How Depression Impacts the Youth
“According to the World Health Organisation, by 2030 more people will suffer from depression than any other health problem.” Along with this statistic, the majority of these people will be the youth. This begs the question: how and why is depression spreading within one of the most influential and opportunity-free generations of youth? Depression has various meanings to different people, especially to the youth. What could some of the reasons be for this vast increase in depression and the use of anti-depressants? Today we find a vast number of young people spending their days indoors with their technology, virtual reality and easy delivery services of almost anything, that there would hardly be a reason for a person to step outside and interact with other people on a daily basis. Family structures are beginning to grow more complicated as time progresses. The traditional home or family is now a thing of the past, as we often see families being comprised of multiple parents or guardians and sometimes step or adopted siblings. These structures have been proven to affect a person’s development and mental condition. One major contributing factor for the youth to consider is the amount of information that we are given. This may not seem like a major asset that would lead to a depressed state but it is. There are constant updates on social media, news and television that have a long-lasting impact on how young people view themselves and especially what society is expecting from them. Many influencers in society belong to the youth and provide a platform for their followers to attempt to lead similar lives or attain what they have in their privileged position.
Some of this generation have never had encounters with depression or depressive disorders. Neither has this percentage of the youth had the need to seek professional counseling or had been prescribed anti-depressants. Perhaps these individuals have a different method of dealing with certain instances that may lead to depression. Each person has their own unique way of coping with events, relationship issues, and family situations, that could be the reason they have not been depressed. Much like 22-year-old Alexa-Leigh Roberts, who tells us of her experience and knowledge on the topic at hand.
Some of this generation have never had encounters with depression or depressive disorders. Neither has this percentage of the youth had the need to seek professional counseling or had been prescribed anti-depressants. Perhaps these individuals have a different method of dealing with certain instances that may lead to depression. Each person has their own unique way of coping with events, relationship issues, and family situations, that could be the reason they have not been depressed. Much like 22-year-old Alexa-Leigh Roberts, who tells us of her experience and knowledge on the topic at hand.
Another big contributing factor lies within the relationships that young people make, build and grow over time. In high school, we were always told to hang with the right crowd by our parents, and that is exactly what is meant. Being around the wrong people for even small periods of time can have a major effect on a person’s mental condition as their personalities mix and could create something toxic. With the many temptations and pressures from peers throughout one’s young life, these relationships need to be carefully chosen and established from a young age. There is no one factor that can lead to or cause such a disorder. In most cases, this disorder is an accumulation of events, people, actions, and circumstances in a person’s life that will contribute to their own unique experience with the chemical imbalance that is depression. This makes treating this disorder even more difficult for professionals. The professional must now gain the same perspective as the patient and understand where the root of the depression began. This is a time-consuming effort and can sometimes take months, years or might never be solved in the patient’s lifetime. That is why doctors prescribe anti-depressants to assist in the patient coping in normal life. In some cases, this medication can be helpful by allowing them to continue with their lives while receiving treatment or counseling. But there is the negative side of medicating this kind of disorder.
There is a dark side to the misuse and prolonged use of anti-depressants, where someone in their depressed state could enter a ‘black hole’, explains 24-year-old Carrie Morrison as she explains her personal life-long struggle with depression and associated disorders in the following interview.
There is a dark side to the misuse and prolonged use of anti-depressants, where someone in their depressed state could enter a ‘black hole’, explains 24-year-old Carrie Morrison as she explains her personal life-long struggle with depression and associated disorders in the following interview.
Like Carrie explains, it is difficult for her to describe what depression means for her, as is the case with so many other affected young people. The first step to conquering depression is admitting that you indeed have it. This may be difficult at first, but what comes after is a road to discovering what makes you feel this way. The best treatment is self-acceptance and not rushing to be placed on any kind of medication unless extremely necessary. There are various psychological and therapeutic methods that can be suggested before being placed on a life-long course of anti-depressants.
5 Best Blogs
Being confined to your home can be challenging especially when your'e also expected to produce the same quality of work you would in normal circumstances. At the office, you can turn to your colleague's for inspiration, hold a quick brainstorming session for a fresh perspective or just have interesting conversation in the office kitchen while making coffee; all these little interactions play a large role in the work you do. A great way to gain back just a fraction of these interactions is to find inspiration in the internet and literature - well that's what I've done. The list of blogs I've suggested are a combination of many different topics that can help to stimulate your creative juices while in quarantine.
Evernote
An organization and information capturing tool designed for work, personal tasks or school projects. It is a great application that can sync with Gmail and all your devices. This is a productivity tool, so naturally Evernote has a blog that places heavy focus on productivity, organization, and task management.
'Evernote's blog offers a wealth of productivity boosting tips that can help you at home, in the office, and everything in between'.
One post within the 'productivity' category that particularly stood out to me was the 'Why Wanting to live your Passion is not always enough' by Deanna Debara. Deanna discusses what passion is and how to find it by grouping people into two types:
- jackhammers are those who have only one passion that they live with determination. Once they find they're passion, they never give up on it.
- hummingbirds fly from interest to interest and have many rewarding experiences.
An organization and information capturing tool designed for work, personal tasks or school projects. It is a great application that can sync with Gmail and all your devices. This is a productivity tool, so naturally Evernote has a blog that places heavy focus on productivity, organization, and task management.
'Evernote's blog offers a wealth of productivity boosting tips that can help you at home, in the office, and everything in between'.
One post within the 'productivity' category that particularly stood out to me was the 'Why Wanting to live your Passion is not always enough' by Deanna Debara. Deanna discusses what passion is and how to find it by grouping people into two types:
- jackhammers are those who have only one passion that they live with determination. Once they find they're passion, they never give up on it.
- hummingbirds fly from interest to interest and have many rewarding experiences.
Deanna moves on to discuss that there is no one recipe for success. Having read about countless entrepreneurs who went through hellish experiences trying to make their passion businesses work; this is an important fact that people need to learn. This directly ties into Deanna's next point - know when to persevere and when to throw in the towel. Many business owners or passion-projects followers don't know when to quit!
Blog posts like these are truly helpful for young people who want to figure out or assess their current professional lives and where they see their lives going. Evernote does this by encouraging productivity, organised growth and constructive planning.
Marie Forleo Blog
A great self-help, business tips, food and lifestyle blog written by entrepreneur, writer, philanthropist and 'unshakable optimist' Marie Forleo. She gives an open discussion on her landing page as to how she came to be; "I was also passionate about a multitude of seemingly unconnected things: writing, hip-hop, psychology, entrepreneurship, creativity, spirituality, fitness and philanthropy.
Marie Forleo Blog
A great self-help, business tips, food and lifestyle blog written by entrepreneur, writer, philanthropist and 'unshakable optimist' Marie Forleo. She gives an open discussion on her landing page as to how she came to be; "I was also passionate about a multitude of seemingly unconnected things: writing, hip-hop, psychology, entrepreneurship, creativity, spirituality, fitness and philanthropy.
The core theme of her blog is breaking traditional rules regarding roles, professional placement and set characters. Her blog highlights topics that vary from Coronavirus support guide, everything is 'figureoutable', how to get hyper focused to simple questions that will reverse any negative thought.
- As you've noticed this is an all-rounder type of blog
- What intrigued me to this blog was Marie's success in changing career paths and eventually learning how to adapt and combine all her interests
- As you've noticed this is an all-rounder type of blog
- What intrigued me to this blog was Marie's success in changing career paths and eventually learning how to adapt and combine all her interests
It may sound like I'm recommending this style of career path, but Marie makes it look so simple! Intertwining all her passions, interests and businesses seamlessly to create an easy-to-view empire.
Design for Mankind
A lifestyle blog by Erin Loechner: A normal person. That's what I love most about this blog. It's about cooking, kids, travel, work and so much. Personally, this is the exact kind of blog I aimed to create when I first started out. Scrolling through her blog, I came across so many posts that are simply thoughts. Thoughts that run into poems, which are posted in a few short sentences. This is something so refreshing in the writing world. When content by the boat-load is encouraged, leisure-rich content filled with click baits and keywords, Loechner isn't forgetting why she enjoys writing and how her readers see her blog.
Design for Mankind
A lifestyle blog by Erin Loechner: A normal person. That's what I love most about this blog. It's about cooking, kids, travel, work and so much. Personally, this is the exact kind of blog I aimed to create when I first started out. Scrolling through her blog, I came across so many posts that are simply thoughts. Thoughts that run into poems, which are posted in a few short sentences. This is something so refreshing in the writing world. When content by the boat-load is encouraged, leisure-rich content filled with click baits and keywords, Loechner isn't forgetting why she enjoys writing and how her readers see her blog.
There is something so poetic about her writing even in a mundane, descriptive post such as this one. I highly recommend her blog if you are looking for entertaining, romantic and relative content.
Mad about the House
At the beginning of this post I did mention that we would include blogs of all types and across all industries. That's why we have reviewed an interior design blog. Described as 'the award-winning website of interiors journalist and writer Kate Watson-Smyth.' This site doesn't just have a blog, it also offers an assortment of podcasts, courses and workshops and book suggestions.
Mad about the House
At the beginning of this post I did mention that we would include blogs of all types and across all industries. That's why we have reviewed an interior design blog. Described as 'the award-winning website of interiors journalist and writer Kate Watson-Smyth.' This site doesn't just have a blog, it also offers an assortment of podcasts, courses and workshops and book suggestions.
Kate's blog post titles are to die to for; '10 things I hate about you (My House) - How to create the perfect entrance hall'. In this article she talks about entrance hall - the first room you walk into in any house. "When you stagger in with plastic bag wrist (those deep red welts from where it has cut into your flesh), a dripping umbrella, uncomfortable shoes and a slightly shameful desire for a large drink before you can even think about about taking your coat off/dinner/kids/netflix, does it say: 'come on in. Put your shoes here, your coat there and get rid of the brolly."
I also enjoy her other informative posts such as '12 Books to Change Your Mind' - I love these types of posts because opinions are interesting and reviews are valuable nowadays. There are so many movies to watch, Instagram feeds to admire and activists causes to get behind, its nice to read a random poem or list is perfect to get your own brain thinking or pondering. In October 2018, Erin wrote a piece entitled 'A Thousand Miles'. In it she describes the aftermath of a family vacation - 'I've spent the post few days in the post-getaway rhythm of folding whites, restocking pantries, shaking sand from the car mats.'
A small taste of what Kate's writing style is like. Her pieces always feature interesting photography of the main subject of her articles. Readers can bare witness to her interior design expertise as she quotes famous writers and interior guru's. The blog consists of in-depth articles, so if you want a captivating read, then Mad About the House is the design blog for you. The workshop's offered by the organisation are also an entertaining and insightful find. Some of the February workshops consisted of an Interior Design Masters talk with Kate and Sophie Robinson for those wanting to learn from two of the UK's leading interiors experts on how to master the art of blending textures, colours, designs and styles; a countryside workshop on architectural appreciation, and the latest workshop where the design work of classic Moroccan style.
Suits & Sneakers: The Rise of Informal Learning
I recently attended a great informational gathering that introduced the concept of informal learning held by an innovative education company called Suits & Sneakers. This talk in particular presented thoughts from well-known comedian turned public speaker and educator, John Vlismas. “What Makes us Human” – the ambiguous title that patrons filled the WeWork Sandton venue to hear. Before we dive into the topic of the above mentioned talk, let’s consider Suits & Sneakers initiatives towards informal learning and the right to education in South Africa.
Whilst conducting research for this article, three undeviating principles stood out:
1. Informal learning is becoming the newest method of teaching, learning and experiencing new information. The concept is not exactly new - informal learning happens every day in almost all types of situations. Teaching your son to ride his bike; answering your daughter questions about why ice melts; and even talking with folks at a braai about current affairs, are all examples of informal learning.
2. Supporting a new types of learning (informal learning) is a great way to change the perspective of education, but not forgetting about the conventional style of teaching, which still needs to be backed by those who have been privileged enough to attend any kind of education. Formal education is still a very big part of South African and global learning, but is sadly not as easily accessible or affordable as it should be.
3. Learning is so much more than just listening to lectures, attending seminars, reading books and taking tests. The best learning takes place through self-directed learning, networking, coaching, mentoring and performance planning. An exceptional way of learning is networking, which opens up many opportunities for growth in all respects.
Whilst conducting research for this article, three undeviating principles stood out:
1. Informal learning is becoming the newest method of teaching, learning and experiencing new information. The concept is not exactly new - informal learning happens every day in almost all types of situations. Teaching your son to ride his bike; answering your daughter questions about why ice melts; and even talking with folks at a braai about current affairs, are all examples of informal learning.
2. Supporting a new types of learning (informal learning) is a great way to change the perspective of education, but not forgetting about the conventional style of teaching, which still needs to be backed by those who have been privileged enough to attend any kind of education. Formal education is still a very big part of South African and global learning, but is sadly not as easily accessible or affordable as it should be.
3. Learning is so much more than just listening to lectures, attending seminars, reading books and taking tests. The best learning takes place through self-directed learning, networking, coaching, mentoring and performance planning. An exceptional way of learning is networking, which opens up many opportunities for growth in all respects.
There are endless beneficial reasons and consequences for beginning the integration to informal learning practices that have not been mentioned here, but are most certainly equally as important.
Moving towards this style of learning takes some convincing and lots of practice that need to be developed by 'teachers' to introduce to their 'students'. An introduction to the learning can begin by having 'students' complete one informal task at a time. This is an entirely different post in it's own right, so to cut it short I have briefly outlined some activities that are perfect for acquainting 'students' with informal learning. Company's in particular can ease their 'students' into an informal style of education by assimilating activities such as workplace mentoring, social media engagement, seminars & guest speakers, escape room exercises, volunteering, company sports or something as simple as departmental book clubs. For an in-depth read of these activities, check out the full article at "10 Informal learning activities to boost employee engagement" .
Back to the main event. Walking into the seminar was daunting - this was the very first seminar I had attended outside of my University career. The place was packed to capacity and all the seats left were upstairs, giving me great view of the presentation slides projected on the opposite wall. The host of the event Mark Sham, begins speaking about his organisation Suits & Sneakers, giving us a back story, all the organisations they have partnered with and why, and finally, why this organisation is his passion project.
Moving towards this style of learning takes some convincing and lots of practice that need to be developed by 'teachers' to introduce to their 'students'. An introduction to the learning can begin by having 'students' complete one informal task at a time. This is an entirely different post in it's own right, so to cut it short I have briefly outlined some activities that are perfect for acquainting 'students' with informal learning. Company's in particular can ease their 'students' into an informal style of education by assimilating activities such as workplace mentoring, social media engagement, seminars & guest speakers, escape room exercises, volunteering, company sports or something as simple as departmental book clubs. For an in-depth read of these activities, check out the full article at "10 Informal learning activities to boost employee engagement" .
Back to the main event. Walking into the seminar was daunting - this was the very first seminar I had attended outside of my University career. The place was packed to capacity and all the seats left were upstairs, giving me great view of the presentation slides projected on the opposite wall. The host of the event Mark Sham, begins speaking about his organisation Suits & Sneakers, giving us a back story, all the organisations they have partnered with and why, and finally, why this organisation is his passion project.
Suits & Sneakers is a carefully thought-out balance between formal and informal education where it's corporate and professional students can learn how to reinvent themselves as a working professional in an informal setting. One post in particular on the Suits & Sneakers blog that sparked my interest was their online University. In an article published by founder Mark Sham in May 2018, talks about the online University he always dreamed of launching: "Suits & Sneakers was founded on the belief that the current education system is starting to become less effective."
Enter John Vlismas.
John's talk entitled 'What makes us Human' and was centred around the physical, emotional and mental components that have developed in us (humans) over time. The more John went on, the more he insisted that this seminar was NOT an attack on religion, or an evolution conversion talk. Vlismas's seminar was just an example of the informal learning agenda that Suits & Sneakers is gradually encouraging in every type of environment.
The information shared at this event inspired me to get my creativity down in organised ideas and get quality content out there. I will definitely be attending another Suits & Sneakers event and highly recommend them to those in virtually any industry.
John's talk entitled 'What makes us Human' and was centred around the physical, emotional and mental components that have developed in us (humans) over time. The more John went on, the more he insisted that this seminar was NOT an attack on religion, or an evolution conversion talk. Vlismas's seminar was just an example of the informal learning agenda that Suits & Sneakers is gradually encouraging in every type of environment.
The information shared at this event inspired me to get my creativity down in organised ideas and get quality content out there. I will definitely be attending another Suits & Sneakers event and highly recommend them to those in virtually any industry.
Microaggression
Did I really just say that?
“Can I touch your hair?” “That’s so gay” “You’d be pretty if you lost some weight” “Is it that time of the month? Is that why you’re so feisty?” “What she is trying to say is …” “Wow your English is really good”
A microaggression has been described as every day verbal or non-verbal slights, snubs or subtle insults that are directed at a member of a minority or marginalised group. These are people belonging to a particular race, religion, people belonging to the LGBTQI community, people who identify with minority genders and persons with disabilities are usually victims of microaggressions.
There are three distinctive examples of microaggressions:
Microassaults
When the person committing the microagression acted intentionally and knew their behaviour might be hurtful.
Microinsults
Are subtler than microassaults, for example a white person commenting that a person of colour only got their position/job because of BEE laws.
Microinvalidations
Are comments and behaviours that deny the experiences of marginalised group members. A common example of this is telling a person of colour that they are being ‘oversensitive’ to a racist comment made. Why is this topic important? Because some people who make microaggressive comments are often unaware that they are saying them, while others know exactly why they are passing such comments. This is why we need to be able to identify who the microagressor is and make them aware of what they are saying. Do not be attacking in your confrontation, rather see it as a teaching moment where we should make them aware of the fact that they might hurt people’s feelings. it is important to immediately point out a microaggression as soon as it happens.
A microaggression has been described as every day verbal or non-verbal slights, snubs or subtle insults that are directed at a member of a minority or marginalised group. These are people belonging to a particular race, religion, people belonging to the LGBTQI community, people who identify with minority genders and persons with disabilities are usually victims of microaggressions.
There are three distinctive examples of microaggressions:
Microassaults
When the person committing the microagression acted intentionally and knew their behaviour might be hurtful.
Microinsults
Are subtler than microassaults, for example a white person commenting that a person of colour only got their position/job because of BEE laws.
Microinvalidations
Are comments and behaviours that deny the experiences of marginalised group members. A common example of this is telling a person of colour that they are being ‘oversensitive’ to a racist comment made. Why is this topic important? Because some people who make microaggressive comments are often unaware that they are saying them, while others know exactly why they are passing such comments. This is why we need to be able to identify who the microagressor is and make them aware of what they are saying. Do not be attacking in your confrontation, rather see it as a teaching moment where we should make them aware of the fact that they might hurt people’s feelings. it is important to immediately point out a microaggression as soon as it happens.
The personal brand
Personal branding is the practice of marketing people and their careers as brands. It is an ongoing process of developing and maintaining a reputation and impression of an individual, group or organisation. Why do we need start thinking about building a personal brand? Because no matter what line of work you’re in, you as a person represent what you do. This could be shown on your social media presence or on your company website.
So how do you begin building your personal brand? Figure out what your passion is, what is your field of expertise and what makes you the best at what your do. This is when you know that you’re ready to create a personal brand. Once you’ve arrived at this place, there are some key points to remember to create an engaging, unique, and inviting personal brand.
Tell a story
Build a true narrative that totally describes who and what you are about. If you are passionate about compiling presentations, then express that passion, make sure that every presentation you make has your special and unique stamp on it. The final result that you submit must be able to tell a story, it should immediately be known as ‘you’. It’s a lot of work to be consistent in what type of content you post and create as well as how it is compiled.
Have focus
Don’t try and be everything to everyone. Decide what your key message is and stick to it. Businesses and investors want to see a core message and that you are becoming or that you are an expert in this field. The best personal brands are very specific.
Be genuine
In a world of copycats and fakeness, be authentic. Don’t present a personal brand that is acting as something else, because investors, businesses and interviewers (especially), can see right through somebody that is masquerading as somebody else. This also makes updating your brand with content, super easy, as being your true self in everything you create and put out into the world. It’s one thing to keep up with the latest trends, it’s another to get lost in them. If you’re skilled in one area, your reputation will help you build the brand you want.
Be ready to fail
This goes without saying. It is more likely that your first, second, third, even fourth attempt at creating a quality brand will result in failure. Like most things in life actually. The key is to look at exactly what happened to cause that failure and grow from it. Experiencing good failures are what makes you grow as a successful person in any industry.
So how do you begin building your personal brand? Figure out what your passion is, what is your field of expertise and what makes you the best at what your do. This is when you know that you’re ready to create a personal brand. Once you’ve arrived at this place, there are some key points to remember to create an engaging, unique, and inviting personal brand.
Tell a story
Build a true narrative that totally describes who and what you are about. If you are passionate about compiling presentations, then express that passion, make sure that every presentation you make has your special and unique stamp on it. The final result that you submit must be able to tell a story, it should immediately be known as ‘you’. It’s a lot of work to be consistent in what type of content you post and create as well as how it is compiled.
Have focus
Don’t try and be everything to everyone. Decide what your key message is and stick to it. Businesses and investors want to see a core message and that you are becoming or that you are an expert in this field. The best personal brands are very specific.
Be genuine
In a world of copycats and fakeness, be authentic. Don’t present a personal brand that is acting as something else, because investors, businesses and interviewers (especially), can see right through somebody that is masquerading as somebody else. This also makes updating your brand with content, super easy, as being your true self in everything you create and put out into the world. It’s one thing to keep up with the latest trends, it’s another to get lost in them. If you’re skilled in one area, your reputation will help you build the brand you want.
Be ready to fail
This goes without saying. It is more likely that your first, second, third, even fourth attempt at creating a quality brand will result in failure. Like most things in life actually. The key is to look at exactly what happened to cause that failure and grow from it. Experiencing good failures are what makes you grow as a successful person in any industry.
We are her: Women
With Women's Month swiftly coming to end as fast as it began, I just has to write something about this wonderful gender. Now don't worry this wont be a piece about how women are the victims of the world and how unfairly they have been and still are being treated (well maybe just a little).
When I say 'be a REAL woman' I mean being the strong, independent and fair woman in 2019. We all know that women are not only treated unfairly in the corporate world, politics, business & commerce, sport, and in the eyes of the law, to name a few, but there are ways that women are making strides each and everyday to better themselves and their role in society. They are constantly breaking down barriers and creating new social norms in every industry they are in.
A great way to grow and succeed as a woman in this era is to learn to work with those around you. By working with men and especially alongside our fellow woman, we can conquer just about anything. It is important to realise that not everyone sees our vision for a united, peaceful human race, and this includes both men and women. Men are becoming very aware of the updated rights of women, but sometimes conveniently ignore certain cues. There are still ongoing accounts of sexual harassment, unfair placement or dismissal, and intimidation in various industries all over the world that have all been 'justified' by men. But let's not dwell on that alone, they are only men of course. One of the biggest issues today is the ill-treatment of women by other women. Women call each other hurtful names, wish bad upon each other and do not support women who are striving in their fields.
What solutions do we have?
1. Speak up when men to sexualise you.
All those little remarks about your outfit, the cat calling when you're walking down the street, and the loaded sexual innuendo's that men think are funny to bring up in a meeting, are actually NOT OKAY. Stop laughing it off and smiling awkwardly. You are not the one who should be embarrassed in situations like these; they should!
2. Congratulate your fellow sister.
We know what it's like to struggle, fight for what we want and achieve in society today, so don't make it harder for the lady next to you. Give her praise and celebrate that one more women has gained some success.
3. Stop dreaming. Start building.
Whether you want to start a business, change careers, move to another country, build a house, or just change your outlook on life. Stop saying that you're going to do it or start planning for next week, start it now. Stop telling yourself that you need approval from someone or that it could never work because business is a male dominated industry. Ignore that by making it a female dominated industry.
4. Don't feed the stereotype.
"Women aren't as physically strong", "Women are sensitive creatures", "Women cannot lead impartially because of their maternal instinct", and of course the favourite "Women are not as smart as men". Although these are the leading stereotypes, there are the everyday ones regarding how a woman should dress, what pants size she should be, what role is as a wife, that she should be able to cook and clean. But the imminent stereotypes today are that women only care about money and material things. Do not let this become the reality.
When I say 'be a REAL woman' I mean being the strong, independent and fair woman in 2019. We all know that women are not only treated unfairly in the corporate world, politics, business & commerce, sport, and in the eyes of the law, to name a few, but there are ways that women are making strides each and everyday to better themselves and their role in society. They are constantly breaking down barriers and creating new social norms in every industry they are in.
A great way to grow and succeed as a woman in this era is to learn to work with those around you. By working with men and especially alongside our fellow woman, we can conquer just about anything. It is important to realise that not everyone sees our vision for a united, peaceful human race, and this includes both men and women. Men are becoming very aware of the updated rights of women, but sometimes conveniently ignore certain cues. There are still ongoing accounts of sexual harassment, unfair placement or dismissal, and intimidation in various industries all over the world that have all been 'justified' by men. But let's not dwell on that alone, they are only men of course. One of the biggest issues today is the ill-treatment of women by other women. Women call each other hurtful names, wish bad upon each other and do not support women who are striving in their fields.
What solutions do we have?
1. Speak up when men to sexualise you.
All those little remarks about your outfit, the cat calling when you're walking down the street, and the loaded sexual innuendo's that men think are funny to bring up in a meeting, are actually NOT OKAY. Stop laughing it off and smiling awkwardly. You are not the one who should be embarrassed in situations like these; they should!
2. Congratulate your fellow sister.
We know what it's like to struggle, fight for what we want and achieve in society today, so don't make it harder for the lady next to you. Give her praise and celebrate that one more women has gained some success.
3. Stop dreaming. Start building.
Whether you want to start a business, change careers, move to another country, build a house, or just change your outlook on life. Stop saying that you're going to do it or start planning for next week, start it now. Stop telling yourself that you need approval from someone or that it could never work because business is a male dominated industry. Ignore that by making it a female dominated industry.
4. Don't feed the stereotype.
"Women aren't as physically strong", "Women are sensitive creatures", "Women cannot lead impartially because of their maternal instinct", and of course the favourite "Women are not as smart as men". Although these are the leading stereotypes, there are the everyday ones regarding how a woman should dress, what pants size she should be, what role is as a wife, that she should be able to cook and clean. But the imminent stereotypes today are that women only care about money and material things. Do not let this become the reality.
Ready to learn & earn?
As I have recently been a part of a learner-ship, I thought this topic would be the perfect reflection task for myself. Most days I have no idea what my purpose is here, and other days I feel so confident and creatively stimulated.
The technical definition of a learner-ship is that it is a vocational education and training programme to facilitate the linkage between structured learning and work experience in order to obtain a registered qualification. It basically combines theory and workplace practice into a qualification that is registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). This all sounds very technical, but it's actually quite simple: a learner-ship is a programme that takes on people under a certain age, to complete an NQF qualification relating to that company, while assisting in the workplace environment. An impeccable website for such opportunities is Trusted Interns. Click here to view the available programmes nationwide.
So, what should a learner be learning from a learner-ship? Well for starters and frankly the most important thing that you should be doing is learning. And how do you know that you are actually learning things of value? Ask yourself these questions regularly to assess your progress.
- Am I learning anything beneficial from the NQF qualification? and can I use this qualification further down the road?
- Does the learner-ship with this company fit into my career goals? or am I here to fill in the gaps before finding what I really want to do?
- Am I contributing positively to the role or department that I am in? or am I just the coffee and copy person?
It's a good idea to ask yourself these questions once every two weeks, just as a refresher to establish where you are. If all is going well in your learning experience, then you should be able to answer all these questions with a big fat YES.
In my opinion, the work experience that learners gain from the learner-ship is what applicants should focus on. With the rise in tertiary qualifications like vocational diplomas, degrees, and even honours degrees floating around this and the next generation of workplace entrants, you need to set yourself apart form the crowd and offer something that money cannot buy - experience. Hard earned, sweaty and tear-filled experience is what companies really focus on when they review that CV of yours.
The qualification is of course a massive buy-in for most applicants who have just left high school because its a splendid stepping stone to studying for a degree. For somebody who does not have real work experience and doesn't have a qualification higher than matric; a learner-ship is a great opportunity. Learner-ships can also be used asa gateway to employment. whether this is within the very same company, or a separate one, a learner-ship is seen as a great bridging experience in the eyes of potential employers. Who know, after a few months into a learner-ship, a company might just absorb you as an employee.
Romantics
When this classic re-make of 'A Star is Born' came out I had no idea what to expect in terms of the chosen cast, especially the two lead actors, and in terms of the the crux of the movie - the music. I was tearfully surprised when all the things I was concerned about culminated into a stunning and heart warming film about indifference, opportunity, love, addiction, and insecurity. Enjoy the music!
A Full Family
Indulge in over-ripe figs as the juices spill over with decadence. Accompanied by a selection of warm, loving cheese, that fills your mind with creamy images. Still, chilled to an almost freezing point is the glass of iced-tea brewed by hand. The wholesome meal being appreciated before me is yet to be complete in flavour or even in enjoyment: the fulfilling taste of company.
Only when a hearty 'salute' is announced, will the fig over-flow, the cheese melt in your mouth and the ice in the tea.
Only when a hearty 'salute' is announced, will the fig over-flow, the cheese melt in your mouth and the ice in the tea.
Making a Change
Have you ever had something in your life that you so desperately want to change? Woke up in the morning chanting that you want that one thing to just suddenly disappear. Go about your day and have a constant reminder that that thing is still very much a part of you. And lay in your bed at night wishing that tomorrow you will have the courage to finally change that one thing?
This is where I am in my life, constantly fighting with my brain, trying to trick it into listening to me. I have recently realised how powerful the human mind is, and no matter how strong you think your heart is, your mind sometimes cannot be tricked. You try your best to tell yourself 'no' or 'just have a little piece, it won't kill you', but all of that adds up to the same outcome.
The cycle continues. You blink and it's been a month of giving in, or not changing. Blink. It's been a year. Blink. Blink. Blink. How long will you let your one thing go unchanged?
This is where I am in my life, constantly fighting with my brain, trying to trick it into listening to me. I have recently realised how powerful the human mind is, and no matter how strong you think your heart is, your mind sometimes cannot be tricked. You try your best to tell yourself 'no' or 'just have a little piece, it won't kill you', but all of that adds up to the same outcome.
The cycle continues. You blink and it's been a month of giving in, or not changing. Blink. It's been a year. Blink. Blink. Blink. How long will you let your one thing go unchanged?
In and Out of the frame: A personal history of gender
I went to University to study English in the late 1960s and there I discovered the more enjoyable sides of being in a girl: sex, dancing and rock 'n' roll. Although absorbed in these activities and all the excitement and fervour of the student protest movement, some inkling of gendered inequality was beginning to dawn upon me.
The lecturers always seemed to treat the male students as more serious and important than us girls. Young men had the freedom to ask us out, while we had to sit in the hall of residence desperately hoping the phone would ring for us on Fridays and Saturdays.
Young men had the liberty to roam about, while we women were policed by hall wardens 'in loco parentis' (we could enter their rooms in the male halls, but they were not allowed to venture beyond the common room in ours!). The 'double standard' reigned strong. It was acceptable, indeed desirable, for a young man to gain some sexual experience, so he would be a skilful initiator of his wife. But girls who had 'sex before marriage' risked being labelled sluts or slags.
The lecturers always seemed to treat the male students as more serious and important than us girls. Young men had the freedom to ask us out, while we had to sit in the hall of residence desperately hoping the phone would ring for us on Fridays and Saturdays.
Young men had the liberty to roam about, while we women were policed by hall wardens 'in loco parentis' (we could enter their rooms in the male halls, but they were not allowed to venture beyond the common room in ours!). The 'double standard' reigned strong. It was acceptable, indeed desirable, for a young man to gain some sexual experience, so he would be a skilful initiator of his wife. But girls who had 'sex before marriage' risked being labelled sluts or slags.
A Future Dream
She entered the gates, in awe of the raised walls that welcomed rather than kept out. Her feet gently took one step at a time. Each tile on the carefully mosaic-designed pattern, told her the story of each person that walked before her.
Water draped the lunging vines that dressed the colourful walls. Passageways among the handcrafted columns; aligned in symmetry. Children, animals, family all around the sun-lit courtyard.
The animals lounge under grand palm trees, while elders enjoy tea and laughter surrounded by lush embroidery and audacious colours. He looked from above, upon his family: wife, children, mothers, fathers, grandparents ... a temperamental smile covered his face.
She happened upon her husbands warmth from above, and he glowed at her. Travelling around and in each indentation on the balcony, leading into the handmade pottery that housed greenery. Every element was in place. Every person was present.
Water draped the lunging vines that dressed the colourful walls. Passageways among the handcrafted columns; aligned in symmetry. Children, animals, family all around the sun-lit courtyard.
The animals lounge under grand palm trees, while elders enjoy tea and laughter surrounded by lush embroidery and audacious colours. He looked from above, upon his family: wife, children, mothers, fathers, grandparents ... a temperamental smile covered his face.
She happened upon her husbands warmth from above, and he glowed at her. Travelling around and in each indentation on the balcony, leading into the handmade pottery that housed greenery. Every element was in place. Every person was present.
Imagine All of Us
As I lay on the grass, my dark thoughts brightened by the rays of sunshine and their warm clarity inviting me in, I think of you, and her, and him, and them and all of us. I think of those that there could be. All my happiness, my excitement, my fear and my peace of mind oozing out as my eyes close to the image of your face, calmly smiling at me from a cushion of white daisies.
Let me come with you to your home.
Let me into the life that you are building for us.
I can help, I want to be there.
There is such danger in knowing what you want. It makes the getting there seem so stretched and tiring. Yet, here I lay. Under this shady fragrant tree, with its tired leaves falling to the ground. The buzz of nature filling my overworked lungs and the busy workers conquering my tired limbs.
Let me come with you to your home.
Let me into the life that you are building for us.
I can help, I want to be there.
There is such danger in knowing what you want. It makes the getting there seem so stretched and tiring. Yet, here I lay. Under this shady fragrant tree, with its tired leaves falling to the ground. The buzz of nature filling my overworked lungs and the busy workers conquering my tired limbs.
Beautiful Ugly
Rethink the concept of beauty for a second. Why has beauty been perceived as a specific 'look' for all these years? Is beauty only found in things and people that are attractive or can it be found in places and experiences? This book pays attention to the study of beauty in Africa and its diasporas. "... African American novelist Toni Morrison called beauty one of 'the most destructive ideas in the history of human thought' in her first and acclaimed novel the Bluest Eye.
This makes you think about what we have all been exposed to in modern society: that whatever is trending, is beautiful. Every time era has a trending look, or has a popular shape of body and soon everyone has a common feature on their face that just so happens to be the image of perfection and ultimate beauty.
Beautiful Ugly is not just a book about African suppression or about ethnology or the different aesthetics that varying nations have. It exposes the horrible past that African beauty has been through, by discussing the passing theory of primitivism and fetishism, that were used as excuses for African beauty.
Beautiful Ugly
Editor Sarah Nuttall
Duke University Press (2006)
Greece - Santorini
Look at that crisp, clean, and simple beauty. Greece is well known as a popular holiday destination, but what about for romance. Well after looking at romantic places to travel to with your partner, for a break from everything, for a reconnecting trip, or even for a first, second, or third honeymoon, Santorini in Greece is an obvious choice.
Another factor that appealed to me, besides the stunning views, is the culinary experience. If you are a foodie like me, always ready to try something new, and can really appreciate food made with love, then Santorini is the place to be! Now relax, dream and fantasize about the gorgeous place.
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