Monday, March 18, 2024

Interview with Jason Mitchell

                 Exploring the Dynamic Landscape of Basketball: Insights from Jason Mitchell

On March 18, 2024, our team had the privilege of sitting down with Jason Mitchell, the esteemed chairperson of the Western Cape Basketball Association. In our engaging discussion, Mitchell provided us with a comprehensive overview of the association's activities, shed light on the surging interest in basketball across South Africa, and unveiled exciting upcoming projects. Notably, we delved into the participation of the under-16 Western Cape basketball team in the prestigious tournament held in Durban.

At the heart of our conversation was the Western Cape Basketball Association (WCBA), an organization spearheaded by Jason Mitchell with the vision of fostering the growth and development of basketball within the Western Cape region. Mitchell outlined the core programs offered by WCBA, highlighting their focus on officiating and coaching. Through provincial basketball officiating clinics and tailored coaching programs, WCBA endeavors to equip both officials and coaches with the necessary skills and knowledge to elevate the standard of basketball in the region.





One of the most compelling aspects of our dialogue with Mitchell was the escalating interest in basketball throughout South Africa. While traditionally overshadowed by sports such as rugby and cricket, basketball has been experiencing a renaissance, captivating the imagination of individuals across demographics. Jason Mitchell attributed this surge in interest to various factors, including the global appeal of the NBA, grassroots initiatives aimed at increasing participation, and the innate excitement and inclusivity inherent in the sport.

An exciting highlight of our conversation was the discussion surrounding the under-16 Western Cape basketball team's participation in the tournament held in Durban. Jason Mitchell expressed immense pride in the team's achievements and emphasized the significance of such tournaments in providing young athletes with invaluable opportunities for growth and exposure. The participation of the under-16 team not only underscores the talent and potential within the Western Cape but also serves as a testament to WCBA's commitment to nurturing budding basketball talent.

Jason Mitchell also provided insights into WCBA's upcoming projects, including the eagerly anticipated Cape Winelands Basketball General Meeting. This gathering serves as a platform for stakeholders and enthusiasts to convene, collaborate, and strategize on ways to further propel the sport's growth within the region. Additionally, WCBA continues to expand its outreach efforts, forging partnerships and initiatives aimed at broadening access to basketball and fostering community engagement.

Our discussion with Jason Mitchell offered a comprehensive glimpse into the multifaceted landscape of basketball within South Africa, particularly within the Western Cape. Through the tireless efforts of organizations like the Western Cape Basketball Association, basketball continues to emerge as a unifying force, transcending boundaries and empowering individuals of all backgrounds. As the sport continues to flourish, fueled by passion, dedication, and visionary leadership, the future of basketball in South Africa shines brightly.

The Western Cape Basketball Association stands as a beacon of progress, driving the growth and development of basketball while inspiring the next generation of athletes across the region.

If you want to help and donate, follow this link: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/western-cape-basketball-association

Article by Stéphane Kabandana

Presented by Mkuseil Khusi Veto and Stéphane Kabandana


       



Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Design26 Foundation: Weaving Dreams and Transforming Lives in Mitchell's Plain

In the vibrant community of Mitchell's Plain, a remarkable initiative is unfolding, creating ripples of positive change that go beyond the glitz of matric ball dresses. The Design26 Foundation, started by the visionary Suraya Williams, has evolved from crafting beautiful garments to purchasing land with a bold mission – to empower and uplift young women through skills training and job creation.


Suraya Williams, the 47-year-old director of the NPO, noticed a gap in support for young women after their matriculation. Many of them faced challenges in finding employment or enhancing their skills, leading some to drop out of school or assist their families. Driven by a desire to do more, Suraya transformed her garage into a space where young women aged 15 to 20 could learn the art of sewing.

Despite initial setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Suraya's determination only grew stronger. In 2020, she approached the City for support and was granted land in Harmony Village. The vision for the land is grand – a skills training center that not only imparts practical skills but also fosters entrepreneurship and financial stability. Suraya envisions the center as a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of young girls from despondency to security, hope, and dignity.


The training program at Design26 Foundation lasts for three months, occurring once a week on Mondays. Graduate of the program, like Sadé Daries speak eloquently about the impact the foundation has had on their lives. This young women have not only learned the art of sewing but have also gained a sense of empowerment, self-development, and a renewed enthusiasm for her future.


Sadé Daries, who joined in 2022, expressed how the foundation helped her build herself up and develop her fashion skills, fulfilling a dream she had since matriculating in 2018.

If you're inspired by the transformative work of Design26 Foundation and want to learn more or contribute, you can contact them on WhatsApp at 081 765 9060 or via email at info@design26foundation.org.za. Together, let's support a legacy of empowerment and positive change in Mitchell's Plain.

Producer/Presenter: Mkuseli Khusi Veto

A Ray of Hope in Mfuleni: Siphokazi Dlisani's Inspiring Journey with Isipho Sabantu Community Kitchen

In the heart of Mfuleni, a remarkable woman has emerged as a beacon of hope for the community. Siphokazi Dlisani, the driving force behind Isipho Sabantu Community Kitchen, embodies the spirit of compassion and community support, living by the old adage, "Umntu ngumntu ngabantu – You are what you are because of others."

In a recent interview with Bush Radio, Siphokazi shared her philosophy with the reporters, "You don’t turn your back on people in need, because one day you might be the one who needs those same people’s help."

Siphokazi's motivation stems from a deeply personal place. Her upbringing was marred by the challenges of poverty, a struggle that she intimately understands. Like any compassionate mother, she initiated her mission in 2022 when she encountered a distressed child in a school uniform. This encounter led her to start a soup kitchen for the underprivileged, a testament to her unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Senior citizens also find solace in the care provided by Siphokazi, affectionately calling her the heroine of the area. Despite facing personal challenges, she continues her mission, relying on what she describes as "God’s grace" and the generosity of the community. Siphokazi started with meager resources, derived from her part-time job, and has since been supported by her former employer and compassionate individuals reached through social media platforms.

Beyond providing meals, Siphokazi actively engages with the youth, addressing critical issues such as drugs and crime. She extends her support by donating clothes and sanitary pads to girls, emphasizing education and respect. Her dream is to motivate Mfuleni's youth regularly, fostering a sense of community and unity.

Acknowledging the urgent issues at hand, especially concerning drug abuse among children as young as 12, Siphokazi refrains from judgment, emphasizing the need to understand the root causes. Her tireless efforts are not without challenges, as she navigates her mission without a car and incurs extra expenses for transportation.

Siphokazi is not alone in her mission; her two daughters, Siphesihle and Sibahle, along with volunteer Yandisa Mtsewu, actively contribute to the community kitchen's success.

For those inspired by Siphokazi's selfless work and wanting to contribute or make a donation, reach out at 082 676 8396. Let us join hands in supporting this remarkable woman's quest to bring hope, sustenance, and positive change to Mfuleni.


Producer/Presenter Mkuseli Khusi Veto

Monday, March 04, 2024

Ling from The Triangle Project

Ling from The Triangle Project

On Monday, March 4th, 2024, we talked with Ling from The Triangle Project about LGBTQ+ in Cape Town.  

Stevie, Ling, and Khusi in the Bush Radio studio

The project was founded in 1981 and has a long history of bringing visibility to LGBTQ+ issues in Cape Town and providing resources to the community.  They started providing counseling and medical resources in 1982.  Looking ahead at 2024, they are hoping more political parties address the unique needs and challenges of the LGBTQ+ community.

Ling standing in front of the wall

To learn more or get involved with the Triangle Project, you can go to their website https://triangle.org.za/, you can find them on Instagram: @triangleproject_za, and their helpline number is: +27 0217126699.

Written By: Stevie Kim-Rubell


Sergil January from Cape Town Society for The Blind

Sergil January from Cape Town Society for The Blind

On Monday, March 4th 2023, we talked to Sergil January from Cape Town Society for The Blind.  The organization has been around for 95 years and works to help blind and visually impaired people get employed.  

Stevie, Sergil, and Khusi in the Bush Radio studio

He talked about the struggles that blind people face in Cape Town when it comes to accessibility and access to employment.  When it comes to infrastructure, there is so much more the city needs to do to increase safety when it comes to road crossings and sidewalks.  

Sergil in front of the wall

Sergil also shared some of his personal story with Cape Town Society for The Blind, and how he was initially angry when he became blind, but has worked through that and now finds immense purpose in his work.

If you want to get more involved with Cape Town Society for The Blind, you can find out more about them on their website https://capetownsocietyfortheblind.co.za/ 

Written By: Stevie Kim-Rubell

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Morning cruise with Kwanele Mlambisa

                                                              Morning Crusie 2/29/24

                                                           Discussion with Kwanele Mlambisa

On February 22 2024, we had the opportunity to speak with Kwanele Mlambisa who is an author from the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. He came to introduce to us his last book called "limiting cultures". 




The narrative follows Siya, a young boy, as he navigates the intricacies that define the lives of young boys in an environment riddled with violence of young boys in an environment riddled with violence.” 

He told to us that his love for writing started when he was in high school, and his gift was rediscovered when he published his first short story collection titled "Smelling The Coffee" in 2021. 

Written by Stéphane Kabandana 

 Presented by Steevie Kim-Rubell

Mkuseli Khusi Veto
Matteo Lecas 
Stéphane Kabandana

                                                                             

Morning Cruise with Healing Arts Platform

      Morning Crusie 2/29/24

Discussion with Honeybush Healing Arts Platform 


On February 29 2024, we had the opportunity to speak with  Honeybush Healing Arts Platform, an Organisation  which has created an opportunity for children from the Cape Flats to express themselves by painting murals with a message of peace and healing.


The organisation is the brainchild of SabaZahara HoneyBush, a community arts facilitator, communications specialist, digital marketer, and filmmaker.
Her blog echoes the sentiments of her work and “belief that creativity, when harnessed for community good, can be a powerful force for positive change”.
  HoneyBush and her organisation have been awarded a scholarship to pursue a Humanitarian MBA for Groups through the Roxbourg Institute of Social Entrepreneurship in Switzerland.
They plan to complete seven child-led art murals in seven underprivileged areas by the end of this year which will be spearheaded by volunteers.
SabaZahara told us that the initiative aimed to bring hope and positivity to communities with dilapidated, broken and drab infrastructure.
“Children on the Cape Flats need to take ownership of the space around them – dull walls, neglected parks, the lack of quality visual arts education.
“These murals give children who are enormously creative a holistic outlet. They help beautify, heal and build community in areas ridden with social ills post the forced removals.
Written by Matteo Lecas.
Presented by Steevie Kim-Rubell
Mkuseli Khusi Veto
Matteo Lecas 
Stephane Kabandana

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Mbali from Ladles of Love

Morning Cruise 2/28/23

Stephen, Mbali, and Stevie in the Bush Radio studio

On Wednesday, February 28th, we talked with Mbali from Ladles of Love about the Love Books campaign where they're working to supply more books to early childhood development centers.  The Love Books campaign aims to couple feeding with reading by raising funds to ensure that 5,189 children at 57 early childhood development centers have access to food and books in 2024.

Mbali in front of the wall

If you want to learn more about Ladles of Love and how you can get involved, you can check out their website https://ladlesoflove.org.za/ or @ladlesoflove on instagram.



Monday, February 26, 2024

Discussion with Mustadafin Foundation

  Morning Cruise 2/22/24

Discussion with Mustadafin Foundation


On February 26 2024, we had the opportunity to speak with Mustadafin Foundation is a Non Profit Organisation that works across the Western Cape to uplift destitute communities. Through education, feeding schemes, health care programs, youth interventions and skills development, we empower impoverished people to reach self sufficiency, self reliance and independence. We encourage every person to participate in the development of our broader community, standing for dignity for all people.

They explain us the history of their association. Mustadafin Foundation was established in 1986 in response to political unrest and violence in Crossroads, Cape Town which had a devastating effect on the local community, particularly women and children. A group of concerned friends started to provide services such as accommodation, food and clothing, medical care and trauma counseling.

Its growth has been outstanding because of the dedication and support from the Muslim community.

From inception, the Mustadafin Foundation has been successfully involved in supporting development in townships and has extended its services beyond the borders of the Cape whenever Disaster has struck.


They have established :
  • A partnership with Ibn Sina Institute of Tibb for accessible alternative community health care
  • 22 preschools
  • Dawah/Madrassa centers
  • Three Jamaat Khaana’s /Islamic Community CentersFeeding Schemes that provide for 15 000 men, women and children daily,
  • Annual Food Parcels distributions on Eid & Christmas for 3000 families
  • Programmes addressing HIV/AIDS/Cancer and TB education & care
  • Disaster Relief Programs
  • Adult Literacy Programs
  • A bursary programme for tertiary students in need


Finally they explain to us  that Mustadafin have done this :

  • Is recognised as one of the top five welfare and relief organisations in South Africa.
  • Feeds 15 000 people daily.
  • Has successfully sent 150 street children back to school.
  • Was awarded Community Builder of the Year in 2005.
  • Provided relief to 28 500 people during the 2008 Xenophobia attacks in the Western Cape.
  • Was awarded Lead SA hero of the month in July 2013

For more information you can contact them at +27 (0) 21 633 0010 / 633 0060 or you can follow them on facebook : Mustadafin Foundation or Instagram : Mustadafin_Foundation.


Discussion with Alma Schaap from African Tails

  Morning Cruise 2/26/24

  • Discussion with Alma Schaap from African Tails

On February 22 2024, we had the opportunity to speak with Alma Schaap from African Tails, an association who help the animals in the street. They have an office in Brooklyn, Milnerton, where they are available to to assist pet owners from the local community by offering them advice on responsible pet ownership for dogs and cats. They also offer sterilisation at a reduced cost on set days per month. 

( Left to Right ) Steevie, Alma and Matteo

They also Teach to young and old about the value of good animal husbandry as well as the importance of sterilisation of companion animals. She explain to us that Empathy is the key to healthy communities and their pets.

She explain to us that They offering a second chance to desperately needy animals through rescue, rehabilitation and re-homing.

Alma in front of the wall of artist

Finally she explain that  strive to not only sterilise companion animals, but where needed, to drastically increase their quality of life. This is obtained through the distribution of kennels, runners, medical interventions and vaccinations.

For more informations, you can contact African Tails by e-mail admin@africantails.co.za or by phone at +27 (0) 21 510 7360.

Written by Matteo Lecas.
Presentor by Steevie Kim-Rubell
Mkuseli Khusi Veto
Matteo Lecas 







Thursday, February 22, 2024

Morning Cruise with Take Back Our Mountains

 Morning Cruise 2/22/24

Discussion with Taahir Osman from Take Back Our Mountains


On February 22 2024, we had the opportunity to speak with Taahir Osman from Take Back Our Mountains, a association who conduct visitor safety patrols in high-risk areas, collaborate closely with neighborhood watches, and provide valuable information to authorities. They also demonstrate their passion for environmental preservation by regularly conducting cleanups in various areas such as Table Mountain National Park, city areas, beaches, and wetlands.

( Left to Right ) Steevie, Matteo, Taahir Osman and Khusi


Taahir explain to us that T
ake Back Our Mountains  is an initiative that unites a diverse group of locals and international visitors who share a love for the outdoors. Take Back Our Mountains  serves as a platform for hikers, runners, and cyclists to participate in organized events and foster new connections.

He explain too that  Take Back Our Mountains places great importance on community service and acknowledges the significance of supporting the local community.

Taahir sign the Wall of Bush Radio

And finally he explain to us how Take Back Our Mountains help the homless persons : They also contribute to providing food for the needy and homeless.

If you want more information about Take Back Our Mountains you can also join tge Table Mountain alert Whatsapp group to provide any useful information : Taahir Osman 0736244287. 





Morning Cruise with Autist Strong Academy

 Morning Crusie 2/22/24

Discussion with Autist Strong Academy


On February 22 2024, we had the opportunity to speak with Autist Strong Academy, a non-profit organisation resgistered last year is advocating for parents and children with autism in Mitchell's Plain. 
( Left to Right ) Matteo, Steevie, Ellen Jones, Tashreeqah Abdol, Zurayda Mervis, Khusi and Ikeraam Mullins.

They speak to us about Saturday February 10, they invited parents and their children to have an open discussion at the Northwood community centre in New Woodlands on the challenges and triumphs they face.

They also explained us the many challenges that parents must face to have their childrens diagnosed with autism and to find a school or clinic that accepts them. These challenges led to Autism Strong Academy NPO now advocating for parents and children with autism.

Autist Strong Academy in front of the democraty wall

They speak to us about their goals for the next years :  they are hoping to build a school for autistic children to accommodate the autistic environment as many families find it hard to find a good school.

For more information about Autism Strong Academy, contact Mr Mullins via email at ikeraam.autismstrongacademy@gmail.com or on 081 441 3648.