World-class horse riders from Yarona Hilltop Arabian Stud

When local entrepreneur Nchakha Moloi bought out the Hilltop Equestrian Farms and turned it into the Yarona Hilltop Arabian Stud, he did so in order to satisfy his children’s insatiable appetite for all things equestrian.

Thanks to Nchaka’s oldest son Kutloano, and his younger brother Sefanyo’s keen interest in being world-class horse riders, Yarona boasts thoroughbred Arabian horses that have not only brought back numerous international awards, but they have also assisted the growing business to realise a life-long dream of economically empowering Bethlehem.

A breeding programme that was established using two stallions from the US has proven to be fruitful as the horses’ offspring are reared and trained with the help of local community members who were previously disadvantaged. This initiative has seen a number of local and international horses being purchased to benefit the town’s residents and future generations who are being taught at an early stage in their lives how to breed, produce and train horses.

Constantly and consistently in touch with those around them, the Moloi family founded the Simply Red Equestrian Clothing Line as well as the Hilltop Saddlery - both of which are co-owned with Nkqubs - as yet another means to contribute positively to the people of this Free State town.

“Yarona came about so that our family could be involved in a competitive and rewarding sport. It has since become much more than just that, transforming into a lifestyle that is poised to impact a significant part of this region,” says Yarona Hilltop Arabian Stud founder, Nchaka Moloi.

“The Arabian is the oldest and purest horse breed and encapsulates all that - as an entrepreneur - I would look for in a business partner: intelligence, loyalty, performance, versatility, endurance and a strong personality. After all, we couldn’t let the future of our potential-filled town depend on anything other than the best,” adds Moloi.

While 14-year-old Kutloano and his 13-year-old brother Sefenya are setting records by being the youngest black South African horse riders to compete at the annual Scottsdale Arabian Show in the USA, their hometown of Bethlehem cannot keep up with the economic possibilities that have been brought about by the influx of individuals and groups who now frequent the town because of the Moloi’s growing Yarona Hilltop Arabian Stud.

By choosing to be based in Bethlehem, this equestrian centre is forming part of the multi-million Rand horse industry in South Africa that has been identified as one of the most promising sectors in the job creation drive.

As Kutloano and Sefenya master disciplines such as showjumping and endurance racing, so does the centre, planting seeds whose results will be reaped by future generations as the number of horse owners, related service providers and employees continue to increase on a yearly basis.

Yarona Hilltop Arabian Stud is part of a highly diverse industry that supports a wide variety of activities in all regions of the country. Equestrian activities combine the primarily rural activities of breeding, training, maintaining and riding horses with the more urban activities of operating racetracks, off-track betting parlours, horse shows and public sales, all benefitting the communities they operate in.

More critically, Kutloano and Sefenya’s remarkable efforts have meant that Yarona has also opened up a pastime and industry that has previously been perceived to be for the wealthy and white of South Africa, something that has changed radically in a short period of time since the centre started operating, exposing previously disadvantaged community members to much-needed exposure.

FESTIVAL OF FAME – EXPRESSIONS OF HERITAGE

From Feb 25 – March 2nd the National School of the Arts will showcase its inspirational emerging talent during its annual flagship event, The Festival of Fame. Now in its twelfth year this highly anticipated event on the school calendar sees NSA Learners and Professionals joining hands in a celebration of art, drama, dance and music!

A Heritage Theme has been imaginatively woven into the content of this year’s festival: Festival of Fame – Expressions of Heritage. A year before our democracy turns 20; FOF is an invitation to start the celebrations early with this six-day festival reflecting South Africa’s dynamic cultural heritage.

Festival of Fame – Expressions of Heritage, will see the creative precinct at the top the Braamfontein Hill alive with activity, extending from the National School of the Arts, to Constitution Hill to the Joburg Theatre. The NSA, all three Joburg Theatre venues, The Mandela, The Fringe and the space.com, as well as Constitution Hill will host Festival of Fame Productions.

Opening the six-day program on an exceptionally high note in The Mandela Theatre will be the highly acclaimed Songs of Migration featuring 2013 Grammy nominee Hugh Masekela. This production from Sibojama Theatre returns to Johannesburg after a successful international tour, which included performances at the Kennedy Centre in Washington and the Hackney Empire in London. For five memorable performances, learners from the NSA will share the spotlight with seasoned professionals in this special FOF Season. Award winning director, actor and storyteller, James Ncgobo has re-directed the work to give the NSA learners their individual moments to shine. Songs of Migration marks a special collaboration between experience and youth and announces a special relationship between iconic musician Hugh Masekela and the National School of the Arts. Songs of Migration also features the ever-popular Gloria Bosman.

A rich heritage of dance styles will be given grand exposure during Dance Spectrum also at home in The Mandela Theatre. Choreographed by Manuel Norambuena and Sarah Hurter Minkus Variations celebrates the traditional classical ballet heritage. Pictures of Africa is a dramatic contemporary piece choreographed by Lauren Jones. In a clever confluence of cultures, Gillian Bonegio uses the rich rhythm of the kwela as inspiration for her Spanish program, which also includes Flamenco Tangos danced to Raul Bonegio’s atmospheric guitar and vocal accompaniment. Guest choreographer Gregory Maqoma from Vuyani Dance Theatre brings his signature choreographic style to the NSA in his staging of two movements from his critically celebrated, The Four Seasons.

Hauntingly beautiful and featuring the NSA Drama Department learners is Wesley Swain Lauder’s production of The Secret Garden in The Fringe. The Music Department’s African Reflections conducted and directed by Jana Barnard features the NSA’s forty-five-piece orchestra and thirty-voice choir. This eclectic musical journey through our history shows that the soul and heart beat of our heritage lies in our music.

In a significant celebration of our heritage, both in paying homage to the ancient San and in celebrating the perception shifting work of Sylvia Glasser, the NSA will host five performances of Tranceformations. Ever willing to enrich the learning experience, Sylvia ‘Magogo’ Glasser will conduct a special introductory lecture aimed at the dance students who study this iconic work as part of the syllabus.

The NSA will see over 40 productions including workshops exhibitions and more than 10 visual arts workshops and installations over the week of Festival of Fame.

The FOF Monday- Friday’s programme is designed with school groups in mind. R80 per child affords a full day of performances, workshops, and exhibitions adding a memorable dimension to the Arts and Culture curriculum. It provides what is often the only opportunity for disadvantaged youth to experience art, music, dance and theatre first hand, by offering free tickets and transport to a number of under-resourced schools. Artists on the FOF Daily program include: Omphile Molusi, Richard Antrobus, Gera Louw, Francois Le Roux (Ha!Man), the hilarious Matthew Ribnick, Tristan Jacobs in a piece directed by Andrew Buckland, John Jacobs, Craig Morris, Briony Horwitz, Nkosinathi Gaar among others.

Alongside the featured NSA productions and professional performances, the NSA learners will present their own burgeoning original work. Showcased Drama productions range from psychological thrillers, to cultural commentaries. The music department offers a visit to the legends of yesteryear and fashionable Doo Wops will have your toes tapping with music from the 70’s and 80’s.

The Visual Arts program features the “Host a Legend” series, with David Koloane, Kagiso Pat Mautloa, Patrick Rorke, Charles Levin and Janene Fourie in exciting exhibitions, discussions and installations alongside NSA Learners. Watch their creativity in action during the week and admire their finished creations on Saturday 2 March. FOF 2013 also includes an encouraging number of NSA alumni on the program eager to give back, to share and to further the vision of the school. The Ballet Hall will host the popular Alumni Art Exhibition.

2013 marks the inaugural Festival Finale Day on Sat 2nd March. With a breathtaking panoramic view, the NSA field will be a vibrant buzz of craft, cultural food, music, dance and street theatre! The NSA Lab and Assitej SA Family Venue will feature content curated by Artist in Residence Kyla Davis. Shadow Puppetry, ingenious street theatre from the Lunatic Fridge, Craig Morris and his Amazing Dr Seuss, Daniel Buckland and a Circus Skills Workshop, Causing a Scene Improv Group with some of the finest and funniest performers of our City including James Cairns, Toni Morkel and Lindi Matshikiza are just some of the professional highlights of the Finale Day. Other activities include drumming and dance workshops, a variety of music and fashion on the Coca Cola Truck. The aim of the Festival Finale Day is to offer the finest choice of quality productions to cater for all ages and all tastes! The NSA drama students will shine in their original works, their physical theatre, their student pantomime and of course in the Secret Garden, which also forms part of the Festival Finale! Every theatre space will be showcasing dance, drama and music! Every gallery will be an explosion of visual delight! This will be a day for everyone - art lovers, families, students and professionals. A celebratory day to share in our glorious artistic and cultural heritage! The Gates will open at 10am and close at 6:00pm with a performance from the Johannesburg Youth Orchestra Jazz Ensemble. In response to the Heritage Theme and the NSA’s association with the great Hugh Masekela – the Jazz Ensemble will play a special Masekela tribute in a program that incudes many South African favorites!

A Day ticket costs R 80.00 and affords access to ALL productions seating permitting.

The Festival of Fame – Expressions of Heritage comes to an end with the NSA learners in the spotlight as the Music and Dance Department join forces for the Double Bill African Reflections Meets Dance Spectrum. This gala finale will ring the curtain down on Festival of Fame 2013 on the stage of the Mandela Theatre.

And when it is finally down, the learners will celebrate the week with a well-deserved U-Party hosted by the NSA.

Without out our sponsors this festival would not be possible. With special thanks to RMB Bank and ABI for their continuing contribution to the nurturing and development of our young artists.

Free State siblings champing at the bit

The Olympics introduced us to Chad le Clos and the Africa Cup of Nations unearthed Dean Furman, and now it’s the turn of exceptional brothers Kutloano and Sefenya Moloi to wave South Africa’s flag high as they set the pace for their counterparts at this year’s prestigious Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, taking place in Arizona, USA, from the 14th to the 23rd of February.

The proficient riders’ dreams were realised when their father acquired Yarona Hilltop Arabian Stud, based in Bethlehem, eastern Free State and gifted them with reins to what the equestrian fraternity regards as one of the foremost endurance breeds: Arabian horses.

As if 14-year-old Kutloano and his year younger brother Sefenya were born to be champion riders, the pair were champing at the bit, doing Yarona Hilltop Arabian Stud proud as they successfully competed regionally and nationally, raking up recognition in both riding and show jumping.

By not allowing racial stereotypes to limit their outstanding abilities, the siblings took on a relatively new sport for black South Africans and actively demonstrated what determination and perseverance can result in. Under the guidance of Arabian National Champion rider and trainer Sheila Nortje, the backing of their father and the support of the entire South African nation, Kutloano and Sefenya are well on their way to rewriting the history books as the first black horse riding and show jumping champions.

“My sons are each other's best friends and I knew that they would be magnificent with horses when - of their own free will – they spent endless hours with their thoroughbreds, both in practice and in training,” says Nchakha Moloi, the boys’ father.

“But most importantly for us as a family, equestrian disciplines are more than sports, and it’s this love for horses that confirmed our family did the best thing by investing in the Arabian stud breeding business,” he adds.

Yarona Hilltop Arabian Stud is proving to be more than an incubator of hidden talent but is also the place where lifelong relationships have been formed. Arabian horses are known for displaying high levels of sensitivity and bonding only with one individual, but the centre’s dedicated staff has played an integral part in the riders’ ascension to international acknowledgment.

Spurred on by Kutloano and Sefenya’s insatiable thirst for success, Yarona has dominated the industry and in a short span of time founded the Simply Red Equestrian Clothing Line as well as the Hilltop Saddlery, ensuring that it satisfies riders’ and horses’ requirements. By combining the local community’s efforts and utilising international resources, the centre has grown in leaps and bounds, even starting a breeding programme, producing world-class mares and studs.

The surrounding community continues to be aided by the centre as collaboration with the Charlotte Theron Children’s Home in Bethlehem has identified children who stand to benefit from spending time riding and competing on these majestic animals.

South Africa’s hopes rest on the broad shoulders of Kutlano and Sefenya as they compete in the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, an annual event that sees more than 2 500 of the most accomplished riders in the world competing for top honours.

The Moloi brothers are also hopeful that they will not only come back home with impressive silverware, but that they will also use the opportunity to qualify for the US Youth Nationals, to be held in New Mexico in July.

Yarona is a Sotho word meaning “it is ours” and that is exactly what Kutloano and Sefenya have succeeded in doing, taking what has been - for far too long -considered out of reach and turned it into a matter of national pride and unity.

Johannesburg Heritage Foundation: Walking Tours for the First Quarter of 2012

FIRST QUARTER PROGRAMME – 2013

JANUARY TO MARCH


WALKING TOUR

‘FROM CONCESSION TO CO-OPERATION’

SATURDAY, 26th JANUARY

Join us on a tour of Modderfontein. The history of the area is intrinsically linked to the development of Johannesburg as Africa’s power house.

Discover the stories behind the growth of explosives in the Mining Industry and the move into less dramatic activities.

The distinctive "village atmosphere" of a bygone era covers nearly 120 years.

Many of the century old buildings are still in use today, including some with strong Anglo-Boer war connections. Add to this many interesting personalities and there is a recipe for a fascinating exploration of a Johannesburg suburb.

Join Keith Martin, Clare van Zweiten and Janet Hughes at 14h00 at the Museum – the cost is R80.00 for members and R110.00 for non-members – which includes a donation to the Modderfontein Conservation Society and the duration is approximately 3 hours.

Should you require directions / further information please ‘phone Eira Bond on 011 482-3349 every weekday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

FEBRUARY

WALKING TOUR

‘WITS MEETS BRAAMFONTEIN’

SATURDAY, 2nd FEBRUARY

This tour will focus on the eastern side of the Braamfontein East Campus of Wits University. Wits has gradually taken over an historic corner of Braamfontein and saved an interesting range of heritage buildings in the process. This south eastern section of the University is dedicated to the arts. The Old School of Dentistry (an architecturally important Fassler building with an early Villa art work is now home to the School of Arts. The old University Corner (once Lawson's building with its revolving restaurant and garage) has been given a new and very visible new life as the Wits Art Museum.

The tour will be led by the very knowledgeable Professor Kathy Munro who spent her academic career at Wits and has developed a passionate interest in heritage buildings. She will be joined by Flo Bird, Chairman of the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation.

Meet them at the basement lifts on the Jorissen Street side 1t 14h00 and safe parking has been organised In Senate House basement. The cost is R85.00 for members and R115.00 for non-members which includes refreshments.

Should you require directions / further information please ‘phone Eira Bond on 011 482-3349 every weekday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

-----oOo-----

BUS TOUR

‘OVER THE GARDEN WALL’

SUNDAY, 17th FEBRUARY

A chance to peep over the garden walls and view the lovely gardens one never sees from the road. A little history and gossip goes a long way towards a casual Sunday afternoon outing.

Meet Winnie Job at 14h00 at the Sunnyside Park Hotel, 2 York Road, Parktown. The cost is R145.00 for members and R175.00 for non-members - IT IS ESSENTIAL TO BOOK.

Should you require directions / further information please ‘phone Eira Bond on 011 482-3349 every weekday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

-----oOo-----

LAUNCH OF THE

JOHANNESBURG HERITAGE DINING EXPERIENCE FOR 2013

WALKING TOUR

‘THE ORIGINAL CHINATOWN AND THE SWALLOW INN’

SATURDAY, 23rd FEBRUARY

Probably not the first Chinese Restaurant in Johannesburg but Den Adams remembers only two in the CBD in the 1950’s – the Little Swallow, now the Swallows Inn, but still in the same position in Commissioner Street, and the Dragon’s Pearl, in Delvers Street, the latter now gone.

Not even the present owners of the Swallows Inn can remember the history, but we are keen to open our Restaurant Programme here. It follows the start of the Chinese New Year and it gives us another chance to visit this part of the City and possibly hear about some of the re-development plans for this area. This tour will incorporate a walk, a talk and a lunch. We plan to meet at the Sunnyside Park Hotel, sort ourselves into cars, drive into the City, park and walk around the area for about 1,5 hours and then go to the Swallows Inn. It sounds like a five to six course lunch, but simple Chinese-style, and it comes with a talk on the history of the Chinese in the area.

Join Den Adams and David Forrest 10h30 – PLEASE NOTE EARLY STARTING TIME – at the Sunnyside Park Hotel, 2 York Road, Parktown - hopefully some of you will volunteer your cars to carry some of those who don’t want to drive into town. We will then go to Swallow Inn and park in the vicinity of 6 Commissioner Street (opposite John Vorster Square). Duration is 4 hours and the cost is R160.00 per person including meal and tips. Any drinks will be for your own account.

Should you require further information please ‘phone Eira Bond on 011 482-3349 every weekday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

MARCH

WALKING TOUR

‘ADLER MUSEUM’


SATURDAY, 2nd MARCH

Visit the Adler Museum of Medicine and see interesting collections depicting the history of medicine, dentistry and pharmacy through the ages. There are hundreds of items of medical historical interest on display including documents, sculptures, pictures, videos and philatelic and medallion collections relating to medical history. See reconstructions of an African herb shop, a patient consulting a sangoma (traditional healer), a 20th century Johannesburg pharmacy, a doctor's consulting room, a dental surgery, an operating theatre, an optometry display of the same period, and an exhibition of early electro-medical equipment.

Meet Val Hammerton and Clare van Zwieten at 14h00 and park outside University of the Witwatersrand Medical School, 7 York Road, Parktown. The cost is R85.00 for members and R115.00 for non-members.

Should you require directions / further information please ‘phone Eira Bond on 011 482-3349 every weekday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

-----oOo-----

WALKING TOUR

‘FORDSBURG – FROM MINERS TO MERCHANTS’

SATURDAY, 9th MARCH

The tour starts with the outraged miners and a very new South African Air force bombing the strikers, but damaging the Presbyterian Church instead. Government displayed many errors of judgment over the years, yet Fordsburg flourished and the Indian community thrived, developing schools and institutions despite laws which disempowered them in all aspects of life. Struggle heroes emerged, forced removals were resisted, yet many were still forced to move to Lenasia. Ultimately adversity never defeated the energy which South African Indians brought into Fordsburg. We will unveil a plaque in the Market Square on the small public lavatory block recording the final battle of the Rand Revolt. This is the only original building still standing on the square from the 1922 Strike. We will be looking at a number of charming old buildings, and visit the serene Mosque in Newtown, the site of Gandhi's passive resistance campaign.

Meet Flo Bird and Yasmin Mayet under the trees at 14h00 and park at the Oriental Plaza cor Bree and Main Streets, Fordsburg – R8.00 parking fee for your own account. Use High Street Entrance No 3 (opposite Osbro Cash & Carry). The cost is R70.00 for members and R100.00 for non-members.

Should you require directions / further information please ‘phone Eira Bond on 011 482-3349 every weekday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

-----oOo-----

BUS TOUR

‘MONUMENTS AND MEMORIES

THE ARCHITECTURE OF GERARD MOERDYK’

SATURDAY, 16th MARCH

Moerdyk is most famous for his Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria but his portfolio includes a large and eclectic array of fine buildings dotted throughout Johannesburg and Pretoria. As one of our earliest South African architects, Moerdyk's personal history is as quintessential local as his architectural legacy. Join us on this bus tour as we celebrate the life and work of this tremendous architect. Be prepared to be pleasantly surprised!

Meet Colin Berger and Alex Parker at 13h00 – PLEASE NOTE EARLY STARTING TIME and park at the Sunnyside Park Hotel, 2 York Road, Parktown. The cost is R155.00 for members and R185.00 for non-members.

Should you require further information please ‘phone Eira Bond on 011 482-3349 every weekday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

WALKING TOUR

‘ANOTHER RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE

THE TROYEVILLE HOTEL’

SATURDAY, 23rd MARCH

Built in 1939, the Troyeville Hotel still stands proud on Bezuidenhout Street, bordering Ellis Park to the north and Troyeville to the south. Famous for its Portuguese cuisine, we have arranged to have lunch there, Portuguese-style, with platters of food in the centre of the tables, and we all help ourselves! After lunch we will visit a few of Troyeville’s main sites, including the Spaza Shop, the Park and one or two churches. Again, for those who would prefer to be lifted to the venue, arrangements will be made for you to join others at Sunnyside Park Hotel.

Meet Den Adams and David Forrest at 12h30 - PLEASE NOTE EARLY STARTING TIME - and park at the Troyeville Hotel, 25 Bezuidenhout Street, Troyeville. There is adequate parking behind the Hotel on the northern side and there is a brick staircase leading up to the restaurant deck. The walk will commence at 14h15 and last about 2 hours. The cost is R190.00 per person – all drinks for your own account

Should you require directions / further information please ‘phone Eira Bond on 011 482-3349 every weekday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

Marie Antoinette, Diana & Alexandra -The Third I

In a recorded interview, the famed Zulu medicine man, psychic, artist and writer Credo Mutwa told author Alexandra Levin how Diana, the late Princess of Wales, had urgently been trying to contact him shortly before her death as she knew plans were afoot to have her murdered. 

Alexandra I of South Africa in one of her vast collection of ballgowns designed by couturier Chris Levin


Following this a strange series of synchronistic events occurred which served to convince Alexandra that Diana herself was behind the scenes orchestrating the writing of the book. But why should Diana choose Alexandra, a relatively unknown South African author, for this mammoth task? Was it because as the wife of a prominent couturier Alexandra and her ex-husband had enjoyed a high social profile? In fact, Alexandra was once voted South Africa's best dressed woman and had socialized with the top echelons of society - as a couple they had stood proudly on the podium at Nelson Mandela's Inauguration.

In a reading with a well-known English psychic who was able to channel the late Princess, Alexandra asked Diana: "Beloved Princess, did we know each other in Versailles?" A few moments silence. Then a gentle laugh. "Yes, of course we did, dear Sister. And the irony of it is that I don't know who chose the better life this time."

'Marie Antoinette, Diana & Alexandra: The Third I' is a fascinating story intertwining the hopes and ideals of a girl from a Jewish family living in South Africa with that of Diana, Princess Of Wales.

After Nelson Mandela's Inauguration as President, life in South Africa was turned upside-down and her world with it. Alexandra Levin's book, whilst easy to read, produces great sympathy and empathy for her life and with life as a whole. A remarkable story, which leaves the reader thinking!

Website copy

AUTHOR ALEXANDRA LEVIN

South African born author, Alexandra Levin, a BA (Drama) graduate from the University of Cape Town, is the recipient of numerous advertising awards during her long and successful career as an advertising copywriter at Grey, BBDO, Young & Rubicam and Ogilvy-Mather.

Alexandra’s most remarkable book to date: her spiritual autobiography Marie Antoinette, Diana & Alexandra – The Third I published by Strand Publishing (London) 2012.

Hoping to update her book Out of this World – The Alternative South African Experience, in 2005 Alexandra visited the well-known medicine man psychic, artist and author, Credo Mutwa. Credo declined to talk about himself saying that “Everybody who has written about me has been murdered as I know too much.”

Credo then began talking to Alexandra about how, shortly before the accident that took her life, Princess Diana had been urgently trying to contact him as she knew that plans were afoot to have her murdered. With Credo’s permission, Alexandra, with her small, hand-held tape recorder, recorded all that he had to say.

Since when a strange series of synchronistic events served to convince Alexandra that Diana herself, from the spirit world, was doing all in her power to make the contents of Credo’s interview known.

“I knew that I could no longer ignore writing the book was when a friend of mine loaned me one of Credo’s books Africa is my Witness. I opened it on the following paragraph: I wish I did not have to write this book, but something is telling me that I must. Whether that something is a Night-Walking Demon or a High God is something that I cannot decide. Of one thing I am quite convinced: I am not writing this book at my own initiative.

“A spirit appears outside my bathroom window each night. Some psychics have said that it is an angel. At any rate, it is a whitish-yellowish figure with its arms outstretched. The bottom of this apparition is in the shape of a giant warning bell. From another angle the figure looks like the final piece in a jigsaw puzzle. “

Alexandra attributes the “jigsaw puzzle piece” to something Credo told her on a subsequent visit.

“I asked Credo who had, in fact, been responsible for the death of Diana and Dodi. He replied that the same hit squad who took out King Moeshoeshoe III of Lesotho in the January preceding the car crash in the Pont de L’Alma, also were responsible for the death of Diana and Dodi, as the details of both car crashes bear remarkable similarities.”

Credo also told Alexandra about the small AIDS hospital he intended building – as modest hospital has, in fact, been built in the interim by Credo and his wife, fellow sangoma, Virginia in Kuruman in the Eastern Cape where they are now living … but the hospital is desperately in need of funding. “I feel sure had Diana lived, she would have helped with money for the hospital,” concluded Alexandra.

Where does Marie Antoinette fit into the picture? Alexandra says that when her life of wealth and privilege disintegrated before her astonished eyes, causing her to follow a more spiritual path, as the mansion was auctioned off, as she packed away her ball gowns and the couple’s collection of valuable antiques and pictures was sold, she knew that she had undergone similar hardships in Versailles.

In a channelled interview with a well-known English psychic who channelled Diana Alexandra asked: “Beloved Princess, did we know each other in Versailles? A few moments silence. Then a gentle laugh.

“Yes, of course, we did, dear Sister. And the irony of it is that I don’t know who chose the better life this time.”

Marie Antoinette, Diana & Alexandra – The Third I is available from leading UK bookstores, Amazon.com and Kalahari.com.

Proving her versatility as a writer, Alexandra’s next book Sexty, published by Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie (UK) in 2011 is as raunchy and light-hearted as her spiritual autobiography is serious.

In her hilarious new book Sexty, author Alexandra Levin, herself a Baby Boomer, comments in wry fashion about what it’s like being a Golden Oldie determined to live life to the full. Partying until the Grim Reaper beckons because ones achy-breaky heart has just about given up the ghost.

How do you go about dating when you thirty-something year old marriage falls apart at the seams … rather like those well-worn bell bottoms that you have lovingly kept in mothballs ever since you went to seed and no longer got high on weed? What about those single parties for over +45’s where your partner’s arthritic legs make a wooden chair a more supple partner? How about joining the gym when the last strenuous exercise you had was sex in those distant days when your partner was still up to it? And how do you appease the other angry passengers when your plane’s scheduled to depart in less than five minutes and you’ve carelessly misplaced your passport to pleasure in all that battered baggage you’re taking through life?

Baby Boomers, you’re going to love Sexty - particularly if your sense of humour is still intact.

Sexty is available from leading UK book stores, Amazon.com, Kalahari.com and at Exclusive Books.

Gertjie's visit to the Transvaal

 

 

GRAND FINALE - Mr Gay South Africa - 26 NOVEMBER 2011, THE LYRIC THEATRE, GOLD REEF CITY

The search for the ultimate gay male. A nationwide search for the ultimate gay male culminates in an extravagant gala night to crown South Africa`s representative for Mr Gay World 2012 to be held at the Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City in Johannesburg on Saturday 26th November.
Hosts for the evening are:

CATHY SPECIFIC http://www.cathyspecific.co.za/
FRANK MALABA http://www.facebook.com/pages/Frank-Malaba/105263832876754

ARISTS:

- The band ADAM featuring Joe Foster, Hugo Ludik and Reynardt Hugo (Binnelanders)
http://www.adamband.co.za/

- The bank LUDIK featuring Stefan Ludik
http://www.reverbnation.com/ludik
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stefan-Ludik/102633978019


SPECIAL GUEST ARTISTS:

- MR. GSA 2011 FINALISTS: http://www.mrgsa.co.za/

JUDGES:

International panel consisting of Mr. Gay World Directors and South African representatives.

Mr. ERIC BUTTER: AUSTRALIA
Mr. DEAN NELSON: CANADA
Me NOEMI ALBERTO: PHILIPPINES
Mr TORE AASHEIM: NORWAY
Adv. THEMBA MTHETWA: SOUTH AFRICA
Mr. WILCO VAN EEDEN: SOUTH AFRICA

http://www.mrgayworld.org/index.php/mr-gay-world-2012/organization/executive-committee

http://www.mrgayworld.org/index.php/mr-gay-world-2012/organization/regional-directors/europe

Representing SOUTH AFRICA:

Adv. THEMBA MTHETWA - CEO Public Protector of South Africa: http://www.pprotect.org/leadership/leadership.asp

Mr. WILCO VAN EEDEN - CEO Club Travel Honeydew


CHOREOGRAPHER: STEFAN CARSTENS, 3 WAY THEATRE http://www.3waytheatre.co.za/

SCRIPT WRITER: WIM VORSTER

DIRECTOR: KOSIE SMIT, KOSIE HOUSE OF THEATRE http://www.kosie.biz/



SAT. 26 Nov. 2011.

Doors open and ticket collection form 19h30.

Show starts at 20h30 sharp.


TICKETS: COMPUTICKET or any SHOPRITE or CHECKERS

Price: Stalls from R150
VIP (balcony): From R250
VIP get own area, own bar, gift bags and free entry to After-Party at PLUM with Computicket ticket stub.

Online here: http://online.computicket.com/web/event/mr_gay_south_africa_tm_2011/419163511/


OFFICIAL SPONSORS: http://www.mrgsa.co.za/blog/official-sponsors-2011/

PRIZES: http://www.mrgsa.co.za/blog/prizes-2011/

MR. GSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS: http://www.mrgsa.co.za/blog/contact-us/

AFTER-PARTY: PLUM, PRETORIA

Secrets Make You Sick

An interesting read is Durban business man Trevor Kleinhans' book Secrets Make You Sick. It i sshockingly honest and he brings the message home without ever stooping to moralise. The book is nwo available at CNA, Exclusive Books and at www.kalahari.com

The author writes:
"My life has been a journey; I have visited the devil’s den and landed in the enchanted magical garden. This is a story that will capture your imagination, as I take you through the life of a gay man living in South Africa in the early 1980s and enduring arrest. I had a childhood of living with an alcoholic father and with a sibling that sexually molested me over a six-year period. I was forced to complete two years of National Service in apartheid South Africa and witnessed horrific events in the townships whilst doing compulsory military camps along the way.

I entered into a nine-year emotionally abusive gay relationship, which made me focus instead on a successful career path. At 39 years old I was a successful businessman who never drank alcohol, or smoked cigarettes and was totally against drugs.

When I reached my forties, all this changed. I was faced with huge challenges in my career, ended my nine-year abusive relationship, found drugs, and became HIV positive. By the age of 43, I was a crack cocaine addict and came face to face with the devil; I was on the verge of losing everything, including my life. With a 3% chance of success, I entered rehabilitation clinging to the belief that I would be one of those 3 out every 100 crack cocaine addicts who triumph over their addiction. I had to believe that I could conquer this drug whose addicts are referred to in the drug world as having stooped as low as sucking the devil’s cock.

Thanks to the amazing people I had surrounded myself with, including friends and family, I managed to enter rehabilitation, and found a counselling therapist that I visited weekly over a five-year period. This biography explains the psychological journey I went through, as my counsellor helped me empty my emotional tank and rid myself of emotions that I had not been equipped to deal with as a child.

I hope to help people that are experiencing or have experienced life in a similar way. I also believe this book will help the families and friends of people experimenting with drugs, or dealing with HIV.

After everything I have been through there is not one thing I would change, as long as I know I would end up where I am at present."

SA GLAAD Praises Unexpected SA Government Support Of UN Statement On Human Rights

On behalf of SA GLAAD, we would like to express our gratitude that the government of South Africa has signed the statement issued at the UN Human Rights Council, which was signed by 85 countries, entitled "Ending Acts of Violence and Related Human Rights Violations Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity."

The news was recieved this morning with a mixture of elation and surprise, as it was generally expected that South Africa was not going to sign the UN statement, as it had not supported similar UN statements addressing the topic of homosexuality in the past, and had been in international news on several occasions recently for reportedly saying it would not support this initiative.

We also wish to express our thanks and appreciation to those who organized and supported petitions, both internationally and locally, for people to express their wish that the SA Government sign the statement, and for the attention which other human rights bodies, local and international, have given to this issue.

Over the past few weeks there has been a great deal of confusion among human rights advocacy organizations caused by conflicting reports about South Africa's willingness to support this initiative. This situation was exacerbated by our country's past failure to support a similar initiative in 2008, as well as the puzzling lack of effective official communication from the SA government to the Pink Community on this issue. We hope that in future such misunderstandings and miscommunications can be avoided.

Showing support for our community's human and civil rights as enshrined in our country's Constitution in both local affairs and foreign policy is no small thing, and will not be taken lightly. We are hopeful that this is an indication that government is indeed taking a keen interest in the welfare of ALL its citizens and that it bodes well for the future.

We also take this opportunity to praise the three other African countries who supported the UN statement - the Central African Republic, Rwanda and Sierra-Leone - for holding high the torch of equality, liberty and human rights in Africa. It is our hope that South Africa will lead the way in advancing equality, prosperity and humanity in Africa, and that this be the beginning of a new era of ubuntu on our continent.

It is indeed of grave concern that so few countries in Africa view LGBTI people as deserving of recognition, dignity, equality and decent treatment - and it is disturbing that so many African states view oppression, intolerance, persecution and cruelty as justifiable and even morally correct.

We encourage South Africa to associate more with African countries which cherish the ideals enshrined in our Constitution, and who seek to become like our rainbow nation - and to show them support, leading by example - rather than maintaining ties and shameful associations with states which demonstrate little or no regard for the human rights and dignity of their own people or for the value of human life.

As citizens of South Africa, we would prefer to see our tax Rands and economic contributions invested in uplifting Africa better applied in building a spirit of ubuntu and promoting the values we as South Africans stand for, as enshrined in our Constitution - rather than used to fund and support regimes which devalue human life, make a mockery of democratic principles - and embarrass our nation.

Once again, thank you South Africa for making our voice in the international community of nations, and our Constitution, count for something good and positive - and for making us Pink South Africans proud too for a change.

We hope it will not be the last time.


Kind regards,

------------------------
Christina Engela

South African Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (SA GLAAD)
Member of the Board, Press & Media Liaison
Email: Christina.saglaad@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=36473738726&ref=ts
Blog: http://saglaad.blogspot.com/

SPONSOR FOUND FOR SOUTH AFRICA’S BID FOR MR. GAY WORLD 2012

Mr. Gay South Africa (Pty) Ltd. is proud and grateful to announce that Wilco van Eeden and Club Travel Honeydew – previously nominated by TOPCO as one of South Africa’s top performing companies - has again, as they have done in the past, offered to sponsor a gay event in South Africa when it was needed the most: the company will sponsor the travel and accommodation costs of the South African bid committee for Mr. Gay World 2012 as well as the current title holder, Francois Nel.

PHOTO: FRANCOIS NEL – MR. GAY SOUTH AFRICA™ 2010 (middle), André Lammers (first prince right) and Karl-Heinz Michel (second prince, left)

Francois, Mr. Gay South Africa™ 2010, will be representing South Africa in Manila, Philippines, from the 9th until the 13th March 2011 at Mr. Gay World 2011. The Grand Finale will happen at Club Mwah in Manila on Sunday evening, 13 March 2011 (see http://www.mrgayworld.org/) where the host of next year’s competition will be announced.

The organisers of Mr. Gay South Africa™ will do a presentation and an introduction video to Mr. Gay World in support of South Africa as host of Mr. Gay World 2012 starring Cathy Specific, the hostess of Mr. Gay South Africa™ Grand Finale 2009 and 2010, Charl van den Berg, the current Mr. Gay World, Francois and some of the sponsors and organisers. Although most events in 2012 will be centred in and around Gauteng Province should South Africa receive the nod, an after-event excursion to the Cape is also in the works.

The chances of South Africa being chosen is regarded as very good, as an African country has not had a chance to stage Mr. Gay World yet and South Africa has proven that it has the ability to present competitions of international standard.

Other businesses and companies such as Babylon Nightclub in Pretoria, Kat-Man-Doo Gay Male Retreat in Dullstroom, Nomdeni Lodges in Nelspruit, Maria Garcia International™ Skincare, Foreplay Energy Drink and Bodyworks in Pretoria have also contributed greatly to the cause and the funds will be allocated to insurance, transport, expenses and to stage a first-class presentation in Manila, as well as an event in 2012 which South Africa’s LGBTI community would be proud of.

Coenie Kukkuk, Director of Operations of Mr. Gay South Africa™ said that without the support of Club Travel Honeydew and the sponsors mentioned above as well as contributors from the community such as Alan Retief from Caar'i Flora, Nicholas de Klerk and other buyers of the products sponsored, the bid would not have been possible. Kukkuk said: “We are very thankful to Club Travel Honeydew and the donors who have come to the table once again and supported this bid, which will have a huge impact on drawing the attention of the world to the plight of LGBTI people of Africa and give our bothers and sisters on the continent hope that they may one day achieve what we have achieved in South Africa. Never give up hope. That is our message.”

Francois commented: “We are very grateful to Club Travel Honeydew for this opportunity. I wish to add that one of our activities in Manila will be an Outreach Programme at Gawad Kalinga, see - http://www.gk1world.com/NewOurVision . One of their essential needs is school supplies. They have asked Mr. Gay World Ltd. if we can assist by giving them used English children's books as gifts for children aged 5-9 years old. If you have any of these to donate, please contact me, Francois Nel, on francois.stylist@gmail.com . I will be much obliged!'”

In the mean time, voting for Mr. Gay World 2011 People’s Choice Award has opened and readers are encouraged to vote for their candidate of choice here: http://www.mrgayworld.net/. One vote every 24 hours is allowed.

For all your travel requirements, contact Wilco on wilco@clubtravel.co.za .

ENDS



PHOTO: FRANCOIS NEL – MR. GAY SOUTH AFRICA™ 2010 (middle), André Lammers (first prince right) and Karl-Heinz Michel (second prince, left)

Contact telephone : 0787399366
Drawn up by : Coenie Kukkuk, Director, Mr. Gay South Africa (Pty) Ltd
E-Mail address : coenie@mrgaysouthafrica.co.za

Website : www.mrgaysouthafrica.co.za

GLAAD withdraws support for COPE

The South African Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (SA GLAAD) herewith announces the withdrawal of it’s support for COPE as a party for which gay and trans citizens should vote in the 2009 elections. SA GLAAD’s reasons for this withdrawal are as follows:

COPE’s choice of Presidential Candidate – The appointment of religious figures in positions of political power and influence as a direct threat to secular democracy;
The appointment of a Presidential Candidate associated with a religious group which has in the past unequivocally demonstrated its opposition to GLBT rights and equality;
COPE’s apparent decision to change into a religious political entity and the threat this poses to equality for all in SA, particularly with reference to GLBT rights.
By appointing a religious figure in such a high office, COPE is taking on the mantle of a religious party - and we anticipate a threat that as such COPE could later form alliances with other religious-cum-political parties which are very, very far from gay friendly and anti-equality. It is no secret that some religious political parties in SA have been trying to reverse every single human rights gain GLBT have made in the last 15 years.

SA GLAAD views a secular democracy as the only safe way forward where ALL people in SA of all faiths, races, cultures and diversities can enjoy freedom and equality together. A President who is also an ordained religious minister and who had filled high offices in religious bodies – would simply by that fact alone ensure that SA would no longer be run by a secular government, but a theocracy – a country whose government is run by a church or religion.

While COPE is portraying Bishop Mvume Dandala as a moderate campaigner for human rights and an esteemed cleric with no agenda against equal rights for GLBT, a major point of concern for gay and transgender people with regard to COPE’s choice of presidential candidate is the discovery that Bishop Dandala is listed as a past Co-Chairperson of a group called SACLA (South African Christian Leadership Assembly).

Many will remember the role SACLA played at the time of the court battles surrounding the passing of legislation which legalized same gender marriage in South Africa. On its website SACLA describes this defeat in 2006 and the move to ‘restore marriage’ quite aggressively and emphatically as a quote “war” unquote. SACLA’s involvement in the fight against same gender marriage reveals this organizations (and ergo it’s leadership’s) narrow views on GLBT rights and equality. When Dr Dandala left this position is unclear, but nevertheless his association with this group is clear.

During his later tenure as head of the AACC (All Africa Conference of Churches) in Kenya, we have found no evidence that he has ever spoken out against or addressed the vicious church and state sponsored persecution of GLBT in African countries such as Uganda. Bearing Dr Dandala's association with a homophobic group like SACLA in mind, it raises questions about the likelihood of his impartiality in the matter of gay rights, specifically pertaining to his aspirations of acting as the country’s next president. Can gay and trans South Africans really expect fair and just treatment with full equal rights under a government led by this man?

Until this turn of events SA GLAAD endorsed both DA and COPE as the only two viable choices for GLBT citizens to vote for in the April elections – but now we no longer see any reason for gay and trans people to vote for COPE, nor to promote it any further.

Christina Engela
South African Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (SA GLAAD)

Tuesday, 25 November 2008: Rita van den Heever - Jannes Eiselen

BravoBrava’s Personality of the Week is Senior Manager of the University of Johannesburg’s Arts Academy and, arguably South Africa’s best-known female TV face and voice. Rita van Heever joins show host Mixael de Kock in the 1485 Radio Today studios tonight at 20:00. You can also hear this popular gay radio show on DStv Audio Channel 169.

Tune in and hear how Rita studied medicine at the University of Pretoria, failed spectacularly after a year dedicated to hedonism and then went on to study drama at UP. Since, her life has been a ball.
Mother of triplets, Rita joined the SABC TV as a film editor in 1973, after a three-month stint of selling dresses at Uniewinkels. When the TV broadcast started in 1976 she became a continuity announcer.

She subsequently presented just about everything on the box, excluding sport and the news. From early on Rita was involved with arts programmes, presenting such programmes as Encore!, Arts on One, presented the direct broadcasts of the Unisa music competitions, direct broadcasts of the symphony concerts and specialist series such as Aan die Lied.

Rita was for many years a member of the SABC Choir, which subsequently became the Symphony Choir of Johannesburg.

She has a number of unmentionable movies and TV dramas to her credit, and she has worked as a journalist for Rooi Rose magazine.

In 1994 she was appointed as the Cultural Officer to the Sandton City Council. She started the Lunch Hour Concerts in the Sandton Art Gallery on Friday afternoons, which is still going strong.

In 1996 she joined the Rand Afrikaans University as Cultural Officer. This opened up a whole new world of arts management, and she has been learning steadily on the job ever since. Over the years the cultural office grew and expanded and became the Arts Academy, and the RAU became the University of Johannesburg.

All the wonderful things culminated in the building of the UJ Arts Centre, the state of the art gallery and theatre situated on the University’s Kingsway Campus in Auckland Park, Johannesburg. This arts complex has become a favourite with Joahnnesburg’s gay community.

Rita and Mixael chat about the reason for this and also why the arts cannot survive without gay people.

Our Special Guest this week has been around the South African acting circles for some time but is probably best-known for his television role as Dr Deon Bekker in the highly acclaimed SABC drama series “Hillside”. Heart-throb Jannes Eiselen joins Mixael and Rita in the studio to talk about the series – the third season of which is coming to an end tonight.

Jannes also tells us how come he was born in New York and raised in South Africa!

Tonight at 20:00: South Africa’s only gay radio show on 1485 Radio Today and, countrywide, on DStv Audio Channel 169.

18 November 2008: Eusebius McKaiser

Our BravoBrava Personality of the Week is Eusebius McKaiser, strategy consultant, Rhodes Scholar at St Antony’s College and working towards the completion of his Oxford Doctorate.

The World Universities Debating Championships described him as one of the world's ten best debaters: A truly extraordinary South African form a mixed race background but who identifies himself as black.

We chat about his views that black gays in South Africa should be responsible for their own liberation, we talk openly about homophobia and racism and also why leaders of most African countries so violently speak out against homosexuality. Also, why there is this misguided idea that homosexuality is not part of the African culture but that it is a Western behaviour superimposed on Africans.

In the debate we touch on the belief that a common culture exists on the Africa continent and to what extent we are dealing with differentiated cultures and disparate values – and differing moral attitudes towards homosexuality - as one moves from South to North and East to West Africa.

The influence of Islam and Christianity on molding contemporary popular views of African homosexuality is considered as we muse about what Africa could have been like before the colonial era. Can we assume that there may have been very different cultural approaches to homosexuality before Western ideas and organized religions invaded the continent?

Eusebius McKaiser is an adept social and political analyst and widely published in the local media, commenting on issues of identity, with a particular interest in race, sex, sexuality and culture.

Don’t miss this lively and straightforward chat on BravoBrava at 20:00 on 1485 RadioToday and DStc Audio Channel 169.

Our Special Guest this week is a long-standing friend of BravoBrava, Judy Page, who will be telling us about her forthcoming musical tribute to love titled: "Let There Be Love".

There will only be 2 performances: Saturday 29 November at 19:00 and Sunday 30 November at 18:30.

For more information contact Melissa on 011 486 0935 or info@foxwood.co.za

TICKETS AT R90 PER PERSON

OR HER AGENT MAIRI SURTEES CAMERON OF AFRO CELT PRODUCTIONS
ON 011 477 3352 OR 083 395 1014 OR cameroon@telkomsa.net

Tuesday, 14 October 2008, Adieu Tracey Sandilands

In tonight’s edition of BravoBrava we will be reporting back on Joburg Pride 2008 and the volunteers involved in the staging of this mammoth event on the city’s calendar.

Tracey Sandilands, the Administrator of Joburg Pride joins show host, Mixael de Kock, to chat about Pride and Prejudice.

Tracey also is a seasoned professional in the areas of marketing, communication, public relations, events organisation and general management. Join in this broadcast and hear all about Tracey’s life as she and her life partner, Janine, prepares to translocate to Canada where Tracey will head up PRIDE Toronto.

Our Special Guest this week is the Sasol Wax Art Competition winner who was announced at a spectacular function at the University of Johannesburg’s Art Centre last night.

The event was attended by the Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture, Ntombazana Botha, who confessed that she did not quite know what was going on.

Hentie van der Merwe is senior lecturer in fine arts at the University of Stellenbosch and returned from a six year stay in Belgium during last year.

Hentie will talk about his conceptual artwork that won him the coveted prize. Congratulations to Hentie!
And, BravoBrava will be extending special birthday wishes to two very special boys from South Africa’s gay community. Don’t miss out on this one!

In the photograph above Coenie Kukkuk captains the Therapy Viva La Glam float, populated by th country's most beautiful boys! What an eye Coenie has!

In the photograph on the right Coenie strikes a naval pose!

Coenie Kukkuk, editor of Gayspeak, accompanied by the Poster Boys, were invited to Mixael de Kock's after Joburg Pride to get ready for the evening’s outing to Therapy and RuPaul's show. The gathering was served high tea with cupcakes iced in every shade of pink and, with glitter on top!

The latest Gayspeak is online. What a great publication Coenie! Congratulatiosn to you and your team!

Listeners can access this fabulous online e-magazine, free of charge, at http://www.gayspeak.co.za/

In this month’s edition – The Halloween Edition – you will find:

1. The results – and photos – of the Picture Perfect male model search.

2. Pride Pics and how to get to other galleries.

3. ‘A Critique of Sonja Herholdt’s show at Legends, and Karin Hougaard’s Shirley Bassey show, as well as this artist’s forthcoming performance at Legendss – also the shows of Sharleen Surtie-Richards, Amanda Strydom, and many more.

4.Nightclub news – Halloween party, Flip a Coin and more.

5 Read all about the flea market and antique auction at the farmer’s market just outside Pretoria.

6. Photos and write-up pertaining to writer Lidia Theron and pastor Philip Liebenberg’s talks about their respective books. There is also a review of Phillip’s book by Lidia Theron
7. Great competitions to win tickets to the shows “Dalliance”, Cathy Specific’s “Mile High” and Monte Casino’s “For Your Ears Only”.

8. Win some excellent “Dry Shave Gel” from Manology.

9. News on Graham Norton.

10.A Cher look-a-like competition for the Pink Loerie 2009.

11. Pics of sexy new golf star Camillo Vegas.
On 1485 Radio Today and, countrywide on DStv Audio Channel 169: The only show of its kind in all of Africa!

Tuesday 16 September 2008 - Jenni Green

HEREUNDER:

• Telkom theft delays GAYSPEAK
• TRIO ON A TRIP - Pianist Charl de Plessis at Centurion theatre on 19 September, 20.00 - see write-up on http://curtaincallsa.blogspot.com/
• “CRAZY DIAMOND – A Tribute to Pink Floyd” set to get rockers grooving at The Victory Theatre! see write-up on http://curtaincallsa.blogspot.com/
• Out in Africa Gay and Lesbian Film Festival - Diary of events - also see http://curtaincallsa.blogspot.com/ for write-ups on movies
• SHOW EVENING at LEGENDS Tuesday 23 September!- Meet LIDIA THERON & PHILIP LIEBENBERG and see show by GUILLAUME - write-up on http://curtaincallsa.blogspot.com
• Theatre Highlights at Johasnnesburg's Tesson theatre and the Old Mutual on the Square Theatre. see http://curtaincallsa.blogspot.com for write-ups on "Hello and Goodbye" as well as "Pregnant Pause"
• RUPAUL FILM PREMIERE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR JOBURG PRIDE
  Our BravoBrava Personality of the Week is a board member of Joburg Pride and also the Managing Member of Tanjent Events which was founded with another prominent member of the gay community and also a long-standing friend of this popular radio show.
  
  Jenni Green chats to show host Mixael de Kock about the responsibilities, perils and pitfalls associated with being a director of a Section 21 company such as Joburg Pride.

As the managing member of Tanjent Events, Jenni’s days are filled to the brim with sports events concept development and execution, operational planning and logistics, route planning and management as well as overall project management.

During the interview the listener will learn how Jenni came to choose a career in marketing and communication and how her studies qualified her eventually to become a force of note within the South African sports promotions arena.

Jenni speaks frankly about the inner turmoil of coming to terms with being lesbian and coming out to her family. She also discusses the bumpy road that eventually led to a blissful relationship with another giant in the field of sports promotions.

The interview also explores the criticisms surrounding Joburg Pride, the wisdom of classing a number of diverse sexual orientations under one umbrella and, ways of promoting greater cooperation between these different groupings.

TELKOM THEFT DELAYS GAYSPEAK

As you probably have noticed, there is a slight delay in sending out Gayspeak 75. Editor, Coenie Kukkuk tells us that their webdesigners had their Telkom lines stolen, and are trying their best to get back on air with Iburst and so on.

Coenie sasys they hope to go live on Monday. We are holding thumbs!

What you can expect - Gayspeak 75:1

• The biggest news surrounding Pride is of course that RuPaul will give a live show at Therapy’s After Party at Carfax (see hereunder). Remember that your ticket to the premiere of her movie in Jhb and Pta on the 2nd and 3rd respectively, gives you entry to the After Party as well – plus – win a wonderful hamper and four sets of entry tickets!
• All about Pride 2008
• Lidia Theron, skrywer en Gayspeak medewerker, besoek Gauteng en lewer praatjies oor haar boek saam met Philip Liebenberg op die 23e Sept. by Legends om 8nm presies, gevolg deur ‘n live show deur Guillaume
• Results of Mr & Miss Legends 2008
• Some pics from Oppikoppi 2008
• Johan Strydom se oorwinning oor NG Kerk Immoreleta
• uus oor Die Kaalkop Waarheid se nuwe CD
• Pics of Ellen and Portia’s wedding
• Wonderful shows by Sonja Herholdt, Flip A Coin, Dihan, Charl du Plessis and Nataniël, Mamma Mia! and many more
• A Botox Discount
• News on the new Wrapped mag
• Win tickets to Cathy Specific's new show
• 'n Afikaanse kort-kort verhaal
• And much, much more

www.gayspeak.co.za

Live on Monday afternoon latest

Events at the Out In Africa Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, Killarney Mall. The Festival runs until Sunday 14 September. Tickets are R25

Wednesday 10:
The Forum for the Empowerment of Women (FEW) will present the film Underneath and engage with the Director / Writer / Actress Katrina Deaton. Screening begins at 7.30pm
Saturday 13:
Janine Preesman (Glorious Light MCC) and Douglas Torr (Anglican priest) will conduct a Q&A session after the 7.30pm screening of the Oscar nominated documentary For The Bible Tells Me So.

RUPAUL FILM PREMIERE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR JOBURG PRIDE

There’s a fun and glamorous opportunity to support Joburg Pride at this year’s Cinema Nouveau screened by Fish Eagle Pride Film Festival. The festival, which is independent from Joburg Pride, will be hosting two exclusive fund-raising premieres of the film Starrbooty starring the outrageous international drag diva RuPaul.

RuPaul, who plays the main character, will be appearing in person at the film's glamorous South African premieres on Thursday, October 2nd at Ster-Kinekor Classic, the Zone, Rosebank in Joburg and in Pretoria at Brooklyn's Cinema Nouveau screened by Fish Eagle on Friday the 3rd. Mike Ruiz, the film’s director, will also appear at the premieres.

And that’s not all. Buying a ticket to one of the premieres will ensure free entry into Therapy’s Viva la Glam Pride After-party at Carfax in Newtown, one of a number of Pride after-parties across the city.

Tickets for the Starrbooty premieres cost R150 each and all proceeds will be donated by Ster-Kinekor Theatres and Therapy to the non-profit company that runs Joburg Pride on behalf of the gay and lesbian community.

“It is truly an honour for Ster-Kinekor Theatres to host the world’s one and only drag superstar! We can’t wait to premiere RuPaul’s latest film at our prestigious Pride Film Festival as well as raising funds to further show our support for the local gay / lesbian / trangendered communities,” says Paul Burton, Ster-Kinekor Bookings Executive.

“We greatly appreciate the support from both Ster-Kinekor Theatres and Therapy for graciously donating the proceeds of their premieres to Joburg Pride,” says Tanya Harford, Co-chair of Joburg Pride. “We urge the lesbian and gay community to show their support for Pride by buying tickets to these fantastic premieres.”

Tickets can be purchased at Ster-Kinekor Classic The Zone and Cinema Nouveau Brooklyn box offices, by calling TicketLine 082 16789 or at http://www.sterkinekor.com/.

Joburg Pride 2008

The 2008 Joburg Pride Festival, which is organised by a not-for-profit company of volunteer board members, will take place from 29 September to 4 October 2008. The 19th annual Pride Parade will be held on Saturday 4 October starting at and returning to Zoo Lake Sports Club from 9am. The Parade will be followed by a concert. The theme for Joburg Pride in 2008 is ‘Love, not Hate.’ It aims to highlight the recent spate of hate crimes against members of the gay community; especially black lesbians such as Eudy Simelane, Zoliswa Nkonyana, Sizakele Sigasa and Salome Masooa who were all brutally murdered because of their sexual orientation. For more information visit http://www.joburgpride.org/.

Cinema Nouveau screened by Fish Eagle Pride Film Festival
The Cinema Nouveau screened by Fish Eagle Pride Film Festival takes place at Rosebank (26 Sept - 4 Oct), Brooklyn (26 Sept - 3 Oct), V&A Waterfront (3 Oct - 11 Oct) and Gateway (3 Oct - 9 Oct). Booking and information gathering options are on offer at Cinema Nouveau screened by Fish Eagle, including online bookings either on your WAP-enabled cell phone or PC at : http://www.sterkinekor.com/ or by calling TicketLine 082 16789 (value added service rates apply), or book in cinema at the self service terminals (SSTs) or Box Offices. The novel Touchmart Transaction Access Points (TAP) now offer an even easier means of booking a movie ticket, and are located nationally with convenient access from supermarkets to civic centres.

Tuesday 9th September 2008 - Liesl Theron & Gender Dynamix

HEREUNDER:

• Legends @ Legends - Meet Lidia Theron, Philip Liebenberg and Guillaume
• TRIO ON A TRIP - Pianist Charl de Plessis at Centurion theatre on 19 September, 20.00 see write-up on http://curtaincallsa.blogspot.com/
• Out in Africa Gay and Lesbian Film Festival - Diary of events - also see http://curtaincallsa.blogspot.com/ for write-ups on movies

BravoBrava's Personality of the Week is the Director of Gender Dynamix, the only registered NGO looking after transgender matters in Africa.

We caught Liesl Theron between arriving at Johannesburg Airport from Seattle in the UInited States and departing for her hometown - which is the little village of Cape Town.

Liesl chats engagingly about transgender people and the challenges they face in a very intolerant society.

Gender DynamiX is a Human Rights organisation promoting freedom of expression of gender identity, focusing on transgender, transsexual and gender non-confirming identities. It is currently the only registered organisation within Africa which specifically advocates for transgender individuals.

Gender DynamiX aim is to increase awareness and visibility of transgenderism in South Africa and also to support transgender people to access their human rights through its activities.

Transgender:

The sense of self is in conflict with the gender assigned to you at birth and its corresponding stereotypical roles.

Transsexual:

Transsexual people may seek medical treatment to bring their body and gender identity into alignment.

Not all transsexual people undergo reassignment surgery, for various reasons. High medical costs, unemployment, access to information and limited medical care are some of the factors.

Cross Dresser / Transvestite:

A person who dresses in the clothing of the opposite sex. Being a transvestite does not mean that you are gay.

Drag Queen:

Being a drag queen is about the occasional portrayal of the opposite gender with an emphasis on performance and fun.

FTM (female to male), often called trans man:

Chosen gender is male; he starts out with a female body.

MTF (male to female), often called trans woman:

Chosen gender is female; she starts out with a male body.

Androgyne:

Person appearing and identifying neither man nor woman, presenting a gender either mixed or neutral.

Intersex:

Intersex people (sometimes called “hermaphrodites”, to use a term many activists prefer to avoid) are people whose physical sexual differentiation at birth is not typical. This may involve chromosomal patterns which are not typical, and often involves ambiguous genitalia. Some intersex people develop gender identity issues later on in life.

SOFFA:

Significant Other, Family, Friends and Allies.
What Gender Dynamix does:

· assist trans people to access their rights, and to provide South African relevant information on services and support;

· ensure that trans people are aware of their rights in their communities, at work and when accessing services;

· educate both people in the trans community and non-trans people, this includes media, employers, activists, researchers, students and the general public;

· ensure that medical- and mental health professionals have access to information and to lobby for quality medical treatment, care and access to health care benefits. Medical treatment is a pivotal factor in transgender issues. The lack of materials to the medical community currently has severe irreversible implications for transgender individuals.

· provide a safe space for the transgender community to share information, stories and experiences and to participate in the organisation’s development, as well as in social and political processes.

· create a much needed history and positive identity for South African transgender people;

· contribute, encourage and stimulate academic and scientific research in Africa on transgenderism; and

· collaborate, partner with other NGO’s to strengthen the LGBTI and human rights sector.

Transgenderism is not unAfrican or Western. The word transgender is fairly new, dating back to the early ’90 – but the existence of transgender was always there.

“At the age of six I already knew how to differentiate between Male and Female. I knew that I was in a female body but did not identify as one when I was growing up, I heard about a myth which stated that if a crab bit you, your gender will change to the opposite one. I always wanted it to bite me but I was scared of the pain that it was going to give me.
Later at the age of 15 I had a calling to become a Sangoma( traditional herbal healer) and when my family investigated it they discovered that the Ancestor that wanted me to practice the herbal healing was my great grandfather, because of this they then started to believe that my male behaviour comes from that Ancestor. They started to become more accommodating and accepting of my feelings and decisions that I made regarding my gender.
Neighbours were curious to know how my family dealt with how I address myself. My parents always used my Ancestors as the justifying reason for my male behaviour. They always said “He inherited in from his great grandfather”. People started to accept me and became friendly towards me because they respected my Ancestors wish.
I personally think that even if my Ancestors did not choose to call me I was still going to be a transgender person. “

How to deal with Transgender matters:

1. A short guide to the what - not’s

NO - Never ever use the words Tranny, Trassie, She-Male, Hermaphrodite or any other slang words when reporting on Trans people.

Yes Always use Trans man, Trans woman for people who have transitioned or are in the process of transitioning. See list below for extended terminologies.

No Never call Trans men and Trans women by the popular reference -Transvestite.
Transvestites do not change their gender. They are people who just dress in clothes of their opposite sex.

NO Never, under any circumstance, refer to Trans people under the blanket term Gay.

Transgender is not about sexual preference, it is about gender. Trans people run the gamut of sexualities - gay bisexual and heterosexual. Calling them gay would be like assuming and asserting that all feminists are lesbians.

2. He or She?:

When writing about transgender people, the correct way to refer to them is by their chosen gender.

When talking or reporting about a person who has transitioned from female to male, the correct pronouns would be the masculine form like for any other kind of male.

E.g. “He realized that his female body did not match his sense of self”

E.g.: Robert Hamblin used to be a woman but has transitioned to a man, thus one now refers to him as him and he.

Of course the same transition applies to people who have transitioned from male to female.

With intersex people and gender queer people it would be best to ask how these people would like to be referred to.

www.genderdynamiX.org.za

BOOK AND SHOW EVENING @ LEGENDS Tuesday 23/9 WITH LIDIA THERON & PHILIP LIEBENBERG, AND SHOW BY GUILLAUME

Well-known writer, Lidia Theron, and new kid on the block, Philip Liebenberg, writer of "Daar's 'n gay pastoor in my kop" (There is a gay pastor in my head), will give talks on their respective books and sit for a Q&A session at Pretoria gay nightclub, Legends, on Tuesday, the 23rd of September at 8pm. The versatile singer Guillaume will do a show thereafter, which will be followed by the dance floor opening, as the next day is a public holiday. It promises to be yet another night of wonderful diversity at Legends. Entry is only R50, and R30 for students.

About Lidia:
It is not too late if you haven’t yet read the book Jy bly my kind, written by Lidia Theron, to do so now. It is a must. It is about a mother’s acceptance of a gay child. The book is not meant necessarily for gay people or for the parents of such children only. Lots of other people said after reading the book, that it was very informative and gave them a different view of gay people. The publisher’s comment on the back of the book:

"What is a mother’s reaction when she finds out her daughter is in love with another girl – or her son with another boy?

How does she comfort her husband when he cries out: “We have lost our child!”?

How does she handle questions like: “What will people say?” or: “What did we as parents do wrong?”

How does she deal with the shame and feelings of guilt that accompanies it?

How does it affect her standing as a believer, towards her church?"

The book has since changed the lives of many gay people and their families and it's an honour to have Lidia, who is a pensioner and resides in Betty's Bay, SW Cape, here in Gauteng as guest.

About Philip:
Philip Liebenberg is the pastor of Die Kapel, Melville, Johannesburg, South-Africa. He also authors the series 'Espresso vir jou siel', which is a series of books containing essays and devotional writings as well as sermons preached by Philip. Philip is a gay pastor although his congregation is not a gay-only church.He is a published author: Penguin South Africa published a book on his life journey as a very spiritual child and later as a married pastor, struggling to come to terms with his sexuality and spirituality. The title of the book is "Daar is 'n gay pastoor in my kop!"What makes Philip’s book so unique is that he comes from a Pentecostal/Charismatic background and this is the first time in South Africa that a book by someone (a gay pastor) coming from one of these churches is being published. Following in the footsteps of the groundbreaking '‘n Kas is vir klere', this book will give voice to the experiences of numerous gay and lesbian Christians from a Pentecostal/Charismatic background, who not only have to deal with the usual rejection from their churches when they realise they are gay, but with the terrible stigma of being labelled as “demon possessed”.

About Guillaume:

Guillaume needs no introduction - since his very popular album "Da-Idi" in 2001, he has since launched several more. He was one of the top 5 most favourite artists at KKNK 2003, where he launched his album "Swart of wit", which has since gone gold. He is back in 2008, with his new look and his new album, called "Nader aan jou", produced by Coleske Artists, who was also responsible for Eden's latest success, "Knieë lam".

The authors will be available for book signing and a chat afterwards, and books will be on hand for sale to the public (cash only).

Gayspeak.co.za

Edited by: Coenie Kukkuk

Contact: wbvd@law.co.za

Events at the Out In Africa Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, Killarney Mall. The Festival runs until Sunday 14 September. Tickets are R25.

Monday 8:

Lisa Gornick, Director of Tick Tock Lullaby will do a Q&A after the 7pm screening

Tuesday 9:

Director Bennett Singer and Walter Naegel will present and do Q&A for the film Brother Outsider (Edwin Cameron's choice), screens at 7pm

Director Jamie Babbit and Producer Lias Thrasher will present and do Q&A for their film Itty Bitty Titty Committee, screens at 7.15pm

Jewish OuLlook are presenting the film The Bubble. There will be a panle discussion with david Bilchitz and lael bethlehem after the 7.30pm screening

Wednesday 10:

The Forum for the Empowerment of Women (FEW) will present the film Underneath and engage with the Director / Writer / Actress Katrina Deaton. Screening begins at 7.30pm

Saturday 13:

Janine Preesman (Glorious Light MCC) and Douglas Torr (Anglican priest) will conduct a Q&A session after the 7.30pm screening of the Oscar nominated documentary For The Bible Tells Me So.

Photographed in the BravoBrava studios (from l to r) our Personality of the Week, Hugh Fraser, director of Out in Africa Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, Nodi Murphy, show host Mixael de Kock and physics guru Shane Wilson.