The Journo

A coach who can't shut his trap....

2009-01-13T05:13:00.000-08:00

His name is Henri Michel, a Frenchman who previously coached his native country, Morocco and Cameroon - now with South African "giants" Mamelodi Sundowns.

Michel joined Sundowns in November last year after a string of poor results while Trott Moloto was in charge. Club boss Patrice Motsepe waisted no time in making sure he acquires "one of the best coaches" around to lead his investment back into winning ways. So far, not so good. He has been in charge of seven games and has amassed only two wins, one draw four defeats. During that time he has managed to so brilliatly insult his players - calling them all sorts of names.

First he said they did not know the basics of football then not once but twice he said.....wait for it.....with his French accent, how do you say: THE PLAYERS ARE AVERAGE...Sundowns is the most expensively assembled squad in the country and its players are by no means average. Congratulations Mr. Michel - you just got yourself FIRED....!!!

Farewell to Parker

2009-01-13T01:15:00.000-08:00

Probably one of the best young talents in our country as far as strikers are concerned. Bernard Parker is indeed a goal ace. And he has proved this by bagging 10 goals in 15 games early on in the season.

He futher complimented his club performance by delivering the goods for the national team as well. For some odd weird reason - coach Joel Santana still put him on the bench and used him as a "super-sub"....something that still bogles my mind. Now the 23 year-old striker has signed a deal with Serbian club Red Star Belgrade and leaves our shores sometime this week...Is it the right move?Will he still be a formidable force in the Bafana line up?Will he not just pay homage to the thorny issue that SA players fade out once they move to Europe?

I have complete faith and trust in Parker's ability and think despite leaving the Absa Premiership too early - he will still be one hell of a player..!! SO, there you have it....GOOD LUCK Mr. "Goals"....on your new adventure in Serbia.....hope to see you at the Confederations Cup..!!

His agents have defended the move saying: "Just because people (South Africans) are not exposed to leagues from Serbia and other countries besides the English Premiership and Spanish La Liga, does not mean those leagues are not good"....Mike Makaab also said Parker "will be a better player."

What do you think?

Let 2009 begin

2009-01-04T08:44:00.000-08:00

This year i'm officially starting off the year as a full-time sports journalist at The Times. The previous year (2008) was trying and at some stage got too scary during the xenophobic attacks..At one point I literally thought I was going to die when these attacks escalated and as a journo I WAS IN THE THICK OF THINGS....

However, my move from news to sports was made smooth by my editor and sports photographer Archie Henderson and Sydney Seshibedi. I will continue to share these experiences with you all about how this year's Confederations Cup and the 2010 World Cup are going...KEEP READING THE TIMES...
http://www.thetimes.co.za/Sport/Article.aspx?id=872754

Sunday Times and The Times photographers at it again!

2008-08-19T06:09:00.000-07:00

True art: http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/08/fuji-photo-award-winners/ and http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/08/living-inside-a-bridge/

A MEDAL AT LAST

2008-08-19T05:21:00.000-07:00

Well done Khotso you have done us proud. Mokoena jumped 8.24 (his personal best) in the men's long jump finals on Monday to claim the first medal for the South African team in Beijing..

The boy has proven what he is capable of and needs to be given more opportunity to shine..VIVA Khotso VIVA...

Bolt of fire...

2008-08-19T05:09:00.000-07:00

I personally had my money on Asafa Powell and I have been highly criticised for this. I thought he had it in the bag but the problem is that I had not been monitoring Usain Bolt's progress in the qualifying rounds....and wow was I surprised like Fabian McCarthy was when Kaizer Chiefs did not renew his contract..!

But my point is this: "Could this guy had run a record below 9.69 had he not stop to celebrate when he did.."? He started celebrating before he could cross the finish line even though he was way ahead of his competitors"....
Have your say...

Abafazi

2008-08-11T01:46:00.000-07:00

You strike a women you strike a rock. Fantastic pics by photographer, Moeketsi Moticoe
http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/08/beautifully-women/ and included in this is my first soccer report, Mamelodi Sundowns vs Free State Stars http://www.thetimes.co.za/Sport/Article.aspx?id=819503 .

Hier kom die BOKKE...

2008-08-07T03:43:00.000-07:00

It might be a cliche: "We need to transform SA and coach young aspiring Rugby players to be part of the springboks in the future"...Well the Springboks and the Pumas (Argentine counterparts) did just that when they took part in a tranformation set up in Dobsonville Soweto..

Young one from ages of 10-18 where also screaming "BEAST BEAST"...."Jongi, you play for the Cheetahs right?I want to play like you when I grow up"....you should have seen the excitment on their faces and how they absolutely love Rugby...Please do not deny them of this opportunity South Africa...

The Springbok coach had this to say: "We said we want to be the people's team. My teachers and coaches never knew what they had in me, and maybe one day these kids can show the same (potential)...if we can change some of these kids lives then we are glad to do that".

As you can see...I was there to capture the moments and snuck a picture with the Beast and Jongi (without looking like a groupie..coz trust me I'm not...I'm just avarage...hahaha)

Fight Night

2008-07-17T04:34:00.000-07:00

I'm not a boxing fan but this was too good...check it out...
http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/07/fight-night/

I'm officially a fan..!

2008-07-17T04:18:00.000-07:00

I can now say I'm officially a fan...For the first time in my entire life I went to the Amakhosi Village (Naturena). I saw the boys hard at work today (Thursday) ahead of their Vodacom Challenge game against Man United.."they are going to trash those English boys"...!!

I grew supporting the mighty Amakhosi but had only seen most of them on TV and at some games I had gone to...but this...is totally awesome for me as I got to rub shoulders with "guys that frustrate me when they loose"....!! WOW..the joy's of being a sports journalist...

Where will he end up?

2008-07-09T00:39:00.001-07:00

It is one of the biggest talking points in the soccer fraternity at the monment...Where is the 28year-old Brazilian star going to play next season? Ronaldhino fell out of favour with Mr. Raijkaard last season at Barcelona and is set to be showing his skills elsewhere this coming season.

But what is more confusing is that, the new coach has declared that the star midfilder is not in his plans but the club is still reluctant to sell him to bidding teams like Manchester City and AC Milan. Futher more, he has been selected in the Brazilian squad to play in Beijing 2008 as one of the older players but the club still refuses to let him go there...!! Is there sometype of conspiracy against the star?

Phone Booth

2008-07-08T00:28:00.000-07:00

The next edition of phone booth has started yet again...Photographer, Moeketsie Moticoe brings to life some of the hidden and already famous talent in Mzantsi. Check it out for yourself.
http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/07/the-dirty-skirts/ (dirty skirts)

Will I be one of these?

2008-07-07T02:27:00.001-07:00

I'm moving to the sports sections of The Times as of Monday 14th July..and day and night I keep thinking to myself..."Will I be like one of these"? Now these men have built a name for themselves in the sports (soccer) fraternity and they are well respected for their knowledge of the business...

I'm talking about Mninawa Ntloko and Bareng-Batho Kortjaas. Ntloko wrote for The Times but was later recruited back by Business Day and BBK is currently with the Sunday Times and does the Metro FM sports show...Clearly these men have built a name for themselves, no doubt about that. I'm a bit nervous and excited at the same time...Is passion enough for this or I need more than just passion,determination and hard-work?

Whatch this space...I resume my duties on the 14th July.!

My first ever "podcast"...

2008-06-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

As I type this...it has been viewed by 320 people with 3 comments (i guess people just like viewing and not commenting)...Its about the Hartebeespoot dam which has been infested by high levels of algae! check it out
http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/06/3-year-clean-up-for-dam/

What do they do?

2008-06-25T03:06:00.000-07:00

I recently asked you (my readers) what the ANC Youth League do? So this time around..questions aside, I'm going to reveal what these guys actually do..Or claim to do...

What is it?
-ANCYL is the youth wing of the ANC which, was established in 1944 to rally behind the aims and objectives of the ANC and further the interest of young people within the ANC and outside the ANC.

What does it seek to do?
-It seeks to rally the youth of our country to support and unite behind the vision of the ANC and the mobilisation of Youth behind the banner and vision of the creation of a non-racial, non-sexiest, democratic and prosperous society. Basically they champion the interests of the young people.

Why you should join ANCYL?
-Every young person can join the ANCYL voluntarily, without any expectations of material gain, in order to contribute to the youth and community. ALL ANCYL members shall strive to excel in all spheres of development.

How to join?
-Find a comrade in your area and ask them how to start "mobilizing" and being part of the massess.

PS: so do you agree that this is what they are doing?Have your say (Comment)!!

Hopefuls..or Young Talent?

2008-06-22T06:57:00.001-07:00

Be the judge..
http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/videos/2008/06/singing-season-auditions-kick-off/

Controversy or Normality?

2008-06-18T03:29:00.000-07:00

Who should be the judge?? Gays and Lesbian wedding bliss in USA..!
http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/06/us-gays-wedding-bliss/

New Talent discovered..

2008-06-18T01:14:00.001-07:00

Moeketsi Moticoe, The Times photographer..has done it again. He is discovering new South African Talent in the form of music, fashion and whatever is there to be scouted..check-out his latest discovery in PHONE BOOTH..
http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/06/the-phone-booth/

Give me access..

2008-06-11T00:17:00.000-07:00

I have a story to tell..It's about my press CARD..I finally used it on Friday last week..It was a hostile situation and I needed access to hear ANC general-secretary Gwede Mantashe accepting the Memorandum that was handed to him by the Khutsong residents.

They (Khutsong residents) are @it again..they are very angry about service delivery issuess and being forcefully removed to North West...! So the cops were holding back the masses (there were literally thousands there) as well as ME..but I was on some:"Sir, i need to hear what that guy is saying"..he then asked me:"Are you from the press? and I said YES..he said show me proof..I reached for my wallet and showed him my press card..and that was it..I USED MY PRESS CARD FOR THE FIRST TIME..!!

Two strangers and A wedding?

2008-06-05T01:13:00.000-07:00

Heard of it before? The Kaya FM Business Editor said they had been planning it for two years and alot of people thought it would not pan out as there would be cultural clashes and what not..!! But it did..And Peter and Thandi - are now Husband & Wife..

Check out the wedding ceremony..:1. http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/videos/2008/06/a-perfect-wedding-for-two-perfect-strangers/

2. http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/audio/2008/05/dj-phat-joe-on-two-strangers-and-a-wedding/

Happy Birthday to us..

2008-06-05T00:21:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it..We (The Times newspaper) are a year old..its has been a year full of Drama and excitment. From being load-shedded to almost dying during the recent xenophobic attacks, we have managed to keep our heads up...I have however been hear for 2months and can not do justice to how the past year has been so check out our Multi-media producers relating the stories they loved doing..

http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/videos/2008/06/its-been-a-memorable-year/

Enjoy..! (pictured, is Ray Hartley..our Editor)

Two heads are better than one...

2008-06-04T03:35:00.000-07:00

Ntjapedi: A Sesotho idiom that means "two dogs". These guys have embraced their own lingo by putting it into song. I am a proud Sotho man and am reminded of where I belong when I listen to these guys. They are extremely good.

Their recent album is titled Ntjapedi Ha E Hlolwe ke Sebata which is a Sesotho idom meaning: "Two dogs can not be defeated by Lion". Simply put, the name means Two heads are better than one. I will not do them any justice if I carry on like this but Moeketsi Moticoe..does a beautiful PHOTO STORY on them..

check it out and tell me what you think of the future of these Sotho man..http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photo-video/2008/04/ntjapedi-music-transcends-language-barriers/#comment-2096

Chris to Rock Mzantsi..

2008-06-03T08:22:00.000-07:00

Chris Rock has graced Mzantsi and will perfom country wide..Find out what he thinks of Mzantsi..http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/videos/2008/06/chris-rock-cracking-crowds-up-already/

Your xenophobic displacement in 1minute..

2008-05-30T01:34:00.000-07:00

President Thabo Mbeki has described the xenophobic attacks as a Disgrace to SA..the plight of the after effects of the attacks it still very visible as thousands of foreigners are packing up their bags to go home..
See the heart-warming pics by The Times photographers

Benzema: I Could Stay For Life

2008-05-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

Lyon striker Karim Benzema has suggested that he would be willing to remain at the Stade.

The 20-year old rose to continental prominence during the 2007/08 season with a string of eye-catching performances, both domestically and in the Champions League.
He recently captured the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award after contributing to a historic first League/Cup double for the club, and is tipped to make an impression at this summer’s European Championship.
The French international has been linked with a move away from the Stade Gerland since forcing his way into the first team during the 2006/07 season, and insists that he still has improvements to make. The ideal place to develop his game, he suggested, was at Lyon.
He said: “I achieved a lot, and had a very good season. I have prepared myself well to reach the European level. Now I am targeting the world level.
“I could have left this season, but I would not do it because I just played one entire season as a starter. The next season will help me reach the very top level.
Benzema is keen to stress that he is not planning on moving on just yet, and went as far to say that if Lyon could compete for regular European honours, he may be willing to remain at the club for life.
He continued: “The day I will leave Lyon, it will be to go to a club that will be at the top at that moment and that will give me the chance to win lots of titles. Why not play my entire career at OL? If they become the same as Milan, Barcelona, Real Madrid or a big team like those.
The key for Lyon’s future, the 9-time international suggested, lies in player recruitment. In order to make the transition to being a great team, Benzema knows that Lyon must compete with Europe’s elite in the transfer market.
He said: “For the moment Lyon are not a big European team, even if they are part of the good teams. If they want to reach a new stage, they will have to recruit. We have to try and make the biggest ones at OL. We already have one with Ederson. I hope there will be other ones.

SA lost a good striker..

2008-05-29T03:18:00.000-07:00

I recently did a story on Abram Raselemane, former Bafana Bafana and Wits University star who committed suicide..So check it out..South Africa is truly reeling. Althouhg he had a rough season, "Fire" was one of the best strikers in South Africa. http://www.thetimes.co.za/News/Article.aspx?id=774952

Faces in Places..

2008-05-27T02:37:00.000-07:00

Faces in places is a brilliant photographic journey by a young photographer @The Times..
check it out its absolutely beautiful..I promise you - you will want to become a photographer after this..
http://multimedia.thetimes.co.za/photos/2008/05/faces-in-places-3/#comment-1717

The axing of coach upsetting..

2008-05-27T01:02:00.000-07:00

The sacking of former Chelsea coach, Avram Grant, leaves me a bit upset. Here is why: 1. He was roped in when Mourhino was fired, 2. He took the team to two finals despite critism and being doubted (me included) and 3. Chelsea came out of no-where during the season to be in the running of the Premierleague..! Now you probably thinking that's impressive..!! But wait..

As much as I'm upset by his axing..I think he kinda had to go..So i'm torn in two..here is why:

1. He lost in both cup finals this season- despite the depth in the Chelsea squad 2. He had been there during Mourhino's time so he could have made Chelsea an even better team 3. Chelsea did not win the Premierleague amidst the fact that they could have capitalized on Man U's mistakes alot of the times..So what do you think..Did he deserve to be fired?? And who would come in as the new coach..Should Drogba leave Chealsea (i personally think he should)..what about the former AC Milan ace striker..? I think Chelsea should buy Benzima from Lyonn in France..world class striker in my opinion...!

The aftermath of the xenophobic attacks..

2008-05-21T23:54:00.000-07:00

People are traumatized, women have given birth in these hostile situations and shacks have been burnt - leaving people homeless and seeking refuge @the Methodist Church in the Johannesburg CBD...! Sounds crazy but its true..
Here is a video of what some people are going through after the heavy xenophobic attacks that took place 11 days ago..!

Bittersweet...as Man U clinch double!

2008-05-21T23:17:00.000-07:00

Man U fans across the globe have every right to celebrate the victory of their team against Chelsea in the Champions league clash last night. However, It will go down as a bittersweet moment for the Man U fans as they ran to celebrate when Van der Sar (goalkeeper) made a save to deny Chelsea a small chance in the penalties.

I still respect John Terry and understand how he must be filling now...I mean the guy slipped - he did not "miss" the penalty because it was going in guranteed had he not slipped. Can you imagine the pain in his heart...He would have been the first Chelsea captain to lift the trophy (Champions League) but I guess the nerves got to him. Cezch (chelsea goalkeeper) had already played his part by saving Ronaldo's spot kick..and it was all up to our leader and he "Failed" us..

I'm not angry at all but rather upset that Man U can still pop the champagne after winning like that.

Many should agree with me when I say it was a game of two halfs. Man U totally dominated the first and Chelsea the second - but the 2nd half is always what matters the most. Chelsea hit the post twice in that game..!! I still say OH HAIL THE BLUES..last night's game makes me want to go out and actually buy a Chelsea shirt...!! Congratulations Manchester City...oops sorry i ment Manchester United...!

PS: Ronaldo is still the best player in the world..!!

The Times has compiled a caption of last night's action

When will it end?

2008-05-20T23:27:00.000-07:00

The front page of The Times newspaper had these words: "Please Forgive us"..this was a plea by Bishop Desmond Dudu asking the Foreigners to forgive the South Africans for the violence and hate that has taken place over the past 10days...! What I was wondering today is - Are the police making the situation worse by running around shooting rubber bullets? You tell me..How should the violence be stopped?

-Desmond Tutu's article
-Violence ascalates in Reiger Park..!

Sky Hawk..!

2008-05-20T01:43:00.000-07:00

These are the scenes of the Kya Sands- northwest of Johannesburg, yesterday with regards to the xenophobic attacks that are still taking place in South Africa. Many have not seen anything like it..!!

Is this SA 2008??

2008-05-19T08:06:00.000-07:00

Once again the Xenophobic attacks in our country continue to spread like wild fire. I am fortunate to say I did not see what my fellow journalists saw. However, I was running for cover recently @Kay Sands - west of Johannesburg after police opened fire on Monday morning. My beloved girlfriend's heart is heavy because she is involved with a journo and as much as this is part of my life now...it is also part of her life and I feel for her. What is SA coming to??Why aren't our leaders saying or doing anything about this??They keep speaking out from their comfort zone..instead of addressing the situation head on and possibly deploying the army..! I watched The Times slideshow on these Xenophobic attacks and i was left in shock. I teared up when i saw all these events taking place across our "RAINBOW NATION"..that has seemingly turned into "RAINBOW HORROR"..we might actually need counselling after all of this.

I also saw a 2year old with blood on her face...they said she was not caught in a crossfire but rather fell down while she was running away from the cops. It got me all watery inside..Between me and you I'm just tired of going to Alex, Kya Sands, Reiger Park and so forth to...I say this with TEARS in my eyes....PLEASE STOP THIS MADNESS,IT IS NOT THE SOUTH AFRICA WE WANT TO LEAVE IN...NO ONE WANTS TO DIE AND NO ONE REALLY WANTS TO GO TO JAIL..!

Check out: The Times slideshow on accumulating attacks

Report on man burning alive..!

Life of a journo.

2008-05-14T23:26:00.000-07:00

You know what they say: "From hero to zero.." This is how I feel after I had two stories in a row this week (one of them included the almost traumatic event in Alexandra township). I then went to a press briefing @the COSATU house on Wednesday and had what i deemed to be a good story..actually I wrote up three stories on the day. Guess what, none of them got published..I have to say this has left me feeling down. A journalist needs to get more things published so his confidence can be built up..especially if you are a juniour journo!!

Aaaggg..the sub-editors had their reasons as to why they did not put my stuff in there, NO HARD feelings. I need to deal with it now because that is going to be the story of my life as a journo..! I will continue to thrive in my skills coz I believe I am a damn good writer and no one can take that away from me..! I'm not angry just low in confidence..! OK..!
Guess what..you can still google my name to find more stories that I have done..They have certainly increased in number..!

South African Horror..I tell you..!

2008-05-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

I have never feared death so much in my life since violent attacks by the cops at Wits University. I was in Alexandra - north of Johannesburg during the intense Xenophobic attacks and I saw a dead body and two severely beaten up people with blood streaming down their faces..It was good for my career as a journalist but tell you what: "I ALMOST PEED IN MY PANTS"..I'm not fooling around that was not good to see. Our country is in a crisis as much as we laugh at other countries when crap like that is happening in thier country..look at us now!!

A Malawian, and thousands of Zim residents will be sleeping in run down buildings or no where at all this week as they were forcefully removed from their dwelling places..! The residents said the government were not doing anything about the situation so they were taking matter into their own hands..! What the Hell..South African's come on now..!!!
Check out my story on the front page of The Times on these Xenophobic attacks..! and the video on the attacks by my big bully friend who protected me

"True Captain"..

2008-05-10T10:39:00.000-07:00

The Soweto Derby did not fail to live up to its hype this time around. The Mighty Amakhosi continued thier winning ways when they beat Pirates 1-0 in Mafikeng (Royal Bafokeng Stadium). The loss that Pirates suffered puts them on 11th place on the log while Kaizer Chiefs have soared up to 6th place..! It really does not look good for Owen Da Gama (pirates coach).
What suprised me during the game was Shaun Bartlet's form on the day..he really played like a true captain of the team. Even though he did not score, he paved the way for Mathebula with a low cross for him to just tap in. Shaun showed strenght and a burst of pace down the wing before he hit a hard low cross for Mathebula to finish..! OH CAPTAIN MY CAPTAIN..I'm one of Shaun's biggest critics but on the day he played well and held it off until he was substituted later in the game..! I however still think he should leave at the end of the season to make way for Torrealba and some new chickens with form..!

My career seems to be taking off

2008-05-09T04:24:00.000-07:00

This week I moved into The Times newsroom. Trust me I am excited about my career as a journo, but I am having a dry spell as far as stories are concerned. Basically I need to have contacts and get news that is fair and accurate. I'm a bti nervous about that..Sometimes I have questioned wether my career is taking of or not..!I have to read a lot and know what I'm talking about in all areas..Almost like a jack of all trades but a master of non..!

This is because we journalist are not expects on alot of issues hence we call alot of them and let them say what the real issue is..I dont get payed for my opinions but for my reporting..But the hope is that in future i will get paid to say what i think..! GET A COLUMN..that is what i am working towards..! Join me in this journey..and the rest of my fellow Graduates on the Avusa Pearson Programme for young journalists..!

I'm angry..

2008-05-06T23:52:00.000-07:00

I have spent R25 in the past two days and I have a tag. I'm talking about a Metro Bus tag..because I'm a metro-bus commuter but the fliping Bus has driven past me for two days. I mean i'm always holding up my bus tag and this guy just drives past me..what the Heck??
I'm usually one guy who would just get frustrated and not vent my anger or frustration, especially since I don't know the guy?(The Driver)..But he leaves me no choice but to just not understand why he does what he does..?I initially thouhgt he was a nice guy but he has just frustrated and anger me all the more..But I will make a plan to catch that buss in the next couple of days..!I know its not personall thouhg coz the guy does not know me and I dont know him..But when he drives past me?How does he think i'm gonna get to work?
Check out the Metro bus website to see their policies and tell me if I'm worthy of what I have experienced in the past two days?????

Farewell Mr. Parreira..!

2008-04-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

I'm sure alot of us have been asking ourselves "Where is our soccer headed"?This, after our national coach Mr. Parreira left us to go home as his wife Leila is sick and he needs to be with her.

Trust me I'm a sensitive guy who understands family and heart issues..but im just wondering, If The Coach earned 1.8m a month..why couldn't he bring his whole family here and live comfortably while still implementing his plans for 2010?

He has had a heart to heart interview with the Sunday Times telling them why he is leaving SA for Brazil and how he might come back to be the Technical adviser of Bafana Bafana..He has also left us in the "capable" hands of Joel Santan..Joel who?Yeah..i know..!!I personally think, Jomo Sono would have been our best bet because he know the culture and the players have respect for him..then again what do i know..Im a Journalist not a soccer coach..!

“Shoot to Kill” says Deputy Minister.

2008-04-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

Susan Shabangu, Deputy Minister of Safety and security, has recently called on the police to shoot to kill when faced with circumstances that would place their lives in danger. I would actually agree with Justice Malala’s article on the issue this past Monday (http://www.thetimes.co.za/). Malala posed a question: “Does Shabangu want to live in a country where her children could be shot dead anytime?” Yes, there have been some horrible acts of crime taking place in our country and if one thinks deeply about this situation, the Deputy Minister might actually be onto something BUT. I don’t think police killing people will solve anything. It would just lead to more rebellion and more acts of crime.

I was watching the SABC news sometime this week and an elderly man was caught in a crossfire at Lenisia where there had been service delivery protests. The police had started firing rubber bullets at the protesters and the old man was on his way back home when he experienced what will probably be a traumatizing event at his age when he was greeted by rubber bullets on his head. Is this the kind of world that Shabangu wants our children to grow up in? This policy will benefit no one…especially since there are some individuals out there who, truth be told, look guilty even though they are innocent and have never committed any form of crime besides – steal sugar!!
Check out Malala's column on the subject!

A walk about..

2008-04-23T23:15:00.000-07:00

If I am being a typical journalist, I would ask myself a number of questions with regards to what i saw this afternoon at Nino's. I spotted Kaizer Chiefs coach, Mushin Etrugal having lunch with Supersport United coach...Gaving Hunt. Could they be plotting something or are they just having a social chat and bouncing off ideas off each other?

And then on my way up the stairs at the same mall. I spotted Wits University coach, Roger de Sa. I thought to myself aren't they supposed to be busy preparing for the upcoming weekend games??

Maybe Gavin feels confident enough that he will get the ABSA premiership!!Then again..im not the typical journalist so I think it was just a social call..!

The Graduate (It feels good)

2008-04-23T04:33:00.000-07:00

I would like to see this day as having been one of the best days in my life. I finally got that certificate that i worked hard for...I spent 4 years at Wits University for this one! So It was all for my parents though..nothing else really. They were proud on the day and came through to Jozi and spent the day with me and we went to my Graduation..! Look at them., THEY REALLY WERE PROUD..jokes aside..!

Sisters are doing it for themselves...again!

2008-04-17T01:12:00.000-07:00

A few months ago i wrote about Kaizer Chiefs assembling a group of celebrity ladies for a soccer team. They have been hard at practice but needles to say IT WILL TAKE A WHILE BEFORE THEY ARE TO REPLACE THE FIRST TEAM..!!The team boasts celebs such as Kelly Khumalo, Generation's Winnie Modise, Hlubi Mboya and more.
They took on the Sundowns Celebrity team and lost 2-1 but had loads of fun..For the full story check out www.kaizerchiefs.com
Keep on keeping on ladies..!!Who knows you might get drafted into Banyana Banyana..!

The Corporate World…

2008-04-16T03:14:00.000-07:00

A couple of people would not necessarily agree with me in this particular piece of writing…I am really referring to those who are in the corporate world. Not all of them who just started working in these big companies. I am talking about your Trainee Engineers (at McKinsey), Accountants (KPMG and PWC), Economists (at ABSA and Standard Bank) and so forth. Some of these newbies are so ignorant and I have no idea why!

Let me explain: A certain Engineer I know mentioned to me the other day that he did not read newspapers unless he has to and is looking for something that would relate to him. These are his exact words and I quote: “You guys (journalists) write crap and I don’t have time to read all of that”. I just literally laughed it off because I was amazed by his ignorance of what is going on around the world. I believe he has been entangled in all these corporate jargons and way of looking at things. BUSINESS AND MONEY MAKING that’s it. There is a need to revolutionize the thinking of our future tycoons. One might argue that the current businessman/woman of this country were part of the struggle and some went into exile therefore know more about our history and the humanitarian aspect of our country.

I am in no way saying that these newbies do not have any humanitarian bone in them but they are so concerned about the next big “FIX”…which is how to keep the Benjamin (money) flowing. Once again don’t get me wrong. I would also like to have more money in my pocket as time goes on but I never want to be clueless about the state in which our country is in. Even if our country is not in a state…I would always want to know how the latest government projects are being put in place, how the ordinary layman on the street is surviving. Let’s face it; there will always be a gap between the rich and the poor all around the world (it would be nice to have everyone be wealthy). SO I am calling our young entrepreneurs to “Please make a decision to know more about our country because they are…our future”.

Popularising struggle heroes

2008-04-11T05:52:00.000-07:00

Struggle leader Chris Hani, was murdered 15 years ago and some of South Africa’s prominent figures celebrated his heroics yesterday. Hani was one of the many political figures who fought against the apartheid regime to see SA being where it is today.

How many of our struggle leaders are celebrated? It is good that the likes of Govern Mbeki (the Presidents father), Steve Biko and events such as June 16 are still being remembered. But what worries me the most is “Why has it become fashionable to wear Steve Biko and Chris Hani shirts”? I mean when I was still at University (even now) people used to wear the very tight fitting shirts with Steve Biko and these struggle heroes on the front of their shirts. That is all fair and well…but the real issue is that these young people did not even know a thing about the struggle. Ok…they were not there but I am sure being their age they should know something about their History.

I am fed up with people who do not read and like acting all intellectual and what not. A lot of young people do not read History books. Actually forget History books, they do not read period because the internet has been provided and all that they can think of is “DOWNLOADING” the latest tracks from the British Top 50 Chart..! What more should be done to get young people to read. If you think about it carefully, you will realize that some students/young people decide that they are going to start reading and stop watching a lot of TV and this only goes on for a week and then they are back to their usual self (Non-Readers).

How would that help us commemorate our struggle Heroes in future if our next generation does not even know how they moved from racial segregation to multi-racial tertiary institutions? One thing that they will keep doing though is selling their “new found” brands with pictures of our fallen heroes in front of them…

PS: I however, give credit to those who were the struggle heroes shirts and have all the knowledge needed about that person is and why they are hailed as struggle heroes in Mzantsi.
check out http://blogs.fmcampus.co.za/interns

The Intern Times

2008-04-08T23:19:00.000-07:00

A new blog is now in existence..The future of Avusa can now be heard as they put thier thouhgts down in the all new FM Campus interns blog at http://blogs.fmcampus.co.za/interns go ahead and comment and check out what they have to say!! Their previous blog still exists as well http://www.newspuppies.blogspot.com/

Crazy inflation rate...

2008-04-08T22:42:00.000-07:00

Indeed its a crazy inflation rate and loads of other crap to follow like the 53% price hike by our beloved Eskom..This is surely going to hit the poor the hardest. And that leads me to wonder..does anyone ever consider what the poor people go through, or journalists just keep writing about it and thier writting falls on deaf ears??

First of all, most of them probably keep wondering why the paraffin price and bread price keeps going up (let's face it, most of the poor people might be subjected to the crap that is produced by the Daily Sun). The social grants are not even covering all of their needs because, truth be told, it is not a real increase when Finance Minister gives his budget speech in February every year..!

Again..is Eishkom (Eskom) crazy..53%??Do they have any idea how the poor are going to be affected?Come on..They should rather use those fat bonuses that they got recently to subsidize the poor people in our country!DO THEY WANT OUR COUNTRY DO BE IN DEEP BULLDUST??You might be thinking.."Well, our country still has the cheapest electricity in the world". My answer to that is SO WHAT?just because our country has cheap electricity does not give the Eishkom authorities the right to lead our country into severe poverty..I say severe because..those already earning peanuts at work and were previously not disadvantage WILL NOW BE..!!

The Rise and Fall of Mugabe..

2008-04-03T22:47:00.000-07:00

"Sometimes it feels like life is falling over, Over, and it seems as though the writing is on the wall...superstar you finally made, but once the picture becomes tainted..its what they call THE RISE AND FALL"...Those are the words to what used to be my favourite song when i was still in highschool by Graig David and Sting.

They sing about superstardom failing after one had been a star for a while but have now experienced your demise!!This is exactly what has happened to President Robert Mugabe a.k.a Uncle Bob..Mugabe lost his presidency to the MDC's Morgan Tshangavrai this week after the people spoke on 29th March.

That is exactly what democracy means.."government will change when the people feel it is time". The Times editorial yesterday declared that it would almost be unbelievable to realize that one of Africa's horrific living situtations would now come to an end when Uncle Bob leaves the office. The Zimbabwean citizen have done it all...they have gone under bobwires with their babies, beaten to pulps, deported back to Zim once they were in South Africa time and time again, fled the country and went on exile and much more horrific things than that.

And now...they have spoken, IT IS TIME FOR MUGABE TO VOETSEK!!!

One can only pray that the MDC is prepared for what lies ahead as Mugabe has left Zimbabwe in a devastating situation...!! The question is, how will the MDC turn things around??

A pregnant man?

2008-03-31T23:04:00.000-07:00

Thomas Beatie, who used to be Tracy Lagondino, is reportedly six months pregnant with a baby girl. The baby is said to be due in July. Beatie who has been married to Nancy [45years old], had his private part, breasts and everything that portrayed him as a woman removed. The Sunday Times got the report from the Sun in the UK and stated that Beatie had been married to Nancy for 10 years.

He is a former gay activist from Hawaii and is excited about being a Dad/Mom…depends how you look at it really! He was apparently pregnant before, with twins when the couple first did the insemination themselves as no clinic would help them. However, the babies (the couple was set to have twins) did not survive while in the womb because they were ectopic (placed in an abnormal position).

You might be asking yourself “What is the world coming to”..? Comment on this story!! And check out this past Sunday’s edition of the Sunday Times for the full story.

Grumpy bus drivers

2008-03-31T22:57:00.000-07:00

What is it with bus drivers and mood swings? It is not really a generalization of bus drivers but mostly Metro bus drivers. Is it because they do not get paid enough? Is it because they meet different people from all walks of life and are therefore easily irritable as a result of conversing with weird and demanding commuters?

Yesterday, I was in my normal bus from Sunning-Hill to Naturena via Auckland Park when the bus driver stopped just a couple of kilometers away from Kirlaney mall. People got on the bus and just before the bus driver was about to take off, an old white man with a walking stick was approaching the bus very slowly [he obviously could not run as a result of his old age]. I am embarrassed, on behalf of the bus driver to say this, but he left the old man behind with clear intensions. I only started using the Metro bus this year and I was under the impression that this particular bus driver was moody/grumpy and arrogant. Unfortunately he is not the only one, but rather there are many more like him in the Metro bus industry. Sometimes I tend to think they are worse than taxi (specifically Zulu) drivers.

My apologies go out to the old white man who was trying to get home but was left behind by the merciless taxi driver. Perhaps Charles Hlebela, marketing and business development manager for Metro Bus, should put in a good word for these drivers. Or maybe the City of Johannesburg should consider some costumer service course for the Metro bus drivers.

What do you think??

Comfy Office Chairs make for productive work.

2008-03-31T22:53:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine owns a very expensive looking office chair. I am talking leather seat and all. When I am sitting on it I feel so comfortable and relaxed, almost like I can take it to work without any hassles. I decided to write about this because I am not happy with the office chair that I am using at work. Most of the time it hurts my back [and I have had back problems since I was in Grade 10].

I also happened to read a story on the Business Times on Sunday about the type of office chairs employers should invest in, especially if they want their employees to perform and not slouch on the couch all day long seeking comfort. I am a junior at work and I guess it counts for nothing really if I complain about my office chair. I am sure nothing will be done about it because all around the building I see the same type of chairs and I am pretty sure my fellow journalists are tempted to slouch and seek comfort [if they are not doing it already]. How is your office chair?

Margaret Harris ends her story titled: “The right office chair is a must” in this manner “Companies that try to save money by buying cheap, badly designed chairs with no support will find themselves having to pay up for higher stress levels and failing productivity.
Employers need to invest, and this is also for the sake and health of their employees and future employees who could be the next carrying generation of any company across the country/world.

Check out my stories!!

2008-03-19T02:18:00.000-07:00

This is a once in a lifetime exclusive..to checkout my stories..with the links and all!!
I was going to post the links for you but stories are not just used by their newspapers. But instead, COSATU for example will also publish the story. So just google Mazola Molefe and the stories will pop-up..Thanx for your support, especially you Freckles.!

Phat Lips is Back..!

2008-03-17T23:16:00.000-07:00

Phat Joe, whose real name is Majota Khambule, is back in SA media. This is after Kaya FM slotted him in to take over the breakfast show from Cash...I personally have not listened to Majota [Mr. Phat lips] but im sure he is doing a great job. He pitched for his first day in pyjamas as a way to make a grand entrance. Well done Phat Joe..good to have you back Big Dog..![Check out the pics]

Racist "killer" fielded...

2008-03-17T23:11:00.001-07:00

Gert van Schalkwyk of the Waterkloof fame, was seen playing for the West Province again..He was found guilty of murder in 2005 along with his 4friends after they beat a homelessman to death. The killing was seen as racially motivated [check out the stories and be the judge]
His stepfather is actually the coach of the Pumas and amazingly enough, the crowd cheered him on when he was fielded last week Friday...! [another story]

40 days Underground..

2008-03-14T07:12:00.000-07:00

This Friday we celebrated 40 days underground..And for the first time we revealed where we produce our hard work..[well, that's if we are not in Hector Pieterson Memorial or by The Times working our bums off..]..We were also graced by Simphiwe Dana [Ndiredi fame] and SliqAngel..yes, the Ndifuna amadongomane guy..He cut his hair..!

I felt Cold..

2008-03-12T22:57:00.000-07:00

I was sadned by what happened in Parktown North on the 4th March when Maryl Visser's family experienced a tradegy. The family was attacked by robbers who killed her husband and left her and her son fighting for thier lives in hospital.
My friends and I go past Parktown North in the morning on our way to work. This week we took a different route but still via Parktown North and I believe to have recognized the Visser house from the pictures on The Times front page last week. On the garage there are print letters that read: "WE LOVE YOU"...since then, everytime we go via that route my body all of a sudden gets cold and its almost like I am reading the article again and I am present at that stage. I get so angry when think about the stats that show SA's crime rate as having gone down but people are still being robbed and killed more often than not..!That place has left a part of me COLD..![please click on the link above if you have not read the story]...

SA athletes at their best...

2008-03-11T22:36:00.000-07:00

South Africa claimed a gold and a silver medal at the IAAF World Indoor Championships in Valencia, Spain at the weekend, thanks to long jump ace Khotso Mokoena and 800 metres star Mbulaeni Mulaudzi. Our athletes are really doing us proud...They also recieved small incentives yesterday when they got back from the World Indoor Championship. Khotso got R30,000 while Mulaudzi got R20,000. Well done boys..! [check out the pics]

Zapiro the Great...

2008-03-11T22:31:00.000-07:00

Cartoonist, Zapiro, never gives up. Jacob Zuma has sued him for defaming his character with the types of cartoons he has published about his theatrics..! Yesterday the ANC president won his appeal at the Constitutional Court and it would be interesting to see what Zapiro will come up with next..this is despite the fact that he has been sued by 'motormouth' Zuma..

Amakhosi for Life..

2008-03-09T23:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Kaizer Chiefs (amakhosi amahle)...displayed some beautiful skill when they beat Free State Stars by 4goals to 1! I must say that the game started of on a low, and i almost just decided not to watch it (i actually switched the TV off)..Free State stars scored first and i thouhgt to myself "NO WAYS NOT AGAIN"..but the great Amakhosi reedeemed themselves..Sibeko scored a beauty, Mathebula displayed some awesome skill when he scored his goal and Mabhuti Khanyeza..OH..im lost for words on this one..

I was watching that part of the game with Freckles and we both went OOOOOOH...when Khanyeza scored with his backheel..when was the last time you saw someone score with their backheel?The goalkeeper and the defenders were left wanting because they just heard the crowd screaming and they knew what had taken place..Sibeko was back on the score sheet with a brilliant freekick and that sealed it for the mighty amakhosi..Stars scored via a penalty which was very questionable as i believe Mokete Tsotesi had just shoulder charged the Stars player..but it does not matter now..because I am once again pledging alligence to the Mighty Amakhosi..!

PS: Im excited for the coach though..in the first half he really looked like he was ageing but came alive when his boys did him proud..!As always Shaun Bartlett did not do anything spectecular..!And I am again calling for his retirement..!

The Future of Avusa Media Limited...

2008-03-06T22:40:00.000-08:00

These are the future journos of Mzantsi..Their names are: Katlego Moeng, Lerato Matsaneng, Nkosana Lekotjolo [we call him Mr. Productivity], Luzuko Pongoma, Lebohang Thulo, Vumani Mkhize, Rochelle de Kock, Lupert Chilwane, Candy Guvi, Jocelyn Uithaler, Lebogang Tsele...and Me ofcourse..!

The Lion Roars!!

2008-03-06T22:07:00.001-08:00

Lebo M, the singer turned "movie maker"[well, stage theatre actually], spoiled the mood at the Naledi Theatre Awards on Monday night at Gold Reef City. The Lion King producer threw a tantrum at the ceremony because he was sitting right at the back when he was apparently supposed to be in the front lines. When he was called up to recieve the award for Best Production of a musical he just started going on about how SA needs to be transformed because they did not appreciate "black talent"...

Was he justified?What do you think?He actually left his award behind and left the stage to the amusement of some people present at the function! This is what he said: "I am a very, very proud South African and I am very, very angry South African. This is one of the reasons why one feels like going back to exile. This country has to be welcoming"..He left the audience stunned..SO [Be the judge]..!

The Scorpions debate...

2008-03-06T21:41:00.001-08:00

Yesterday in Parliament, President Thabo Mbeki said he supported the notion of a better and stronger police force that would fight against organized crime. This is after he was asked by an MP whether he was in favour of the total disbanning of the scorpions.

Almost a month ago...I was downtown at the ANC House (Luthuli House) for a media briefing on this whole "Alcohol being banned on Sundays" and when i came out, there was a man screaming: "Are you happy now"...He was holding a newspaper with the headline, "SCORPIONS TO BE INCOPORATED WITH SUPERCOP UNIT"..apart from the fact that he was a bit crazy..he had a point! I mean why disban one the most powerful force that fights against crime if the country [or should i say the president as well] is in favour of making sure there is limited corruption levels in SA.

I'll tell you why, the scorpions has actually been so good at fighting organized crime and exposed the Government officicials as the leaders of this type of crime in the country. Now to stop them from doing that..the ANC has decided to pull the plug for no valid explanation!!Is it just me or is our country facing a massive BLOND MOMENT..?actually our leaders need more accountability than they have ever needed before..!

Apology accepted!!

2008-03-05T22:06:00.001-08:00

Orlando Pirates chairman, Irvin Khoza, has apologized for his use of the "K" word at a press conference 2weeks ago. His words: "Stop thinking like a kaffir because you are contriving and misleading about something that is not there" were directed at a black journalist. He was given a week to apologize by the HRC (Human Rights Commission). Khoza has done exactly that by saying that the recent racist video in the UFS has promted him to apologize. He said:"I humbly submit to all South Africans that at no stage did I intend to open the wounds and hurt our people who suffered from racism"...Well, Mr. Khoza, you made the right choice by apologizing in good time and by being the bigger person on this one. South Africans hope that it does not happen again because a man in of your statue can not be saying such demeaning things..TO A JOURNALIST NOGAL?

Reports say that this was Khoza's second apology for his use of the word and he humbled himself to repeat the apology..OK Mr. Khoza, you almost scored an own goal on this one but you redeemed yourself well..!

2008-03-04T22:36:00.000-08:00

Growing up I always wonder what it is about taxi drivers that ticks people of..I always argued that one should give them a break. I mean for crying out loud, these guys were providing transport for us in the morning so we go to work. So basically, i thought "without these guys we would not pitch for work and we would be paid at the end of the month, hence this would lead to poverty"...But now I HAVE HAD IT WITH TAXI DRIVERS!

It is nothing personal that happened to me... It is about Nwabisa Ngcukana [the girl who was sexually molested by the taxi drivers at Noord]. Ok, i am totally against mini-skirts but that gives the taxi drivers no right to have done that to her..Can u imagine that happening to you..?Now that girl is famous for being molested??It is horrific, she is going to live with that memory for the rest of her life..!

She faced her demons yesterday when she went to Noord for the first time since that dreadful day...[www.sowetan.co.za] She encouraged woman to be "defiant but not put yourself in danger"...A couple of proterst took place during this week, being led by 702 Dj Redi Direko, at Noord and made their voice to be heard.."Wathinta abafazi wa thinta imbokodo"...[you touch a woman you touch a rock]...Minister of Safety and security..Yes..YOU..DO SOMETHING!!!

The balance in Mzantsi

2008-03-02T21:35:00.000-08:00

Our soccer needs to find Balance..It is not good for our soccer to hire and fire coaches left right and centre! Ok, maybe Gordon Igesund had to go because there was no consistency in his perfomance as a coach and Mamelodi Sundows are now lying on the 13th spot in the league. This is even though they are considered to be a TOP TEAM..Kaizer Chiefs is down there with them (11th spot), and this can not be good for our soccer especially since the world cup is coming here in 2010..

All I am saying is that we need to find a balance somehow. Asern Wenger and Sir Alex Furgeson have been at Man U and Arsenal respectively for a long time. They did not always win (both of them went for about 4years without wining anything ) but stayed on in their teams..A call for Mzantsi to find a balance and sustain it..!

The New Kaizer Chiefs Team

2008-02-28T23:52:00.000-08:00

Kaizer Chiefs current form is really nothing to write home about..So Kaizer Motaung should consider making some serious changes. Either fire the coach or the players or fire both parties that are guilty for breaking the hearts of the die hard Kaizer Chiefs Fans!! As you can see with the uploaded pictures, the Ladies have been hard at work because the realisze that something has to be done!!

The ladies are doing it for themselves..well, they could well be doing it for everyone due to the lack of perfomance by the Kaizer Chiefs first team...A CALL FOR MUSHIN TO RING IN THE CHANGES!!!

These are ladies are who are part of the formidable squad of celebrities making an impact at Naturena..!I call it WOMEN ON THE MOVE...this should go out to the ladies who read my blog and are not interest in reading about Politics ans sports..my question is, "if these ladies are doing it, why cant you?Have a look at Kelly Khumalo and Sonia showing their skill:

Stories Galore…

2008-02-28T21:43:00.000-08:00

I have always asked myself how it would feel to have an article published as a journalist. Well, my question finally got answered this week as I had an experience of a life-time in a short space of time as a journalist (I have been a professional one for a month and 8 days). I spent two days at The Times (a Sunday Times daily) working on Business reporting with Zweli Mokgata. I was actually shadowing Zweli and in that process, was summoned to do the stories I have recently published. I got a by line for a story on “A construction company that bought into a Diesel Power company” as well as “The amendments made to the Basic Conditions Employment Act on the 1st March”. Business reporting is however no JOKE…one has to be familiar with what is happening in the Business world to write about these stories and ask experts. Remember this: JOURNALISTS ARE NOT EXPERTS, that is why they interview expects to find out facts! My biggest achievement yet, without any doubt, has to be the story on Student exclusions in this weeks’ Financial Mail Campus. It was actually the cover story!! Time was spent on this one to make it good and factual without any harm intended to anyone! The pressure is now on to perform even better and sustain the achievement instead of just being a one hit wonder with stories galore for one week and not the other.I have always asked myself how it would feel to have an article published as a journalist. Well, my question finally got answered this week as I had an experience of a life-time in a short space of time as a journalist (I have been a professional one for a month and 8 days).

I spent two days at The Times (a Sunday Times daily) working on Business reporting with Zweli Mokgata. I was actually shadowing Zweli and in that process, was summoned to do the stories I have recently published. I got a by line for a story on “A construction company that bought into a Diesel Power company” as well as “The amendments made to the Basic Conditions Employment Act on the 1st March”. Business reporting is however no JOKE…one has to be familiar with what is happening in the Business world to write about these stories and ask experts. Remember this: JOURNALISTS ARE NOT EXPERTS, that is why they interview expects to find out facts! My biggest achievement yet, without any doubt, has to be the story on Student exclusions in this weeks’ Financial Mail Campus. It was actually the cover story!! Time was spent on this one to make it good and factual without any harm intended to anyone! The pressure is now on to perform even better and sustain the achievement instead of just being a one hit wonder with stories galore for one week and not the other.

University of Free State disgrace!

2008-02-28T21:35:00.000-08:00

In 2003, I was in Matric at Voortrekker Hoerskool when I was exposed to racial discrimination. I had no political background or anything like that and really did not make much of the incident. What happened was that I was beaten up my 10 white guys who were in Grade 12 with me that year. They were not in the same class as me because they were studying Afrikaans 1st Language…They were scared to hit me on the face because that would mean there is evidence of their sinful deed.

The recent incident at University of Free State has reminded me of those days. I always call for the transformation of our country with such acts and I agree with the Sowetan that SUCH ACTS ARE OUT OF PLACE IN SOUTH AFRICA. But let me comment on why I think the Free State is far from a being a diversified province in this country (because I am from there and was a victim of racial disgrace). If you ever visit that down and you are from Jozi or even Durban, you will be shocked at the level of the lack of diversity amongst blacks and whites. Their public schools tell the whole story and this goes for the stores where whites dominate. They would prefer to speak in Afrikaans, ignoring the fact that English is a universal language!!! Racism in the Free State has always been there (as well as in the small towns around Mzantsi where Afrikaners reside) it just more exposed because of the recent sinful deeds at UOFS.

Something for the ladies!!

2008-02-26T22:07:00.000-08:00

A friend suggest that i do something for the ladies..(to spice up my blog)! "A big test" i thought to myself because it would mean being intouch with my........side!(if you dont get the dots then you should not be reading this). SO ya, i have decided to say a little something something for the my friend who is crying out loud saying my blog is POLITICAL AND ALL ABOUT SOCCER and she understands nothing about the sport (even thouhg i know Freckles does)..

You probably wondering who Freckles is because i keep refering to her in my blogs sometimes..even my URL has FRECLES in it..Well, she is a special person in my life and i would love for everyone to meet her..Today she looked so cute with her high-heel shoes and YES she loves the colour brown just as much as I do..One thing i pray about thouhg is that i would continue to mention her in my blog and in what i do..she is the one i got peanut-butter for on Valentine's Day and was critized for it even though she liked it (which is all that really mattered)..

PS: So this would be the first of my many post "especially for the ladies"..but a word of advice..get with the current affairs and sports there is so much to learn..!i will continue to blog for you guys..!

JZ and Black Journalist Forum a disgrace to SA?

2008-02-26T21:30:00.000-08:00

Last week Jacob Zuma was hosted by the Black Journalist Forum and both parties were lambasted by the media. The event was seen as racist as it excluded the white journalists in South Africa. Michael Trapido (a white journalist) had this to say: "There is no nice way of saying this, but those black journalists who chased away their white colleagues at a function attended by Jacob Zuma should not be allowed to continue in this profession. If they are to provide a safeguard against political abuse and report on the moral well-being of this country, then I have a number of problems"...

He is not the only one who felt this way though about what took place at the function..JZ defended himself by saying that he can not be blamed for white journalists being excluded from the function! He said; "I was only invited by the forum to be part of the event"..well, I am not a big fan of JZ but judging from that stament i would say maybe they should cut the man some slack OK..but with JZ you just never know rite? Anyway, i dont see the forum as a racism plot because if one looks at the origins of the Forum, it was formed as a way of freedom of speech for black journalists in the country who could not report on the events as they unfolded during the apartheid regime..!It was disbanned in 1996 but is now alive again..perhaps it is pointless to continue the forum now as we live in a "TRANFORMED COUNTRY"!! and it could be seen as a disgrace to our democracy..i believe it played a pivotal role in those days, as far as our country is concerned there probably is no need for it now..!

Black Weekend for Giants indeed!!

2008-02-24T21:48:00.000-08:00

Today's newspaper headlines (Sowetan) read "Black Weekend for Giants"...this is after Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundows and Orlando Pirates lost this weekend. Gone are the days when these soccer giants used to dominate the SA soccer fraternity. Kaizer Chiefs was not totally outplayed though, missed chances is what cost them the game against Supersport United. Once again I am calling for the retirement of Shaun Bartlett..

I was happy to see Jonathan Quartey back in the line and for the first time in a long while the Kaizer Chiefs defence had some form of shape!!Etrugal's job is now on the line after this weekend's defeat and the same goes for Gordon Igesund (actually he has been fired, see picture above). Owen da Gama on the other hand is safe because Pirates has been doing well with Mushangazike banging in those goals..to my surprise he has been appointed Captain of the team (or maybe that is just to boost his confidence)..then again da Gama had nothing to do with him being bought..So the question is "Did Irvin Khoza promise Mushangazike that he would be Captain if he signed?"...Anyway soccer was the Hero this weekend..Chelsea also tasted defeat against Tottenham in the Carling Cup final yesterday...Man U fans must be estatic after they also thrashed New Castle 5-1..Wow our soccer is really improving (in the world that is, not Mzantsi..)

Hero all around but not for the ANC!!

2008-02-21T01:47:00.000-08:00

Finance Minister, Trevor Manuel, gave his annual budget speech yesterday afternoon. From front page pictures, one can conclude that he is a hero having made sinners to pay more (by raising sin taxes)...The social grants went up, the health department has been allocated more money and busaries for educations has been boosted with loads of money (I'm sure you saw the figures, i dont have to spell them out to you)!

All around i'm happy with Manuel, but my personal tax is still more or less the same (eish!!). I thouhgt he would have spared me more than he did as i'm making drastic changes in my life and its gonna hit my pocket hard..!Anyway..its not about me, its about the country's economic well-being. Once more he turned to be the hero for most people in the country, including big profit companies (well, in some way). However, in the front page of The Times today (21 Feb) it appears that Zwelinzima Vavi was not happy with him at all. Vavi said that Manuel did not adhere to the policy directions of the ANC's Polokwane debate!But Manuel said that the budget should be evaluated against the party's 2004 election manifesto and not against the resolutions of Polokwane last year.

It would appear that Manuel has put his head on the "chopping block" but I think it would be foolish of the ANC to get rid of him...regardles of what the ANC says, Trevor is the man..!

PS: I'm still sad that he did not put more money in my pocket!!

Time for a Station wagon buddy!!

2008-02-18T21:20:00.000-08:00

That is a picture of me dancing @one of our parties on Campus last year.."Hone ho jewa leoto mokgotsi" (the party was hot)...anyway it is still aluta continua even though i am no longer a Wits student!And a couple of great get togethers have been happening lately, from the UJ house-warming to Ken Ogwang's birthday yesterday (18th Feb)..Speaking of KO, my good friend from back in varsity..and he is still my good friend now that we have entered the workplace!KO has matured as a young man and i have seen that happen..now he knows the is only one thing left to do...ha,ha, ha!

Station-wagons, being uncool and running hard after the LORD..if you are not our friend you are probably wondering "What is this boy talking about"?Well, KO knows what im talking about!This blog is dedicated especially to him as i am honoring him as a good friend of mine to say "Take your time boy" but don't be too long..!We now have to make huge sacrifices to keep ourselves in check and not be consumed by the world (the workplace)..we have to be relevant..!So to my boy KO..go ahead and ignore the snooze button but rather wake up, do your morning jog (and prayer) and save for the station wagon..!Happy Birthday man..!

PS: Me and Freckles are happy..!Continue to put us in your prayers!!You remember i said when you invite me for a party you are inviting two..!

Kaizer Chiefs: What's Next?

2008-02-17T21:39:00.000-08:00

I am so disappointed with Kaizer Chiefs' latest performance in the PSL..i can not believe the number of missed opportunities by the likes of Kaizer Jr., Thuso Phala, Mabhuti Khenyeza. Forget Shaun Bartlett, i mean the guy is so experienced but there is no hope for him in that Chiefs starting line-up..so the question is..Should Chiefs fire the coach or just go throuhg restructuring by selling players such as Cyril Nzama and Bartlett? I honestly do not think it is the coach's fault that the team is playing so badly..i was screaming and shouting because of frustration when Cosmos was completely dominating the game yesterday and when we had the ball but did not punish the opposition!For the first time i can say i felt the same way as Mushin Etrugal (with him always kicking and screaming on the sidelines)...I personally think the coach should not be fired but i fear that he will be!!

Kaizer Chiefs need to send out an SOS..we need a quality striker because we already have good midfielders and lets all admit that Jonathan Quartey (the 22year old defender from Ghana) needs to be back in the starting line-up..Spencer should play right back and Jimmy Tau should sit on the bench for a while!!Nzama should be sold..!Bartlett should be sold..!Simphiwe Tshabalala should go back to the Free State (no offence home boy)..! Somebody needs to do something before we get relegated!!!PLEASE!!!!!

Perhaps the death penalty should be brought back?

2008-02-15T04:45:00.000-08:00

The Times published an article titled "Hang him, crowd bays at rape accused" (15th Feb 2008)..I started asking myself "What is our world coming to"?What is a person thinking when they decide to rape a seven-year-old little girl?It is because of such sinful acts that our country (or mostly the people on the recieving end of the rape) start to shout out for the death penalty to be brought back into our country! What do you think? I mean a mother is compelety shattered by this happening to her daughter, not to mention the little girl herself..maybe the government should seriously concider this issue..how else does one deserve to be punished for such?I know that in the end all these criminals and rapists will answer to our heavenly Father and i believe there is always space to repent over what they have done..Now the seven year old can no longer have kids when she grows up and that has happened to so many girls who have been raped..they still even continue to live with the trauma.!

Peanut Butter WORKED..

2008-02-14T22:46:00.000-08:00

I was not really sure if i should do it for Valentines' Day..(buy peanut butter for Freckles that is), but i did it anyway and she loved it. A mutual friend (i wont mention names) was on my case saying i am a cheap skate! I was so tempted to ask her what she got for Valentines' Day??Freckles got something that is sentimental from me not just the usual rose and overatted things that people do on Valentines Day..My workmates say that i showed originality when i bought the peanut butter hey..and i believe that with all my heart..Freckles direct words were: "Thank you for the gift, it spoke volumes to me and it was also funny too".

PS: So i pose the question i should have posed yesterday to our mutual friend (who called me a cheap skate)...WHAT DID YOU GET FOR VALENTINES' DAY?

I care about Valentine's Day..

2008-02-14T04:48:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine was not shy to disclose how much he dislikes Valentine's Day since he is spending it alone this year! Argh..dude move on OK..Valentine's Day is not only about you and some random girl you think you are inlove with but rather about love itself..I mean take this morning for example: 1. I said happy Valentine's day to my 2friends that i go to work with hey..and they were a bit negative until a couple of minutes later 2. I got a chocolate at work from a lady at reception at work. 3. And then I called my little sister to say happy valentine's day as i dont want her to grow up thinking she needs to hear that from another man who does not even have her best interest at heart.

So take heart Vumani..call your mother, your sister and your close Friends and say HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY man!! Peace in the middle east!!

The Flag: A disgrace to our TRANSFORMATION..!

2008-02-11T21:42:00.000-08:00

The Sowetan (11th Feb 2008) showed a picture of the old S.A flag that was paraded in Ghana during the Africa Cup of nations with a Benni McCarthy (who was not even in the squad) poster. How can this be?Haven't we been over this before, I thought S.A was transformed?First Polokwane, then Eskom and load-shedding- now its the S.A flag!Was it done on purpose or was it a pure mistake by the Ghana and S.A officicials alike? BBK (top soccer journalist in SA) said that the country's old flag "Leaves me cold"...It leaves me cold too, not because i hate it but because we are a transformed/transforming nation that deserves to live with the changes we have made to make our country a better place, not the kind of dictatorship apartheid embodied!To me it says that the SAFA big shots were satisfied with the old flag hanging up there for three weeks as our representation for being in Ghana..What did we go to Ghana for?

As if the first round exit in the Nations Cup was not enough...SAFA members have chosen to keep quite about the flag we waved about in Ghana. The boys did OK compared to when they left the tournament without scoring a goal! I think though, that this time around, S.A scored an own goal with the whole old flag thing..! I have to agree with BBK :"The only plausible explanation the duo (Raymond Hack and Molefi Oliphant) could give the nation is that they were walking around Ghana with thier eyes closed while enjoying whatever they went to Ghana for"...this whole situation leaves me feeling like i do not have any clothes on..Almost like my own country has stripped me naked!

The woman behind it all!!

2008-02-11T21:38:00.001-08:00

So this is the woman behind the man...they say "Behind every succesful man there is a strong woman" (or something along those lines)..Mama is one of those woman who have supported me through it all..i have not made it big yet but she will still be there when i do make it..!

Another Day at the Office

2008-02-11T01:48:00.000-08:00

I had a deadline today (actually i had 3)..a complete story on Metrobus, a follow up on Women in Construction work as well as a Profile on Tyrone Arthur. I did well and managed to finish on time but for some reason i am having monday blues. Is it because of the depressing State of the Nation given by Thabo Mbeki on Friday?Justice Malala expressed his own views on the President's state of the Nation adress and to sum it up he said: "The King, the greatest, is dead"... (he says this in his coloumn in the times, http://www.thetimes.co.za/)

I think it got me depressed because as much as Thabo (excuse me, Mr. President) was being portrayed as helpless towards the end of his reign, he still deserved to be held in some sort of great regard coz the man really is smart. Shame you should have seen him when he was giving his speech (i did not, a friend said he was sweating and a bit nervous). Let us remember the good times he had while he was President just as when some one is dead, people only remember the good. He has after all done some good to our country's economy...Damn Eskom, they really damaged his reputation didn't they?Do you remember his facial expression when he lost the ANC Presidency to JZ?Our own President did not look the least happy at all..he has indeed taken a mighty fall..do yourself a favour and gather up newspapers over the past 3 weeks with his face on them and decide for yourself how he has been potrayed?Robala ka Kgotso Ntate Mbeki.. Rest in Peace Mr. Mbeki..and Arise JZ (Jacob Zuma)...

Thank God its Friday..

2008-02-08T05:16:00.000-08:00

This week has been really really really hectic..there were mixed emotions on my part in terms of what took place at Avusa Media this week.From constant phone calls and trying to get newsworthy stories out there to getting our assignments reviewed. There is hope yet in the journalism field that aspiring and passionate journalists will come out of this programme..like i said, only time will tell.

Rough two days...!

2008-02-07T06:07:00.000-08:00

It has been a tough couple of days at Avusa as we had to work on new stories and I must say i had never seen so many phone calls made in one day.My fellow interns were getting good and bad responses alike..governmental bureacracies and people who did not want to say anything to the journalist about their current problems. These include Metrobus ineffieciencies,Refugees in SA as well as the Gautrain that is actually being completed in 2017 (while parts of it is being completed only in 2010)..Comment?

My passion...

2008-02-06T22:11:00.000-08:00

so this is what i love doing..well close to being a journalist and a writer..Music..eish now i have to work and go meet the editors of our newspapers at avusa..

Friends starting off@ their work as well..

2008-02-06T21:52:00.000-08:00

Joy..is one of my friends who have started the working world lately and I hope she is having fun..

PS: I am praying for you Joy..!

The old look

2008-02-05T21:58:00.000-08:00

Officially taken over...

2008-02-05T00:34:00.000-08:00

check out this link as well www.newspuppies.blogspot.com as the new Avusa Media interns have officially taken over!

My First Story

2008-02-04T23:25:00.000-08:00

I am currently working on my first story on "Women in Construction"...It sparked a bit of a debate amongst us Journalists (interns) when i brought it up because it is dealing with the gender equality..Well, it still has to get approved by the Editor and it also might end up being an exercize to strengthen my ability to write a story!After all i am a Trainee Journalist..

The beggining

2008-02-01T05:48:00.000-08:00

I have recently started at Avusa Media Limited..wow..what a place to be in.Its going to be exciting doing this journalism career..I believe to be capable but I guess time will tell..