The term safe space generally means “a place or environment in which a person or category of people can feel confident that they will not be exposed to discrimination, criticism, harassment or any other emotional or physical harm.” (Oxford Dictionary).
When somebody shares a traumatic experience with you, appreciate that space. Many victims take time to speak out for several reasons. Society is quick to mock and criticise those that speak out. Our community often question their credibility. It is common for perpetrators and their supporters to gaslight the person and make them believe that the trauma is their fault. All of these actions and more fall under the terminology known as Rape Culture.
“Rape Culture is an environment in which rape is prevalent and in which sexual violence against women is normalized and excused in the media and popular culture. Rape culture is perpetuated through the use of misogynistic language, the objectification of women’s bodies, and the glamorization of sexual violence, thereby creating a society that disregards women’s rights and safety.”
When somebody finds the courage to speak, listen and give respect to that space.
Consent:
GBV happens against consent. If you want to tape the conversation, make sure the victim/survivor is aware of the recording and has permitted you to share the details and recording.
Confidentiality is one of the essential elements that lead to an increased sense of security for survivors. Sharing their trauma without consent is a further violation.
Speaking out takes a tremendous amount of strength but do not confuse that strength. Sharing one journey does not equip anyone for the public scrutiny that follows. Public opinion can be brutal, and if the perpetrator is powerful or connected politically, it can have even more dangerous effects on the psyche and well being of the victim/survivor. It does not matter if the person is an activist, man or child.
In 2018, I was invited into a safe space to share my trauma. I believed that stakeholders would respect that. I soon discovered the planner shared some of the information on a public platform. The posting is a violation of the safe space. This action created additional trauma for myself and other survivors in the room, which led to mental breakdowns for some of us.
GBV has been a pandemic for centuries, and we all need to do our bit in combating it. We need to listen and be gentle with others and ourselves. Read and listen to those that have done the research and groundwork. Have the respect and understanding that it involves feelings, psyche and emotions. Humans are hurt and need healing. Healing is different for everyone, and there is no time limit. Respect each other
Whilst I was living and working in Uganda in 2016, I met Sheilah as I headed the productions and programming and acquisitions department for NTV Uganda and helped launch specific programs for Spark TV effectively. Sheilah was one of my on-air talents for two of the highest ranked TV shows, The Beat and The Style project.
Fast forward to 2021 after a much-needed sabbatical, Sheilah has returned to our screens.
In February 2021, Multichoice launched Honey TV. The content includes a new cooking show, “House Of Chefs”. The channel had its eye on collaborating with Sheilah. We made the necessary introductions, and the negotiations began. We were ecstatic when the channel had decided to choose her as the official host of the show. Before we knew it, Sheilah arrived in Cape Town to start the next phase of her journey. During the pre-production phase, the channel announced the celebrity chef. The multi-award-winning international culinary expert and author, Siba Mtongana. Siba is the judge and will choose the winner. https://sibamtongana.com
House Of Chefs. Eight young trainee cooks from Ghana, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zambia compete for a coveted internship. The winner will work closely with the legendary chef and author at her restaurant, located in a prime spot in Cape Town. The journey is to explore and uplift African food to new heights in the fine-dining space. It is the opportunity of a lifetime for any budding chef.
The show contestants are Ingrid Musabe (26, Rwanda), Ruth Buliamu (26, Congo), Tobe Onyenyeonwu (21, Nigeria), Joseph Odoom (26, Ghana), Les Sempele (27, Kenya), Thabo Phake (24, South Africa), Merry Ziringa (23, DRC), Kalaba Chikamba (21, Zambia).
House of Chefs premieres on 13 August 2021 (DStv 173). The Head of Marketing at MultiChoice Uganda, Colin Asiimwe, said, “MultiChoice Uganda is excited to announce this show launch as it reaffirms our commitment to bring great entertainment and top-class talent from across the continent to our customers. DStv Uganda customers will now enjoy riveting show content hosted by one of our own to enjoy and relish.”
Sheilah working her magic on set.
The Martinelli synergy.
“The Little Stunner” is way more than a TV personality but a media mogul in Africa, with her tiny toes in many big lucrative business deals. In 2020, Joris Family Distribution SMC LTD – Importers of Martinellis Wine launched their 3 Sparkling wine premium bottles. They proudly announced Sheilah Gashumba to serve as its first-ever brand ambassador in their on-net and off-net promotional campaigns in East Africa.
Sheilah stated that “I’ve always set the bar high for myself with everything I do, but to now be a brand ambassador for Martinellis , it feels like a new level. To me, the Martinellis brand stands for both truthfulness and expressiveness. I’m excited to help define what that means to all generations.”
Yokuku In 2020, Sheilah signed an ambassadorial deal with Yo Kuku, one of the largest producers and marketers of chicken in East Africa.
With the new show and ambassadorship deals, spending most of her time between Kampala and Johannesburg, we will be embarking on several other collaborations within the entertainment space, fine dining and women empowerment.
To collaborate with us or to book Sheilah, contact us rosie@wakaagency.biz
Follow us on all social media platforms and learn about our other Pan African talent. Waka Talent Agency at present as a footprint in 14 African countries. http://www.wakaagency.biz
It is time for us to speak up about unpaid labour in the arts and activism.
My career in media started over 25 years ago and 20 years working in the activism space. I started as a TV presenter and actor, and we believed that we needed to work on many projects for free as it was vital for our brand. PR and marketing people would always push the notion that they had invited VIP’s and high profile people, and our presence could lead to other work and projects. I believed this for many years until I started to see that I undervalued myself and my time. What I found interesting is how angry people suddenly got when I began to set boundaries, adding terms and conditions to my contacts, asking about the usage, coverage and stopping further exploitation.
Working in the activism space is a different journey. I embarked on activism as it has always been a calling. It was a calling that I knew would help with my healing and possibly help others. I needed to understand my confusion after abuse and see how we could change that narrative. In 2003, I completed my primary training through an intensive training course with a local NGO. I was trained and, work in counselling, court preparations with victims/survivors, accompanying people to court and police stations and creating awareness. These jobs and activities I do on my account. I am now a registered counsellor and life coach and have opened a practice to combine this work, offering pro bono counselling sessions to those that cannot afford it.
Like my media work, I am invited into spaces to share my intellectual property, experiences, challenges and fears. This work extends into speaking engagements and facilitating work, and clients expect us to work for free under the banner of women empowerment or giving back. Some clients believe that as we are activists, we must do additional work for free. These attitudes and narratives need to change. I often laugh at how this term, ‘women empowerment or ‘giving back, is thrown around, yet many want to put restrictions and demands on us. How is that empowering? We have the right to give back in our way, and nobody has the right to make demands on how we do so. I have written on the topic many times and spoken on my podcast platforms. My famous line to clients who say that I should do it as a way of giving back and a form of women empowerment- you cannot empower women by disempowering another woman.
My sister/comrade/client Dr Bev Ditsie said in a recent interview that during Women’s months, many women in the entertainment industry don’t work as events are handed to men under the facade that they are giving women a rest. The irony is that many of us in entertainment have suffered financially. Many of us deal with sexism, homophobia, transphobia and biphobia daily. There are still unequal pay structures in the workplace which is disempowering. So the question is, how can we rest with so much emotional and additional trauma?
Over the years, I have worked with international human rights bodies, and several of these bodies understand the need for remunerations. Several institutions do not have huge budgets but will offer an honorarium as a thank you and validation that they see us and respect our agency and time. It is disappointing when other agencies state that they do not have a budget for speakers, facilitators or thought leaders. The same spaces have a budget for international consultants and firms but cannot respect an activist or artist. An activist is a person who is an expert in their field and provides another form of consultancy, whilst an artist contributes a service. I have argued this with many of these agencies. If their policies stated that they do not pay artists, it is hypocritical since they run campaigns, programs that speak to women in the unpaid labour in other sectors. We cannot apply a rule to one sector of the population and ignore others. The reality is that the organisers and some representatives have primary jobs where they receive salaries. Speaking, facilitating and activism is the only job for many. Activists do a lot of groundwork for free, often ostracised, their safety at stake, should not be expected to do additional work in corporate and global spaces. When launching these campaigns and platforms, it is at events, panels that require speakers and entertainers. I get it, as including a global brand onto your resume adds value but is that fake accolade enough when you are hungry.
In 2019, I engaged with one of these agencies, who tried to make me work for free on a project. The work required many hours of my time, research, intellectual property and then facilitating a discussion. The representative said I should do the gig to prove myself? I reminded him of my many years of experience and asked why I should prove myself. I used their previous event as a reference where they hired a man with less experience than myself and paid him his rate. Was he asked to prove himself?
Covid-19 has disrupted the whole world and further inconvenienced womxn and the LGBTQI+ community. We have all had to change our way of working, thinking and operating. It is time for human rights bodies, productions and broadcasters to discard their old way of thinking. We are in a crisis. Creating gender equality includes acknowledging and seeing everyone. Forcing unpaid labour is another form of slavery.
When SA lockdown was announced, our entertainment industry shut down and those that do not have political ties or commercial contracts, suffered the most as the gig economy came to a standstill.
For decades we have seen talented artisans dying poor and then given huge memorials and accolades at their burials. As much as this is necessary we need to adopt the culture of supporting and respecting creatives whilst they are still alive. The new age of social media and content creation has changed the game, which is great but it has opened up a platform for mediocrity and popularity to dominate the space. A few years back, I had an altercation with a producer over a casting. My agency was casting for a local drama and the producers gave me the contract to look for suitable and experienced talent. We conducted a huge casting session and when I brought back the audition materials, my suggestions, the producers then said that they had earmarked certain celebrities to play the specific roles. Not only was this unfair on the actors who took their time, money and effort to work hard and attend the auditions, but these so-called celebrities also did not audition, have never had any training and the decision was made on their social media following. I lost the battle with a few talents but fought hard on certain leads, demanding that everyone come in and audition. Once given the space and the opportunity to improvise and do character development, the producers and the channel realised that that social media following does not equate to talent. Certain individuals showed that their talent and range is limited, they could not break down a script, failed in breathing techniques and were very bland in delivery. My heart still goes out to that talent who had used their finances to catch public transport, learn lines and attend the auditions with the hope of fulfilling their dreams. It is that group of creatives, who have suffered the most during the lockdown. Many applied for funding through various apartments, some of us received a once-off payment of a few thousand rands, which in my case, I was able to provide groceries and supplies for my mother. However, many have not been as successful and then some have been given millions of rands, as they have political affiliations and we know how patriarchy works.
This week, the musician, Chicco, wrote an open letter to the known abuser, Arthur Mafokate, please see below.
At the beginning of March, the opera singer Sibongile Mngoma staged a sit-in at The National Arts Council requesting answers about the presidential employment stimulus programme (Pesp). This was set at R300 Million. The NAC council have suspended the CEO Rosemary Mangope and CFO Clifton Changfoot pending an investigation about the management of the R300m Pesp. Julie Diphofa has been appointed as the acting CEO, who has been a senior official at the NAC for over 20 years and Reshma Bhoola as the acting CFO.
As activists, we have made contact with Sis Sibongile and tried to provide support where we can but in reality, we know that the guilty parties will not be held accountable.
This week was such a sombre moment for me, as I attended the memorial service of the late Noxolo ‘Noxee’ Maqashalala. This phenomenal artist and creative passed away a few weeks back. The beautiful ceremony was held in the downstairs theatre at the Market Theatre. Due to time constraints, I could only attend a few hours of the memorial, which had been planned for the full day.
I had the opportunity of meeting Noxee, whilst working in the film Hotel Rwanda in 2004. On one of the shoot days, we shared a dressing room. Although our interaction was brief, I loved her warm nature and honesty on many topics around women in our industry and following our dreams. I followed her career for many years and as it was stated at the memorial service, her work was so underrated and she deserved so many more accolades as an actor and producer, but unfortunately, this did not happen whilst she was alive. Rolie, Nikiwe, one of South Africa’s prolific filmmakers and writers, gave a beautiful send-off, reiterating my sentiments. He also pointed out that mental health in the industry is real and now with Covid-19, we need to look out for search other. The minister fo arts and culture was due to speak later on in the day but I had to leave. On walking to the parking, I was able to join a few warriors who were protesting outside the NAC, regarding the mismanagement of the PESP funds.
The irony of two of the placards read- RIP. WILL YOU ONLY CARE ABOUT US IN MEMORIAM? and another… NATHI MUST FALL.
This chilling experience came minutes after it was spoken about at a memorial of an artist, who did not receive the right recognition when she was alive.
So what is the next step? Denying starving artists access to funding is another form of financial abuse. Awarding wealthy and connected artists, with millions of rands, whilst others suffer and die in silence is violence in itself.
If the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture must fall, do we have a suitable candidate, who understands our industry and will have our best interests at heart? We know he has a lack of knowlegde regrading GBV but are there other people who will really help. What can we do to save the indutry?
This festive season, my partner and I opted to spend Christmas with our respective families and then a quiet night in for New Year’s eve. As much as we thought we had a break as we went into January, the covid fatigue had a permanent space in our lives.
Two weeks into January, I received a text message from my partner asking if I was up for a cosy weekend, of course, I said yes, then I was asked to pack our bags for a weekend getaway. Feeling absolute ecstatic, I packed our bags, and we set off on our surprise location. Approximately 45 minutes later, we arrived at Thabo Eco Hotel, situated in the Klipriviersberg nature reserve.
On arrival, the security guard did the necessary security and covid checks, and we drove up to the parking area. At the reception, we were met by a peaceful, tranquil space with friendly and accommodating staff. Check-in was quick, and the friendly staff explained in detail, what was on offer and the new regulations as per covid government regulations. Our stay was when South Africa was under the new curfew, so the restaurant would serve dinner early as closing time had changed. We arrived late afternoon, and we had not eaten lunch, so the arrangement suited us fine as we were planning on having an early dinner.
Our room: The decor is magnificent, spacious and set amid the bush. We had a small balcony, that was large enough for a patio table and two chairs, with a lovely view of the property and surrounding landscape. The king-size bed faced another open window which to had a great glimpse of the surrounding landscape. We were delightfully surprised to find that the drinks (non-alcoholic) and snacks, plus the coffees and teas, were all complimentary and were stocked daily.
Our bathroom equipped with a large shower, bath and twin basins, towelling gowns and the necessary toiletries. The toilet is separate.
Our daily adventures: After a good nights sleep, we woke up early and went on a great hike. The hiking trail started on the top end of the property, with rocky mountain terrain and vegetation. We were lucky to capture some wildlife as well as pass several cyclists. The trails are accessible from outside the reserve, so day trips are available. We explored the spa that at the top of the farm, next to the hiking trail. ‘Sinzinani Spa’ has a breathtaking view and has a menu of various beauty and relaxing treatments.
Next to the rooms, there is an open gym area where we could stretch after the hike. We had a power shower with perfect power pressure and then dashed to breakfast.
What we ate: Breakfast served in the same restaurant as dinner. The waitrons were incredibly efficient despite the fact they were understaffed. They tried their best to attend to their tables, but there is so much a human can do. The restaurant was the only negative part of our stay. Perhaps the establishment should hire more waitrons to assist during breakfast, what added to the tension was the constant shouting and swearing which came from the kitchen. We discovered the loud abuse came from the chef. I have never understood why chefs find it necessary to shout and belittle staff in a restaurant. Unfortunately, his verbal abuse heard throughout the restaurant. Our waiter was apologetic about the situation. We ensured that they received personal tips for their sterling work. I ate the delicious homemade Granola with fresh fruit, and my partner had the eggs, bacon and avocado. Unfortuabntaly that was cold. The following day we had the french toast and Granola.
Our adventures continued.
The rest of the day included walking through the beautiful myriads, pathways and secret gardens. The garden landscaping and rock features had small features attached and some with written scriptures or stories.
On arrival we had pre-ordered a picnic basket, so around 14h30 the porter collected us and drove us to a private little garden, where we could enjoy our picnic feast. Our picnic basket included plates of wraps, salads, chicken, meat and fish dishes as well as decadent desserts. It was so worth our money and we had enough food leftover which we had for dinner on our patio that night. We also had an ice bucket of soft drink and no-alcoholic beverages.
We spent the better part of the day enjoying the outside before it began to drizzle. We then finished up on our balcony, followed by a lovely afternoon siesta.
For sundowners, we went to the sundeck and enjoyed delicious mocktails. We had the Pina Colada, and a non alcoholic beer. We were able to enjoy the sunset and reflect on our wonderful stay.
The following morning, we checked out, went for breakfast. Unfortunately, the waitrons were still understaffed, but we managed to get a warm breakfast.
After that, we went on a game drive (approximately two and a half hours) which was the perfect end to a spectacular weekend. Our guide is well-read on the farm’s vegetation, fauna and flora. We stopped for a light beverage and enjoyed the space with the farm’s wildlife.
The escape from the city, fresh air and pampering are what our souls needed.
Letsatsi Healing space offers tailored programmes, to humans seeking healing, support, validation, growth and next-level performance in their work. The programmes are suitable for victims/survivors of GBV, humans who suffer from PTSD, humans who need life coaching, focusing on relationships and career or a mixture of all the above. The programmes are led by Rosie Motene.
At present Letsatsi Healing space, offers the following programmes.
1. The Validation programme
(Depending on availability and resources, these sessions can be offered on a pro bono basis)
Your pain is valid.
Speaking out against GBV is never easy, and as history has dictated, many victims/survivors choose not to speak out for their reasons. This program is for those who have lived with the hidden trauma and wish to find a space to speak out, have somebody listen and believe them and try and find mechanisms to help them cope.
The sessions offer a safe and confidential space. The sessions include guidance and counselling. The applicant will receive breathing and relaxation methods and mechanisms to cope through the trauma and PTSD. Included in this package are dietary suggestions as well as lifestyle changes to cope with the added trauma.
Additional services in this programme include:
Assistance with opening a protection order.
Finding a lawyer (pro bono or paid)
Finding a safe house or shelter
Referral to institutions that can provide more intensive psychiatric advice and support.
2. The Discovery programme
The Discovery programme offers intensive, high-impact coaching interventions. This programme is for steering the client towards higher value in the workplace, assist is start-up businesses or if the person has faced a period in their life when they require a complete change in career or work. The aim is to discover your hidden talents and skills to succeed in their work and career.
The programme’s duration is 12 to 16 weeks, with a check-in every quarter, thereafter for up to a year.
The programme is suitable for professionals, filmmakers or entertainment proprietors seeking a comprehensive programme to address their most pressing issues.
3.Feel the sun again.
Designed for humans who have suffered any form of GBV or PTSD and need to change careers or work environments. In many cases after trauma, individuals struggle to cope in their work environments, especially if the trauma took place at work. The fact is, everybody reacts differently to trauma. The entertainment industry does not have concrete approaches to sexual harassment and abuse at work. South African labour laws do not support independent contractors or freelancers. In previous cases, victims/survivors have to work with their perpetrators. Some businesses choose to overlook or not report sexual harassment and misconduct.
The program takes place in approximately five stages.
Creates a safe space for the client to identify their trauma and then find ways of healing.
Find mechanisms that help one cope with the pain.
Is the work environment, a safe space to continue the healing or is it triggering? The client will identify the triggers and then seek to find realistic short term and long term solutions.
The stage will be dependent if the client wishes to find a new job or career or find new ways of working that fall in line with the healing methods.
This stage is optional, should the applicant wish to go the legal route in opening a case against their perpetrator.
Due to Covid-19 regulations, the programmes are only amiable online via Zoom or Skype conference calls.
Who is Rosie Motene?
Rosie Motene is a Queer Pan African Media proprietor, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Arts (Honours) from the University of the Witwatersrand.
Rosie operates as a Queer feminist author, activist, speaker voice over artist and a Pan African entertainment manager.
She founded the first Pan African talent agency, Waka Talent agency.
Her career has extended for over 25 years, an award-winning actor, TV and radio presenter, TV and film producer.
Rosie is an accredited international laughter and life coach.
Rosie completed the three month intensive training course to equip her on the following: Counselling Public awareness and training volunteer Activism Court preparation
2003
Multichoice
The Producer and director course
2006
Laughing Yoga
Rosie is an accredited laughing yoga coach
2011
NFVF- National film and video foundation
Producers course
2012
TriFocus academy
Life Coaching
2020
UN Women online course
I Know Gender Modules 1 to 9
2020
Dr. Karen E Wells- CTAA – Complementary Therapists Accredited Association
Professional Counselling Diploma for Sexual Abuse
2020
Dr. Karen E Wells- CTAA – Complementary Therapists Accredited Association
Full accredited professional PTSD counselling Diploma
2020
Don Kropp
Certificate for Providing Trauma informed care
2020
Rosie Motene is a registered trademark under the South African: Trademark Application for ROSIE MOTENE (word mark) + visual representation in class 14 as well as class 16 and 41, physical representation
On my platforms, I always share that my passions in life are womxn, Africa and the arts. We know that before COVID-19, we faced a crisis and that’s is of gender-based violence. Under the GBV platform, we also need to understand the level of financial abuse that happens in many forms, from making somebody work and not paying them, controlling somebodies finances, the list is endless. We underestimate the reality that home care is work, in many homes, an aunt or grandmother takes care of the children, home chores, cooks. They too deserve to be paid. When we move into the corporate space, we know that there is a significant difference in what men earn as opposed to what women receive, from entry-level to CEO level. The entertainment industry is no different. Many survivors have lost work and been blocked from future work as they have spoken out on abuse or irregularities that happen in the industry and on sets, they are ostracised. With the loss of events and gigs, artists and entertainers have lost an income altogether, and as we do not fall under SA labour laws, we are not covered or protected, even though we have been paying our taxes.
So as history has dictated, womxn are often left to pick up the scraps and make ends meet. Look at our mothers or grandmothers struggles, and there are endless stories are of how women have put their children through school by selling and doing multiple jobs, such as hawkers or those selling fresh produce. Activism work is not respected, and on many occasions, it is expected of us to provide corporates and government with content regarding the issues that we fight for, this exchange is often likely to be pro bono or as many corporate states it is part of the CSI (corporate social investment). Unfortunately, many of us do not operate from a place of privilege, and therefore the work is still working and is our livelihood, and we should be paid for our intellectual property, time and content.
So as we brave the uncertain future, we have to operate on a different frequency. Myself and many of my warriors have to find additional streams of income. PR and advertising have coined the phrase; we are moving into a new normal, let us prioritise those in need and make it ‘normal’ to support them. I have formulated a brief list of where we can assist a few warriors, myself included.
Poz Candy Yvette Raphael sells head scarfs and masks, which have been made by retired grandmothers. The collections include a bouquet of table sets all beautifully crafted with African prints. Pieces of African print are also available for the manufacture of wraps, dress and other items for ware. Whatsapp number +27 76 612 7704
Pictures of their work.
The Ntethelelo foundation. Thokozani Ndaba is the founder of the Ntetheleo foundation. Due to the lockdown regulations, this community has been significantly affected and is need of many resources from sanitary ware for the ladies, basic household necessities, data for the children to get their homework. Their contacts details are thokozani@ntethelelofoundation.org.za More on their work – https://rosiemoteneblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/25/ntethelelo-mastering-the-art-of-forgiveness/
Kgomotso Matsunyane is the founder of One Man studios, a studio space to rent for dance and rehearsal, photography and videography, exhibition and co-hosting space. They have also created an area called ‘Die Urban Padstal’. On designated dates, they host a space for entrepreneurs to come and sell their locally made and produced items. Contact details 8 Rogers Street, Selby. Lebo@oneman.co.za
Loyiso Saliso Womxn and human rights activist, HIV, SGBV and SRHR advocate, researcher, intersectional feminist and facilitator. The founder of Khanyisa Ikamva projects. Their main objective is to empower and assist marginalised womxn and youth with academic, psychological, economic and social development. Ivs.khanyisaikamva@yahoo.com
Waka Talent Agency I founded Waka Talent agency in 2011. I have a footprint in 14 African countries that include SA, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria, DRC, Angola, Gabon, Lesotho, Botswana, Liberia. Many of our contacts cancelled as productions stopped due to the travel bans. We now focus on our talent working in the digital space. We have a bouquet of elite TV presenters and speakers who can host and moderate webinars. Many of our clients are brand ambassadors and are perfect choices for influencer campaigns as well as digital marketing. Between our clientele of talent, we can produce voice-over work in languages, Swahili, Nigerian pidgin, Ghanaian pidgin, Luganda, Yoruba, Igbo, Se Tswana, English, French and Angolan Portuguese. http://www.wakaagency.biz
Website address
#WeAreDoneTalking #Sueusall #Tellyourtruth
Before the Covid-19 pandemic, South Africa faced a crisis of its own, and that is gender-based violence. Johannesburg is named the rape capital of the world, and we have an alarmingly high rate of femicide. In 2018, a collective of activists, NGO’s and academics issued our government with #24demands on what should happen about that crisis, they were accepted, but there has been no change. A few months later, the same activists and citizens invited the president to the first Gender summit, on stage, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, openly stated that we as a nation are in a crisis.
Over the decades, Intersectional Wom_n and Queer Bodies held protests, written essays and challenged our courts, yet our legal system does not support or protect those who speak out. When people speak out on their abuse, they are often intimidated, undermined, or publicly gaslighted; this is mainly when the alleged perpetrator is a public figure or wealthy. They then use their male privilege to silence survivors through PR campaigns and influential lawyers, who secure and granted urgent court applications. In many cases, the survivor has to deal with the emotional trauma, the public scrutiny, and in some cases, even loses their jobs, then they have to face the injustice at the courts. We have witnessed that these alleged violators have used these tactics of defamation of character and court papers, knowing that the police and judicial system does not support survivors.
The hashtag, #SueUsAll #WeAreDoneTalking is a public statement, confirming solidarity with survivors who have received lawyers letters with the hope of silencing them and causing additional trauma.
They are collating a list of lawyers, counsellors and organisations that can provide psycho-social support. They are open to creating partnerships that could assist in providing funding and support to those in need. Contact wearedonetalking@gmail.com Twitter @wearedonetalki1 Facebook: WeAre Donetalking Instagram: @wearedonetalking
Information
The Cheeky Natives.
Logo
The Cheeky Natives is a literary podcast primarily focused on the review, curatorship and archiving of black literature. They also sell and distribute african literature and have assited in helping many local authors in selling and promoting their work. They offer moderating panels and written intrviews with authors and much much more.
At the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of us started to take the necessary precautions. Before the South African lockdown was announced and changed our lives, I had moved my office to my living room, and began self-distancing. We only went to the shops for the essentials, and then we started using the various shopping apps. I was one of the people who sanitise my feet and shopping bags on entering my apartment; I thought I was doing everything right, or so I thought.
In mid-June, the temperatures in Johannesburg dropped at the onset of a cold front. It was unfortunate as that was also the day that we had a 24-hour blackout in our area and therefore had no access to warmth besides from bedclothes. After that day, my partner and I started to feel a little ill with flu-like symptoms. Nothing serious, so we dosed with the necessary flu medication and stayed indoors. Within a day, my body aches had decreased, but I had developed a chesty cough. I was not too concerned as the information that I had found regarding Covid-19 spoke to a dry cough. A few days later, my partner, who still had minor flu-like symptoms, had a hunch and insisted on going to a doctor. So I accompanied them to our closest GP, instructed through their medical aid. On arrival, The doctor then explained that she was sitting in for the official GP. The GP was staying away from the practice due to Covid-19 regulations as he was over 60 years of age. We were not too concerned until the substitute doctor did not use the medical apparatus and used an ordinary household torch to look at my partner’s throat and ears. We explained the symptoms and the doctor said we do not have the Coronavirus. Fortunately, my partner needed additional blood tests for dietary requirements, and we requested the necessary forms, we proceeded to a lab for testing.
Our laboratory experiences.
We went to our closest lab, and on arrival, we thought since we were there, my partner would get tested. The following day, we called the lab to see when the results would be out, and they could not locate the tests. We soon discovered that they had taken down my partner’s ID number and physical address incorrectly. We were concerned at the laboratory’s inefficacy to record information correctly; we rectified their mistakes and waited. After we remedied that, we received a call and confirmation that my partner had tested positive and the person on the other line stated that since we live together, I should come in immediately and get tested. The following day I went in. On arrival, one of the lab assistants came and asked me why I was there as I was not sick, I informed her of my symptoms and told her that her colleague had instructed me to come in as my partner had tested positive, she said it was not necessary. I ignored her and stayed in the queue.
That night, my partner and I spoke about the realities of me being positive and if the odd possibility of me being negative, we planned how we would temporarily change our living arrangements. We contacted our medical friends and family, particularly those who had survived after being infected and those who had treated COVID patients. We received lists and suggestions and then made the online order and stocked up the necessary items.
Two days later, my tests results came back positive, by the way after disocvering that the lab had also messed up my deatils. We now had to try and shift our mindsets into being realistic to our emotions, heal, be there for each other but also plan accordingly.
I will speak to the emotional rollercoaster, later, but this became our daily routine for two weeks.
Steam twice a day with Vicks and eucalyptus oil. Find a suitable bowl, fill it with boiling water, add a spoon full of Vicks vapour rub and a few drops of eucalyptus oil. Put your head over the bowl and cover yourself with a heavy blanket. At first, it is daunting, but soon we got used to it. The steaming helps with the chest, lungs and coughing. We did this for 15 minutes at a time and twice a day, morning and evening.
Rinse out your mouth 3 to 5 times a day with warm saltwater.
Vitamin D- We could not locate any vitamin D, so we opted for direct sunlight every day for about an hour.
Vitamin C- We took Vitamin C 1000 mg effervescent, twice a day. We ate 3 to 5 oranges a day.
Zinc. We could not locate zinc tablets, so we opted for foods that had a high dosage of Zinc. These included beans, samp, chicken legs oatmeal and various vegetables.
We only ate warm food and drank warm drinks. These varied from ginger tea, while getting our sunlight in the morning to boiling ginger, garlic and lemon and drinking throughout the day.
Sleeping- I slept on my tummy, over a pillow with a hot water bottle underneath. According to an MD, this assists with the chest and lungs.
Medicines- Acc 2000 for the cough. Linctagon flu caps and sachets. Sinutab for the headache. No antibiotics.
Mobility is important. So we did moderate exercise, this was more difficult for me as I struggled with my breath and chest area. So I gave myself goals and monitor my progress. The day, I was able to make it down the stairs, without losing my breathing and coughing heavily, I rewarded myself with a dance. There were several breathing exercises that we did.
Rest, rest and rest. Due to the anxiety and pain, we had many restless nights. We would often wake up and check on each others breathing, and heartburn played a significant role. One evening I also vomited. So if we needed to sleep during the day, we allowed for that.
The emotional rollercoaster.
As much as we needed the information, we had to detach from social media and news reports. Many days, I prayed and gave gratitude that although the pandemic and cut off an income for myself and my business, I was still living and operating from a place of privilege. I have a loving partner, I live in a safe home, and we had access to resources to provide us with the necessary meds and food, and we had friends and family who assisted with additional drop-offs. As much as I held onto that gratitude, there were a few days and hours that I was angry, that I cursed the deadly virus, I owned the anger and pain and then accepted the next emotions. One day I went into commando mode, checked up on my life policy and will and contacted my cousin, who will handle my estate, to tell her and inform her of my wishes, should it come to that. In 2018, my cousin had passed away and did not leave any instructions of his policies, will etc. During that time, a few family members and I had to look through his documents so to find policy numbers and will. I remember saying to myself that I would not want that to happen to me.
A week later, we showed signs of improvement; the only worrying factor was my breathing and coughing. We had regained our sense of taste and smell. After the 14 days isolation period, my partner was healed and was cleared for work. My process took a little longer. My body was still weak, I could breathe at approximately 80%, but I still had a bad cough. As my doctor said, the 14-day isolation period is to get one through the worst, but the virus could live in our bodies for months after and that I should still take precaution. That would explain why some times, I am healthy and other days; I have coughing sprees and difficulty breathing. The COVID mushy brain, which inlcuded slight loss of memory and biref moments of cunfusion took some time, but I think its gone.
There are other areas of my body that did still do not feel right. I had dry patches between my toes and fingers. My friend Thokozani stated, she can feel that her organs are now operating differently. It is difficult to explain, but some days are good, and some days a few ailments return. As a doctor put it, we now have to operate with COVID Lungs, which are very unpredictable. Some days, I’m healthy and fit, and other days, the heavy closed feeling covers my chest area. I have set new goals for my ‘COVID lungs. These include getting around the zoo lake without breaks. Before Covid-19, this I did without any difficulty. So this week I embarked on the journey but had many stops as my COVID lungs reminded me to test drive in a different gear. With the pauses, God whispered to me, to take note of the beauty around, the magnificent autumn leaves, sunset and that I am alive to witness it all.
It is now four weeks after my isolation period, I have a minor cough and on the odd occasion a coughing spree and running nose with excessive sneezing. I then sit in the sun and take additional vitamins.
We have started to wean ourselves off the vitamins n so our bodies can build up resistance and I have opted to take daily natural tonic, that has been mixed by my healer, Attaqua Ethel Williams Herandien. You can find her on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/ethel.abrahamse
So where to from here? We still live in gratitude, are we free from contracting the virus again, who knows, how long will it be around for, who knows. All I can share is that we approach life, how we spend our time, differently and embrace our emotions.
A special thank you for all the prayers, love, assistance. Thank you for the deliveries, calls and message. Thank you to Nativa products for sending the Linctagon hamper, it was much appreciated.
Link to my Youtube channel, this was recorded just after our isolation period.
I want to send prayers and wishes to those who are still ill or in bereavement, especially to those who don’t have the privileges as we have had. I pray that our government do what’s right and provide all with the dignity and right to adequate health care. I pray for reliable mental health facilities and an overhaul of our medical institutions.
My three passions in life are Women, Africa, and the arts. A few weeks back we stood in solidarity with the warriors in Malawi, who decided to take a stand against gender-based violence. I reached out to the organizers to see how as a Pan African feminists we could show solidarity and try and help create awareness for the amazing work that they are doing.
I was led to a powerful young force, named Ulemu Hannah Kanyongolo. Ulemu, meaning ‘Respect’ is a 22-year-old feminist, she is the founder and president of the Young Feminists Network, a network which serves as a platform for young feminists to engage in dialogue and activism for social justice. The Network currently has 66 members with chapters in 3 cities; Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Zomba. With such a powerful name, she can only receive the respect she deserves as she works on being the change that is needed in the world.
Ulemu Hannah Kanyongolo
Through our work as activists, we are all faced with many challenges, regarding our safety, which is governed by policies and laws, that have been set out according to patriarchal principles. In Malawi, the situation is no different, as feminists, particularly the young feminists, one of the major challenges they face is the misconceptions about feminism. As Ulemu stated, ‘a lot of people seem to misunderstand what feminism is and what it seeks to achieve, some because they lack access to information and others because they don’t agree with feminism and deliberately misrepresent it at any given chance. Such misconceptions include the fact that feminism is a movement that seeks to get rid of men or to make women more dominant than men. This ignores the basic premise of feminism which recognizes the oppression women have faced since time immemorial and seeks to deconstruct the patriarchy which upholds this marginalization of women’.
She went on to say that, ‘people believe feminism is unAfrikan. However, this is also a misconception. Although the theories and conceptualizations of feminism may have originated in the West, acts of resistance to the patriarchy have existed in Afrika for centuries. Therefore, it isn’t anything new. ‘
Within the activism space, whether you are based in Africa or the USA, funding is always an issue, and of course in Malawi, it is no different. A lot of funding opportunities apply to registered organizations only, which makes it hard for informal feminist movements to get funding for their operations.
The Malawi women in March 2020.
On 1st February 2020, the Young Feminists Network in collaboration with PEPETA (an online community of young female SRHR activists from DRC, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe) and over 20 other organizations and individuals organized the “Take It To The Streets” march against VAWG (violence against women) in Malawi. When we go up against the patriarchy, we are always met with resistance, in their case they were denied police protection from the relevant authorities and this was a major obstacle because this effectively meant the march couldn’t take place. Like, true warriors, they did not let this minor obstacle stop them from pushing ahead, they could not hold an official march so they were able to mobilize large numbers and in Blantyre they held a rally, in Lilongwe and Mzuzu they managed to march regardless.
Despite all the deliberate hiccups, in the end, they still managed to achieve their goal of raising awareness on the issues and calling for action from various stakeholders.
The PanAfrican warriors from Zambia, Kenya, and SA, showed solidarity with them through social media and various press. This also brought attention to a sexual assault case, in Blantyre. They were able to set up a time and visited a warrior, Vanessa Chilanga. Vanessa is a woman who was sexually assaulted by a gang of men in Blantyre. She was visited and they are currently creating platforms and strategies to help and support her and other survivors.
What can we do?
We need solidarity with our warriors from across the world, particularly on our continent. To assist the Young Feminists Network or the feminist movement in Malawi in general, please continue to follow their work and stand in solidarity with them and help amplify their voices by sharing what is happening.
As we know International women’s day is approaching so strategic collaboration would also be great and essential. Do you have any platforms, events or stages that we could collaborate on?
Let us get the conversation started. We can start small, with our feminists in the SADC region, we are all in the same time zones, so what is stopping us?
How to get in contact with The Young Feminist Network in Malawi-
Instagram @yfn265
Twitter @yfn265
My three passions in life are Women, Africa, and the arts. In 2019, I attended the Ugandan Feminist forum where I had the opportunity to meet and work with some of Uganda’s powerful warriors who are advocating for change. One lady was Ms Kyomya Macklean, the executive director for the Alliance of Women Advocating for Change (AWAC). She is also a social Worker & Champion of the sex worker Movement in Uganda
The Alliance of Women Advocating for Change (AWAC) is a network of grassroots female sex worker led-organizations in Uganda. The NGO was established in 2015 by the champions of the female sex worker movement to promote meaningful involvement and collective organizing of rural & peri-urban Female Sex Workers (FSWs), especially those operating in hard to reach areas such as slum areas, landing sites, transit routes. It was established to enable rural & peri-urban based grassroots FSWs to live free from human rights abuse to live healthy and productive lives in Uganda.
AWAC Core Values:
* Mutual Respect and Integrity.
* Empowerment and Meaningfully involvement
* Transparency and Accountability
* Evidence-based programming and human rights-based approach
* Innovation and Excellence
AWAC’s Objectives
* To promote and raise awareness on the welfare needs of sex workers and also advocate for policies that further the health and values of sex workers; These rights include the right to health and a safe working environment free from abuse, violence, and discrimination in Uganda.
* Strengthening a vibrant national and sustainable sex workers’ movement in Uganda.
* Mobilizing and organizing sex workers for policy advocacy and facilitative opportunities for the voices of sex workers to be heard in relevant forums both at a national and international level.
* Developing and sustaining linkages between service providers, sex worker organizations and relevant stakeholders to provide practical information and opportunities for quality services and information sharing among sex worker organizations and projects which provide services to sex workers.
* To economically empower grassroots rural and peri-urban FSWs to diversify their income and improve their social-economic well-being in Uganda.
* To provide social protection, psychosocial support, and mental health needs to children of FSWs engaged in sex work in Uganda.
* To undertake research and document human rights abuses experienced by grassroots FSWs engaged in sex work for evidence-based programming, advocacy and policy change in Uganda.
AWAC is governed by a Female only board of five members. They have wide experience in corporate governance. They have various professional backgrounds ranging from human rights, medicine, financial management, gender and HIV programming, and a sex worker community representative with a wealth of lived experiences in grassroots advocacy. The organisation is headed by the Executive Director and directly supported by five marshalled and indigenous staff including Advocacy and communication Manager, Research and knowledge management Manager, Programs Manager, Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL) and Business Development Manager and the Finance and Administrative Manager. The above staff have impeccable experience in leadership, resource mobilization, strategic planning, policy and advocacy, collaboration, networking, and partnerships building, economic empowerment, mental health management (counseling and psychotherapy), OVC case management/ child protection), Gender-Based Violence prevention and management, HIV and sexual reproductive health and rights programming, documentation, research, and learning.
The core business of AWAC is to improve the health and socio-economic well-being of vulnerable women especially female sex workers including those facing multiple forms of vulnerabilities such as those living with disabilities. Additionally, WAC targets children of female sex workers living in destitute conditions and adolescent young girls engaged in sex work. They work to mobilize and multi-skill them through mentorship/coaching, functional adult literacy, safe space dialogues to increase their self-esteem and improve health-seeking behavior, raise financial literacy and improve livelihood and overall socio-economic well-being through a variety of income-generating activities such as hair salons, retail shops, shoemaking, catering, craft making, tailoring, theatre for development among others. They also advocate for the protection of rights and equitable access to services for vulnerable women. They work with various organizations that serve as referral points for services that it does not directly offer. These include health units, social welfare departments of government, law enforcement officers, non-governmental organizations and other donor-funded projects.
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