from the alterna- shows no signs of relenting. tive stream embrace the resources offered by the main they can indeed produced some reverting results. Think of Banksy producing a series for the BBC or even Jackson Pollock going global. The era of idealistic views about the hard life produc- ulture is an

Images courtesy of the ed taste Milan furniture faiir Fork, Knife and glass is a dining for young professionals who love socializing and fine cuisine. It is however not a club in the traditional sens=e of the word.

Images courtesy of Russell Hlongwane & i-support Dining with

, “It’s not a business network, it’s exclusively for conversation and Russell heightening peoples feel of fine dining, but whichever direction the conversation takes it’s not entirely up to me”, added Hlongwane. The idea is to bring Hlongwane people together regardless of their age, race and profession but most of the He is one of Durban’s most by people who are regulars in the club are forward thinking marketing between the ages of 21 and 26. agents. And as coordinator of the Fork, Knife and Glass din- Nomvula Hlongwane has also expressed con- ers club he has gathered some cern on young people going abroad or of the most interesting minds in Sikakane the city. moving to other provinces because of the lack of nightlife in Durban. “This Balancing work and pleasing studied at the Institute was my idea to bring people together ure is often a problem for of Chartered Shipbroker and appreciate each other. There is so working class people, that (London based) he just re- is when Russell Hlongwane cently got his Diploma in much potential in this city”, he says. (24) who is the founder of Dry Cargo Chartering & After 4 meets there is 60% of regulars the Fork, Knife and Diners Shipping He is employed by and 40% of new people and the num- club saw an opportunity to one of the biggest shipping ber is growing. “Durban needs this.” create a balance between the liners in the world, Hapag Away from dining and shipping There two. Lloyd (Germany) and his is a lot of volunteer work that Hlong- Fork, Knife and glass is a duties are transport in West wane is involved in. He serves on the dining for young profession- Africa agency. KUMISA board which is an eThek- als who love socializing and Speaking on why he wini Municipal initiative established fine cuisine. It is however started the dining initiative to improve and set standards in the not a club in the traditional Hlongwane highlighted his music landscape of KZN. He is partner sense of the word. “There is keen interest in different of Onexus Music Business Support, no joining fee and no forms types of food. “I love good an entity which mentors and coaches to fill in” says Hlongwane. company and good food”, independent musicians on industry This has been done in or- Hlongwane said. The idea der to streamline access to hit him two years ago as he matters. the club. Hlongwane gets went to different restaurants Hlongwane is an admirer of the arts, into contact with different every month to enjoy dif- fashion, and alternative music and is restaurants owners to make ferent cuisines, but the plan a sub-cultural being. “My dreams are your fine dining experience came into action this year. of a healthy arts scene in Durban. A memorable. He organizes To him it’s a hobby as he Durban where we can enjoy the CDB the venue and negotiates a is not getting paid for this at late hours with no fear; improved good price for a three course work. “It’s my contribution functional public spaces and an im- meal which does not go to the arts, adding value to proved transport system”, he said. He above R120 per head. people’s lives and adding has so much going on in his life and he But dining is what Hlong- balance between work and is very much driven by ideas and mak- wane does for leisure. Hav- play” he says, ing those ideas into reality. ¬¬¬¬ PROGRAMME

1ST1ST - 25TH - 25TH SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER JOBURG SWITCHED JOBURGON! SWITCHED ON! www.artsalive.co.za STYLE Sihle Memela A young deconstructionist. That is the best way to sum up Sihle Me- mela’s personal design style. Her work stems from a tradition of experimental female designers. She designs both interiors and pieces of furniture

Palesa Thabethe Palesa is a lover of all things grand. Her primary influences are both local and international fashion designers.

Jessica Khupe Born of Tswana blood, raised in the America and now studying and living in South Africa Jessica is a mixture of cultures and this certainly manifests itself in her work.

BEST ý YOUNG DESIGNER’S Jessica Khupe Fashion

Image courtesy of Jessica Khupe STYLE ý ý

MM: Tell us a little bit about Jessica and where she is from? JK: I was born in Botswana but as raised in Minnesota in the states. I grew up with a very close family and although lots of my extended family is all over the world, my immediate family is still very close.

MM: What initially attracted you to fashion? JK: I have no idea; it’s just raw talent I guess. When I was young I used to sketch and model things. I had always felt that I was gonna study law. But I was lucky to have parents that said I should really try this because I was good at it.

MM: How would you describe your own style? JK: It depends entirely in the mood that day. Sometimes it can be something vintage and classic at other times it can be totally futuristic, so it’s all about mood.

MM: Who are some of the people who have influenced your designing style? JK: Beyonce although might sound cliché but she really is a super diva. She strives to set the bar and has so much commitment and she really inspires me to be my own competition.

MM: Many people think that fashion designers are arrogant what do you think of this? JK: I don’t think that is the case, I have met a lot of fishing designers that are very good yet still very humble. They don’t care about the glitz and glam they just express their creativity. MM: What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far? JK: I think my two biggest highlight have been putting together my first fashion show and entering ht Durban July for the first time a few years ago.

MM: Tell us a bit more about that, how was that experience? JK: It was a small idea that really grew. I did it for my 21st birthday but also as a fundraiser to help the less fortunate, so it was a very interesting and tiring initiative but eventually it worked out good. STYLE

MM: What materials do you enjoy working with the most? JK: I really love bead- work and pleats. I also like soft fabrics like silks and chiffons. As whole variety of colors from blues and greens to the mixture of black and gold.

MM: What are some of the other projects that you are working on? JK: Right now I am still focused on studying but I am interested in doing a range of handbags. But also in the future I would love to do a range of foot- ýr ulgn pne upýý ýýn neý wear that matched the interiors of cars. Sihle Memela Interior

MM: Tell us a little bit about Sihle and where she is from? SM: I’m a 22yr old girl from Soweto JHB, and the 2nd and last daughter who is raised by a single parent. I’m very artistic and enjoy being given a task that forces to think and act creatively. Personality wise I happen to be very humble and I enjoy taking risk’s, because from most I have learnt a lot.

MM: What initially attracted to being an interior designer? SM: Well I basically have two reasons for that question… 1. The township houses that have no life and well thought through design, so as an interior designer I’d like to add some personality into the interior space. 2. It was seeing t he extra ordinary designed interior spaces that do more than just adding four walls in a room.

MM: How would you describe your own style? SM: It’s basically abstract and mostly deconstruc- tive.

MM: What are some of the materials you most enjoy working with? SM: Materials? U would say timber, Perspex, glass and steel

MM: Who are some of the people who have influenced your designing style? SM: Zaha hadid from Afghanistan and Khensani Nkosi from South Africa

MM: How long does it take for you to start and finish a work? SM: Usually one to three weeks depending on what it is? STYLE

Image by Saaiqa Ebrahim

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l nfrspcuýdaý rmtecleto fý L uýe lf ukeý twýýýn- frfýýkýoý MM: What do you love the most about being a designer? SM: The actual designing and manufacturing my designs, because I get to fall in love with design all over again.

MM: What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far? SM: Doing a community project at the KZN So- ciety of the Blind in 2010 and being one of the students’s whose design was chosen to be featured in the Garden and Home magazine.

MM: What advice would you give to a person looking to buy a one of a kind design item? SM: Quality may be expensive but it’s always the best, so if you love it why not spend….

MM: What is the best design advice you have ever been given? SM: That no design is a mistake and that if your concept is strong then what can fail you. The funny thing I have experienced at school is that I’ll design such a beautiful interior space and my lecture Sue will say “what is your concept”, meaning if your concept is not clear how can you market it.

MM: What are some of the other projects that you are working on? SM: A project is called The African Trade; it’s basically incorporating the African styles in a corporate office.

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The fusion of fine liens and her deconstructionist style makes Sihle a designer that has a very dynamic work output. That stripes down the old into a new minimalist state.

Sihle’s designs are very space an eco friendly. The smart use of material lies at the center to her creative experience. But she also makes pieces of work with multiple uses in order to maximize the use of RHTýUE the material. Palesa Thabethe Jewellery

Image courtesy of Palesa Thabethe STYLE

MM: Tell us a little bit about Palesa and where she is from? PT: Palesa was born in Empangeni and grew up in Durban, I have two brothers, raised by a single parent. I am a second year jewellery design student. I love socialising and interacting with different people, love listening to music, I love fashion, would love to travel in the future.

MM: What initially attracted to being an designer? PT: I chose jewellery because as a child I’ve always loved working with my hands and always liked sketching or drawing imaginative things and I was also curious on how rings and other pieces are made.

MM: How would you describe your own style? PT: I don’t have a personal style yet but I love making very detailed and intricate designs, love ex- perimenting with different techniques and materials

MM: What are some of the materials you most enjoy working with? PT: My favorite materials are silver, copper ,Per- spex and beads

MM: Who are some of the people who have influenced your designing style? PT: My favourite designers are Robert. w. Eben- dorf and Elizabeth Olver

MM: How long does it take for you to start and finish a work? PT: It depends on the project we given, its takes maybe a week to finish my pieces because there is a design process we follow before manufacturing ELHEEý Model: ýýmlfý Dmntvý Nongcebo Khumalo he,£ýý5ý ý aecaa Images by ote,ý 1ý5ý ý ir ýee Saaiqa Ebrahim he,£7ý ý ljnr nemý l rmSlrde,ý e:4ýýý01340(K, ýýýslrde.oý

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Thabethe’s Designs place MM: Away from the emphasis on an interesting use work what does Palesa of scale, things enjoy doing? are not their PT: In my free time I regular sizes. enjoy spending time with It is the oddity that makes her friends, social network- designs both ing and going to church interesting and on Sundays engaging.

MM: What is your favorite color? PT: My favorite color is black

MM: Three must have design items for you? PT: Top 3 must haves- earrings, rings and neck- piece STYLE MM: What do you love the most about being a designer? PT : I most enjoy making my own pieces or making pieces for clients and also exhibiting my pieces too, I also get a profit

MM: And least? PT: I least enjoy setting rings because you need to keep track of proportions, if there is one mistake everything is wrong

MM: What advice would you give to a person looking to buy a one of a kind design item? PT: Tips- buy from reputable dealers i.e a registered jeweller. - always feel free to ask questions if there is anything you want to know

MM: What do you think needs to be done to encourage other young people to take up careers in the arts? Thabethe makes use of a fu- PT: Students should not be pressured to sion of traditional materials join for careers based on payment. They sch as beads and fuses them should be encouraged to work with what with more western ones, the result is a atomic collusion they are good at. of eras Spiring once again is upon us and its time to spoil yourslef and yours with the best------here is a selection of some of the finest items to add to your shoping list this ADD september

Although winter may be to cart gone and a lot of us are opting for sandals, it’s still a good idea R1250

Jan Leslie makes some of the best wallets around, and the fact that their hand stitched adds that extra bit of personal quality to them. R1323

Holly Aiken Taxi Toot bags are a must for any lady who likes to add elegance to her look and you will be the envy of your friends at the polo when they see you rocking this one R1487

Not only do we love fine things, we also love simple ones. We are still activists and printed t-shirts help us mobilize. You can really get these anywhere and they are not pricey R200  Everybody loves a clean toothbrush. The HI-YA toothbrush sanitizer range is something that we think every bathroom should have. R230

Gadgets are never out of season, and if you can record your memories whilst helping the environment why not? This solar powered camcorder does just that. R 4 800

 We loves nerds and this pair of glassed from Oakley is just what you might need to add that extra bit of verve to your office look. R1200

 Natural materials are a big thing this season and this wooden chair will add a lot of value towards you home if minimalist design is what you are after R2709

This season is all about going big and bold with colors. So if you have the courage (and the body) to rock these than we say GO! R420  We love hugging especially around dinner time, we just could not resist these salt and pepper shakers: R120

Spaces are a part of our daily life. We interact with them almost as much as we do with humans. From the revolv- ing door at the bank to that uncomfortable waiting room at the doctor’s office. Most of the time we never notice them. There are however some architects who are designing building that combine functionality as well as beauty in new and unique ways. We picked some of the best.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ArchitectKidd The lightmos in Tokyo is a retail space that is at- buildings tractive and adds a sense of playfulness to the shop- are ping expirience art on a super size scale

Architecture needs to be both accessible as a piece of art produced on a super size scale but also as a an item that people can enjoy on a practical day to day level.

In a world that is growing more and more green conscious those commissioning new buildings are becoming increasingly concerned about the carbon footprint of their spaces. Previously it used to be that high use of energy was a necessary evil in the bid to maintain luxurious spaces. However at the turn of the century architects have devel- oped methods of maximizing the surroundings of the area. Window fittings now take into account the natural lighting of the area in which the building is erected. Innovations like this have been spearheaded by minimalist architects, resulting in a fusion of affordability, beauty and function. The Kirimaya resident combines natural elements it is almost like a piece of wood on a rock, the aerodynamics and balance of the building are its best feature

Villas will never go out of style. Overlooking the beach this residen- tial space makes use of natural materials to maximise the natural features of the area.

A dynamic mixture of color adds a lot of value to the livability of a space. This ener- getic combination of green and white is a perfect match.

ArT IN ArT IN ÜbEr(W)uNdEN TrOubLEd TrOubLEd TI m ÜbES Er(W)uNdEN TImES Conference / Conference / Artistic Interventions Artistic Interventions 7 – 11 September 2011 7 – 11 September 2011

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With the world holding its breath about years but keeps hoping he will change, it the where abouts of ousted Libyan Dicta- takes that last piece of the puzzle no matter tor Muammar Gaddafi, Once again we find how insignificant it may seem to snap and ourselves glued at our television screens take a stand. This is exactly how the people and newspapers for news on the latest de- behind these uprisings feel, they have taken velopments in the Arab world. This over the enough beatings from their authoritarian past nine months is safe to say has become governments that a stand against their rul- common place all over the world. ers and demanding change is the only ac- People are looking at the revolt in some tion they saw was fit to bring much needed sort of fascinated bubble as if the Arab reform. world could not do it, the praise is now Mohammed Bouazizi a street vendor self- being directed at social media when in fact immolated himself on December 17 last acts of this nature have in the past hap- year and triggered Tunisa’s popular upris- pened long before Mark Zuckerberg was ing. The world watched as the Tunisians even born to revolutionise social media ousted they president Zine El Abidine Ben with Facebook. Ali. Just when we took a breather Egypt Let us take a step back and talk about the followed suit demonstrations started against 1936-1939 Arab revolt in Palestine. The Hosni Mubarak who’s been in power since Nationalist uprising by Palestinians Arabs 1981. The drama unfolded and after nearly in Mandate Palestine (The British Mandate 850 civilian deaths Mubarak was ousted, of Palestine was a legal commission for handing over the power of authority to his the administration of region). The uprising military. He now remains accused of in- was in opposition British colonial rule and volvement in the killings of anti-regime mass Jewish immigration. Directed primar- activists during the riots, and corruption. ily by the Urban and the Higher Arab Com- Algeria, Bahrian, Yemen, Jordan and Libya mittee (HAC) the first phase of the revolt joined the popular revolutionary truck de- was more like how we see the beginning of manding change. today’s revolts in the Middle East. It had It has dawned on us all that the morden strike actions and political protests and was post-colonial Arab state is not doing a good easily defeated by the British Civil admin- job even though it was intended for the istration. Led by the peasant resistance as best. It seems those who in the past worked things got more violent, the rebellion was in liberating their countries are the very brutally supressed by the British Army and people who are now smothering it to the Palestine Police Force bloodshed was the disadvantage of its citizens. People in the order of the day. region are tired of tolerating bad leadership Almost have a century later the 1979 Ira- and refuse to entertain it any longer. The nian Revolution overthrew Iran’s monarchy world is staring at these countries. Watch- under Shah Mohammond Reza Pahlav,i and ing the pain and injustice of civilian lives replaced it with an Islamic republic under being lost at the hands of both their leaders Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. and the rebels fighting against their govern- The 1979 Iranian revolution however was ment. Fact is in any revolution sacrifices not your typical revolt. It did not have what are made they cannot stop fighting for what many would call the basics for a revolution they believe and let things go back to “nor- to occur at the time. The Iranians were not mal”, because there are fighting for a better defeated in war, the country was not in any more liberated “normal”. The people are financial crises, and there was no peasant holding on to the thought that such devas- rebellion. Due to mass strikes and demon- tating effects are not in vain. strations the country was paralyzed and the In such sad occasions one cannot help Shah eventually left the country to go leave but think of words from Moses “Let my in exile. The guerrilla’s and rebels over people go.” These words though short are whelmed troops loyal to the Shah in armed powerful. To these leaders that are grabbing street fighting and the royal regime col- on to, too much power let the Arabic peo- lapsed shortly after wards. ple go, set them free, liberate the unborn Revolutions no matter what we may think child who knows nothing about you, whose of them just do not spring up like mush- mother prays for a better world for her kids rooms overnight. Like an abused wife who and not one riddled by unspoken public has taken beatings from her husband for discomfort. Image by Aydin Matlabi More and more in the Middle East we are seeing women who refuse to be held down by his- torical stereotypes and are participat- ing more actively in political activity

by Wendy Women of the revolution Ngcobo With August having been woman’s months, this in the streets and nursed them in their homes when year marks the 100th year of women’s advancement they were too afraid to go to hospital. in education, law, human rights and commerce. In Bahrain, women were among the first wave Women’s movements all over the world have been that descended on Pearl Square in the capital - some creating and encouraging vigorous citizenship with their children - to demand change. In Yemen, it amongst various popula¬tions all over the world. was a young woman, Tawakul Karman, who first led Surprisingly, ahead of this year’s celebrations, demonstrations on a university campus against the was the sudden rise in profile of Arab women. long rule of Building on years of activism, this saw women Ali Abdullah Saleh. In Egypt it was young Ms marching beside each other in the frontlines of the Mahfouz who in tune with the mood of the country pro democracy demonstrations that were widespread knew how to inspire Egyptians to act. throughout the Middle East and North Africa. These These women were not spared from attacks for women played integral parts in the revolutions in uprising. While protesting in Egypt, Amira was Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria, Libya, Tunisia, where killed by a police officer; Liza Mohamed Hasan they vowed never to be marginalized by dogma of was hit by a police car; Sally Zahran was hit by a any kind. Mubarak thug in the back of the head with a bat- she “Arab women are often seen as either exotic belly went home to sleep and never woke up. Prof. Noha dancers or covered head to toe in black veils-but Radwan was beaten by Mubarak’s men- they didn’t rarely as the girl next door, “says author of the ‘The just bash her head in, but ripped her shirt open. Beauty Myth’ Naomi Wolf. She adds that as a Whilst joining protesters in Cairo’s Tahir district, result of being Salwa El-Hosseiny was grabbed and dragged by tired of this a plainclothes officer to army officers stationed in notion, Arab women began building women’s a nearby museum where she was sent to a military networks, encouraging female voices and creativity prison and beaten, electrocuted and verbally abused and unswervingly influencing the Arab uprising with other women . and the list of atrocities goes on that any new democracy failing to embrace women and on. would not be accepted. This is why during the protests women In doing so these women put themselves in distinguished that there is a gender dimension when danger. They contributed to the number of bodies it comes to punishment. What cuts the revolts is that were filling public squares in protest across the that women have been central, and are proud of region. They led marches and participated in human their mobilisation. Which is why today, as doctors, shields, in spite of sexist gender roles relegating lawyers, teachers, women don’t want a repeat that women to be protected, kept home, and not led to them being marginalized. participate in public, political, activity.They were arranging food deliveries, blankets, and medical help for the wounded. They also treated the injured The world has been he has committed.” such as amputation and stoning mesmerized by the sudden uproar While in Syria a 2007 law as well as unequal treatment of that has taken over Africa. It required internet cafes to record women in inheritance, dress, seemingly started in Tunisia all the comments users post on and independence. It is things when Mohamed Bouazizi set chat forums. Websites such as like these that have made himself alight in an act of public Wikipedia Arabic, YouTube many Egyptians wary of the protest against the government’s and Facebook were blocked growing influence of the Muslim censorship of the media. intermittently between 2008 Brotherhood. Despite currently Many feel this was the spark and February 2011. This caused seeming moderate many analysts that caused millions of protesters another yet another country to feel that if Egypt was to take from a variety of socio-economic revolt against its leaders and over by the Brotherhood, that and religious backgrounds to another government soon to be tune might soon change. demand the overthrow of the overthrown. And the western This would be a retrogressive regime of the Tunisian president world rejoiced. movement as it would abolish but also Egyptian president Reality is, some of these human rights. Already the West Hosni Mubarak. Despite being dictators is making plans on behalf of the predominantly peaceful in nature, were good for their countries. newly “democratic” states of the revolution was not without Libya, Tunisia and Egypt Africa. Omar Suleiman the new violent clashes with forces. acknowledged women’s’ rights leader of Egypt and Mustafa

The future leaders by Anathi forces and protesters. This later spread like a wild Teyise fire throughout Africa, the Syrian crackdowns and now the ongoing

Unrest between Muammar and worked on empowering Abdel Jalil, Gaddafi’s former Gaddafi and the “rats” rebels for women. It is worth noting right hand man and now rebel the leadership of Libya. Rumours that if rightists who advocate leader, have been signalled have been rife that under the that Sharia Law dominate the as key figures in the political cloak of the revolution, they constitutions of the countries process. It will be worth looking swooped in creating a fictitious they live in, there is a danger that into whether they will make swift rebel all that could be undone. changes or they will (through organisation comprised of In accordance with the western funding) only enrich Libyan Muslim right wingers. Qur’an and several hadith, theft themselves. And in their quest to find the is punished by imprisonment elusive Gaddafi, Council or amputation of hands or feet, Close scrutiny needs to chairman Mustafa Abdel Jalil depending on the number of said in a news conference, “The times it was committed. paid to the democratic National Transitional Sharia’s influence on both processes that are sup- Council announces that any of personal status law and criminal his inner circle who kill Gaddafi law is highly controversial. posedly going to emerge or capture him, society will give Some interpretations are used out of the region. amnesty or pardon for any crime to justify cruel punishments Dare houses a wide collection of retro wear

122 Sagan-dong, Jongno- gu, Seoul, Korea 110-190 atr ae nahýký ýýteý h ýo n ik‘kl’rg ý otýsý oe ih- MQený otfmu oi nasiýby- hutn rý ein ýrastems yia steý Hmigiý’dýin(loaýial sý uho) eitn ir si ýgtars niký lc akrud rgnlyý sdi cueýý pigsme ý

Arario whose challenge and ambition has brought new vitality to the Ko- rean art world since its opening in 2002. Sur- rounded by Korean large- scale galleries it is the center not only of Korean contemporary art but also of Korean traditional culture as a middle place between Insa-dong and Samcheong-dong, both of which have preserved the tradition of Korean art.

#149-2 Sokyuk-dong, Jongro-gu, Seoul, Korea Gallery Hyundai is an in- teractive space showcasing emerging minimalist artists

122 Sagan-dong, Jongno- gu, Seoul, Korea 110-190

The books is great place to find a great mixture of vintage books and manuscripts

Artsonje Center 1F 144-2, Sokeuk- Seoul dong, Jongno-gu Seoul 110-200 Korea

Since its open in 2002, doART has established itself as a leading art gallery in Ko- rea by fostering Korean and Asian art on the one hand and promoting international artistic exchanges on the other. doARTis focused on fresh and unique perspectives and insights of young artists both Korean and international. In 2007, doART Beijing opened in Beijing by aiming to offer a new direction to Chinese artists to participate not only in Asian but also in international contemporary art scene beyond borders. Art Tower, #640-6, Sin- sa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea 135-896 The kitchen and the boardroom: when roles become by Wilhelmina gendered Maboja

If you were asked to make a rap using been taught about would be women. the names of the greatest male thinkers Almost 80% would be men. By human in the world, chances are you could. nature, waging a war against the vices Now do the same, but with female would be a feasible plan. But how far counterparts of those thinkers instead. will a war take one when the vice itself It’s not uncommon to find yourself is deeply-rooted in the very textbooks tongue-tied or in a slight choke when it that are educating future generations? comes to trying to name great women in A silent phasing out of women from history or contemporary time. An in- primary roles in society is imminent: equality between the sexes has existed which is why political analyst Stephen long throughout history, and the problem Friedman is more likely to be consulted is that the trend is that it still exists. It by South Africa’s media when people is becoming more and more apparent take to the streets in protest instead of that women are being roughly shoul- Nathi Mazibuko, a political analyst from dered aside by their male counterparts in the University of KwaZulu-Natal. It the world of politics and academia and could be argued that the media favours in the literary world, leaving them float- Friedman ing in a shapeless limbo. because of his longer track record as In an article in London’s The Inde- an analyst and commentator of South pendent newspaper, well-known feminist African politics. Or it could be because American Germaine Greer addressed Nathi Mazibuko is a woman, which the end of an era in which women wrote would make it a little “unconventional” about “big ideas”. This was in response if such a powerful position were to be to authors such as Malcom Gladwell and given to someone who can’t grow a AC Grayling comfortably nestling at the thick beard. After all, nothing has a na- top of international best-selling lists, tion’s tongues wagging at television while female authors made an appear- screens quite like an “official voice” of ance now and then. a man. This is not to say that the men in If we look back through history, equal- question do not have any substance. ity has always been a crisis: Slavery, . They’re quite the icing on the cake. segregation and caste systems were, Unfortunately, there is a tragic bias and still are, valid justifications for why when it comes to the roles of men and some races and cultures are still looked women in society, where roles are now at as inferior. The equality crisis we face determined by one’s sex. in modern times, however, is between However, some women have managed sexes, where the levels of testosterone to pierce their heels into the so-called have become overwhelmingly stronger glass ceiling: in the 1960s, American in boardrooms, textbooks, economics author Rachel Carson made scientists and politics. Even worse is the state of and critics hot under the collar with her academia: The regular middle to upper pioneering book Silent Spring, about class individual has spent an average of the severe effects of pesticide on plants, 15 years of schooling. Within those 15 animals and humans alike. In fact, her years, only a handful of the theorists, book contributed to the banning of con- philosophers and scholars would have troversial pesticide DDT in America. Another heavyweight If we look back through history, equal- is Naomi Klein, author ity has always been a crisis: Slavery, seg- of No Logo and The regation and caste systems were, and still Shock Doctrine, two are, valid justifications for why some races books that exposed and cultures are still looked at as inferior. the ugly heads of cor- The equality crisis we face in modern times, porate globalisation however, is between sexes, and the opportunistic nature of capitalism during crisis. No Logo proceeded to become a New York Times bestseller. Even multi

Nota: Este texto é o último no livro “ O Sol da Meia- Noite “ que contém os seguintes textos: “ O Sol da Meia- award winning novel- Noite “, “ Contos do Bem- Aventurado Errante “ e “ A Grande Beatitude “. ist Toni Morrison is part of this endangered breed. Closer to home we have author and Nobel Prize laureate Nadine Gordimer, pos- sibly one of the most prolific literary con- tributors on the South African front. It’s possible that the era of women and Big Ideas is over, or that it hasn’t started yet. Regardless, there’s a strong indication that roles in society are starting to be determined according to “who wears the pants” and “who stays in the kitchen.” There’s also a possibility that women may be sharp- ening their nails for a war that had been won long before it had been started. And if we can’t make that rap song now, chances are that we never will.

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NYbooks.com

cartoon courtesy of of courtesy cartoon THE BEAUTIFUL MIND OF by Nosipho S MENZI NGOBESE Mngoma Although he applied himself “I have a preoccupation with The Durban University of At the age from the start, it served as identity, where it stems from Technology, “I wanted to try of 15 Menzi an eye opener to him that his and where does it go.” something new” he says. moved to work “Made an impact on It is this preoccupation that After his father passed away, Durban until lecturers and students. I then inspires the work of Menzi his mother, a teacher herself, the rest of the had that energy in me, that Ngobese, Durban painter, moved the family to Piet- family fol- whenever I create a work, sculptor and artist. From ermaritzburg in pursuit of a lowed to set- it should be perfect” says boyhood clay sculptures of better education for her 3 tle in New- Ngobese. farm animals in his birth- boys. At the age of 15 Menzi lands West His competitive streak place of Inkandla, in north- moved to Durban until the kicked in and he set a goal ern KwaZulu Natal, to star- rest of the family followed to to win more awards the next ing into the enigmatic eyes settle in Newlands West. year, which he did, these in- of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona They were the subjects of his cluded the Sasol New Signa- Lisa. This self proclaimed earlier works, as he would tures Art Competition where rebel has always known he capture them during every- drawing -----work was cho- wanted to pursue a career day activities in drawings. sen in the top 100. that involved making things. Recognising his inherent tal- The time he spends concep- Enrolling into a techni- ent his mother supported his tualising, contextualising, cal high school, he initially chosen career. interviewing and researching thought this would be engi- It did not take long for her his subject lending an au- neering or architecture. How- belief in him to start paying thenticity to his work. ever after matric, always the off, in his first year he has sceptic of societal norms, and already scooped hi first art also to challenge himself, he award. applied to study fine arts at The subject serves as his surrounding migration and In his art He does not play down the inspiration, determining identity, particularly in the he gives value of having your work the medium and mate- informal settlements”. This recognition displayed here but it is not rial for this multi skilled prestigious prize is awarded to others so something he aspires to. “I do artist. He gives them/it annually and affords the poignantly not subscribe to Eurocentric a voice, while he is con- winner a 3 month trip to that they ideology, I pursue what I know, stantly trying to find his France where they attend bring him which is being an African”. own voice and identity “as classes and be an aficio- recognition. Even this notion of Africaness, a person amongst people”. nado in various galleries or Zuluness, or blackness is It breathes a new life into under the tutelage of Cité subject the scrutiny, he does not each of his works and en- Internationale des Arts de like being classified saying they sures that his artistic jour- Paris. mean nothing to him. ney is never complete hav- “I had a great time in Par- One title he does not mind is ing to continuously chase is”, he says. Besides the that of teacher, now currently after this “ever shifting formal part of his residency, reading towards his Masters, entity that manifests itself he counts the dialogue and he teaches art classes to under in changing forms”. exchange of ideas with the privileged artists at The Bat He even names his artwork art community he was ex- Centre as well as at DUT’s after the subject, “I was posed to there, as the most Velobala art project. curious about their iden- valuable experience. In addition to this, he is also tity as people, I wanted to Of course an artistic trip to working on a body of work for explore their lives through Paris would not be com- an upcoming solo exhibition imagery, to portray them in plete without a visit to the for the Alliance Francaise in art to give them some sort Louvre. His first 5 days Johannesburg next year. of dignity so they can be were spent marvelling at With all his achievements he is noticed and given some sort the celebrated artworks still his mother’s son. He tries of recognition.” exhibited at the renowned to minimise time spent in front In his art he gives recogni- Musée du Louvre, one of of the television or listening to tion to others so poignantly the biggest and oldest mu- radio, and prefers to read. His that they bring him recog- seums in the world. Being world is like any other 23 year nition. After completing under the same roof as old guy, making time to hang his BTech in 2010 he won the works of Leonardo Da out with his friends. “I am not the ABSA L’atelier Gerard Vinci and other great mas- a serious guy, but I am serious Sekoto Prize for a piece ters, was certainly an awe about my life, trying to make where he, “ Explores and inspiring experience. sense of the world I live in,” he questions political issues says. 2011 has been a mixed year for US president

Barack Obama from the killing of Osama

Bin Laden to the Debt crisis. Khulekani

Magubane looks at the years ahead and whether he can secure re-election CHANGE was a huge buzz have, for the past few years, his administration. Obama as of word throughout America in been labelling Obama a socialist late seems to lack to conviction to 2008. Uncle Sam was caught up because of policies in government make any major changes, rather in the rapture of an intangible health care, amongst other things. opting to tow the party line. victory for minorities and the And now, with 2012 looming, Interestingly for democrats, it prospect of transformation the future of America’s leadership would seem that the republicans of the highest order. After seems more uncertain than ever. have strong candidates in Rick finding themselves right in the One thing that the past four Perry and Romney. Naturally thick of economic troubles and years in United States politics both have had prominent positions administrative frustrations, it was have proven is that leading a in republican strongholds (Texas a sweet escape from reality to first world country is no job for and Massachusetts respectively). have hope for that change. someone who is “Everybody’s If the republican house can The beginning of the very next Boy”. This seems to be the reconnect with common voters, year, the Obama administration strategy republican hot shot, their well-endowed financial was bitch-slapped back into Mitt Romney is employing to resources could get them back reality fast. Policies and appeal to mass voters. This could into the White House. decisions by Obama, including come back to hurt the candidate It remains to be seen whether lifting the ban on organizational if reaching across the wing for Obama can bounce back from funding of abortions, proved too voters proves successful for him. the anticlimax of recent months. liberal for even some hard-core It definitely hurt Obama in the More importantly, this will be

Images courtesy of Proteus Magazine

left wingers. The Tea Party’s early months of his presidential the true substance test of his phobiaWhat of all that even smells term. Now?campaign for presidency. No socialist does not help issues The fact that Mexican amount of pop-star endorsements, either. President Obama’s immigrants are leaving the mentions on Jay-Z verses, clever leadership was an extreme change country for better employment tag lines or ethnic diversity from the conservative Bush prospects “at home” says a lot will be able to save Barack’s administration and, perhaps, a about what has happened to the campaign. It is gut-check time. change that the country was not land of the free and the home of 2012 will reveal to us whether prepared for so soon. the brave. America has indeed President Barack Obama has Honest, hard decisions were seen better days. Goldman Sachs found the key to leading America made by Obama in the middle of predicted that China is well on out of the valleys of uncertainty the Recession. Obama notably its way to becoming to world’s or whether his term will simply denied certain companies (one largest economy. I am glad I am be viewed as a hand guide on being AIG) bail-out packages, saying this outside of American how to win a U.S. election and because they were seen to have boarders, so as not to sound too nothing more. The results could gotten into their financial troubles sacrilegious.I never quite saw go any possible direction but I am because of malpractice and poor what the fuss was about Obama not expecting any miracles from corporate decisions. Left wingers during his campaign or during Obama himself. There has been a tense situation across the country as employers demand to slash health care coverage for workers. This issue caused 60,000 workers from a Southern California Grocery The great American store chain to strike and lockout. President Obama has tried but crisis failed to implement his dream of nationalizing health care in his country. The national health care initiative is a plan by Obama to improve the health care in Amer- ica by making sure everyone has adequate health insurance. This plan would give individuals the power to choose between pri- vate health insurance and public health insurance plans. The plan also states that employers with more than 50 employees must provide health insurance or pay a fine of $ 2000 per worker each year,. an has potential but has failed to prosper because the concept was too broad and focused entirely on health insurance, forgetting that hospitals were still operating on the free enterprise system. Another reason why it failed was that the president did not explain the concept to his people. Healthcare id the most conten- tious issue amongst American-

liberals and conservatives By Sim Mbatha Had Obama explained that the Health care has been one of the most pressing issues in America for reform plan was about every citi- many years. This is probably one of Barrack Obama’s biggest obsta- zen’s right to obtain basic health cles that could ultimately crush his dream or ambitions for re – elec- care and that it is going to ex- tion. pand Medicaid to the poor. His Seen as an icon for change and champion for the poor, president plan would have been ideal to Obama has tried but failed to implement his electoral promise that is the reconstruction of health care health care reform in America. in America. The problem with the health care in America is that it is just too ex- The issue of health care is obvi- pensive, with the country said to have one of the highest health care ously a prominent concern to costs in the world. Perhaps the most significant problem with the the American public Democrats health care system in America is the fact that over 50 million USA have failed to make this conten- residents have no health insurance whatsoever. More worryingly tious issue a priority in the wake though is that this number keeps increasing year on year. of poor economic outlook. This This is due to the fact that employers are shifting health care costs to will could to Obama failing to the employees leaving, American workers struggle to keep up with ignite the support and passion the payments of higher premiums and co- payments if they can even he once had from the American afford such coverage at all. public and ultimately ending his time in office. 2012 The Michelle factor America is one of the few coun- Born on the south side of for presidency and that she was tries in the world that is always Chicago to a pump operator and also worried about the strain it in election mode. From cam- to a house wife, Michelle Obama will cause on her family as they paigns and lobbying, to raising never forgets here origins and have two daughters, Malia (12) funds and the actual ballot, the they are the core value of who she and Sasha (9). average US citizen spends a lot is today. Apart from being an of time worrying about electing Mrs Obama grew up in a brick intellectual, an independent the right leader. But the 2012 bungalow and was a product women she is also a trend setter election promises something of Chicago public schools. Her and a very attractive woman. Mrs different. It will not be about father, Fraser Robinsons had Obama has always shown loyalty race, or gender or even just try- multiple sclerosis he was a and faith in her husband’s work. ing to get rid of the utterly worst hard worker and never failed to She has even went to the extent president in history. It will be provide for his family. This is one of putting her career on hold about the issues. But above and of the reasons why Mrs Obama just so she can always be on his beyond this the candidates will is strong willed and has a heart side and also be there for their face a beast of a different kind. filled with compassion. children. And having worked at In 1988 after graduating from grassroots level throughout the the Harvard Law School, she first term could prove vital for joined Sidley & Austin Law Firm. her husband’s as he campaigns This was when she meet her for a second term in office. husband, Barack Obama .As the first lady of the USA, Mrs Obama plays a key role in the success of her husband. Talking at a fundraiser in Mrs Obama grew up Massachusetts, she spoke about in a brick bungalow and how she worries about her was a product of Chicago husband and his total dedication public schools. Her to his work. “I see the worry creasing his face. I hear the father, Fraser Robinsons passion and determination in his had multiple sclerosis voice,” she said. Mrs Obama also talked about how doubtful she was about her husband contesting

The challenge of convincing voters who are disillusioned by from both parties. After talks of bi-partisanship the debt ceiling Sthe debate showed how Congress is Ngcobo more willing to win than solve the issues. The one advantage Obama will get from this is that he is an incumbent president and people are more likely to stick it out with him and maintain the devil they know, rather than have a new person thrown into this mess with no experience. THE GAME

by Francisca Mtshali Images courtesy of OF PoloSa KINGS Known as the game of kings one is sure to feel like argues, that polo is one of the toughest and most one at the Shongweni polo events. Polo began more demanding of sports. Polo is rated by insurance than 2,000 years ago in Persia, where members of companies as the most dangerous contact sport the king’s cavalry played it as a training game. The in the world, with ice hockey in second position. British then of course adopted the sport, popularised The association maintains that players have only a it along with most of the rules that are used in the helmet for protection and travel at speeds of up to game today. 40kmph on horses weighing a hefty number on the It is becoming one of the fastest growing sports scale. Other players use their ponies to ride each with a large number of black elite taking their other off the line of the ball and, sadly, accidents weekends off to enjoy a match of polo instead of are not an uncommon happening. sitting in front of a TV set and watching soccer. Many of these black spectators come from a While many people around the manicured middle class background. Charmaine Mldetshe fields were networking and cheering on one can’t one of the onlookers who sported a yellow tea help but notice how much of detailed sport polo dress, Jimmy Choo heels and elaborate headpiece really is. It is said that the skills required by all (Specially designed just for her by a well known top polo player are a combination of the hand- Durban designer*) slowly sipped on a cold colorful eye co-ordination of a cricketer, the agility of a concoction. She went on and on about how the gymnast, the fitness of a footballer and the strength fabulous life was part and parcel of the polo and courage of a rugby player - and on top of this experience ,”I come here every year , It gets better excellent horsemanship. and better each time” she said .The polo has become Therefore it wouldn’t so smart to say it’s a game more like a fashion event somewhat like the Durban for sisses huh? Vodacom July, events of this nature are about the who’s who and the extravaganza all together. The regular proceeding went on as we look on to Picnic baskets filled with goodies on the lush green the main field, well some were highly intoxicated at manicured grounds. Young and old out and about, this point most of the women were most concerned taking it all in, enjoying this event that has been about who wore what and who was who’s arm candy held at the eShongweni dam for many years now. this year. And by the time we discovered that South The showcase draws in crowds from far and wide; Africa had lost to their counterparts by a margin of with some people coming from as far afield is Cape 6-5, we were all rather too preoccupied planning for Town just for the day. It’s a nice place to be with next year. Perhaps then we will pay more attention your family, friends and even your canine-friend like to the field and less on the eclectic nature of the it was done in the 40s where families would have a cocktail dresses and grandiose hats that were present host for the lunches that would be served after the at the proceedings. participants embarked on their polo journey. it was (and to a large extent still is) a game based on the ideal of shared communal experiences. Class is the order of the day. Having watched many reality shows like The Real Housewives of Texas and seen the high life, this was the event to rival all events that and was a mixture of fine women and skilled men on horses. The atmosphere can’t help but make one feel opulent. Away from the side stories it is true that many still see the polo as a game for ‘sissies’, In reality the South African Polo Association Hemingway’s is situated in a quiet part of Glenwood Just about every aspect which adds to of our lives has a trend, the its uber relaxed “in-thing” if you may, from ambience clothes, to furniture down to your underwear. Food and restaurants are no different. Chocolate, fish and pop-cakes is what seems to be “trending” right now. I know what you’re thinking, chocolate, fish and by pop-cakes? Probably sounds like a retro band from the 80s Nomfundo but these trends are causing Mgabadeli quite a stir in the culinary world right now. Chocolate is nothing new to us, it’s been around for a while now but Taco Zulu is there is a new twist in how it’s by far the most being used and consumed. relaxed restaurant on Florida Rd. The It has surpassed its dessert menu is Mexican status and graduated top of and it may not be its class to now being used experimental but it as a condiment, a flavour is delicious. enhancer and an enrichment. So what do you get when you cross a cake, a biscuit and a stick? A pop-cake. These trendy unique treats are moist pieces of cake with biscuit that are dipped in chocolate or vanilla, adorably decorated culinary and popped on a lollipop stick. Pop-cakes are gaining popularity mainly for their novelty and their ability to coutu re be eaten stress free without worrying about your fingers getting sticky.

Fish is making a comeback in a big way, especially fish that is still plentiful in. Mackerel fits that description. It is healthy and can be cooked virtually anywhere on a barbeque, a pan, grilled or baked. Now that we know what to eat this season let us take a closer look at the trendiest places to eat according to your budget. EAT-OUT

HOUSE OF CURRIES Situated on Florida Rd in BUTCHER BOCK Morningside has been the main Butcher Block (not to be curry shop on Florida Rd since 1999. It has great authentic Indian confused with Butcher Boys) is food at a fairly cheap price. Their also situated in Glenwood is a drinks are reasonably priced and restaurant for the meat lovers. It the service is quick. It has an outdoor deck which is great to sit specialises in making meat based at during warm summer nights, meals be it pork, lamb or beef. It is it does tend to get full on the a middle class restaurant so you are weekends but the atmosphere is going to have to fork out more than great. usual but the service is quick and friendly. On Mondays they have bottomless ribs for only R70 and their drinks are reasonably charged. TACO ZULU Taco Zulu is by far the most relaxed restaurant on Florida CUBANA LOUNGE Rd. The menu is Mexican and it The self-proclaimed only may not be experimental but it is authentic Latino Social Café and delicious. They have a special that runs from 4pm-7pm every day restaurant in South Africa, Cubana except Sunday where you can get is by far the trendiest spot to cocktails for R15 and pizza for dine, drink and socialise. With its R25. The atmosphere transports you to a care free environment warm and sometimes intimidating where everybody is your friend interior it is the place to be if you down to the manager, which goes want to have a social evening with to show how friendly they are. The beautiful people. The dress code service tends to be a bit slow when it comes to food but the drinks is unbelievably strict and the food arrive timeously. portions huge. you are going to have to dig real deep if you want to HEMINGWAY’S enjoy their culinary delights. Hemingway’s is situated in a RJ’S quiet part of Glenwood which adds This beautifully styled restaurant to its uber relaxed ambience during is tucked away at the top of Florida the day. It is beautifully styled and Rd away from the hustle and its elegance reflects in the menu. bustle. It has an intimate setting You might have to fork out to and is especially ideal during enjoy their colourful menu but it summer as they have a balcony that is worth it. It is also a great spot to over-looks Florida Rd. The staff is dine for a romantic date with your warm and friendly and the service significant other. is quick. It has an amazing menu and the portions are generous. by ? Ndabenhle The BlackBerry playbook Mthembu is amongst the most covet- ed gadgets in the market, but is it really all that it is said to be?

It finally arrives! After it was first demonstrated on the 25th of October last year the MUCH ANTICIPATED Blackberry playbook was launched by research in motion (RIM`S) South AFRICA On the 8th of June in Sandton earlier this year. RIM`S said that they will be launching the 16GB, 32GB and the 64GB WITH THE 3d Model arriving soon. ``it will be available in later this year,” said MTN device and portfolio manager Teddy Maduna. Vodacom launched the playbook in July and they offer the 16GB and the 32GB, the pricing information was not yet available. The availability of the Blackberry playbook in South Africa puts a lot of pressure on other tablets like the Apple iPad and Samsung Galaxy because of the popularity that Blackberry has gained in the country with the sales of their smart phones increasing. “I will definitely purchase myself one I love Blackberry products and their pricing is very reasonable, their products are also not complex like apple,” said Siyanda Mdunge a Blackberry admirer. In the US the playbook was released to the public on the 19th of April this year and it was reported that approximately 50,000 were purchased on the day. One can also ask that why should they take a gamble in a new product in the market when there are other tablets that have been around longer and have everything that one may require. Why should one spend his/her money on a product that has not been tried and tested? Well the answer is this. The Playbook which has earned itself the nickname blackpad has a lot of enhanced features. it supports 1080p video playback. A 3 Megapixel (MP) front facing camera for video chatting over Wi-Fi and area- facing SMD camera that records. One of the extra features that the playbook boasts is a 1024x600 WSV 7-inch display and a 3D graphics accelerator. This tablet also supports high resolution video playback, and one of the most attractive features that the playbook has, is its micro-HDMI VIDEO output. It is also said to be that amongst other tablets which the playbook competes with like the Apple IPad and Xoom from Motorola the playbook is the lightest at just under a pound in weight The playbook was launched in Canada and the US on the same day and in Europe in June. The feedback was both positive and negative. The consumers praised Blackberry for the Adobe flash supported web kit browser and also liked the HDMI feature output and its ability to multitask however the same cannot be said for its email and calendar application as the tablets requires the Blackberry for that. Majority of the people who have bought the playbook seem to be less pleased with the fact that the tablet has fewer applications when one compares it to the IPad and Galaxy. RIM`S stated that 3000 more applications will be submitted. Blackberry has been praised a lot about the security of the playbook; the playbook is the first devise to receive the Fips 140-z certificate which means that it can be used by the US federal Government agencies. It will also be the only tablet used by the Australian government because of it high security standards, it is also said to be that the Russian government will ban the use of the IPad because of it security reasons and will consider using the playbook as an alternative.

Spring/Summer 2011 marks a return to bright and bold colours, prints, stripes and for the less brave, some pastel colours.

Style Guru Reports

1. Know the colour wheel and Prints and polka dots go hand which colours look good to- in hand. If you over do it, your n the runways of Tommy gether. outfit automatically looks cheap. Hilfiger, Burberry, Fendi, It’s all about knowing when Gucci and Versace, 2. Just because it looked good less is more. For polka dots, try Osplashes of colour, prints and on Rihanna, doesn’t mean it something different, like wear- stripes ruled fashion weeks. will look good on you. Find ing the same colour and the dots From Gucci and Fendi’s colour something you can add a splash are either lighter or darker than blocking, to Prada’s now leg- of colour to. From a pale blue the main garment. endary stripes, it showed that dress worn with a green belt- summer is going to be bold, it’s still colour blocking. Gents: bright and naturally bizarre. I know some of you are afraid 3, Gents, those colourful jeans of colour, but go have fun. Colour blocking: are a no-no. Stay away from Like I said, it’s all about know- Wearing two bold contrasting them. Rather colour block with ing when it’s too much. If you colours has been all the range a scarf and a t-shirt, pull over, are afraid of colour, then wear in the celeb fashion circles. or shoes. Colourful socks are a black, grey or white and then Rihanna and Kim Kardashian in hit too. get a bold colour to brighten up their orange and purple tried it your outfit. A tie, belt, shoe or and actress, Leighton Meester Stripes, Prints and Dots: even a pocket square will do. in orange and yellow ensemble. Prada’s latest summer collec- It’s all about the right acces- Fabiani’s collection at Cape tion was big on stripes. Rebel- sories. Get it right and you’ll Town Fashion Week in June lious, bright and an explosion of be on your way to being a style was also very strong on colour colour, Prada made them look icon. Remember, strive to be blocking. A few tips on how to great. Agyness Deyn followed stylish and not fashionable. not look like a clown suit with her collection at Mr. “Fashions fade, but style is eter- Price. It’s all in the colours and nal”- Yves Saint Laurent. It’s all how you wear you stripes. about the details.

bold Notes from a SArTORIALIST

The Sartorialist is one of the most influential fashion blogs in the world, Founder/blogger/photogra- pher Scott Schuman began The Sartorialist with the idea of creating a two-way dialogue about the world of fashion and its relationship to daily life. In addition to the blog, Schu- man’s work has been featured in GQ, Vogue Italia, Vogue Paris, and Interview; for GQ, Schuman shot and edited his own page for over three years. Schuman has appeared in national ad campaigns for The Gap and Verizon, and collaborated with Kiehl’s on an exclusively commissioned product and campaign surrounding Father’s Day. Nespresso, DKNY Jeans, Gant, OVS, Crate & Barrel, and Absolut have all commissioned ad campaigns. Burberry, meanwhile, tapped Schuman to shoot the ground- breaking social media- cum-advertising “Art of the Trench” project. In 2009 Penguin published an anthology of his images that has sold well over 100,000 copies to date and been translated into languages from English to Korean. Its limited- run Bespoke Edition sold out in less than three months. His work resides in the permanent collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Tokyo Metropolitan Images courtesy of Museum of Photography. Sartorialist blog

Alvin still has a strong sense os faith still wears a wooden cross around his neck everyday

Many homeless people use wine as their drug of chioce, because it is cheap.

by Lauren Beukes The warm winter sun embraced us as we sit on His life was perfect. Looking back at his life, the open field chatting about life. The bottle of Paarl he hung his head in shame. He looked up to the Perle casually passes the lips of the three homeless heavens as if asking God when will this end. His men braving the early morning wind. Polony and deep set eyes oozed with sadness. He reached for the bread, finished off with a quick ‘gwai’ had filled polystyrene cup filled with cheap wine, he looked their stomachs for the night. I listened intensely at at me and says; “it’s the only way to forget, to keep the unkempt and sun dried man who animatedly warm...without it I’m dead”. He fell into a deep spoke of his days before he was trapped into the silence and I asked him to carry on with his story.... world of homelessness. His bellowing laughter “A dream come true” he continued. But all that proved infectious as his fellow ‘outies’ joined in. changed on one fateful night when hooligans broke The streets of South Africa are home to thousands into his business and robbed him of 75000 rand. Life of homeless people. They scrounge about in our bins began spiralling out of control as he started loosing hoping to stumble on bits to eat. Others desperately touch with reality. In a blinding rage he hunted fight to survive another day, while most seek to down the thieves and gunned down three youngsters. be noticed or even acknowledged by the fast pace ‘POP...POP...POP!’ he vividly described the sounds society. We do not dare to breathe the same air as of the gun shots. “I killed two of them, one was these diseased. Many of us have looked away in paralysed” he said with great sadness. By taking the discomfort as they come to our car windows at busy law in to his own hands he had to pay for the crime. intersection gesturing for meal to eat.. To us, they I asked him why he not go did to the police. He are invisible, dangerous and lost in their drunken, answered with a simple kind of candour. drugged up state. “What they going to do?” He was thrown in But despite the broken coats and long beards that prison for four long years. In those years his wife go unshaved for weeks and even months, there is a left him for another man, taking along with her their story behind every cracked face that calls the streets children and sold all his belongings. “I never blamed its home. her” he says with a feint gaze at the passing cars, “as Milo a 53 year old homeless man tells the story long as she was taken care of you know, something of his wealth, family and success and how it was I couldn’t do in jail. I came back to nothing, I had suddenly stripped away ,destroyed by the decisions nowhere to go but the streets”. he has made and the unforeseen events leading to But for one man, who has suffered the worst type his plight. A qualified plumber and accomplished of loss, Mile couldn’t be happier. At least on the businessman, Miles lived a comfortable life. His surface. As confusing as that may sound he says beautiful wife and children filled his heart with love the one thing you will learn on the streets is that and security. His love for books and the thirst for friendship is the strongest bond you will ever knowledge made him a better man. Nobody could touch him, he felt invincible. have close to a Those who live here family. And for Milo know that this is a game he has found that in his of survival. In our air- companion Alvin, who conditioned spaces We too has a wrenching wouldn’t understand it. story of his own. The reality of looking Ay 62 years Alvin’s beyond those secure life can best be summed walls does not allure us. up as mixture of Milo and his friends disappointment and live of begging and loss. He told me his soup kitchens: first memories of travel and come first serve. We life as a boiler maker drink for fun, they drink and sign writer. Like to live. It may seem that many people he was all our homeless souls deeply religious and are lazy and dumb; believed in peace. He why else are they slowly takes of his on the streets right? necklaces, one of a Wrong! Many homeless cross and off a peace people like Milo, have and a heart symbol. “I a qualification, some believe in peace, love are smart enough to be and salvation, I’m not members of MENSA. dangerous”. But one But life got in the way would understand if of what could have been he did act out through a beautiful ending. The anger after tragedy evils of society become Many homeless struck when his son was the aid to their current murdered not so long state, as day breaks all people like Milo, have ago. they think about is how a qualification, some The streets became it seems to be running are smart enough his home and the on mille- seconds. They homeless became his have nothing but their to be members of family, who without he lives to lose. MENSA. will most likely have been dead himself. The streets became the life to live. Living off scraps and sleeping with both eyes open.

Ay 62 years Alvin’s life can best be summed up as mixture of disappointment and loss.

NO RIOTS PLEASE WE’RE BRITISH

Riots are not a new thing in England, but what made these ones uniques was their sudden× ness and the fact that authori× ties did not seen to have an appropriate response for such acts of public anarchy “A hideous ecstasy of fear and vindictiveness, a desire to kill, to torture, to smash faces in with a sledge hammer, seemed to flow through the whole group of people like an electric current, turning one even against one’s will into a grimacing, screaming lunatic. And yet the rage that one felt was an abstract, undirected ! emotion which could be switched from one object to another like the flame of a blowlamp.” (1984, George Orwell) The recent spatter of protest actions have reverberated through the Earths magma opus as millions of angry, by disenchanted people from Shivana all quadrants of the globe united to “stick it to the man”. Naidoo England’s London riots being a major cause for concern as half the burgeoning emigrants struck the U.K off their promise-land lists. During this volatile time, you have to admit you all couldn’t wipe those smug grimaces as you watched Tottenham, Bristol and Birmingham succumb to its fiery fate. Fascination and an almost scoff emanated from South African soil, as she flipped the land of Earl-grey and civility off. As with all riots, the last straw had been drawn - the death of a twenty-nine year -old father of four, Mark Duggan, whom had been shot by police. This uncouth, most foul display of police brutality set the community ablaze. The ensuing protest sounded a call to arms – uniting the youth. Adolescents now harnessing both their primal instincts of hunting and gathering and a brotherhood of men showed

metade do século.”[ x] that the kids of the U.K showed their forefathers that a “stiff upper lip” is a fallacy. They have problems - deep gaping therapy inducing problems. Wait. Let us back track a successful democratic and bit. Why do people strike? social reforms (after all, that Why is everything spiraling was why your uncles, aunts out of sorts? and friends left-isn’t it?). A strike is a form They had done it. of protest (peaceful or Without consulting an entire otherwise) that seeks to populace they took back voice an organisation’s or every promise they had ever people’s concerns. South uttered to their beleaguered Africa’s history is steeped citizens. All this and the Images courtesy of Time in a culture of community administration expected Magazine and justice. We have always widespread acceptance. been a people that spoke The official statement out- even when in moral from Britain’s Prime peril. Minister condemned the Matters went awry after scenes erupting all over the that. The U.K’s leaders country. making their disgruntled “We are on the side of return to familiar shores the law-abiding citizens as the summer holidays who are appalled by what were cut short due to those has happened in their “hooligans”. own communities”, said Boris Johnson’s (Mayor Cameron. of London) first public He then went on to appearance since the riots praise British police forces, has been of disastrous. commending them on their Boris Johnson’s (Mayor Strident heckling and curse bravery while confronting of London) first public words were flung his way these broom wielding appearance since the riots as he made his address at hooligans. has been of disastrous. Clapham Junction. Hold up, this has “1984” Strident heckling and “You’re racist and need (novel by George Orwell) all curse words were flung to resign”, a woman shouted over it. his way as he made his through - it was heard on Mr. Orwell prophesized address at Clapham footage carried around the a time when humans Junction. world. would devise their own Politicians up top destruction. This connotes continually deny the very an attitude of control by real issues its citizens are propaganda, surveillance, shouting. misinformation, denial of They go a little something truth, and manipulation like this: of the past, including the the population to detect betrayal via Austerity measures - The “Unperson”. That being “improper” thoughts. Orwellian also describes increasing of the retirement when a person whose past oppressive political ideas and the use of age from 60 to 65 as a existence is expunged euphemistic political language in public reaction to the worlds from the public record discourse to camouflage morally outrageous faltering markets. and memory, practiced ideas and actions. In this latter sense, the Tertiary education is no by modern repressive term is often used as a means of attacking an longer free. governments. The most opponent in political debate, by branding his Police pushing civilians common sense of being or her policies as Orwellian. When used like around. Police are public Orwellian is that of the all- this in political rhetoric if it is not sincere, it servants; in England controlling “Big Brother” is interesting to note as it can be a case of a however they are well on state, used to negatively hypocritical Orwellian strategist denouncing their way to running the describe a situation in which Orwellian strategies. British media who place. a Big Brother authority wholeheartedly heralded the use of social Unsympathetic figure — in concert with media in the Egyptian revolution did a 180 government - they have “thought police” — and vilified the youth’s use of social networks backtracked on the constantly monitors to aid its ends. U.K’s modus operandi of Authorities there stubborn, self-willed then went on to track exile from the loving down people via breast! Two gin- Facebook, Twitter scented tears trickled and the ill-famed down the sides of his Blackberry messenger nose. But it was all service – the result right, everything was meaning the arrest of all right, the struggle minors and various was finished. He had protestors. 2000, won the victory over almost. himself. He loved Big Is people power Brother.” dead? The Arab uprising would certainly point towards a “no”, but as far as recent events in Over 2000 peo- England are concerned ple were arrest- perhaps in the first ed for various world people power is offences dur- not as healthy as we ing the unrest. would like to believe Many of them accused of pub- “He gazed up at lic violence and the enormous face. some accused Forty years it had of theft taken him to learn what kind of smile was hidden beneath the dark moustache. O cruel, needless misunderstanding! O THIS

by Sthe TOWNSHIPMapholoba LIFE There must be something in themselves in a township despite the air in South African popular negative perceptions about the The new trend, The townships. Could it be the area. colourful four room houses or the It is a late Sunday afternoon, Kasi Social Movement brown and grey dusty township the sun is about to set and the can be clearly streets that seem to be attracting place decorated in a burnt orange identified in every bright and colourful social colour. A cool spring breeze butterflies to its entertainment is accompanied by the sweet major township in places? melodic sounds of the deeper South Africa. It is an The new trend, The Kasi shades of house music. An aroma act of people shifting Social Movement can be clearly of braaied chop sticks, pap and from chilling in identified in every major sauce fills your nostrils from township in South Africa. It is quite a distance. suburban areas and an act of people shifting from One of the socialitest at Max’s going back to enjoy chilling in suburban areas and is Sanale King. He points out that township nightlife. going back to enjoy township the township has that special vibe nightlife. This movement can that surpasses any other place. best be described as a merger He adds that he finds township between middle class sensibility people friendlier than his home and township simplicity. People boys. from all walks of life converge “I rather travel to Max’s on these venues resulting in a Lifestyle all the way from vibrancy that is almost a cliché in Pinetown then to relax South Africa. comfortably in my own hood”, Max’s lifestyle The quality of places he says. This is something that is famous for like Max’s Lifestyle in is becoming more and more its local dishes Umlazi, Madlula’s Place in common amongst the emerging not the least of Pietermaritzburg and Fashion youth market. Something other which is the Café in Ntuzuma is something urban based lifestyle venues Shisanyama worth noting. And it’s that quality would do well consider next time that makes them draw in the they consider expansion. crowds. For a place that is in a township Max’s Lifestyle looks like it was taken out of an exotic beach island somewhere along the Seychelles islands. It has that relaxed Hawaii feel that makes people go there in large numbers. Today is one of those days where ordinary people are rubbing shoulders with well known social butterflies, even managing quick social chats with them. Max’s Lifestyle, started with a vision that owner Max Mqadi had for his home township. This was followed up by a multi million rand investment and as they say the rest is history. “I had a vision to develop this place and bring people together from their different groups, to bring celebrities in the township,” said Mqadi. He also challenged the stereotype that rich people must only chill in suburban areas; he wanted them to enjoy by Out of respect for the family we were asked not to inclide any images of them, and in accord- Lauren ance with this we have respect those wishes. The images included are from a series done Beukes by Kenneth O’Halloran for Time magazine. The series focuses on another serious desease- Alzheimers. Leukaemia is a disease that has no discrimination, it has no boundaries and it does not care if you’re rich or poor. Like a thief in the night it invades your blood and attacks your bone marrow. It plagues your body with every pain imaginable. With unexplained weight loss, strange bruises and bleeding, one would think this poor person was a victim of abuse, unaware of the fact that this same person would soon be diagnosed with a possible death sentence. We look into a normal day in the life of a cancer suffering family. 5 years ago in November 2006, a young, beautiful and vibrant 15 year old Shannon* lived her days filled with laughter, friendship and health. the UNTHINKABLE Images courtesy of Time Magazine

The grandmother remembers know day to day how she feels the day clearly as it lays heavy and the person with her never in her heart. She stares at the knows what to expect.” wall as she takes me back to the But, the journey was not always day when her grandchild was so tragic and heart breaking. Like a typical teenage girl she diagnosed and hospitalised for Non profit Organisations such as enjoyed dancing to the latest song six weeks. “She seemed to be Reach For A Dream sent Shannon or having thrilling sleepovers. doing fine for a while after she and her grandmother to Cape She hoped for a great future went into remission for two years Town for a tour of the Mother that included being a prominent and started with her follow up City and the Sunflower fund tried fashion designer . But never did treatment” she said, “but, it wasn’t to make Shannon’s life a little she imagine the torment that she long till she relapsed again.” enjoyable and a less bit painful will have to endure for the next Her eyes became moist with by involving her in the ‘Starry, 5 years. No one saw it coming, tears, but she’s unable to cry. She Starry Night’ Charity Ball in teachers thought of her as lazy has watched her granddaughter go Association with International because she was always tired and through horrific changes caused Bank Vaults in 2009. Organisers lacked concentration. by the chemotherapy treatment. stated that it was a “fabulous She felt uncomfortable in her She suffered hair loss, suppressed event with amazing entertainment, own body, she felt unwelcomed appetite, and extreme fatigue. high fashion, bubbly, Lindt and scared as if something inside She expressed the stress and pain chocolate and gorgeous celebrities her blood wanted her to hurt. that she herself had to go through but the real reason for the Little did she know that, that everyday when the child wakes fundraiser will not be forgotten.” something was a raging cancer up crying and screaming in pain. For that brief moment she was called, Acute Lymphoblastic She goes to bed silently praying happy, she felt alive again and Leukaemia (ALL). This type of for this once talkative girl to be her spirit was lifted. But as it is, cancer is common amongst the brought back into their forgotten leukaemia is merciless. And as her children from infancy up to the happy life, instead she’s woken grandmother gravely says; “now age of 19 years old. The survival up in the middle of the night to you don’t want to know how she statistics of ALL is 66.4% in cradle Shannon’s swollen body is, she’s going down pretty fast.” all ages and children under hoping she would survive. And so she ends;“But, you have the age of 5 years it is 90.8%. She looks sternly at her aged to take it one day at a time and It is a devastating and harsh hands, looks up and says; “Your don’t think of it as the end of the reality. Shannon’s grandmother whole life changes living with her, world because we all walk around reluctantly had to accept the because your life is not your own. with our own sicknesses. And at dreadful diagnosis of the disease. Her life is not her own, she doesnt the end of the day we are all one” Q & A

One of the finalists in the first season of So You Think You Can Dance South Africa, and now co-creator of Scars, Megan Erasmus talks dance, being colored and reality television.

MM:Tell us who is Megan and showed them the half splits. be….because it’s a competition, and where is she from (laughs) you never know who is real and ME: Does anyone really know who’s just playing a role for who they are? (laugh). I guess I’m MM: Who are some of the votes. an easy person and can get a bit people that you look up to and stubborn at times when not taken have influenced your style? MM: When you were notice of. That’s why I’m on the ME: when I was younger eliminated a lot of people were stage…love the attention. When it it used to be Michael Jackson, surprised, how did you deal comes to work I demand a lot of Madonna…..I used to learn the with that disappointment? myself and often beat myself up dance routines from the video. ME: It’s a competition…. when I fail at something, but with I’d sometimes wake up in the there’s only one winner. I guess it age I’m getting better. middle of the night with a concept made me work harder to achieve I’m from Cape Town a place for a dance piece. I was about 11 my dreams. It brought me back called Grassy Park. Was raised by years old, when my visions used to Cape Town, my hometown. I my grandparents while my parents to appear to me. I had visionary then produced my own theatre (in Transvaal at the time) were dreams from a young age. show with a good colleague, working to support me and my The kind of dance style that best friend called SCARS. The dancing. I now fuse is a combination of disappointment in SYTYCD contemporary, jazz, hip hop. was actually my appointment. If MM: Most people know you I’d won I would not have come from So you think you can MM: On the show you down to CPT, hence I would not dance but when and where did showed a lot of variety, how have produced now. Thank you you start dancing? important is this for you as a SYTYCD ME: I started dancing when I dancer to be able to adapt? was 5 years old with ballet and ME: As a dancer you have to MM: You are co owner of later on did modern jazz as well be able to do all dance styles in breakthru entertainment tell at the local community hall called order to make it in the industry. us a bit about how this came CAFDA. My grandmother used From classical to hip hop, even about? to ride on her bicycle and I on Latin. ME: Celeste Botha and I mine after school to my classes. I own it. We called it Breakthru still remember it clearly. She was MM: What were some of the Entertainment because we the one who saw my talent and strangest you had whilst making constantly felt that we were trying decided to enroll me into dancing. the show? to break down barriers within the I always used to dance for people ME: Strangest moments would industry. Being a dancer is one of put a smile on my face, not just me but Celeste as well. They call us brave…(laughs) . A good feeling.

MM: How has working with Celeste Botha influenced you as a dancer? ME: she’s the best dancer and the 2 of us together in Scars made the audience laugh, cry, empathize, laugh some more and shed tears of joy all in one hour. Remarkable. She’s taught me a lot not just in work but as a person.

of the hardest careers to choose in this country. Shall I say dance chose us. What we trying to achieve and have thus far is to create South African dance works that can be exported overseas. Something that is real and shows our diverse cultures. We started this off with a 2 women dance show….Scars.

MM: What was the original concept behind this piece? ME: discovering our identity as 2 South African ‘coloured’ women, our heritage ( what white and black we mixed with), falling in between the crack of black and white, how our parents’ and grandparents’ past affects us today. MM: What other plans and projects are you MM: What has it been like working on for the future? w=orking on Scars? ME: Opening up evening ME: A very long journey of sweat, classes in Jhb. Going to tears and abundance of emotions. It was through in some studying in hard at first getting the mind and the order to market myself better, body fit. Lots of soul searching coz they maybe study marketing. were actual real stories about Celeste SCARS 2….. a stage filled and myself. From a business point of with women and a huge band. view we had to do a crash course… (laughs). But we did it in the end. A Hopefully in 2 years time. divine learning curve that equipped us with so much knowledge.

MM: How has this piece made you feel about being a colored woman? ME: I’ve come to accept that there are not always answers to questions or solutions to problems. I’ve opened a can of worms that some people are too scared to talk about, and that in itself has Spillage by Godessa remains a landmatk album not only for female mcees but for local Hip-Hop as a whole

“Must be your ass ‘causer it ain’t your face, I need a tip drill” that’s a quote of lyrics from a song by rapper Nelly, one of the most despised songs in the history of hip-hop because of the way women are degraded in it, especially in the video. Somewhere in the video he swipes a card on a stripper’s behind. Many ask what kind of women; enjoy being associated with a culture that by degrades them this way. The answer is simple Amava really, it can be found in a Kamana song called Love of my life (my ode to hip hop) by one of hip-hop’s most treasured songstress, Erykah Badu featuring Common. “I met him when I was a little girl he gave, he gave me poetry, he was my first” she goes on to sing “whenever I was lonely or needed some advice, he gave me his shoulder, his words were very nice”. Queen Latifah’s Grammy Even though they are really winning single U.N.I.T.Y is a beautiful women, they did not perfect example of a woman make that the centre of their rapping about women issues career. They set the bar very with pride and showing high for many acts to follow the amount of power she and are still a legendary crew possesses. Songs like My South African artists, both Story by Jean Grae, talking male and female look up to about abortion empowering long after they disbanded . others that went through The ignorance and similar struggles. There came disrespect expressed in dirty a time in the mid 90s where rap sets women in hip-hop rappers like Lil’ Kim, Foxy back. Even the women that brown and Gangsta Boo help perpetuate the image amongst others were popular, sometimes do not realise it. rapping in their tank tops and The video girls that appear hot pants. They could rap wearing next to nothing and really well but the trend they allow these men to think it is set was embedded in people’s ok to treat women like cheap minds and was the image that commodities. Even KRS-one stuck in people’s minds about once said in an interview that This song explains how many women in hip hop. hip hop needs more women women and men that are into it feel When Lauryn Hill’s first and the women need to teach about the hip-hop culture. They solo album came out it was the men how to speak to found that best friend in the music, a breath of fresh air for the them. When there are still the freedom of losing themselves in culture. She was a multi women who encourage being it. The ability to express themselves talented female who did called bitch and hoe, all the in rhyme, dance and all the other not have to stand on stage disrespect is not going to end. elements and sharing a piece of half naked for people to themselves with the world is a pay attention, her talent did blessing. it all for her. She inspired Let’s take it back to the old generations of women to come school for a bit. There have always out with their music and not been females involved in hip hop compromise their sexuality even though it’s generally male while they’re at it. dominated. From the days of Lady The likes of Godessa, Skye B till now women are still a force to Wanda, Nthabi are for lack be reckoned with, within the culture. of a better descption, our People such as Queen Latifah, Mc own versions of Lauryn Hill. lyte, lady of rage and many more In a very young industry of were actively involved in growing hip-hop in South Africa, they the culture and inspiring the many rap better than a lot of male female acts that followed. They acts that are popular the world did not deny their femininity when over. The quality of music they started to rap simply because they produce is world class it was male dominated but used that and not indulgent. I remember to their advantage to express things the first time I saw Godessa’s that they went through but not Mindz Ablaze video on TV; allowing themselves to be weak in I was in awe watching it, their music either. bobbing my head to the music.

Skye Wanda is part of e new There have always been females involved in hip emerging group hop even though it’s generally male dominated. of female mcees From the days of Lady B till now women are still a working with their male counterparts force to be reckoned with, act like a layman! think like a by Sabelosami snob! Dlungwane

Recently one of my cousins called me a snob because I listen to indie music and add a couple of English words in my sentences. Me, the guy who walks barefoot around his hood and drinks beer from quarts? A snob, really? Surely snobbery is much more than a twang and Bloc Party. Being one of those people who navigate through two different worlds I’ve come across a snob or two. I feel it my duty to teach the masses all about snobbery. You know, so that we don’t call people snobs when they are clearly not. Some snobs really know how to create awkward moments. Like how this one guy, after hearing that a friend of mine lives in Seaview, said “Well I live in Toti, where there’s like a real sea view.” er ok. What a guy. The snob likes to use the word ‘my’ a lot. If one has a lot of cool things what can one do? “My hot, rich boyfriend just called me on my Blackberry Torch to tell me that my Mini Cooper S has been fitted with my new R8 000 sound system.” I feel like rolling my eyes as pahrases like these invade the conversation. The whole snobbery game is complex. Being rich someone who does (me not being a snob).Are we doesn’t make you a snob, it makes it easier. The fact creating a culture of snobs? Not really. Society that it is not limited to possessions means we all has always been like this. Nothing wrong with a have a little snob dying to get out. Social networks bit of healthy bragging or flexing the intellectual nurture the inner snob in us. They (social networks, muscle now & again.As the eternally neutral guy, especially Twitter) are subtle ways of making sure I say everything in moderation. Make sure that in we get that your life is better. your snobbery, we don’t start using adjectives like We’ve all read the Facebook status updates bigot or douche. Only Kanye West can do Kanye disguised as thank you notes to the higher power. West well. No one likes a show off. We know that The person is sooo thankful for being “blessed” with you’re rich and that you’re smart. Sigh. What I’m such a great life and great husband and great yoga trying to say is, (allow me to be sentimental) don’t classes and for their Fendi bag and unusually smart let your need to belong, be accepted, be liked or to children. be revered turn you into an elitist and a hypocritical Twitters microblogging is successful on the basis person. Unless you see someone wearing crocs. Tell that I, as the user, must be an interesting person with them they can’t sit with you and throw a sensible interesting views. That is why we are subjected to shoe at them. Nonhle Thema imitators. Yawn. These are modern day South African Aristocrats. The marketing business calls them Black Diamonds. An elite group of Africans starting from the upper We’ve all read the Facebook status middle class to really insanely rich. Keepers of updates disguised as thank you notes money who may leave a legacy of debt. to the higher power. The person is It’s an exciting world of beautiful women, Takeshi sooo thankful for being “blessed” with denim pants, Top Billing inserts, bikes and Audi such a great life and great husband and cars. Khanyi Mbau is a proud product of this culture. great yoga classes and for their Fendi Blue cheese and croissant breakfasts at any hotel, bag and unusually smart children repossessed sport cars and expensive Indian hair. Then there is the youthful group called Swaggers. According to market research these would be the posers. They are not nearly as rich as the Black diamond’s but one would never know. After all there’s a snob in each one of us.The trendy kids that refuse to admit that sushi is disgusting & Moet champagne really doesn’t taste that great. We find them in the hot spots tweeting about how fabulous life is and sharing moments on BBM. They are more likely to be heard saying that a certain place is “too ghetto” or they are going to an “exclusive party”. Some have been known to carry fake car keys to impress. I cannot forget my fellow pseudo-intellectuals. We tweet about revolutions, spell Africa with a “K”. Discuss books we have only skimmed through. We have memorised philosophical quotes for every possible situation and although we say the exact opposite, we know Oprah has done a lot of good. The whole point of snobbery is making sure that people know that you are in some way superior or cooler. It’s the deep fear of being called ghetto that has you eating a King Steer burger with a fork & knife. People around you constantly rolling their eyes. Wondering why others sigh deeply when you start a sentence with “The problem with Afrika is...”We all know that people who are secure in themselves and their surroundings rarely ever have to prove anything. There is a thin line between having standards and being a snob. I’m almost certain that I will never drink Ijuba (me having standards) but I would not be rude to From Made in China. Many of the clothes in our wardrobes have these words imprinted on the inside labels. It is nothing new that many of the clothes sold by commercial retailers are made in China. Production costs in China are very low, a fact which has been the subject of manyCHINA investigations. By the time we buy these clothes, importing and branding have added a huge mark- With love up in the cost. This means wearing the latest trends is reserved only for those who can afford to splurge of on the threads. Or does it? With the borders of China threatening to burst at the seams and many still living well below the breadline despite a rapidly growing economy, some merchants have decided to export not just the products made there but themselves as well. By settling in South Africa to open shops for the sale of products made in China, by they have cut out the middle man; the retailer. The presence of these Nosipho S. eastern traders has seen commercial spaces turn red and yellow as China Mngoma Cities’ and Malls turn up in all corners of the country. . Following the strengthening of ties between the two countries, seeing China become South Africa’s number 1 trade partner, it is no wonder there is an influx Chinese trade. Some have argued though, that this relationship is unilateral, with a majority of the Offering a wide selection of clothes, bags, shoes and other benefits going east. miscellaneous items. The choice is sometimes wider than that offered The man on the street is not by mainstream retailers. Considering the cheaper prices, it is not complaining though. Chinese surprising that consumers flock to Chinese shops to get a look that is traders have set up shop and home similar if not exactly like what you would find at a corporate retailer. in South Africa, buying direct from Wearing the latest vogue fashion is no longer limited to those of high the manufacturer and importing for socio- economic status. There are, of course, low cost alternatives in the sale at their own stores meaning corporate retail world but they do not come close to the variety found in these products bypass many of the Chinese shops. Take Louis Vuitton for instance. This brand prides itself process that add cost and thus pass in exclusivity which, amongst other things, is assured by the exorbitant the saving on to the consumer. In price of its products. Only a select few can either afford or are willing Durban, it is not uncommon to see to spend so much for the products they have to offer; luggage and bags a shipping container right in the being their signature pieces. It would not be classist to say seeing a middle of town off loading goods Louis Vuitton bag carried by a taxi passenger or a student is a varsity. directly into the shop where they Or at least it was. From these shops one can dress in Louis Vuitton from will be sold. Despite the crackdown head to toe and still have enough money left over to take a taxi home. by customs, Chinese shops continue No longer is the LV brand reserved for those who have pockets as deep to creep up all over. as Makhosi Khoza’s voice. In fact the Chinese retail industry has long been marred with hushed utterance questioning the authenticity of especially the name branded products. Senyaka gave these whispers a voice in his song Fong Kong in the 90’s, forever encoding the term and connotation, that Chinese sell fake items, in the minds of South Africans. Besides the concern about items being knock offs, there is also the worry about the quality of these items. Perhaps this is just an assumption that price is a direct testimony to the quality ,, of a product that some people presume that these products are of sub-standard Brands like Izzue quality. Some swear that this is not a are amongst the few mere presumption but a proven fact, at to be associated with least in their experience. They have had China as well as to sew, stick and fasten their Chinese quality summer dresses, shoes and bags to patch them up when they come apart after being worn just a few times. The individual style of the wearer enhances this look for less and there is no telling whether it’s fake or of inferior quality or not. With people always looking for a bargain, the future of Chinese merchants looks vely blight.

ThThe Chinese government is said to be insisting on a firm crackdown on counterfeit goods. Not the least of which are the face Apple stores. This comes after the company complained about the various establishment sprouting up all over the mainland. FERRARI’S by Mathew NEXT Veeran GENERATION Ferrari is known worldwide as being one of the design sector in Italy and other countries. The concept fastest and most elegant motor vehicle brands. For is to create a Ferrari vehicle for the future. The over 80 years Ferrari automobiles have graced the participants are asked to create a ‘hypercar’ with latest garages and showrooms of the rich and famous. Now generation technology and materials. Ferrari is allowing people with the eye for designing Ferrari is known worldwide as being one of the vehicles to attempt to create a concept masterpiece. fastest and most elegant motor vehicle brands. For But what really is the Ferrari Design Contest all over 80 years Ferrari automobiles have graced the about? garages and showrooms of the rich and famous. Now The Ferrari World Design Contest is a competition – Ferrari is allowing people with the eye for designing launched in collaboration with Autodesk (the project’s vehicles to attempt to create a concept masterpiece. technical partner and official sponsor) – is an initiative But what really is the Ferrari Design Contest all for schools and universities from the automotive about? Ferrari Images by

The Ferrari World concept is to create a in Maranello and saw across the globe .The Design Contest is a Ferrari vehicle for the the who’s who of the Korean school was competition – launched future. The participants automotive industry chosen ahead of the in collaboration with are asked to create a make their way to see second-placed IED Autodesk (the project’s ‘hypercar’ with latest the concept prototypes. of Turin (Italy) in the technical partner and generation technology The winning team final with London’s official sponsor) – is and materials. to the were students from Royal College of an initiative for schools first and second placed Seoul’s Hongik Arts finishing in third and universities from participants as well as University. They position. the automotive design monetary prizes. beat off competition sector in Italy and The winner’s frrm over 50 highly other countries. The ceremony took place prestigious universities The 2011/12 season is finally upon us, upon Julio Leal are playing attractive free-flowing football. going to “print”, three rounds of PSL football had Mamelodi Sundowns had a solid game versus the been played, MindMap-SA takes a look at how the Bucs, scoring two goals in four minutes. Goals that individual teams in the league have bought, lost and exposed Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi and the where their Achilles heels might be. Pirates midfield to stay abreast with an awesome The 2010 FIFA World Cup is long gone, we Sundowns midfield that was firmly set on offensive should not even think of it as a reference point to play our football, unless perhaps it is the last year our And the second leg saw Pirates through to the beloved Bafana Bafana make it to the grand stage finals after a wonderful finish from youngster Oupa of world football. I know this is morose view but a Manyisa, whom these days keeps the team ticking. well founded one none the less. But before I tirade on Orlando Pirates will now meet Kaizer Chiefs in the grandeur of yesteryears let’s talk about hte season the MTN8 Final for the season’s first official derby ahead. on September 10th, do not mind the hype around the ABSA Premiership has commenced, so has the Carling Black Label Cup and the Vodacom the new curtain-raiser, the MTN8, or is it the Carling Challenge, as I had said earlier, those are just Black Label Cup, infact, I should probably set the commercial deals that are formulated for corporate record straight. to inject bag loads of money to the country’s most The Carling Black Label Cup is a pre-season supported teams, with a rich history of success. tournament hosted by Kaizer Chiefs FC and Orlando ABSA Premiership Pirates FC. it is not a Premier Soccer League or ORLANDO PIRATES South African Football Association competition, The league champions have started the 2011/12 therefore, for the media to largely blast the PSL for season well, recording two victories, before discontinuing the Telkom Charity Cup in exchange succumbing to a shock loss to the Team of Choice, for the Carling Black Label Cup is utter bull. Maritzburg United. Maybe our pundits and writers should do their basic The Happy People have been very busy in the homework before trampling on other companies who transfer market, buying high profile players and are trying to get a piece of the pie. Oops there I go assembling a healthy squad to compete. It looks as again! if out of the four expensive players brought in, it is MTN 8 – Wafa Wafa Sangweni that will push on to be a key player, as the Pirates have largely been the most entertaining likes of Bester and Doutie, have yet to set the league side of the MTN 8 thus far. Last season in the same alight. competition, under the stewardship of Ruud Krol, With the landmark signing of Benni McCarthy, the Pirates were not entertaining, they were just efficient, leading goal scorer for Bafana Bafana and only South doing enough to progress to the next leg and African to score a hat trick in international football, eventually winning at the Moses Mabhida Stadium although a bit heavy, he has shown that his expensive against a resilient Moroka Swallows. acquisition could bear fruit for the Bucaneers, with In-fact, last year’s competition was a shambolic two goals in three games, and an unfair red card still affair all round, a disgustingly low output of goals the most talked about points of his signing to the and less than entertaining play was the summary of Parktown-based football club. the whole thing. These days however Pirates under the flamboyant The 2010 FIFA World Cup is long gone, we should not even think of it as a reference point to our football, unless perhaps it is the last year our beloved Bafana Bafana make it to the grand stage

I said earlier that the acquisition of Brazilian coach Julio Leal has seen the team begin to express themselves more on the ball, this addition will suit Pirates fans, as it was probably the reason that Ruud Krol was fired after a historic treble, he just didn’t play too fancy for the masses. Orlando Pirates will be amongst the high flyers next season, with the quality players they have bought, I cannot feel that they will be serious competition again; their lack of fire power in the upfront is a concern. Pirates will fail to retain their ABSA Premiership title, I predict 2nd spot for this season. AJAX CAPE TOWN They have lost four of their biggest players from last season, veteran goalkeeper Hans Vonk has decided to call it quits and has retired from the game, PSL after a long and successful career. The league’s best player last season, Thulani Serero has moved on to the mother club in Holland where he will compete in the Eridivisie. We hope that he will follow the likes of Bennedict McCarthy and Steven Pienaar, by shining in Amsterdam. Other players who have eft Ikamva are Sahmeeq Doutie and Clayton Daniels, the speedy winger. Doutie, has moved to Pirates while the defender who did not succeed in his trials in Amsterdam, has been signed by Mamelodi Sundowns. Under the tutelage of the new coach, the Cape Town side has looked to carry on their incredible form that saw them narrowly miss out of adding a Premiership crown to their history for the first time. They will be amongst the challengers yet again this season, and I predict they will finish 4th, which will be an impressive finish, considering the loss of key players.

KAIZER CHIEFS Kaizer Chiefs have not started this season like a house on fire as the results would deceive you to think. In -fact, they have been quite poor, playing without an identity, but as English commentators will always say, “good teams grind out results and win even when they play badly,” that has certainly been the case for Chiefs. Two heavy pre-season defeats to Orlando Pirates hardly matter, but the manner of Chiefs victories would lead you to believe they are a team that “switches off” from time-to-time. In the opening match of the ABSA Premiership season, the Amakhosi hosted Jomo Cosmos, lead early and gave away a quite remarkable goal that could have been prevented had the defence and midfield been aware of the dangers of letting players run with the ball. A late winner from the boot of Josta Dladla would ensure the three points. Vladimir Vermozivic seems to be confused on Under the tutelage of the what role he wants Siphiwe Tshabalala to play, and new coach, the Cape Town side that for the most part is causing the mayhem in the has looked to carry on their club and particularly for the player. His usually crisp incredible form that saw them free-flowing passing game has been thwarted, one narrowly miss out of adding week he’s playing in a central midfield position, then a Premiership crown to their he’s playing in a free-role, then he’s playing wide on history for the first time. the left, it’s just all a mess. Shabba has contributed They will be amongst the with some assists, but the coach is not doing him challengers yet again any favours at the moment, or perhaps he is showing interested parties just how much of a versatile player he is, we will never know! pairing sees Musa Nyatama and Surprise Moriri, two players known and respected for their attacking prowess than their defensive exploits. But, they will be expected to do a Nengomashe-esque job in the middle, particularly Moriri, who after a tricky past two-three seasons, now looks to have come back in the Sundowns team. Teko Modise who has recently scored his first goal in over two years, looks to be a new man, now donning his favoured number 10, and his first Bafana Bafana call up in just over a year, the good times may be back for the Tekonator. It won’t be easy for Sundowns, but a strong push will see them slumber in and around the 3rd position. RELEGATION BATTLE It will be a tricky season for the two teams who have re-joined the PSL from the National First Division, Jomo Cosmos and Black Leopards have it all to do, but early on Black Leopards have shown strength, reaching the Nedbank Cup Final last season, they will probably avoid the chop. I fear for Jomo Cosmos and Golden Arrows particularly. Arrows have had a terrible start to the season, and it doesn’t look like Ernst Midderndorp has done anything right since joining the team last season after forcing Maritzburg United to fire him. If Midderndorp does not shape up sooner rather than later, Ms Manto Madlala should be warned that it will only get worse for her club. With two teams being relegated automatically to the National First Division, expect a tough relegation, of which sadly, I predict Amazulu FC, Golden Arrows, Jomo Sono and Black Leopards will be amongst the casualties. MILESTONES Parker’s first month at Chiefs has been bumpy to Expect Jomo Cosmos to have the most red cards say the least, but he looks like he will be relegated to by the end of the 30-match campaign, add to that the wide-forward role as the coach insists on his tactic to most own goals and tackles in the league. play with one number 9, and at the moment, Majoro Expect Orlando Pirates Siyabonga Sangweni to be is doing that with some aplomb. talked of as one of the best defenders in the country, After two seasons of dictatorship under the and add to that, the possibility of being the highest disciplinarian coach, the likes of Mandla Masango scoring defender in the premiership. His composure and Josta Dladla have improved, and as the coach on the ball is a sight to behold. He is strong in the air continues to play tinker man with the formation. and can play with the ball at his feet. It is only a matter of time until the puzzle comes Expect Tenashe Nengomashe to be the most together, and this just might be the season, I predict, yellow carded player as the season goes on, he is that Chiefs will finish this season at the summit of the one of the leading yellow card collectors in the league – 1st. premiership, and do not expect that to change, Mamelodi Sundowns tripping and breaking play down is exactly what he is Not too many signings made by Sundowns paid to do by Bobby and co. this season, with a huge squad that boasts some On the goal scoring front, Benni McCarthy, impressive internationals, the Sundowns squad is Katlego Mphela, Bongane Ndulula, Josta Dladla, and already a marvel. Lehlonolo Majoro have been distinctly impressive Under the new Dutch coach, Neeskens, the in the first few games, whether any of them has philosophy it sounds remains the same, attractive what it takes to get nearer the 26 goal mark for that football, with Esrom Nyandoro and Matthew expensive unnamed car, we do not know yet. Pattison bundled to the bench. The new midfield Reviews

narrative of the extent some are will to go to for material wealth. Charlie Vundla got some of the finest actors in the country today for this film. As it would stand, that is pretty much where the highlight of the film begins and ends. Menzi and Rapulana’s on film chemistry is quite intense. Unfortu- nately this is not quite enough to compensate for 84 minutes dark drama and senseless killings. Other that the old cliché mafia line, the script doesn’t offer much depth for the talented cast to play with. Lines like “I’m serious as a heart attack” are enjoyable but come off quite awkward in a local context. This is quite bothersome considering that Olive was the first role from Terry that I enjoyed in a long time. John Kani was sorely ONE can imagine that an honest life for him- solving that it would just underutilised in what those familiar with the self after leaving prison. be for capital to explore could have been a bril- streets of downtown ur- Jack is a certified crook business ventures. There liant film. ban South African do not without a single good is one sick twist though: This film is indeed com- have to stretch the im- bone in his body. He The target is Twala’s petent in that it has its agination much to get an has been betrayed by a own father (John Kani). fair touches of human idea of what life was like close friend, deserted by What follows is a game drama and dark humour. in the wild west. The his lover and forgotten of double and triple Unfortunately the sto- bad lands of the ‘other’ by the world. He soon crossing found only in ryline plot grounds the side of the big guava finds himself meeting the most acclaimed mob film to the point where it have the most gripping with Twala (Rapulana flicks. cannot transcend to the stories to tell. They Seiphemo), a partner in Instead of old flames dy- brilliance it could have have indeed been told, crime who left him for ing hard, Jack quickly realised. Gang flick most notably through dead after their last ‘job’ finds a new love interest junkies should enjoy film. With that said, one went wrong. Twala ap- in a sexy, street smart this film, but are advised would have to ask them- peals to Jack’s greed and swindler named Olive not to expect a clinical selves why tell the narra- insecurity and convinces (Terry Phetho). Loyal- supersession of what has tive of the rough streets him to do one last ‘job’. ties are tested and every- already been done in the of Mzansi again? The bounty? Two Mil- one has a plot to screw past. lion Rand. Realising How To Steal 2 Million everyone else over for that his past will always tells the story of a badass the millions. Not much compromise his best ef- ex-con, known simply as space is given to accom- forts, Jack accepts Twa- Jack (Menzi Ngubane), modate morals or life la’s proposition, re who attempts to make lessons, rather a grim This collaborative album affects their CONFLICT is a pow- respective ca- erful force that creates reers differ- one of two results: ently. disaster or sheer magic. Joe Sample once said that a classic is created when everyone involved has sounding tribute to the exact same thing the plight of mod- in mind when work- ern black Americans ing together. News of who fall to crime and Watch The Throne was violence. The Joy dominated by rumors of brings a powerfully arguments between the sentimental ending two rappers and expec- to the album but a tations that came with distorted sounding the prospects of the Primetime almost album. While Kanye ruins it. Overall the West and Jay Z proba- album is a superb col- bly had a common goal, lection of great songs this collaborative album by two of hip hop’s affects their respective Watch the biggest names. This c a r e e r s d i f f e r e n t l y. Throne sold is an example of great 436 000 hip hop masterminds The album starts off in its first week with the eerie No graduating to rock including a star status. This does Church In The Wild record aided by Frank Ocean, not come without a 290 000 on setback, though.After where the wordsmiths iTunes tightrope the line be- the classic My Beau- tween religion and tiful Dark Twisted heresy, with Kanye Fantasy last year this musing “love is cursed is quite a leap back- ward for Kanye West. by monogamy” on his their success and for Jay Z to narrate and 88-Keys drumming However for Jay Z wealth on an inter- a crime epic and for the album his best bounce. Breaking the national mind trip as Kanye to play the rich, mould is the order of body of work since Jigga brags “I ball black jerk, in true Roc- The Black Album, the day as formulas are so hard, motherfuck- a-fella style. However thrown out the window years after repeat- ers tryna fine me”. it’s the cut Gotta Have edly failing to top his in exchange for spon- Throughout the entire It where The Throne’s taneous recording ses- 2003 faire ses adieux album Jay’s smooth tag team prowess is masterpiece. While sions in hotels around bravado and Kanye’s displayed best. Natu- the world. Cameos are Jay will hold his head hard-to-digest gusto rally, the song is crimi- up after winning back limited to Beyonce, compliment each other nally short . Lyrical Swizz Beatz and Frank his crown and earning strangely well, a tell- substance does prevail his twelfth number Ocean (also on Made In ing sign of the creative on Welcome To The America). Other than one album, last year’s chemistry between Jungle, where Jay Z hip hop clinic is one Ocean no other ap- these two artists. The tells tales of fear with pearances are all that that Kanye West may soulful Redding sam- the crisp set of a Swizz be doomed to try and notable. On the heavy ple on Otis (Try A Lit- Beatz aided hook and Niggas In Paris, The outdo for the rest of tle Tenderness) makes beat. Murder To Ex- his career. Throne celebrates the perfect playground cellence is a sincere Scholars claim that culture is , perspectives, attitudes, images and an ‘objective venture after man’s other experiences of the ‘informal’. perfection’ and that having culture That ever changing discomfort meant to ’know the best that has zone of being the everyman. Mass been said and thought in the world’ media did play a big role in making Some would claim that goes this form available to the broader without saying when it comes to public, thus forming commercial ‘high culture’. icons that the ‘ordinary’ could look In the culture of the elite, the up to. Names like the Beatles and well educated and established this is Elvis fall well into this mould. With believed to be ‘high culture’. High it (media)( being influential among culture is seen as a form that is not the masses it helped determine the appreciated by the generation of the mood of classes. Even though it twenty first century. It focuses much cancelled out the deep realities of the more on ‘thinking’ art forms such as world it was a form of entertainment opera, ballet and orchestras. Critical at family leisure times. Television perception is key. This demands programmes such as cartoons, soap The concentration. I can just imagine opera’s and movies fuelled much myself gradually slipping away in needed escapisim form things like boredom whilst a stage artist sings Pass laws and Richard Nixon. I don’t her hearts out in a language I don’t comprehend how it’s viewed as even understand. This type of culture being a dumb –down form of ‘high over the ages has been imposed upon culture’, I view it as, light hearted, high the public by means of education entertaining and more importantly systems such as Universities, courses understandable form of expression. in fine arts and drama. Those who Some things make infinitely more can afford to have access to the sense when said in simple ways as luxury of these institutions often fall opposed to layered and utopian ones. under the radar and play little role in Perhaps the most important and shaping the agenda. development from this was that Contrary to public opinion high it made the masses aware of their culture is full of boundaries and buying power. It made more people social expectations, of how one aware that public opinion did not should act and think. It leaves little depend on the mood of the elite. room for self expression. Lacking People began to express themselves the space to be artistically creative and create their own trends, they the and expressive in a form that allows became artistic in their own right. the viewer to fully comprehend the Then the creation of language was artist is prevalent. People do not given life, with the basic English that have the comfort of pondering over is still spoken today, shifted to terms what the artist was trying to depict like ‘ howzit’ instead of ‘ how do you during their ‘ballet’ performance that do’ and sign languages of response low is savoured by the rich, some of us ( thumbs up) instead of a prolonged have to work for a living. conversation on the weather. I call by On the opposite end of the this genius and time saving, pop spectrum the elite would view cultured people are fast thinkers! Pumla ‘popular culture ‘as an opponent. With things fast moving and Luthuli This movement was thus seen as the ‘informal’ language taking over, comforter trend for the lower class people are now deemed as or rather the working class and dates uneducated and lack deep thinking back to the 1960’s. skills. The mass media output now This culture gave way to diluted with generational simplistic, entertainment which was not only unreal and superficial preferences understood by the masses but also claimed as an ‘art form. as a form of distraction from their everyday lives. Representing ideas Commercialising this ‘art’ form The last word through music videos, reality television with no moral sense, offensive language depicted in movies and excuses for fashion with no style, oh and politics, I need not go there. All these are a complete misrepresentation of the truth of pop culture. But all is not lost. There’s a rise of ‘pop’ intellects. Since music is one of the biggest influences in cultural behaviour, enlightened artists are injecting a more positive display of genres like hip hop and rap. These university graduates like Talib Kweli and Immortal Technique tackle political, social and educational issues faced by youth today. Cartoons are becoming more educational such as Boondocks, which address real issues in an entertaining and humorous way. With that being said, there were great thinkers then and even more so now and popular culture shouldn’t be seen as mentally unstimulating but instead as a unique form of intellectual expression that more people can relate too.