Mbali Zulu’s Unfair Disqualification on Big Brother Mzantsi

I was so ecstatic when it was announced that Big Brother Mzantsi will be back on air after 12 years of not broadcasting. We all know when Biggie graces our TV screens, other programmes take the back seat. Despite the controversy due to the nature of the show, Big Brother does wonders to the careers of his contestants.

 With all that out of the way let me get into the reason why I saw it fitting to write this post. I was quite surprised when Jenayne’s didn’t jump for joy when Biggie announced Mbali’s mishap of forfeiting his rules. She never made Mbali’s stay easy, something that was even felt by other chambermates. Nku even suggested that he sits with jay and find a way of resolving the evident personal issues between them before they spiral out of control. And Mbali bluntly refused because he knew Jay wouldn’t agree but promised to try.

 From my understanding and what I watched Jay had hots for Mbali and the feeling was mutual but was restrained by her outside relationship to ‘Gavan’ and often talked about it at irrelevant times as if she was consoling herself and sent endless shout outs to him reminding him to campaign for her(which was cool by the way).

Mbali’s departure honestly didn’t surprise me and I even wanted to draft this post after the altercation he had with Iris but suppressed my thoughts and kinder hoped Biggie was going to be lenient in punishing him. And sort of play the clips that showed ladies ‘provoking’ him with their dares. Jay made it her sole purpose at the Chamber house to discredit Mbali with every chance she got. Maybe she saw him as a strong competitor because the bro mingled and laughed freely with his mates. That was eventually proven when Mbali left.

The house wasn’t the same again. I believe his absence wasn’t only felt by us the viewers or his supporters but the chambermates themselves. The strap was crazy with comments disapproving of Jaynen’s tendency of manipulating situations to discredit Mbali. And come out as the caring person that has everyone’s best interest at heart whilst she just wanted to advance her chances of going to the main house. (And that wasn’t a problem because everyone wanted to be upgraded but the manner which was done in wasn’t right).

In reminiscent ofwhat he said on his dairy sessions, when Biggie asked him what his role in the house is and he replied by saying he is the motivator and man he effortlessly cheered the mates whenever they were down and assumed leadership positions whenever they were given tasks. He even accommodated Iris and spoke isiZulu as it was an open secret that Iris struggled a bit in expressing herself fluently in English. And that to me isn’t something to be ashamed of because it is our reality here in South Africa.

 Not all of us were fortunate enough to attend the best schools and I think that’s the reason Mandla mocked it and said English is not our Mother. I for one don’t think you can give/reward people with alcohol and expect them to be on their best behaviour as if they drank a ‘Junky’ especially in a confined space. Bagaetsothis by NO means disregards what Mbali did but I think what happened to him was unfortunate and could have been prevented in my opinion though he said to Nku “maybe this is how it was designed”.

 Like Thabo Mokwele like saying at the end of his show, “Keep shining” and be the flower you were meant to be. I must admit I liked his composure when he was told he had few minutes to sort his things out, it reminded me of O’Neal’s eviction. He was so calm and in control of the situation.

Celebs Who Lost Weight Last Year

I imagine one of the most difficult things in living your life under the watchful eye of thousands of supporters is going through personal stuff with them beside you. With the advancement of media and sometimes inaccurate gossip columns, theyare privy to information about youand ready to give an opinion on how you should live your life. It doesn’t matter whether you are interested on what they are going to say or not the work that you do dictates such.

Vathiswa

 Media is known to be unkind to big women and to make matters worse they are often portrayed in a negative way. But it should be comforting knowing that the most influential and wealthiest Black woman in the world, Oprah Winfrey isn’t immune to weight woes and harshness from ‘concerned’ fans. Home Affairs, Shooting stars, Generations (she had relevant cameo role, as mamfundisi, back in the KhensaniMoroka days) actress and radio presenter


Vathiswa Ndara has amazingly shed some pounds off. And my wish for you woman is to show it all off. The yummy dark beauty, Zabalaza actress Mbali Ntulihas lost some few kilograms incredibly. You can actually see she has followed the right measures and wasrewarded with a beautiful toned body in return. Women who don’t have much weight to lose often look horrible after embarking on that journey. You honestly don’t see that in her. Keep it up girl. Like her fellow Zabalaza colleagueMbali, ZandileMsuthwanawas never big but has shed some unwanted fat too.

Mama Ruby/Slindile announced in a reputable magazine early last year that she plans on kissing her big self goodbye. But like Gospel singer HlengiweMhlaba who lost … we don’t really see the difference in their before and after hitting the gym pics. To your consolation ladies I’m also battling with my own weight issues. It’s not easy being fuller figured (size 10) but you inspire me to push harder and squat my cellulite away. Maar AusieHlengiwe, I don’t think people judge slightly overweight women who eat ice cream boo. That’s insane, if they side eye you for indulging every now and then in a hot Johannesburg day suwara sana.

Pearl

 Pearl Modiade who presents Zaziwa and Mzantsi insider has lost a noticeable amount of weight but I like the voluptuous Pearl who used to go by the name “The Real Black Pearl” but dropped it after the equally stunning Pearl Thusi hijacked it. (That Proverb and Prokidkinda beef). Gosh it feels like I’m perpetuating a rumour. Forgive me ladies. But that’s not for me to decide what suites her best. I was tempted bazalwane to list those who look horrible with their new weight, but that is plainnasty. And I would have loved to include guys in this list but y’all ain’t losing weight my bros except for Bouga love and his Bootcamp peeps. Great work guys.

Y’all Still Wrecking Homes?

This isn’t a new subject but it affects our societies badly. Something needs to be done or said. If we keep quiet and do nothing about it, kids will grow up thinking it’s normal for a married man to have a side chick. 

With kids’ growing tendency of idolising celebrities who aren’t really role models but people who are still finding themselves and some losing themselves, it’s hard to just watch and not say a thing! They have seen how the SenzoMeyiwa and Kelly Khumalo drama unfolded and how Kelly shamelessly showed off her baby bump.

Marriage is a blessing from God and the institution needs to be respected. And we can only show respect by not being a side chick and meddling into things bigger than us. You might ask whyare we expected to respect something whilst the very same people who should be honouring and protecting it are the ones luring young innocent girls with expensive gifts. The answer is simple do not fall into the trap of joining losers in their misery. Love and respect yourself enough to shield your soul from unwanted baggages that will do you no good. We all know they won’t leave their spouses for you. Even if they do please don’t be the reason of a failed marriage. Yes things were probably going wrong long before you came into picture but distance yourself from such situations.

Let’s be the new breed that doesn’t rely on men for financial assistance. Let’s not find solace in destroying other people’s lives. Don’t be the person to “shakeup” people’s marriages. If they have problems and need a distraction the counsellors’ room should be the first step not you. I was so thrown back by my friend’s response to a discussion we had. He boldly confessed that he would openly cheat to his wife and she should be okay with it. I was even stunned by the way he said it and how he told us a story of his cheating grandfather and the pain he caused his grandmother. This is a university student better off a Christian. Ndamatsheka!

So many TV shows have been created, magazine articles written to make us aware of the dangers of getting involved with married person but nothing seem to reach our ears. We’ve of its consequences but no one dares to stop. Like sir Isaacs Newton says to every action there is a reaction. You will give an account to God for actions. Phalakahle.

When to Compensate

People generally struggle with compensation. Some overcompensate to make up for lost time or to fill a void. Others do not even bother with compensating for what needs to be compensated. Either way compensation needs to continue regardless of our understanding. There are some instances where I feel people are just abusing being reimbursed for example a family I know lost their bread winner after he was ‘mistakenly’ shot by a wealthy man. They decided to settle the matter out of court and agreed that the man must deposit a substantial amount of money to that family every month instead of going to jail for murder. The rumour was that it wasn’t his first time and he just pays people off. I faulted the unemployed family because your circumstances can’t force you to turn a blind eye like that. I know even the harshest sentencing won’t bring your loved one back but you can’t be taken advantage of. It is understandable for parents who wants to be paid (intlawulo) by a boy who impregnated their daughter out of wedlock. Culturally that reinforces respect and builds friendship between the two families in a clean slate. Child feels acknowledged. And children will grow up knowing they cannot do as they please with their bodies whilst they still depend on their parents. It served as your conscience and had to own up. It goes out without saying for road accident victims. They need to be refunded to pay for medical bills and the expense the accident might have cost. Same applies for those who got arrested wrongfully. Not only did they lost time to make money, be there for their families, they probably have emotionally scars that can’t be fixed but can only be compensated.

Precious Kofi A Stay at Home Mom

Precious with her son on her back

We came to know her as a vibrant, petite model, presenter,and actress from Cape Town that rocked Afro like no one’s business.
She exited the TV world gracefully by presenting and producing Precious Africa. A show where she travelled Africa and showed us the most historic places in our continent like Mali’s Timbuktu and the ancient churches in Ethiopia.

But lately I’ve been touched by her outlook on life and her positivity in general. She paused from the bussle and hustle that comes with the entertainment industry and got married and moved with her hubby to America where she stays with her in-laws. And has a one year old baby boy.

What intrigues me the most about her is her maturity and her grasp of what it truly means to ‘do you’. Some of her colleagues from the entertainment industry are probably drowning in debt trying to impress their peers but yena she lives a total different life.

 There are many lessons to be learnt from her. She had a promising career and once you’ve reached where she was, it is only expected of you to break new grounds and be the IT but she shunned it all or so I think. Ungathi she has found her purpose and true self.

 Facts About Precious

•  Bay of Plenty (Actress) 
•  Keeping it Real with Precious (Presenter)
•  Game show on SABC (Presenter)
•  EMS Music show with Wright Ngubeni (Presenter)

My Eastern Cape Experience

I have decided to honour my promise

and blog about my experience of spending four full years in the rural part of the Eastern Cape. And it’s only fitting to write it whilst I’m still on my December holiday in this beautiful land of my intimates. My stay wasn’t planned. I was supposed to study in East London but I had misplaced my report and understandably I couldn’t enrol at a city school on time so I ended up attending the village school. They accepted me with the agreement that my old school would reprint my report card. I’m not going to lie having an aunt that practises her teaching profession there smoothed the entire process. With all that sorted out I could be seen with my new uniform and forward self in the assembly with other kids but I wasn’t singing my lungs out like the rest of them. Back in my previous school in Cape Town, in Gugulethu to be precise, we didn’t sing like them. Later on I would learn it’s not only the singing that’s not alike but the education is a little inferior too. They had a small section in a corner of a classroom that was known as the library and good Samaritans would donate books every now and then. So one Friday afternoon we were called out to polish one mud-built classroom with mud mixed with cow dung (uRhida). Like expected I was lost. I didn’t know what to do with myself. So I just stood aside and watched tjo that was a huge mistake on my side as that draw the attention of one most feared teacher there. She rudely told me to go get fresh cow dung and help out. It’s then it dawned on me that my life has changed. Did I mention that they still practised corporal punishment and they’d assig boys to get a stick/cane in the nearby bushes? In Cape Town, teachers feared beating children because of a law that abolished such harsh punishment. It was often mocked as umthethokaMandela. Adapting at home wasn’t hard. My village is electrified and has running tap water so fetching water from the river was out of question. We occasionally collected wood from the forest. And I enjoyed doing so and I remember my first inyada was so big and I couldn’teven lift it higher than my shoulders and had to embarrassingly remove some wood to make it lighter. I remember my aunt asking meif I’ve stayed in a village before. Mdanstane where I spent some of my adolescent years isn’t a village. There is a book I later read and related with in High School called Comfort Herself. She was orphaned at an early stage in her life and had to stay at an orphanage and later with her grandparents at a different setting but she easily adapted. That was me but the difference is the fact that my father is still alive and I never stayed at an orphanage. Her resilience saw her surviving in new environments and that’s me.Thanks to my upbringing in the Eastern Cape, you can throw me in a deep end and I will learn quietly how to swim like a pro.

Malibongwe Gcwabe's Latest Offering Disappointing?

Malibongwe Gcwabe’s 15 track album titled Akahluleki is a bit underwhelming or I expected so much from him. He is one of the most gifted isiXhosa lyricist and composer. He’s tendency of praying between his songs, touches the soul. Even during the Youth With Mission days you could see he is destined for greatness. Although his private life in the past years has left our tongues wagging. His first wife Lutho publicly announced her splitting ways from this gospel sensation. Rumours of infidelity and allegedly raping a relative were splashed all over. To our dismay he did a turn around and announced his resignation from pastoring at the Assemblies of God and opened his church, The Remnant of God (Intsalela kaThixo ngesixhosa sasekhaya). But I love his arrangement, he prepared our minds with a sweet soothing hymn, Praise the Lord followed by his title akahluleki that’s sounds a bit like Mxolisi Mbethe’s Ayikho engenzekiyo and got us dancing with Abambonanga. Another turnoff is the fact that he allowed his not vocally strong back-ups to sing, it could have been better if he just featured them or hear his voice steering us back to him. Akahluleki is Malibonge’s 20th offering.  

Money Matters: Thinking Out Loud

We live in a world where we are encouraged to voice our thoughts freely but they aren’t really welcomed even by those who encourage us to speak up.

Who are you, where you from (ingane kabana le *in Kenneth Nkosi’s voice*) is always a factor.  No-one is interested on what you gonna say if you don’t have a famous surname or you not in the showbiz or hold a prominent job.

What bugs me the most is seeing people who say Tamkhulu Rolihlahla Mandela is their role model and you don’t see an inch of Tamkhulu’s trait in them. We all know he embodied humility, love and respect for people regardless of their backgrounds.  So if you say to me he inspires you, I at least expect you to emulate ubuntu bakhe and fall short on the rest ke.

We are a materialistic generation that worships those who have already made it. Maybe we think it would rub off on us, shame!

I'm a bit confused or lost to be precise. It’s human nature to take what flatters you and leave inyani ikujongesweni than doing the right thing.

It’s more of show me what you've got before you speak. We are bullied into silence. It's like you are not expected to know right from wrong if you not financially stable. People tend to value those who have money more.

I'm a vocal being. You can't say something I disagree with and expect me shut up (unless the Holy Ghost tells me to) but I found myself withdrawing from pointless arguments and unhealthy debates especially when I see peeps are abusing their authority.

I wish I could just scream and tell people to grow up and treat human beings equally. Not based on the digit on people’s bank account nani nani. God the father created us in His image and likeness that’s enough for us to love, support and respect each other.

Anyway ibukukucinga nje apha kum!!!

Bits and Pieces From Zola's Interview

I liked Zola's interview on uMhlobo wenene Izolo elingapha kwelinye. And I like to share with you guys what touched me the most from his dliwanondlebe.

UBonginkosi Thuthukani ka Dlamini posed an interesting question about who controls the media.

There is an astounding number if not all of tabloids owned by White people with a majority of Blacks in their payroll ruining people’s reputation. Yazi nawe if it doesn’t bleed, it doesn’t sell. Before we denounce this brother as bitter due to his now 'faded' star and his whack ‘come back’ controversies, can we please Mzontsundu take into consideration what he said and not look at the messenger but the message.

Zola talked about Black Ownership of media houses and how important it is for us to own our production and not just be the face.

He went on to mention how most Black celebrities would be portraying le life of opulence and great riches #SkhothaneTendencies whilst they don't entirely own what they are selling.

 

Few weeks ago social networks were all buzzing with the story of tata Don Mlangeni who plays Zebedee in Isidingo. 'Zeb' apparently refused to recommend a reputable bank during one of his acting scenes, citing extortion.

 Tatu’Mlangeni’s ordeal validates Zola’s assertions on media. Most wouldn’t really come out and admit experiencing the same fate kuba they are afraid of being labelled as forward. Some think it’s the right way of building their resume`s.

 I have a dream of us Blacks supporting each other’s movement and seeing each other prosper.  If you are in a position to promote or share someone’s hustle do so with an open heart and see God blessing you in return.

For sure we all want to know what our celebrities are up to but we shouldn’t publish or even blog defamatory stories or twist the truth just to sell or have blog-hits but if you are tripping my bro your people should know.

VUKA DARKIE!!!!

 

 

Musa Sukwene An Idol Yes or No?

I didn't want to pen this because I feared my partiality might skyrocket. I’m Team Musa through and through. The chilled soulful dude from Witbank can sing.

Out of the three it's him that makes me tune in every Sunday to watch Idols SA. 

Like any reality TV show that is viewed by millions of people who have different opinions and who think they know who the possible winner is,  Idols is no different.

Most of the reviews I have read are pointing to Brenden Ledwaba's direction.  Mind you almost everyone mentions the fact that Musa's vocal abilities are stronger than the two guys.

Musa's weight is postulated as the barrier between him and the prize. My question is if Musa Sukwene's weight is a problem why let the guy go through with the show and have him give his all kanti he's not the desired Idol?

Shouldn't the competition requirements zithi if you weigh this much don't bother entering.

I know it's 'entirely' up to voters to decide who they will crown as the winner but the judge's comments sort of guides us.  Why mount tons of complements to 'Ben10' and how the ladies at home are feeling him nani nani. Aren't they supposed to be neutral?

Y'all best believe me when I say they are hyping him and I won't be surprised if he's their winner Musa and Sonke are just KHAPHING him.   

Seemingly it's not really a singing competition but who can seduce South Africa. 

Generally I love people who have a natural flair to express themselves. You don't have to push hard to be heard. Your voice or pen or whatever form of art you could use to communicate your thoughts means you have gained a supporter kum. I'm a sucker for talent.

 And I have been listening to Via Orlando a lot lately it's one of the best renditions by Musa.

No this is his best. Can't make up my mind coz he's that good. i love your music bro.  In the meantime let’s keep on voting 09 to 37400 and vote online every hour maybe there is justice in the idol world.

Peace out!!!

Satisfied with What You Have?

Is there a part where we humans say we have enough like I have everything I need and I'm fine with what's on my plate?

Seemingly we emulate the giraffe in so many ways, you have a lot going for you but still you are eying what's not yours.

Take the Guptas for example they have everything money affords but still they want to control everything. Can't we be grateful for the little or  big that we have.

Elokshin yazi nawe there is this unneeded competition of always wanting to outshine your neighbour at all cost and forgetting on focusing on the most important free things in life.

I for one I try not to be trapped on this rat race and the desire of wanting more and more. A number of people live beyond their means even the credit bureau shem has forgotten their debts.  

I know ‘DO YOU’ has become a cliché but I think it’s the only way out really.

To me it makes sense to compete with yourself and strive to outdo your previous achievement and not measure your accomplishments with others.

Someone on facebook said something so profound - "jealous is when you count someone's blessings instead of yours" and I couldn't  have said it better !!

So man, don't lose your purpose lana emhlabeni by living someone's life and helping them realise their dreams by constantly reminding them by forever showing up with what they want or striving for.

Do I make sense?!

I was contemplating whether to post this as a note on facebook or lana so ja... I wrote this four or five months ago.

Smallbody, Big Personalit​y Sidudla Ke mang?!

Naturally we all have figures. Whether you are fuller figured like Beyoncé who reportedly admitted that she has to excise extensively to maintain that perfect black barbie shape of hers.

Some people are apple shaped or hour glass (like me). This shouldn't matter but we should buy clothes that fit our bodies well. Chill ngwanesu nobody died and made me Noni Gasa, a  famous stylist. Andazi if I won't be making a blanket statement when I say every woman has experienced weight woes.

Growing up, I was the skinny and bony one. I struggled so hard with the transition of turning to a voluptuous fuller figured woman (34) in my early twenties. And I tried torhwana eating less but that didn't last and drinking 8 glasses of water wasn't practical for me as I love my juice gxebe Cabana.

There is nothing unflattering as seeing a woman with love handles wearing a tight muscle top or a woman with a sagging belly wearing a cropped top with a vest underneath. Wear clothes that accentuate your best features like your African assets (hips and behind). Take time to dress your temple. Please don't torture yourself with wanting someone's petite body. Work with what you have.

Please, please. I beg. Stop wearing figure belts. They clearly do not serve their purpose. With South Africa listed among the top fattest countries in the world, healthy eating should be our priority. Don’t down everything in your sight bosisi bam.

I am not an attention seeker nani nani but I like it when I step into a room eyes starts rolling. It gives me that I have arrived moment. And every woman out there needs that moment. You just can’t walk into a room with your tail in between your legs ngathi yinja ebe amaqanda. You aren't a nobody my dear.

NB: I am always subject to correction Bathong feel free correct me, though I blog what I like :P

Us And Disable Children

I watched a white family walking freely with their disabled little girl and I stopped and said if only the same could be done by my people.

Honesty it’s rare to see a black family loving and protecting a child living with a disability. You are likely to find a child isolated and not given the special treatment they need.

The White child I saw had her wheel-chair wheels decorated with cartoons and she was genuinely happy and wasn’t portraying something that is not happening at home.

I know my people aren't well resourced and moneyed like most White people but we should nje love love and love our children.

I was so hurt a year ago by a story published by Move! magazine about a number of unemployed women in the Eastern Cape who purposely harmed their unborn babies by drinking poison to deform their fetuses. Kuba they wanted to cash on the social grant for disabled people to feed their drinking habit.

I don’t want to say may God strike by lighting those who molest and abuse children living with disabilities maar something needs to be done. People have become vultures phandl’apha. 

How do you even begin with forcing yourself on someone who is vulnerable and is not in a position to protect themselves.

We are taking ten steps backwards bakithi when we stigmatizeillnesses and disabilities. I know it’s not easy to live or even accept a child living with a disability  but there’s a method in God’s madness, you should never mistake being blessed with a disabled child as a curse God knew that you’d be perfectly fit to raise a child. AmaXhosa asekhaya athi: “Indlovu ayisindwa ngumboko wayo.”

Stars Fighting Fertility Issues

Before you yawn let me tell you this ‘gentle sister,’ this post isn't about Generation's Dineo Mashaba a magazine editor who can't fall pregnant and is pulling all stops to give her cheating husband an heir. This is real life, real stories and phenomenal women who amid tough times managed to entertain and educate us through their respective jobs.           

Rockville actress and producer Connie Ferguson that we grew up watching portraying wealthy Karabo Moroka for years has had her ovaries removed. Connie has come out strong and I can say life is good for her and her follow acting hubby Shona Ferguson and their two daughters. By the way Shona’s mother is Xhosa. *rolling eyes*

Former beauty queen turned businesswoman and The Link presenter Lerato Kganyago has recently had two fibroids that were size of a tennis ball removed from the wall of her womb. She revealed on Zaziwa that though this decreases her chances of conceiving she believes all things are possible and she would love to have kids of her own one day with Moroka Swallows footballer Katlego Mashego.

 

Nthabi  Mphahlele actress famous for playing Muvhango's mad Meiki who married her sweetheart early this year journalist Dennis Tau opened up to Real Magazine about an excruciating pain she had to live with as young person. The inflicting pain is said to put her conceiving chances at a risk.

These gorgeous women are a testament of not allowing your situation to dictate your life. They didn't sit down and wondered why them, but have embraced their womanhood and didn’t hide behind their celebrity status.

 

 

To Tag or Not To Tag?

I do not want to sound like a Twitter cop because for someone like me with two followers my right to brag is non-existent. Excuse me for not moving on with the times, LOL!

 

I get really worked up when people who hold influential positions misuse them. It just gets to me. Even the ones who want to gain popularity by being 'bitchy'.

 

I don't know how one feels when they bring others down. We are not the same vele some are sensitive, others don't give a Tugela river! We just need to learn to respect each other qha ke!

 

I am as nosy as they come but getting my hands all muddy and dirty with people I claim to care about doesn't make sense. So when you tweet trash about someone why do you feel the need to tag them?

 

What are you hoping to achieve, we all fool around and have our preferences but why the need to shove it at people's face. Is it attention seeking or trying to be cool among your peers at someone's expense?!

 

I have read the two letters that were sent to Khaya Dlanga anonymously by women who were voicing out their frustrations after dumping their cheating boyfriends  . At the end of both letters I more was worried about the women who wrote them rather than the so called losers. The anger that we direct to some people is actually the window that gives people an idea about our bitterness.

 

I for one don't even have the guts to tag someone when I have said something good about them because I don't want them to think I'm buying their faces or looking for a retweet. That's just me and my pride.

 

Then there are those who try to water down the negativity that some folks have NYONYOBAD on Twitter by saying we shouldn't take anything that happens there seriously.  C’mon! Our Tweets are an indication of what's going on your head so please nantsika!

Hashtag SeeYourLife!

Five Black Men to Look Up to

I have decided to compile a list of influential people whose career path is worth following and supporting.

If you have taken time and read my blog you would know that I love the entertainment industry. I strongly believe in giving people the recognition they deserve, yeah man we ought to celebrate our fellow black men who are making a difference out there. We can't over look their efforts to change our society.

The first one has to be Zibanani Madumo also known as Oneal, though I came to know of him through Big Brother Africa the Chase. Nje ngesiqhelo I snooped around, did a background check on him. Oneal is rapper, a club and radio DJ currently based in Botswana but plans on moving to eMzantsi to broaden his horizons.

 He was raised in an impoverished and notorious township called Phikwe. His road to stardom wasn’t served to him on a silver platter as he had to beg radio stations to give him a chance. On Big Brother he narrated his story on how he used to sleep on a studio awaiting any opportunity that would come along for him to seize the moment. He also explained how reading books helped improve his communication skills. He’s often quoted by his BBA supporters as saying “he is a rose that grew in concrete.”

He is currently raising funds for project he is working on to get young people to read. And I’m crossing fingers that results into him penning an autobiography.

I don't know what cave have you been living in if you don't know who Sbusiso Leope  is. At

36 he has achieved so much, born and bred in Tembisa. Sbu, the number one knocks man as he is affectionately known, is not only a partner to South Africa's most successful record company, TS Records. Which is home to the internationally-recognised star, Zahara who took the entertainment industry by storm when her debut album Loliwe sold out. Dj Sbu is also a radio and TV presenter as well as the president of SLEF foundation in his many titles. As part of his philanthropic work, he has funded a number of tertiary students. He is set to release his first book on December 02 of which he claims it will focus more on business rather than his personal life.

Khaya Dlanga who hails from Dutyini in Mount Ayliff’ story is like a fairy tale. If you are a believer you'd agree with the Word of God when it says everything works for the good for those who believe.

Khaya left Mdantsane for Mother City, armed with only a R500 and a little bag (in case things didn't work out) but today has several awards under his belt; for best blogger and for his work at Coca Cola. He was part of the initiative, facilitated by Pan MacMillan, called the ‘Youngster’s’ and authored a book titled ‘In My Arrogant Opinion’. His life story proves nothing can stop a determined soul because he started from the bottom now he’s eating the fruit of his sweat.

City Press Pic

Shaka Sisulu, the son of our parliament speaker Max Sisulu and yes, the grandchild of our struggle icons, Walter and Nontsikelelo Sisulu.

Shaka is radio presenter and now is part of the new team deployed to stabilize the ANCYL after the havoc that was caused by EFF founder Julius Juju Malema during his presidency.

He is also part of the ‘Youngster’s’ series and has released a book called 'Becoming'. His aim is to stimulate the youth’s interest in reading.

  It’s not everyday that you find a 30 year old having a booming business, but Sizwe Dhlomo’s made giant footsteps not only in the entertainment industry but his restaurant has made a name for itself.

The former live presenter is also doing well as the dj on Y Fm. Sizwe is not only a CUTIE but a smarty too and Tweeps nicknamed him Dhloogle lol. A search engine of some sort due to his vast knowledge about EVERYTHING.
 

These melanin advantaged brothers as Khaya would say have proven beyond doubt that life in the entertainment industry is not all about glitz and glamour but you have to go an extra mile to get the result and be a blessing along the way.

"Ubuntu mabande bakithi!!!"

Face For What Vele?

It pains me that my sisters and brothers have decided to personify diseases and ungodly practices.

It’s okay to accept that an illness has made your body a host but don't make it yours. Ayinguwe tu kaloku!

It does not and shouldn't define who you are. Do not allow it to limit your abilities.

I was so proud when I saw a woman who has full blown aids wearing a sleeveless top and going about her day.

People tend to stigmatize certain diseases an act like only promiscuous people acquire them.

Andiyazi but we should move away from discriminating people based on what they have contracted. Umntu ngumntu  regardless of an opportunistic illness that made their body a victim.

For years I had asthma and needed to be oxygenated whenever the rainy season loomed. And it took a woman of God at Christian boarding school I attended to free me from 'my chronic illness.'

She asked if I had really accepted Christ if so then my family should testify by seeing Jesus the healer evident in my life.

Bear in mind when she said this, I couldn't breathe and needed my 'oxygen' desperately but her words haunted me and I took it to God in prayer.

Some believe, you can outgrow asthma but I believe it was the finished work of Calvary that healed me. It’s all about stretching your faith.

Doubtlessly I believe in awareness and taking the necessary precautions but we should not humanize diseases. And be okay with being called the face of ... And of ...

Don't brand yourself as the positive one. When you step into a room let's not see you as that woman living with HIV and Aids. You are more than that. You were created in the image and likeness of God. A virgin had to give birth for you to be here. Meaning the impossible had to be made possible for you and I.

Kwaye self-pity is never an option. Stay strong.

You must be wondering, why most of my titles have question marks nhe? Ingxaki I have questions than answers. That I cannot help!!!

Must I Go Nood To Be Heard?!

Maybe I am forever scarred by the brutality that french people shown to Sarah Baartman that I can't appreciate women who parade themselves for a good cause.

My question is do we need to strip naked to be heard? Perhaps I have missed the memo that said in order for women to be equal game players they need to go exotic.

We are people of great influence and every kid out there knows sex sells. If we conform to this, the next generation won't be spared in degrading themselves to secure their social standing.

Parading our bodies in this undignified manner makes us look like loose cannons. There are plenty of ways of retaliating against social ills.

It's good to think outside the box but we shouldn't be the ones perpetuating indecency.

I'm old fashioned. I know but I liked how women in the sixties picketed. They managed to get their voices heard without going all Delilah...

She Shall Be Called A Woman

Women are the most enduring beings ever.

Women can literally put up with anything.
Iyakwazi lanto ufukamela amaqanda abolileyo ngelokufihla ihlazo lomzi walo.

I am always thrown back when people judge women who stay in abusive relationships.

I believe most of them are waiting for that I have had enough moment. And when that moment finally present itself, you better pray you not close by to feel their wrath.

Sadly to some it never comes and they die in the hands of their loved ones.

I can't find it in my heart to forgive that Silvertown woman who allowed old men to do as they lusted in her underage daughter in exchange for a beer.

And the women that do nothing after they have heard how their spouses secretly molested their babies.

Its our duty as women to shield what we love and doubtlessly sacrifice our own happiness to see it blossom into something wonderful.

Having mentioned all this I still pride myself in being a woman in Africa. Though we are not there yet in terms of eradicating  women abuse, human tracking, poverty but I know with the strength that God has bestowed in us we can do it.

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka our first female deputy president is a perfect example of how high we can spread our wings. She was recently appointed  as new UN Women Executive Director.

Is My Hair Too African?

 

Let me partake on this weave and natural hair debate that has never reached any conclusion.

It makes perfect sense for Africans to grow their natural hair.

I'm sure the Westerners are laughing at us now.

Have you seen a white woman putting on a dead black woman's hair? Or rocking a Pitch Black Afro wig?

My primary School teacher often said Ubuhle bentombi zinwele zayo so what happens when you are wearing synthetic or worse Brazilian weave.

Doesn't it bother you that fake hair is mostly sold in Brazil and India where poverty rates is escalating? They are likely encouraged to sell their human hair to make ends meet. Euww!

It's an undeniable fact that the minute you take if off the counter and pay few thousands it becomes yours? Right?!

I don't want to be too religious on you because its not my place but I think we are selling ourselves short.

To me, seeing a black sassy woman in a weave represents a lost generation.

We have detached from who we are and we subconsciously allowed the media to dictate to us what true beauty is.

You are not your hair but its part of who you are.

Love and appreciate the kinky hair you were born with.

Big Brother Africa's Feza Kessy an Underdog?

I wrestled with my thoughts regarding this post. I had to sit myself down and try to understand what is really going on  because I don't  want to get my curious, caring self into something that is bigger than me. But the good outweighed the bad and here I am defending Feza Kessy.

Its crystal clear that as 'adults' we are weary of the decisions we make and their consequences.

Feza Kessy to me represented not only Tanzania on Big Brother Africa8 dubbed the Chase but women at large.

She gave us herself. Though Hakeem Mandaza claimed the diary sessions were edited, I still hold on to that belief that BBA was raw and unscripted.

She didn't go in the house and marketed herself as expected or created a front of what she wanted people to see her as.

One time she admitted that she did not want Africa to see the submissive and vulnerable woman that she is.

In a way she is a mirror of ordinary African women. Not perfect but trying her level best to change herself. She once confessed that if it wasn't for the Word(bible) she wouldn't be as grounded.
I admire and respect women that aren't afraid to be seen at their worst.

To me she epitomized beauty. She didn't bother with pimping herself up because she knew she is naturally beautiful. She is that kind that makes clothes look dashing not the other way around.

The negative comments from people who have never been confined in a room with a bunch of strangers from different countries is a bit too much. Even from former housemates who never let their guards down and admitted that they too pulled strings here and there to up their game.

Its okay not to agree with the way a person conducts herself on international tv but the personal attacks maan, ain't cool. Like the former beauty queen likes saying; its never that serious!!!


On the other hand I liked O’Neal Zibanani Madumo.  Fairly because I saw a part of me in him lol not him being a wordsmith or emotionless.

He is realistic, analytical(which is often confused as gossip) and he doesn't force himself on people. He lives by his motto: “Walk in the room assuming everyone hates you”

And the bro is arrogantly-humble if there is such a word.  I wish he makes a woman out of Feza. Does that mean I condone... I don't know but I sincerely wish them all the best.

And cut the poor guy some slack, he said he is a struggling Christian (before you say, aren't we all? Consider the fact he is actually working on his salvation).

Like Feza, he spoke his mind while fully aware that Africa may not like his utterances. He despised the fear that is instilled in most housemates about West Africa and their reps.

Truthfully if you don't stand for anything, you will fall for everything.

Ngaphakoko BBA is not a reality show, where we should be looking for morals. Having said that I don't want to contradict myself because I support the Christians that boycotted the 'shower hour' that is viewed by VIP holders who paid R70 to see housemates naked.

Oh I must add I liked Bimp and Nando's bromance. And I pray that Nando who was disqaualified last night sorts himself up and he is way too cute (I just had to say that nothing more or less).

I am not vouching for my favourites to win the $300,000 They should go and work for their own. Their mission is accomplished. Africa knows who Feza Kessy is. I liked that priceless moment when the Dj played her song and Oneal asked him to play it back. It was epic. Everyone could attest to when you humble yourself, God will lift you up.

One blood, One love and One Africa *in Bimp's voice* Lungelwa says so!!!

 

Domestic workers - Abomzala

One of the nicest thing about my inservice training was boarding the train with domestic workers.

Man these people are full of life and its safe to say there is never a dull moment when they around.

The story that cracks me up to date is this one:

'Beauty' started working for a new Ngamla and she wrote a to do list on the fridge. As expected Beauty did everything on the list and later went to the kids bedroom to watch movies.  The madam arrived from work to find her on the bedroom with her legs against  the wall, giggling non-mad stop with the kids. The madam bed was not made up and dishes were mounting on the kitchen sink.

Ma'am got so agitated and needed an explanation before sending her to the next taxi to Khayelitsha. Beauty politely took the list off the fridge and told her that she did everything on the list and if she were to check everything is spotless like she asked.

Moral of Beauty's story: Don't tell her what to do. She has been a domestic worker all her life and knows what needs to done. If you don't communicate well with her, she will teach you a lesson.

If like me you judge people based on what they are wearing then you are in for a nasty surprise.

You would swear they work for the government or something.

But some are not that motivated. A mama that I befriended because we worked at the same town, confessed that she keeps the best clothes for church and just wear rags to work. Sad shame.

Tjo some DO NOT want to retire. They are so old that they can't even walk properly. I don't know how they manage to get the job done.

I always lol when others brag about working for a wealthy Mlungu on the Northern Suburbs. Yhe wethu its not your house.

Burial Societies For Celebrities

Death catches all of unexpectedly. No one really prepares for their departure though we are fully aware that we are indeed visitors on this earth.

But what makes people who bank not lesser than 30 grand on a good week not to pay burial societies?

Like I have said before life is nothing but a breath and it is for the living. The minute you gasp the last heavy breath and kiss this earth goodbye. Your book gets stored in the land of those that we will only see on the second coming of our Lord and saviour Jesus the Nazarene. After resurrection that is!!!

I too have contributed to a celebrity's burial. It was one of those cases that the star, now a shadow of their former self is  forced by a record label owner to make his/her last television appearance by begging the public to assist them on mounting health bills which quickly turns into burial assistance as their health sadly deteriorates.

My question though is, you have seen how a number of people who once used the fast lane you like have ended up being buried in government cemeteries  or their family had to go to money lenders uyokuquma elihlazo ulishiyileyo.

Why has it never crossed your mind to pay or save for desperate times?

Retailers, football clubs are now cashing up in the burial industry.  Some people are even saying owning a funeral parlor is good way of making money.

I don't know the clauses of the contract that an artist and a recording company signs but it must be compulsory for both parties to have a written agreement of debiting certain amount of money that will be fixed for the artist's burial.

I know its not easy to pay money for years and not having someone dying but should a person die then it would be of great help.

Plus it would cut some slack those insurance ads that the SABC forces us to watch!

Is It Still Joyous After Joyous Celebration?

I have noticed the trend among Joyous Celebration alumni's of venturing to other genres after serving the choir.

I think it was last year when Nkanyiso Bhengu announced that after years of worshipping God the Father he had decided to sing Disco music.

Apparently he did not want his music to be boxed and wants to reach a wider audience.

Swazi Dlamini did not surprise me when she released a jazz inspired album and even now there is plenty of chilled sounds on her gospel Mino.

Idol winner, Khaya Mthethwa who wowed thousands of South African's last year when he became the first person of color to be crowned as the utmost winner. Juggles both worlds.

Thabo Mduli who describes himself as a fly Christian(I think I am one too lol) offered music lovers a pop album which was slightly different to his previous sound. I mean his music has always been inspired by RnB. I think.

Having not followed Asanda Bam's journey on JC, I was so perplexed to learn that she was once part of the team.

Then there is Sechaba Pali allow me to say he is an embarrassment to the gospel fraternity. Not only was he charged with statutory rape but he allegedly said he thought the 15 year old he had a sexual encounter with was 17.

I say its okay to come clean and admit the fact you are just making money bhuti!

He unearthed shocking news on Drum. He claimed half of the choir on Joyous during his time drank tjo!

I don't want to dismiss his claims altogether but it really posed a serious question. Not only in the choir but to Gospel music as a whole. Is it just business and not element of redemption in their music.

Doubtlessly Lindelani Mkhize, Jabu Hlongwane and Mthunzi Namba changed the gospel scene aphe'khaya but their efforts are plummeted with disgrace.

Generally I avoid being a ladder that faithfully lifts people to their destination but remain in the same place. This doesn't seem to bother gospel peeps anyway that's how I see it!

Not at Church Maan!

The house of God is the bridge between the rich and poor. Its where everyone is equal.

Times are evolving and technology plays a huge role in our lives but I believe the saints shouldn't conform to the standards of this world. In actual fact it must the world copying us Bazalwane.

Preaching from an ipad for me is not ideal.

What happens when the battery dies in the middle of a sermon? Or on your way to a revival notorious kids rob you of your belongings?

A Christian comedian on Thabo Mdluli's show mentioned that if it was today the two stone tablets that Moses held, could have been ipads.

I'm one of those that gladly hold the bible close to my heart when I go to church sort of making my neighbours aware that I'm going to church.

And reading the bible from my phone in the train might lead people into thinking "ndidlala u-facebook."

Maybe I am still stuck in the past. But I love the song that says give me the old time religion. It was good enough for brother Paul and Silas, it is good enough for me.

It pains me when I invite people to church and they decline because they don't have proper clothes. To some extent church services have turned into modeling ramps.

We have forgotten the great commission.  And bible verses that reminds us not to be like the world. I guess that idiom that says if you can't beat them, join them is true to some peeps.

Move! magazine carried articles asking if there should be restrictions on how congregants dress. It was pointed out that you can't dress like you going to a club and one should respect the holy sanctuary.

We shouldn't compete with the world. We are not of the world. One time I rolled my eyes so hard such that my iris tried to pop out. A sis was dissing people who wear fake lashes whilst she was putting on a weave?!! That's a perfect example of judging people who sin differently than you.

You might ask is it a sin to have artificial hair? Read 1 Timothy chapter 2 verse 9

Like Pastor Nathi Mbombela once said Ungaliphuculi ude uliphuncuke!

Becoming A Man The Xhosa Way

This is the most sensitive topic for me but I will try tackling it with all due respect and not offend anyone because that's not what I'm about.

What has driven me to finally blog about this situation is the negativity of how it has been broadcasted by international and local media houses.

Hundreds of initiates 'perishing in Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape' should make headlines as to bring attention to the silent killer. And not condemn the practice.

But what is driving the prospect man to defy all odds and put their lives at risk?

They have heard of people who lose their manhood in the bushes and how Amakhankatha corrupts innocent boys!

Removing the foreskin in hospital is always an option but why most initiates to be, don't consider it?

Coming of age symbolizes a lot of things and it shows that you have moved from one stage to another and its important that one follows the right procedures and not take the easy way out even though it sometimes mean putting your life on a cliff.

Circumcision is our covenant with God you remember when Father Abraham got circumcised on the same day with his son?

Yazi nawe everything that God has made Holy spontaneously work for the good for those who practice it.

It has been scientifically proven that the removal of a foreskin decreases one's chances of acquiring HIV.

We have seen tribes who had previously ignored this old Xhosa custom encouraging their boys to get circumcised.

I know my government does not want to abolish this old tradition but I fear the intervention of the West might corner them as they always do.

By no means do I try to overlook the fact that a number of people have lost their lives. And the fact that many are still nursing psychological and physical scars that have been left by the loss of manhood but let's figure a way of making it work.

Savita Mbuli Fearing For Her Life

It hasn't  been long that the nation bid farewell to witty, charismatic broadcasting legend Vuyo Mbuli but 'stunts' keep surfacing.

Reputable magazines followed Sunday Paper’s trail of telling us how the 'estranged ' wife is living her life and how  she is a publicity seeker anyway I will leave that to your judgement.
As much as I believe the dead should bury the dead and life is for the living with the late Vuyo I kinda bend my own rules. There is always an exception wethu.

But so you know I always support the wife who vowed not only before witnesses, family, friends but to God to stand by her man 'in sickness and health'. I respect that institution man!

It is reported that Savita is now living as a prisoner in her own home after an alleged hitman from Durban informed her of a plot to kill her.

I respected Nomakula Robert’s  decision of not entertaining the rumour that she dated the late vetaran but that later changed when she poured her heart to Heat Magazine.

Maybe she was playing the game and creating hype for her participation Strictly Come Dancing six.

We don't grieve the same way and its important to give one another space.

Trying to understand what is happening Emagcakeni akwaMbuli is out of our reach.  I don't want to go Tyler Perry on you(Preach) but in my not so trained view there is a thin line between public interest and tarnishing peoples reputation!

A good thing though is seeing how  Noleen Maholwana kaSangqu and Basetsana Khumalo are supporting their girlfriend.

I know the picture is not in harmony with the post but I liked it.

Kanye West - Good kid Gone Bad

Kanye West

I am one of those who jammed to Kanye West's Jesus Walks single. I have mad love for Rap or the Spoken Word. It just tickles my fancy.

Some of you are probably rolling your eyes right now wondering what has possessed udade Lol.

College Drop-out was released in 2004 and I accepted the Lion of Judah in 2006 remember?!

With that cleared masingene emxholweni!

Man this kid is talented, He is not a sought-after producer nje, we can't take that away from him can we?!

Yall know satan is an opportunist but one author explained this beautifully. He said if you not filled with the Holy Spirit you are certainly filled with Lucifa.

In simple terms my friend willingly or not lucifa is dancing in your heart and calling the shorts if you dust your bible on sundays only or during funerals.

How did he manage to twist the arm of Donda's one and only baby who once professed "...But if I talk about God my record won't get played Huh?"

When you are vocal about the social ills rest assured that you have made satan your enemy.

He is a smart, patient chap that waste no time in destroying what God has fearfully made.

He firstly sweeps you off your feet by flashing money and a breath-taking future that in your right mind, you can't say No to. Who doesn't want to be wealthy and lack noting? Huh?

More like those evil Madala's that hold influential positions that can make things HAPPEN for you provided that you do them a small favor(you don't want me to mention it, do you?).

I believe this is what happened to Kanye: Whoever controls the media sort of laid rules and made it crystal clear what he expects from his ambassadors.

For example most satanist are forced to kill immediate family members in order to progress in their satanic life.

This is aimed at making them ruthless beings that only want to get the job done and in the process it kills the connection they have with their loved ones. And rely solely to the devil.

One of the prerequisite of illuminati's is to blaspheme God and recruit others in their quest of making this world lawless.

Its a fact that Kanye is no stranger to controversy but what makes him sink so deep into challenging God. I don't want to think he doesn't know what he has gotten himself into. A son of a church counselor knows better.

I dont want to rant about what he has done that makes me believe that he is challenging God. A google search might help you on that one.

A more detailed post about illuminati will follow.