A salutation to the warriors!​

As we end of this August, I would like to honour. A few women whom I know have stood in their power and still stand tall.

In South Africa, on 9th August, we celebrate Women’s​ Day, which is a national​ holiday. The whole month dedicated to honouring women. Over the years we have seen that the month has become an explosion of pink-themed​ tea parties, media platforms broadcast Maya Angelou quotes and a number of campaigns are launched. Many of us have become very selective about​​ the types of campaigns and events we attend, as although we should celebrate ourselves, we as women are still fighting many battles.
On the 1st, we saw one of the most important marches of our time, The TotalShutdown march. We saw women across the country taking to the streets, demanding that the government hear our pleas. The marchers across the country have expressed frustration on the countless murders and gender​-based​d violence incidents and women and various vulnerable groups.

The messages were blunt – gender-based violence must “F off”.
Those were the words on a placard carried by a tearful Xoliswa Buthelezi in Pietermaritzburg who attended the march.
Another said: “My vagina is not your playground unless invited.”
Thousands of women gathered across the country to protest against gender-based violence and femicide as part of the #TotalShutDown march on Wednesday.
In Cape Town‚ some gathered at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and mothers who lost their children to gang violence met at the Castle of Good Hope before making their way to Parliament.

The organiser and the survivors who stood on the streets in solidarity, I salute you all!

A few days later, we were woken up to the horrifying news of a young student, named Khensani Maseko, who had taken her life. It was reported that Khensani had been raped by her boyfriend and could not take the trauma any longer. Like so many people who have been violated, the trauma of abuse and rape can lead to many other factors such as PTSD-Post traumatic stress disorder which in many cases can lead to depression, anxiety, stress and in Khensani’s case, Suicide.
Khensani, I believe​ you. May your dear soul rest in peace!

Prior to the month starting, we were also shocked by the arrogance of the South African rapper, Brickz, who was convicted of rape, who was hired to perform at the Kwaito and House Music Awards nomination party.
Brickz, who was found guilty of raping a 17-year-old relative in 2013 and was sentenced to 15 years in prison, was released on bail in April pending the appeal against his conviction.
The awards’ founder and CEO, Perfecta Khumalo, was not deterred and said the awards would not “abandon” SA musos.
Out of this there was was light and I would like to salute the MD of Transafrica Radio, Busi Ntuli. They automatically pulled their sponsorship from the event on hearing the news that a rapist would headline the event.
This was her statement taken from Twitter:
”Unfortunately the organisers have through their PR practitioner informed us that Brickz stays. We have subsequently informed them that TransAfrica Radio can no longer be their partner,”.
Busi said the decision was a “no-brainer” and the station had the “duty to be on the right side of influence.”
“It was a no-brainer. The creative industry has since the beginning of time played an influential role in society. It is our duty to be on the right side of influence. I still love kwaito and house music.”

Busi, I thank you and salute for standing in solidarity with the survivor. Many people would have put money and business before this.

I would also like to salute my sisters who stood up and spoke on the trauma allegedly inflicted by Khalo Matabane.
Firstly to my warrior queens, Ntombi and Buhle.
Your power and reliance is astounding. I know the journey has not been easy. I can relate and I know that at times, it all seems overwhelming as many feel more comfortable in judging us. We know this, but more importunely we believe you and we love you.

To my other warrior queens who were brave enough to share their journeys in The City press newspaper:
https://city-press.news24.com/News/khalo-matabane-women-speak-out-20180429

Palesa Letlaka, Ingeborg Lichtenberg and Nico Athene I salute you.

After my article came out in the paper, the new CEO of Urban Brew, Verona Duwarkah called me and we met for coffee. She needed to make a proper apology and have ensured me that drastic changes have been made and I can categorically state that their productions are a safe place for all actors and crew to work on.
They have been working with SA guild of actors and working out strategic and concrete ways of creating safe spaces for actors in South Africa.

Verona, I salute you!

With that,​ I also need to thank my SAGA (SA Guild of actors) family who stood by me from day one. They work tirelessly at ensuring that our industry runs efficiently

Lastly, I salute those souls who are living with the pain, may you find your strength and voice to speak out. May the perpetrators be named and convicted.
Psalm 69:29

29 I’m hurt and in pain;
Give me space for healing, and mountain air.

Abuse in any form needs to be seen as trauma. Trauma takes time to heal and I urge you to get assistance from​ professionals in the field.
Please be sure that you find secure and safe spaces to share your experiences and always know that it is not your fault.
Healing is essential before embarking on legalities as you need to be strong. That is possible through professional help and support.

Organisations that I fully endorse:
http://www.powa.co.za
http://www.tears.co.za
http://www.rapecirsis.org.za
http://www.sadag.org​

Find your safe spaces!!!

I am a survivor and many years ago I approached POWA for counseling, healing and then training on abuse. I needed the healing to move on and the training, so I could use my brand to create awareness, but I needed to be equipped with the correct knowledge. A few weeks back, I was invited to participate on a panel on a local TV program, called The Daily Thetha, which airs on SABC1. The Daily Thetha is an educational talk show on SABC 1 that explores youth issues as well as, issues of national importance.
The topic was on the #MeToo movement which has spread across the world. On arrival at the studio, I met with my panel, Mara Glennie who founded the Tears Foundation, Zoe Ramashu from SWIFT, Melusi Xulu, an attorney. It is so great to have met and spent time with individuals who are passionate about bringing change to our country. I had to share the amazing work that they do. We will only combat​ this if we collectively​ do our bit.

Mara Glennie’s who started the Tears Foundations, her motivation to help others comes from a deeply personal place.
The meaning of the “TEAR”
Tear Drop
“Our teardrop logo is a symbol for weeping at the violence and degradation suffered by rape and abuse victims; but, more importantly, it is a symbol of cleansing, healing, and hope”
TEARS’ developed a system that uses a simple SMS code and GPS location to allow other survivors to connect with much-needed​ help from their nearest care centre, immediately. They are able to do this because of the help they received from others. They run their foundation from a fully equipped office in Sandton, kindly given to them by Dr. John Wentzel and the Tsebo Outsourcing Group.

The sms details are:
*134*7355#

Donda Attorneys

Zamakhathini Melusi Xulu is a practicing attorney from Durban. He strongly believes that as a lawyer, it is important and instrumental that he be a servant leader to bring justice to​ our society. He graduated from the University of Zululand with an LLB degree. Prior to him starting his firm he has worked for Legal Aid South Africa (Vryheid Justice Centre)as a Candidate attorney; Siyaya Attorneys in Durban, as a legal practitioner and researcher and he worked for The National Prosecuting Authority as a prosecutor (in Free State) from 2014 to 2018.

Advice from me.

Speaking as a survivor, I understand the pain and anguish that surrounds​ any form of abuse. The trauma that arises is serious and if not treated accordingly can lead to many other problems such as depression, fibromyalgia, suicide, ​and anxiety.
Each crime is different and can be handled in a ​number of ways, but the most important​​ thing to remember​ is that it is not your fault and that you have the right​ to speak up. It is also very important​ that you find a safe​ space to share your pain and story for healing and assistance.

Sexual harassment​ at work:
The minute it happens you should report it to the authorities, keeping a paper trail is essential, so in the case of sexual harassment​ at work​, one should send an email and ensuring that the head of the department receives it. In various corporate companies, there are HR procedures. For actors in SA, my suggestion would be to immediately report it to SA (SA Guild of actors). You need to be a member to benefit from​ the amazing services. http://www.saguildofactors.co.za
If you​ are physically harmed, seek immediate​ medical attention and keep as much evidence as possible. With evidence, this may be uncomfortable​, but in the case​ of sexual assault, if the perpetrator touched any items, such as glass or plate, simply put your hand in a plastic​ bag and cover the plate. This ensures that your hand or fingerprints​ do not smudge​d the perpetrators. Any bit of evidence is crucial. You have every right to speak up and out on it.

In the case of sexual assault/rape/sodomy​.
The first step, the survivor shouldn’t wash or change their underwear as that would be literally cleaning away the evidence. Secondly, ​go to the nearest police station or nearest medical centre. If you start at a medical centre, they will call the police. If you start with​ the police, the police will take you to a medical centre. After getting the statement, you’ll be treated by a doctor, and smears will be taken and given back to the police. Those smears will be taken to forensics to​ try and verify the perpetrator. One of the biggest issues comes with reporting​ the crime. At the station,​ if a policeman​ or women refuses to open the case based on their personal beliefs​, take​ their badge number and report​​ them immediately​.

Your rights as a survivor:
You are permitted to have a person of your choice present to support and reassure you when reporting an incident.

The interview will be conducted in surroundings that are either familiar to or reassuring to you.

Once sufficient information has been obtained from you, a docket must be opened, registered on the CAS and an affidavit must be made.

You must be taken for the medical examination as soon as possible – even if the sexual offense​ was only reported more than 72 hours after it had been committed, and even if you have already washed.

The medical examination will be conducted at state expense and by a medical professional.

No man may be present during the medical examination of a female survivor, and vice versa. Even a member of the same gender may only be present during the medical examination if you as a survivor agrees to it. ​

You will​ come across people who will try and make you doubt your words, they will ridicule you, it is ok, it is not their journey and pain. You need to understand that your pain is valid and by not stopping it, you will not heal. Your healing could possibly prevent future abuse crimes, as the perpetrator will be stopped immediately. remember perpetrators continue​ to commit these crimes as they have been given the permission​ to and often have people protecting​ them.

It is important​ to share your ordeal in safe spaces, spaces where people have your best interest at heart and will be willing to help and assist​ you.

Contact details:
POWA:
http://www.powa.co.za

Tears:
http://www.tears.co.za

​​​​​

Stacey Fru- the literary leader

I had the wonderful opportunity of rubbing shoulders with one of our future leaders. Her name is Stacy Fru. We met at the​ African Authors Awards that was held in Johannesburg on 31 July 2018.

Who is Stacey?

Stacey is a powerful young lady, who wrote her first book: ‘Smelly Cats’  without her parents’ knowledge at the age of seven years old. This book was approved by the South African Department of Basic Education as suitable for young learners from Early Childhood through to Primary Schools. Stacey is the youngest multiple award-winning​ writers​ of Chapter books on the continent, if not in the world.
By her ninth birthday, Stacey’s Multiple Awards and Recognition included:
– ’Smelly Cats’  as the 2016 National Development Agency (NDA)
– ’Best Early Childhood Development (ECD) Publication 2015
– A Special Mention Category’, the ​prize was donated by UNICEF
– ‘Young Leader 2016’ for her leading motivational and inspirational roles
– ‘Academic Achievements and Initiatives 2016’ for her writings at the East Wave Radio Nelson Mandela International Community Day Leadership Award.

Stacey was the youngest founding member of the Wits University Centre for Multilingual Education and Literacy in 2016. She was also acknowledged​ by The Mail and Guardian as one of the Top 200 Young Most Influential South Africans for 2016. She was also a Runner-up​ at the Victor Basadi Awards in the Young Dignitary Category for 2017, and a finalist for the “Gauteng Premier’s Women of Excellence Awards 2018” in The Girl Child Category.

If that is not enough, Stacey won in the Category of Skills Development and Education in the “Gauteng Premier’s 2nd Youth Excellence in Service Awards 2018;” an emotional occasion in which Premier David Makhura announced her as a Special Guest, gave her an open ovation and lifted her to the crowd. Stacey won the Fountain Awards Category at the IBHUKU Awards 2018.

Her passion and future plans:
Stacey’s ambitions for the growth of the African child is extensive. She is a philanthropist and the youngest Ambassador for Save the Children. Stacey’s passion is on teaching children as she is worried and frustrated at the level of illiteracy in our country. She has dedicated her life to teach, motivate and encourage others through motivational talks, writings, and her television projects. Stacey constantly donates items like books, computers, clothing and food through The Stacey Fru Foundation.

The Stacey Fru Foundation
Stacey’s work is executed under the banner of her Foundation
NPO. No. 191-015. to children and adults of South Africa. Her footprint​ is seen across provinces in the country into rural areas where she has been privileged to appreciate how lucky she is through giving.

Stacey Key Projects include:
* Know Your Countries:
Stacey is committed to educating​ African children on Africanism. She uses her television channel Children Television South Africa (CTSA) to profile various countries on the globe. Stacey is the founder and host of the online television channel. http://www.ctvsa.co.za for the work she does

* An African Book A Child: Stacey is not happy that many African children do not celebrate African writers. She has therefore committed to collect and distribute only books by Africans and about Africa to children and institutions.

* AfrICAN Children of the Year Awards: The Stacey Fru Foundation and its partners will recognise all African children ages 7 to 13 who are contributing positively to their community, country and the continent, in a bit to glorify and African gift, but promote Africa to Africans as a continent of choice. The first ceremony is in November 2018.

* 2016 Safety and Security Campaign for Children by a Child: Stacey sensitises children and adults alike on the importance of safety through a play written and directed by herself and her talks.

* Reading and Writing for all: Stacey encourages others through sporadic reading and writing sessions.
Stacey’s writes stories, essays, poems, speeches and attempts songs. She is a guitarist and a ballerina. A motivational speaker, storyteller, poet, TV talk show host, program director, and teacher who has helped many realise that you are never too young or too old to live your dream. Stacey has given public talks to diverse audiences in different occasions, her first speech at the tender age of eight years​ old, was to over 877 Matric learners at the AngloGold Ashanti​ Career Expo 2015.

For more formation contact her:
http://www.staceyfru.co.za
Bank details:
Acct Holder: Stacey Fru Foundation (NPO No. 191-015)
Number: 1153491052
Bank: Nedbank Eastgate
Code: 191905 Ref: Your name/Orgainsation

African Child Your Time Is Now.

A few months ago, I received a beautiful email stating that I had been nominated for an African Author Award, for my book, Reclaiming The Soil.
My autobiography took over ten years to write and complete, so any acknowledgment is incredibly emotional and hard-hitting. The African Authors Awards​ falls under the banner of the AfriCAN child your child is now (ACYTIN).
AfriCAN child your time is now Pty Ltd (ACYTIN) was established in 2018 by award-winning entrepreneur, author, ​and international speaker Anthea Thyssen-Ambursley. She has been in business for 11 years and after having a son she has decided to focus more on social enterprising and partnerships, to create a sustainable, more added value and impact to the transformation of inequality in South Africa and Africa.
The Vision
To unite, transform and reinvent the future of our continent.
The Mission
–  Through partnerships developing literacy and preserving the culture of storytelling. 

–  Supporting local self-published authors. 

–  Promoting unity by developing a curiosity for different languages and the exploration of 
different cultures across the continent. 

–  Creating a platform for women to develop economic strength and design legacy. 
-  To transform AfriCAN’T mentality to an AfriCAN mindset through innovative problem-solving​. 

–  Ensuring clarity of vision for All AfriCANS. 
“Feed a Mind” Project 
Vision 
To improve literacy on the continent by creating children authors and promoting African representation in stories. 
Mission 

–  For every child on the African continent to read and see themselves in books. 
-  Identity, representation, ​and inclusion are needed to transform our children’s mindsets on the 
continent. 

–  To distribute 1m books and black dolls by 2030 to schools and communities within South 
Africa. 

–  To run annual writing skills workshops for children aged 6-10 years within all the provinces. 

–  To have “Feed a Mind” reading clubs in each province managed by churches, libraries or 
volunteers in the community. 


AfriCAN Authors Awards
Vision
To honour children’s authors, self-publishing, “car boot selling” and children authors.
Mission
–  Promoting ordinary people’s stories. 

–  Share stories of healing, unity, ​and restoration. 

–  Dismantle superficial boundaries. 

–  Encourage travel and exploration on the continent. 

–  Become an event held annually to be celebrated on the African continent in all countries. 


How can you get involved?
– Be part of the company’s initiative to distribute books and black dolls to children and girls in South Africa and Africa. 

– Become a volunteer, ambassador, patron, partner or angel investor. 

– Pledge a book to an African child per month. 

– Pledge an amount per month to support the​ ​ initiative. 

– Become an ambassador and assist us collecting stories in all 
provinces once a year. 

– Assist us with our workshops for kids across the country. 


Banking details: 

Account name: African child your time is now.

Bank: Standard Bank South Africa

Account nr: 013594176

Account type: Enterprise Autobank Plusplan

Branch code: 012645

Branch: Centurion

International SWIFT address: SBZA ZA JJ
Ref nr: CompanyName or NameSurname

Visit their website today: http://www.acytin.org.za or e-mail us at​ info@acytin.org.za.
We invite you to help build our children creating their own future!

Women’s​ month 2018.

My three passions in, life are women, Africa, and the arts. I live for actively campaigning for women rights, issue, and empowerment. Over the past years, I have cringed when we approach August as in South Africa, the month is supposed to be dedicated to women as we celebrate Women’s Day on 9 August. I believe that we should acknowledge our successes but I cringe at the fact of​ how the message and meaning​ have​​ changed. It has become a time for certain government departments and​ corporates to suddenly organise pink tea parties, and dedicate the time to flowers and frills. I cringe at​​ the messaging sent out seems to assume that women are only about flowers, tea and feeling pretty. My concern is that many​ of these companies, government institutions do not have secure gender equality initiatives in place, many do not take sexual harassment seriously and often overlook rape and abuse reports, often siding with the perpetrator and labeling​​g the survivor as unstable and questionable.

This year, we started the month with The Total shutdown nationwide march:

Taken from their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/449268378857683/about/

On the 1st of August 2018, a day that marks the beginning of women’s month, women from all sectors of South Africa will shut down the country in protest against gender-based violence.
Women in Lesotho and Botswana will also form part of the mass action.
We have nothing to celebrate. Every week we receive multiple reports of women who have been brutally murdered, kidnapped, or abused, and there is no sense of urgency from our leaders to find ways in which society can tackle this violence.
Women, children, gender non-conforming people (GNC), and the LGBTQIA+ keep dying at the hands of men in South Africa and something needs to be done.
This is a national crisis. We call on all women to stay away from work and join the protest on the 1st of August 2018 in their respective provinces, Universities, and colleges.
A memorandum of demands will be handed over to the ​government on the day of the shutdown with clear actions. Further information will be shared about the protest action over the following weeks.

We saw women across the country, in Lesotho and Botswana, taking to the streets demanding​ our rights.

As we make strides and continue we are often taken back by insincere individuals who do not understand the impact that rape has on individuals and society. Rape and all forms of abuse need to be seen as a trauma, this​ trauma can lead to many other issues such as PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) anxiety, depression, suicide, fibromyalgia and many others.
For centuries society has placed the blame on the survivors, statements such as:

She asked for it.
What was she wearing?
Boys will be boys.
How can a husband rape his wife?
He has apologised

In many cases,​ the survivor’s​ sexual history and past have been put on display and use as an argument to justify the crime. Another common fact is that convicted​​ rapists and abusers​ are often celebrated​, like we saw with Brickz, who has been convicted of Rape, invited perform at an event.

The organiser of the event, Perfecta Khumalo, tried to justify their actions but basically stating that money is more important than ethics.:

There was a lot of outrage over this but this just proves our point on how people choose to protect​ the perpetrators​​s and how many of them are women. I do believe​ that we should​ give credit when its due. In this case,​ I wish​ to salute TransaAfrica Radio.net for removing themselves from the event as stated by their CEO Busi Ntuli, the CEO of TransAfricaradio.net automatically took the lead and removed​ her station as one of the sponsors.

Another glorified abuser is Mududuzi Manana.
I fail to see him as a legend!

So the question still remains​, can we really celebrate when we do no​t have equal rights, we live in fear and we cannot rely on the officials who are supposed to protect​ us.
The struggle continues, Aluta Continua!

If you need assistance​ please contact us at http://www.powa.co.za

-End