Interview with Nuhaa Bardien about her New Book

 

Nuhaa Bardien, new voice in the world of romance literature. Nuhaa hails from Cape Town, Nuhaa has penned her debut romance novel, “Till this Night”, a creative reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic Romeo and Juliet- but with a delightful twist: no tragic ending! Her book was officially released on 24th April. Illustrator is Andrei Van Royen.

From a very young age Nuhaa’s parents encouraged her to read, she lived in the library, so she’s always been a “book worm”. However, she never thought that she’d write a book, but here we are! Nuhaa’s friends and family, even strangers are extremely proud. She mentioned that writing the book was not as easy, but with hard work and dedication, finally the masterpiece was released. It took her 2 months to do the first draft and then 4 months to finish it. Nuhaa did all of this throughout her hectic schedule, where she has a full-time job, son, husband and a dog. She set a date for when she wanted her book to be released and worked on it during her spare time.

Nuhaa and her friends always had a love for reading and storytelling, however she hasn’t yet been part of a book club. Nuhaa is the third out of 4 children, not being the quiet child but the “book child”. The book was inspired by a slight retelling of Romeo and Juliet, the story is set in London but there are some parts set in and around South Africa. The idea behind it is that two people from similar backgrounds, different cultures meets and are held back from so many external factors, but still wants to be together.

 

The book is dedicated to the older sisters in families. Specifically her eldest sister, how they navigate and fit into society. It is her first book ever written, this book is part of a three book series, where she is currently busy with the second one.

 

She is looking to write more books, specifically about her family’s history, inspired by her great, great grandparents.  She thinks it is important to nurture the love for reading and encourage people to read. You can find her book on Amazon, kindle unlimited, paper back and she is selling it directly.

 

Presenter: Mkuseli “Khusi” Veto

Producer: Demi Greenfield

 

 

 

 

The Kwanele App Empowers Survivors of Gender Based Violence

Gender based violence is still a massive issue in South Africa. In just July, August and September of last year 10,516 rapes, 1,514 cases of attempted murder, and 14,401 assaults against female victims were recorded. Today during the Morning Cruise, we therefor focused on a very important innovation, the Kwanele App, which is helping survivors of gender-based violence. We had community advocate Kwenzokuhle Khoza with us in the studio who explained everything about the Kwanele App and the importance.

The Kwanele empowers survivors of GBV

The Kwanele App is a mobile app developed in South Africa and aims to address and combating gender-based violence (GBV). The app was designed to provide a way for users to report incidents of GBV safely and anonymously. It includes features like panic buttons, GPS location tracking, and the ability to alert emergency contacts or authorities when a user feels they are in danger. “Anyone can use it anywhere”, explains Kwenzokuhle Khoza.

 

The purpose of the Kwanele App is to empower individuals, particularly women and vulnerable groups, giving them a tool to report violence and seek assistance. However, Kushi and Kwenzokuhle also discussed that it’s not only women that are victims of GBV, but also men and children.   

Kwenzokuhle (left) is a community advocate for Kwanele

The creation of such an app reflects the broader social efforts to tackle the pervasive issue of gender-based violence in South Africa, a country that unfortunately has high rates of violence against women. By providing a technologically accessible means for victims and witnesses to come forward, the Kwanele App is part of a movement towards more proactive and preventive measures against GBV.

The Kwanele empowers survivors of GBV

Kwenzokuhle ends the interview explaining where you can find more information regarding the Kwanele App: “You can find us on Instagram at @kwanelesouthafrica you can find us on LinkedIn which is also @kwanelesouthafrica, or you can visit our website www.kwanelesouthafrica.org.”.

 

You can listen to the full interview here:

 

Producer: Veerle Kroon

Presenter: Mkuseli 'Khusi' Veto

Interview with UCT DR students.

 On the 30th of April 2024 we were once again blessed with the presents of the 4th year medical   University students, who came down to give us a but more insight knowledge regarding Antibiotic     resistance and bacteria in general. 

                                                                                                              UCT 4th year Medical Students.

It took the students by shock to see what little knowledge people had when it came to this topic and how people generally don't really know the importance of Antibiotics and what they do to your body. With that being something on top of their list to change, they were more than happy to come to BushRadio and share their knowledge that they have with the Community.

A few quick important pointers that were raised in the interview by our future leaders regarding antibiotics were: 

1. Never to share Antibiotics that were prescribed for someone else by their doctor. 
2. Always make sure to finish your Antibiotics as mentioned to you by your doctor. 
3. Do not consume old antibiotics that have been laying around in your house. 
4. If you need to know more about antibiotics before consuming any do refer to your pharmacist at you nearest pharmacy. 

The Medical Team also took it upon themselves to host a community engagement in Heideveld which gave the community of Heideveld a bit more of an insight when it comes to Antibiotics, and of course not to make things too serious as one of the students mentioned they also played games with them to feel a bit at ease. One would say to take a "chill pill" which is a common phrase used to something that has a relaxing or calming effect. 

Most importantly the message regarding Antibiotics was given through and of course as Lana mentioned during the interview you are able to speak to your doctor about it and also visit the World Health Organisation page were they have a lot more detailed information for you.

As the students are currently busy doing their practical's we wishing them all the best moving forward in their medical journey and definitely want to hear from them soon. 

Published By: Cleopatra Tolla 

Morning Cruise Show.

Studio interview with Darren Oostendorp from D noodles

 

Studio Interview with Darren Oostendorp from D noodles :  

This morning, 30 April 2024, we had the chances to discuss and discover Darren Oostendorp the owner of D noodles bar, a small home located in 23 Church way Standfontein, Cape Town, South Africa. He is specialized in Asian fusion style restaurant based on healthier cuisine. 

            About D Noodles Bar

Nestled in the heart of Standfontein, Cape Town, D Noodles Bar stands out as a beacon for those seeking a healthier twist on traditional Asian cuisine. Owned by the passionate Darren Oostendorp, that promises a culinary journey that's both delightful and nutritious.

Darren's passion for Asian cuisine is evident in every dish served at his restaurant. The menu is carefully curated to offer a balance of classic flavors and creative twists, ensuring that each visit is a new adventure for your taste buds.

If you find yourself in Cape Town, a visit to D Noodles Bar is a must for anyone looking to indulge in a healthier take on Asian fusion. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that celebrates the art of good eating. Join the many who have discovered this culinary treasure and become part of the story of D Noodles Bar

– where good food meets innovation.

If you to contact him : 

Phone Number - 071 007 6061 

Facebook - D's Noodle Bar

Instagram - ds_noodle_bar

Mail - darrenoostendorp25@gmail.com

Presenter : Mkuseli " Khusi " Veto 

Producer : Simon Cogné 

 Interview with Martin Hoybye and Riyaz Rawoot

Martin and Riyaz did a telephonic interview regarding the story about the forced removals and the closure of the water springs and the song that is being released about it. Riyaz Rawoot was the activist that worked at the water spring and Martin and him created a song to spread awareness which is releasing next 3 May 2024 on all streaming platforms. 

The name of the song is "Just flowing Away".  They met at Springsway in Newlands, where an intervention was taking place at the springs outlet, water was coming through and their feet got wet, people were slipping and the ground was not smooth, it was difficult to get the water. This was when Cape Town had a water outage, where the Municipality mentioned that we would have to fetch water at specific water points in each town. 26 people could get water at that time at the springs. So then Riyaz ended up suggesting that Martin should make a pfc construction (parallel flange channels), where everyone could get water without getting wet throughout the process, which also made it very easy for everyone to collect water. Riyaz also put down gravel and stones, fixed up the stair, ended up creating 26 outlets. He ran around Cape Town for specific plumbers and paved a bit. During the time of the water outage Springsway in Newlands ended up becoming popular for water to be collected and Riyaz was assigned to be the manager. It was not Riyaz intention to be manager, however his hard work and dedication made him best fit. Martin and Riyaz did not expect the water springs to become as popular like what it was. 

7000 people ended up collecting water. Unfortunately councils, Politian's and people complained so they shut it down. That was the end of the water springs, eventually they came up with the idea to create a song about the situation and named it "Just Flowing Away".  Martin Hoybye is the artist of the song.

        Instagram: Martin Hoybye

Presenter: Mkuseli "Khusi" Veto 

Producer: Demi Greenfield

Dance teacher Alec van de Rheede raises money for the Woodside Special Care Centre by teaching jazz classes.

Two dance teachers are giving jazz dance classes to raise money for Woodside Special Care Centre, a home for those with intellectual disabilities. We spoke to one of them on Bush Radio today. Alec van de Rheede, a dance teacher from Rondebosch East, has been actively involved in a charitable initiative that combines his passion for jazz dance with support for a worthy cause. During the interview he told us all about this amazing initiative.

Alec van de Rheede (right) during one of his dance lessons

Together with Zelda Davis he has been teaching dance classes at Woodside Special Care Centre to fundraise money for the Care Centre. This Care Centre is dedicated to individuals with intellectual disabilities. All proceeds from these classes directly benefit the center.

 

The idea for these classes originated during discussions with Woodside's management, where van de Rheede expressed his enthusiasm for using dance to contribute to the community. He firmly believes in the power of sharing one's passion to make a positive impact. As a result, the classes quickly became more than just dance lessons; they evolved into a community gathering that supports a noble cause.

 

Alec van de Rheede during one of his dance lessons

According to van de Rheede everyone is welcome to join the classes. “Come along. It’s all about having fun, laughter and enjoying yourself”, he said. The classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm. Each session costs R70, providing an accessible way for more people to join and support the initiative.

 

Alec van de Rheede during one of his dance lessons

People who are interested in joining the dance classes or contributing to the cause can reach out to the fundraising organizer Zelda Davis. You can reach Davis at 082 419 8398 or to find more information about Woodside Special Care Centre visit the website www.woodside.org.za.

Producer: Veerle Kroon

Presenter: Mkuseli 'Khusi' Veto

Interview With Vernon White- 26 April 2024

Interview with Vernon White. Sing wrirter of Drill Of Afreeka

 On Friday, 26 April 2024 our team had  the previledge of speaking with Vernon White. The writer of Drill of Afreeka. Mr White is originally Cape Town born in the Manenburg area. He shared the importance of the feelings that follow listening to a good song which is missing nowadays. The ''chickenbumps'' he called it. 

Vernon also shared with us that ''The Drill Of Afreeka'' was inspired by our national anthem, ''Nkosi sikelel'iAfrika''. ''Drill means culture'' he said. ''A culture that we're developing as South Africa. One to have one mind, one heart and one soul.'' The rugby world cup was a perfect representation of that. When South Afrrica was united in supporting the Bokke. Our national rugby team. 

The beauty of the country with so much potential is one of the reasons that inspired Vernon to write the song. In as much as we have bad going on in our country, inspiring our chuildren using music can change the country to a better future is the vision behind Mr White's music. 

''Forgivness of the past would be a seed sowed that our childrwen would reap'' He said. 

In a nutshell with The Drill Of Afreeka, Vernon promotes celebrating, appreciating and remembering our heroes and heroins through music, Embracing freedom . Drill of A freeka is a gift to South Africa indeed. A gift from God.            

To find Vernon oin his socials:

• Tikn Tok: Vernon White332
• Facebook: Vernon White 
• You Tube: Vernon White 

Written By 

Elona Sibunzi 

                                                                    

Addressing Prescription Medication Sharing in Heideveld: Insights from Medical Students

As part of their "Health in Context" educational block, fourth-year medical students have been exploring the vital roles of policy, research, and health promotion within public health. One component of their learning involved engaging with the Heideveld community, where they uncovered critical insights into the major issue of prescription medication sharing. Eight of these students were in the studio with us on Monday 29 of April to talk about this topic.  

Pictured: Fourth-Year Medical Students at the Bush Radio studio

During their interaction with the local community health center, neighborhood watch, and residents, the students gained firsthand insight into the leading health issues. A primary concern identified was the widespread sharing of prescription medications. Many community members admitted to sharing medications to avoid the cost and time of obtaining prescriptions, under the mistaken belief that it is harmless if symptoms appear similar.

The medications most frequently shared include painkillers, allergy relief drugs, and antibiotics. The legality of this practice is clear; under health regulations, sharing prescribed medication is prohibited. They conducted workshops designed to communicate the risks associated with medication sharing in an accessible and practical manner, considering the varied educational backgrounds of community members. Their goal is to make people in the community understand why, despite good intentions, sharing prescriptions can lead to significant health risks.

Pictured: Fourth-Year Medical Students at the Bush Radio studio

In concluding their outreach, they emphasize the importance of public health awareness and the role each individual plays in safeguarding their community's well-being. While the act of sharing medication is often intended to help, it can cause harm instead. By understanding and addressing the root causes of this issue, they aim to better support community health and ensure effective treatments are used safely and as intended.

Interview with the Rise Against Hunger Africa Foundation

 Morning Cruise 03/26/2024

Discussion with The Rise against Hunger Africa Foundation

On March 26th, 2024 our team had the privilege of doing an online interview with Dayne Myles, the regional manager of Cape Town for Rise against Hunger Africa. Dayne started the interview with telling us about how the organisation started, finding its roots in the United States of America and then slowly expanding worldwide, especially in South Africa where there are approximately 3.1 million children who go hungry everyday. 

Their main project, called ECD (Early Childcare Daycare) Connect, focuses on making sure that children under the age of 06 are fed at a place of education. Additionally, they also make sure that the meals are highly nutritious and substantial enough that it can sustain them throughout the day even if it's the only meal they will have. 

They have also stablished vegetable gardens within the communities where they operate. These gardens serve multiple purposes: they generate employment opportunities, offer training facilities, supply nutritious vegetables to Early Childhood Development centers, and serve as a platform to empower women to initiate their own 'micro vegetable market' ventures. Once the gardens reach peak productivity, approximately 50% of the harvest is donated to the ECD centers we support in the community, while the remaining portion is sold through our "Women's Social Enterprise Development" program. This dual approach ensures the project's longevity and fosters sustainability in the long run. 

This year, they have goal of supplying 07 million meals to kids and are also celebrating Mandela Day, where the main objective is to motivate individuals to take action in order to make positive changes in the world, thereby fostering a global movement for goodwill. Through several large-scale national events, Rise for Hunger will offer an opportunity for corporate volunteers to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to packing nutritious meals which will be distributed to Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers supported by foundation. 

If you wish to lend your support to the Rise Against Hunger Africa organisation, or seek further information about their initiatives, including details about Mandela Day on July 18th, 2024, browse their website to learn more. 

To hear the interview in full, follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcsJRkjgMbU 

Article by Aarushi A. 

Discussion With the Umtshayelo Foundation (TUF)

Morning Cruise 03/25/2024

Discussion With the Umtshayelo Foundation (TUF)

    On March 25th, 2024 our team had the privilege of sitting down with Andrew and Stephanie Lamour, the Co-founders of the Umtshayelo Foundation (TUF). In our conversation, they uncovered their tumultuous journey surrounding their human rights work. Through a series of sub-projects, their foundation addresses issues such as childcare, elder care, hunger, and women's issues.

    The Umtchayelo Foundation was born in 2013 when they began caring for and feeding a group of elders. Presently, alongside their work with elders, they encourage child development through an afterschool program, provide digital literacy courses increasing employment and education opportunities through skill development, and address food insecurity providing meals through an open kitchen. The foundations decision to focus on a wide range of issues is crystalized in their name: where Umtshayelo is the Xhosa word for Broom, they aim to sweep suffering away in the communities they serve.

Over the course of our conversation, we delved into the issue of period poverty, an under-addressed yet acutely relevant topic. Through their Kumani initiative, Umtshayelo addresses the issue by providing sustainable period products to women across South Africa. Where four of their reusable period products, replace over 400 disposable period products in a three-year period, their environmentally effective approach makes it clear that the Umtchayelo foundation is focused on the intersections of all aspects of human development.

If you are interested in supporting the Umtshayelo Foundation and otherwise learning more about their work, they are hosting a partnership gathering open to the public, on April 10th, 2024 at the Umtshayelo center in the Brackenfell Industrial Cape Town. Otherwise, you can contact their WhatsApp at 0736407268, and browse their website.

Listen to the interview, below:

Article by Nadia Trinidad

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