31 August - Arts, Culture & Environment - African Dance Theatre to be launched tomorrow

On Sakhisizwe today, we were joined by Debbie Bird – Co-owner of the African Dance Theatre. African Dance Theatre is a one hour musical theatre production that takes one on an African musical journey through time and will be officially launched tomorrow, the 1^st of September. The shows are at 6pm and 9pm for an hour and costs R160pp. For more information or bookings contact (021) 424 9513 or visit www.theafricandancetheatre.co.za

Greatmore Studios invites applications for Visiting Artists Programme & Arts Update

We were also joined by Mark O’ Donovan – Director at Greatmore Studios and Pamella Dlungwana. Greatmore Studios invites applications from mid-career artists from all over the world for the first Visiting Artists Programme of 2013. The aim of the Visiting Artists Residency is to facilitate cultural exchange and creative dialogue by bringing together international and local artists in a stimulating and supportive environment. Visiting Artists are obliged to interact with the permanent residents, give a presentation of their work and participate in an outreach programme. The residency includes accommodation, studio space, per diems, outreach and materials budget plus an exhibition at Greatmore Studios at the conclusion of the residency. They explained more about the application procedure. Application deadline is the 21^st of September 2012. Successful candidates will be informed on the 1st of October 2012. For more information visit www.greatmoreart.org or send an email to info@greatmoreart.org alternatively contact (021) 447 9699.

Nigel Vermaas joined us on the line for this week's Arts Update.  

 

Department of Arts and Culture to host National Book Week

We spoke to Siphiwo Mahala - Deputy Director of Books and Publishing at the department of Arts and Culture. We were talking about the National Book Week. The National Book Week is an initiative of the Department of Arts and Culture in association with the South African Book Development Council. The theme this year is “Read a Book, Share a Book”. The launch will be at KwaNobuhle in Uitenhage on the 3^rd of September. Activities will include storytelling, puppet shows, book club sessions, book debates and creative writing workshops led by some prominent authors. Authors in attendance will include Eleanor Sisulu, McIntosh Polela, Deon Meyer, Thando Mgqolozana, Chris van Wyk, Angela Makholwa, Ndumiso Ngcobo and others. There will also be a mix of ambassadors who will give motivational talks and read to children. Some of the ambassadors include Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Zonke, Aaron Moloisi, Jafta Mamabolo, Shaka Sisulu, Kabomo, and many others. For more information contact Manzi Vabaza on (043) 604 4022 or 082 339 6083.

30 August - Labour - North West University to host extrusion workshop

In today's show, we heard from Professor LJ Grobler - Head of the Centre of Excellence in Advanced Manufacturing at the North West University. He was speaking to us about their latest innovation that is expected to boost job creation in rural areas. Extru Africa is an initiative of the Centre of Excellence in Advanced Manufacturing at the North-West University. It comprises of the organising of general extrusion workshops, specialised training seminars and annual international extrusion conferences. There will be a one day introductory workshop on Extrusion as a Processing Tool to create new businesses and sustainable job opportunities. The workshop will be happening on September 27^th, 2012 at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville Campus from 8:00am to 16:00pm. For further information you can contact Petro De Wet on (018) 2991311 or send an email to petro.dewet@nwu.ac.za alternatively you can register directly on www.extruafrica.org.za

Masisizane Fund targets Women-led enterprise projects

We also heard from Kela Makwetla – Enterprise Development Specialist at Masisizane Fund. Masisizane’s mission is to contribute to poverty eradication and job creation in South Africa through enterprise financing, encouraging entrepreneurship and capacity development to small, micro and medium enterprises. The Fund is biased towards women, youth and people with disabilities. For further information contact Kela on (011) 217 1626 or visit www.masisizanefund.co.za

Enablis South Africa awarded Jobs Fund Grant

We closed off the show with an interview with Victor Mzimela - Enablis South Africa Regional Director. We were talking about the Enablis grant from the Development Bank of Southern Africa’s Jobs Fund. Enablis has been awarded a grant under the Enterprise Development window of the Fund to support 2,500 entrepreneurs across South Africa over the next three years. Enablis is a Canadian-based non profit organisation that supports entrepreneurs in the developing world through its member-driven network, called Enablis Entrepreneurial Network. For more information you can visit www.enablis.org or contact (011) 234 2526 alternatively the Cape Town office on (021) 422 0690.

29 August - Gender - Mankind Project to host a homecoming ceremony

In today's show, we spoke to Kholekile Dlakiya – From the Mankind Project. Through this project, men and women are empowered to live to their full potential, trusting that they will co-create healthy solutions needed by society. Tomorrow evening they are hosting a homecoming ceremony to welcome men who have recently completed a New Warrior Training Adventure. The training is aimed at empowering men with the necessary skills needed to be a better man in society. The ceremony allows these men to talk about their experiences on the weekend and what is it that they discovered about the sacred masculine that exists within. The homecoming ceremony will be hosted at Oude Molen Academy of Science and Technology: Number 8 Jan Smuts Drive in Pinelands. Guests can arrive from 6:30pm (for 7:00pm). For more information contact him on 078 4788 883 or (021) 597 4305 alternatively go to www.mkp.org.za 

DTI hosts 2012 women in science awards

Bessie Nchunu - Deputy Director for the department of Science and Technology was part of the show. She was speaking to us about the 2012 women in science awards. The Department of Science and Technology held the South African Women in Science Awards last week Friday which profiles the work of prominent women scientists and researchers, and act as role models for younger women scientists, researchers and girls countrywide. Since its inception in 2003 the awards are held in August every year as part of DST’s contribution to National Women's Month celebrations and this year’s theme was ‘Using Science and Technology to Develop Rural Women and End Poverty’. Reseachers can visit www.nrf.ac.za for funding opportunities.

Phenomenal Women to host a weekend boot camp

We heard from Colleen Isaacs - of Phenomenal Women. She was speaking to us about their upcoming weekend boot camp. Phenomenal Women was established in 2009 by Amanda Sickle to provide a holistic community service to support women who have experienced trauma, hardship, bereavement or challenges related to single parenting and generate awareness among all members and communities regarding STD/HIV/AIDS and other related diseases. It also stimulates entrepreneurship, self-reliance and economic stability among women, and facilitates the rebuilding and restoration of women so that they shift from dependence to independence, from victim to victor. The boot camp is happening on the 28^th of September at R300 per person. For further information you can contact Colleen on 083 482 4479 or Amanda on 082 474 0951.

The Parent Centre is running a parenting course

We closed off with Charlene Arkeldien - Social worker and parent education facilitator for the Parent Centre. She was telling us more about the free positive parenting training course that they are offering. The Parent Centre was established in 1983 as a primary prevention organisation that aims to prevent child abuse through the promotion of positive parenting and in particular positive discipline by working directly with parents/caregivers, educators, child care workers, social workers and others who work with parents and children. Registration for the free 7 week course which starts on September 20^th is now open. For further information or to book you can contact Charlene on (021) 762 0116 or Marlyn Matroos on (021) 372 1121.

28 August - Human Rights - CRL Rights Commission puts a spolight on cultural practices

In today's show, we spoke to Advocate Sipho Mantula - From the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic communities or CRL Rights Commission. We were talking about the national dialogue on various alleged harmful cultural practices. The Commission hosted the national dialogue this past Saturday in Johannesburg following the ruling party’s recent document on policy proposals to outlaw certain cultural practices such as arranged or forced marriages, polygamy, virginity testing, inheriting a wife and corporal punishment. The dialogue was addressed by the Honourable Deputy Minister of Economic Development and other important guests while CRL Rights Commission’s experts, commissioners and communities shared their experiences, opinions, knowledge and belief systems on various cultural practices. For further information you can contact (011) 537 7600 or visit www.crlcommission.org.za

SAMA’s Committee for Public Sector Doctors hosts 2nd annual conference

We also heard from Dr Phophi Ramathuba - Chairperson of the South African Medical Association Committee for Public Sector Doctors. SAMA’s Committee for Public Sector Doctors held its 2^nd annual conference last weekend, discussing issues such as management problems in the public healthcare sector and equipment shortcomings at some of the country’s major public hospitals. Ex SAMA Chairperson, Dr Norman Mabasa was the Guest Speaker and recounted some of his experiences to date and his plans for the way forward in meeting the healthcare challenges in Limpopo since being appointed MEC in mid March. For more information about SAMA visit www.samedical.org

WC ANC Youth League happy about "economic freedom" march outcome

We closed off with an interview with Khaya Yozi – ANC Youth League’s Dullah Omar region chairperson to tell us more about the outcome of yesterday’s march. The ANC Youth League threatened to shut down the city yesterday as they marched to the provincial legislature but according to media reports only a fraction of the promised 10 000 strong crowd showed up. Khaya said they will continue to stage regular "economic freedom" marches to the city on the 27^th of each month. For more information contact (021) 448 4141 or visit www.ancyl.org.za

27 August - Health - This week is the African Traditional Medicine Week

In today's show, we heard from Dr Motlalepula Matsabisa - Director of the Medical Research Council’s Indigenous Knowledge Systems Health Unit. We were talking about traditional medicine. This week is the African Traditional Medicine Week. According to the World Health Organisation, in some Asian and African countries, 80% of the population depends on traditional medicine for primary health care. It further states that as traditional medicine practices are adopted by new populations there are challenges like International diversity, Safety, effectiveness and quality, Knowledge and sustainability, Patient safety and use. For more information visit www.mrc.ac.za or contact (021) 938 0475.

Nutritional adviser share tips on managing PMS

We also heard from Karen Horton - Nutritional adviser. She was speaking to us about how to manage Pre-Menstrual Syndrome or PMS. Pre-Menstrual Syndrome is a set of hormonal changes that trigger a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms in women that generally occurs between 7 to 14 days before menstruation and then stops once menstruation begins. It only occurs during a woman's childbearing years as it stops after menopause. The most common symptoms are acne, anxiety, fatigue, irritability, fluid retention, forgetfulness, mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, sugar cravings and weight gain. For more information you contact Karen on 083 454 8092.   

UCT Press launches ‘Substance Use and Abuse in South Africa’

We closed off with an interview with Dr Ernesta Meintjes – From the Medical Research Council and UCT Medical Imaging Research Unit. She is one of the editors of the recently launched book entitled ‘Substance Use and Abuse in South Africa’. The book has arisen out of the thriving Brain-Behaviour Initiative (BBI) at the University of Cape Town, which relates neuroscience and behavioural science to social issues. It looks at the problem of substance abuse from multiple perspectives and particularly in the light of recent discoveries in brain and behavioural science, but also takes a public health view. Its focus ranges from brain imaging and dopaminergic neurocircuitry to policy and prevention. Check www.uctpress.co.za for more information.

24 August - Arts, Culture & Environment - SAFTAs entries are open & Arts Update

In today's show we heard from Azania Muendane - Head of Marketing and Public Affairs at the National Film and Video Foundation. The National Film and Video Foundation is calling on all local production companies to submit their entries for the 7th annual South African Film and Television Awards or SAFTAs. The entries are open and will close on the 20^th of September 2012. To register to go www.saftaregistration.co.za the closing date for entries is Thursday 20^th of September 2012. The awards ceremony will be held in March 2013 where all winners will be announced and will be presented with the official SAFTA trophy, the Golden Horn. For more information visit www.nfvf.co.za or contact Azania on (011) 483 0880.

 

Nigel Vermaas was Instudio for this week's Arts update.

Heal the Hood presents 12th African Hip Hop Indaba

We closed off with an interview with Shaquile and Tanswil – from Heal the Hood. We were talking about African Hip Hop Indaba happening next weekend.The African Hip Hop Indaba will showcase a historical photographic and streetwear brand exhibition, dancing and showcases in the main arena, live graffiti spraying and other exhibitions, marketing stalls and refreshment areas. The two-day event takes place at Zula Bar on August 31^st, and the Good Hope Centre on September 1^st, 2012. Tickets costs R50 and R70 at the door. For more information or to register call (021) 706 0481 or 082 4744750 alternatively visit www.africanhiphopindaba.co.za  

23 August - Labour - Cape Town ACTIVA to host Loud and Proud event

Today, we heard from Adri Senekal - stakeholder relations and communication executive of Cape Town ACTIVA. She was speaking to us about the Women-In-Business Breakfast that they will be hosting next week. In celebration of Women’s Day and Month Cape Town ACTIVA will be hosting its very first Loud and Proud event celebrating, supporting and connecting women entrepreneurs. The Women-In-Business Breakfast session is a celebration of the achievements of various women entrepreneurs from all walks of life and aims to inspire the next generation to reach for and achieve their goals as well as become the entrepreneurs of the future. There will also be an opportunity for guests to support the local craft market as jewellery, pottery, clothing, fudge, books and some art will be on sale. It’s all happening at Look Out Hill in Khayelitsha on Thursday August 30^th, 2012 from 8:00am till 12:00pm. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register as soon as possible with lynl@tbp.co.za before August 24^th, 2012.

Monitor Group launches Accelerating Entrepreneurship in South Africa Initiative

We also heard from Vuyisa Qabaka – From the South African Black Entrepreneurs Forum or SABEF. He was here to talk about the Monitor Group’s Accelerating Entrepreneurship in South Africa Initiative. One of the world’s leading advisory and consulting firms Monitor Group in partnership with selected public and private sector representatives has recently launched the Accelerating Entrepreneurship in South Africa initiative which aims to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the South African entrepreneurial landscape with a goal towards determining the critical policies required for entrepreneurship to thrive in the country. For further information contact Vuyisa on (021) 811 3177 or visit www.sabef.org.za

Technology Innovation Agency to launch Youth Technology Innovation Fund

We closed off with an interview with Dr Margaret Mkhosi - General Manager of Special Projects for Technology Innovation Agency or TIA. We were talking about the launch of their Youth Technology Innovation Fund. Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) will officially launch their latest offering the Youth Technology Innovation Fund (YTIF) next week Thursday which will provide more opportunities for the youth of South Africa to be a part of a technologically innovative knowledge economy. The fund was established to promote a culture of technology innovation among the youth by providing access to financial and business support resources as 13 projects from young people aged between 18 and 30 have already been approved for funding through YTIF. It’s available to young researchers from Science Councils and Higher Education Institutions, Individuals, Students and school leavers. Services that the fund offers include use of SABS services for product certification, business coaching, the use of TIA technology stations and platforms, incubation services at recognised TIA partner organisations, Intellectual Property protection and an annual stipend for researchers. For further information you can contact TIA on (012) 472 2790/17 or visit www.tia.org.za

22 August - Gender - Commissions for Gender Equality and Human Rights to focus on LGBTI rights

In today's show, we heard from Keegan Lakay - Legal Officer, Leonard Macakathi - Education Officer at the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) and Melanie Dugmore - Provincial Manager of the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) speaking to us about LGBTI rights and incidence of hate crimes against black lesbians. For further information you can contact CGE on (021) 426 4080 or visit www.cge.org.za or SAHRC on (021) 426 2277 or visit www.sahrc.org.za

Ukhanyiso Communications to host a Women's event

Zimkhitha Mqutheni - Founder of Ukhanyiso Communications was here to speak to us about the Women living a balanced lifestyle event that will be taking place on the 1^st of September. The speakers will include Dr Lizo Bango a resident Medical Expert, Thobeka Sishuba-Mashego of Woolworths Holdings and Shertina Maremane of FNB Easy Plan. Sandisiwe 'Sandy' Sishuba of SA Idols in 2010 will provide entertainment. Entrance fee is R200. For further information you can contact Zimkhitha on (021) 425 8416 or 072 981 5871 alternatively send an email to zimkhitha.mqutheni@gmail.com

Agenda puts a spotlight on the State of Women’s Health

We closed off with an interview with Sithembiso Mthembu - Guest editor of Agenda Feminist Media. She was speaking to us about the Launch of feminist journal Agenda No 92 “The politics of women’s health in South Africa”. In celebration of Agenda, a Durban based feminist journal’s 25 years, it’s jointly hosting a feminist dialogue to launch issue 92 “The politics of women’s health in South Africa” with the Human Sciences Research Council as activists and researchers connect via a video conference. Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, joined women’s health researchers and activists to discuss the crisis in women’s health in South Africa and outlined possible policy solutions to address the crisis. The editors urge the Department of Health to address the high rates of cervical cancer among HIV-positive women in SA and for policy on the issue to be aligned with internationally accepted approaches endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Centers for Disease Control. Other guest speakers included Barbara Klugman and Kathathso Makoetle who described the formation of a national organisation Sexual and Health Rights Initiative, Marlise Richter and Pamela Chakuvinga who discussed evidence-based advocacy for the decriminalisation of sex work. For further information you can contact Agenda on (031) 304 7001/2/3 or visit www.agenda.org.za 

21 August - Human Rights - Bambanani Counselling Group is looking for donors

Charlie and Vuyiswa

In today's show, we heard from Charlie Dwasi - Brail administrator and Vuyiswa Kama - Programmes coordinator for Bambanani Counselling Group speaking to us about how it supports visually impaired persons, their family and community at large. Bambanani Counselling Group was established by Evelyn Siwa in May 2011. Their aim is to educate, equip, empower and communicate with other stakeholders in order to uplift the standard of living in communities and change the lives of visually impaired persons suffering in silence. It also advises young adults about scholarships applicable to them and looks to interact with the government in order to ensure that assistive devices for visually impaired persons are made available in South Africa at a minimum cost. For further information you can contact Bambanani on (021) 637 6848 or send an email to bambananib@gmail.com

HPCSA New Guideline Tariffs for Medical and Dental Services are on hold

We also heard from Dr Abdul Barday - Ombudsman for the Health Professional Council of South Africa or HPCSA. He was speaking to us about the New Guideline Tariffs for Medical and Dental Services. The Health Professions Council of South Africa announced the implementation of new Guideline Tariffs in terms of Section 53 of the Health Professions Act (Act No 56 of 1974) that will serve a dual purpose to protect the public and guide healthcare practitioners on the rendering of accounts in terms of the prescribed ethical guidelines on informed consent by ensuring their clients/patients are fully informed about the cost of the potential service to be rendered. For further information you can visit www.hpcsa.co.za

Assessment and Training Centre for Real Estate Agents promotes the responsibilities of tenants and landlords

We closed off with an interview with Vivien Marks - Spokesperson for Assessment and Training Centre for Real Estate Agents. She was speaking to us about the responsibilities of tenants and landlords, the legislation that governs residential rentals and practical guidelines on how to rent out a property. Vivien also serves on the Rental Housing Tribunal. The Assessment and Training Centre for Real Estate Agents seeks to be active in promoting the latest educational qualifications and training rental agents to a high standard of efficiency. Its primary task is to inform and assist all estate agents to acquire the new qualifications as demanded by government and to support all estate agents who are to undergo Recognition of Prior learning and who require training in residential rentals. For further information send an email to info@assesscent.co.za This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or debbie@assesscent.co.za This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view italternatively visit www.assesscent.co.za

20 August - Health - Professor Linda Brand talks about the dangers of abusing Ritalin

In today's show, we heard from Professor Linda Brand - Subject chair for the faculty of Pharmacology at North West University. She was speaking to us about the side effects of students using Ritalin. With Matric finals just weeks away, it appears that students are misusing Ritalin as a study mechanism. This came to light after media reported last week that students who find it difficult to concentrate are abusing the stimulant to improve their studies. 

Western Cape Cerebral Palsy Association to celebrate National Cerebral Palsy Week

We also heard from Hilary Lane – CEO of the Western Cape Cerebral Palsy Association. This week marks the National Cerebral Palsy Week. National Cerebral Palsy Week is celebrated annually to recognise the achievements of people with cerebral palsy and to create greater awareness, understanding and acceptance. The association says it takes many forms as no two persons with Cerebral Palsy are precisely alike since some are so slightly affected that their disability is barely detectable, while the most severely affected can have multiple and profound disabilities. For further information you can contact the Western Cape Cerebral Palsy Association on (021) 685 4150 or visit www.wccpa.org.za

17 August - Arts, Culture and Environment - Greenpeace’s Rainbow Warrior visits Cape Town

In today's show we heard from Kumi Naidoo – Greenpeace’s International Executive Director. Greenpeace’s iconic new ship, the Rainbow Warrior was in Cape Town last weekend, which was a first trip to South Africa and the rest of the African continent. Michael Onyleka O’Brien - Executive Director of Greenpeace Africa explained African governments’ attitudes towards climate change. Mike Baillie –Greenpeace Activistsaid community members can show their support by joining the “Use Me More”Campaign. Go to www.UseMeMore.co.za for more information.

2012 Eco-Logic Awards nominations deadline extended & Arts Update

We als heard from David Parry-Davies – Editor of Enviropaedia. We will be talking about the Eco-Logic Awards. The awards have been created to enable and assist the consumer to participate in looking after our Planet, through the conscious use of their consumer spending power. Nominations for the 2012 Eco-Logic Awards have been extended to the 24^th of August so if you or your company care about Nature and the wellbeing of our Earth and demonstrate this through your actions or the products or services you offer there is still time to enter. The 2^ndannual Enviropaedia Eco-Logic Awards recognizes companies and individuals who practice eco-logical values and thinking. Twelve categories are open for these nominations which cover energy, water, transport, biodiversity, recycling, climate change and youth to eco-innovations, eco-angels, eco –community and eco-warriors. Entry forms can be downloaded at www.enviropaedia.com and entrants should read the topic "Eco-Logic" in the online Enviropaedia to understand the principles and judging criteria that will be applied to these Awards. If your product, project or initiative can match up to these principles then you could gain great public recognition by entering.

Nigel was in for the Arts Update.

African Tales to host Khayelitsha Cock-Tale Arts Festival

Mfundo & Goose

We closed off with an interview with Mfundo - from African Tales and Fashion designer - Goose. African Tales will stage the Khayelitsha Cock-Tale Arts Festival and a fashion show.The goals of the Khayelitsha Cock-Tale Arts Festival is to advocate for resources and theatre or art centres, to create awareness, boost cultural exchange and celebrate host community. The festival will be from the 31^stof August till the 02^nd of September 2012 at Lookout Hill in Khayelitsha. For more information contact (021) 387 3580 or Goose on 072 759 3199 alternatively visit www.africantales.co.za

16 August - Labour - PASCAP launches Smart Skills programme

In today's show, we were joined by Roxzanne Mentoor - Facilitator for Partners with After School Care Projects or PASCAP. She was speaking to us about the Smart Skills programme. The Smart Skills programme was launched this week based on the concept of setting SMART goals for improved successful achievement in order to assist school leavers and job seekers to prepare themselves for better outcomes and to set achievable career goals. The programme will be offering activities and training opportunities such as subsidised computer skills and learner driver classes, life coaching sessions, workshops on interview preparation, CV writing and professional behaviour. In addition it will also offer skills training, internship and bursary information and opportunities. For further information you can contact Roxzanne on (021) 422 5588 or send an email to info@pascap.org.za or alternatively visit www.pascap.org.za

Express Employment Professionals South Africa explores temporary work

We also heard from Carolyn Diaz - Managing Director of Express Employment Professionals South Africa speaking to us about the new look of temporary work. It appears there's been a fundamental shift in the way companies do business today as staffing services have become a more vital part of business and hiring strategies that’s according to the Confederation of Associations in the Private Employment Sector. Temporary Employment Services firms are reported to place one million job seekers every year. For further information you can contact Express Employment Professionals South Africa on 0861 166 853 or visit www.expresspros.co.za

Realistic Rebuilding and Life Skills Centre is looking for a Social Worker

We closed off with an interview with Ncamile Madikane - Director of Realistic Rebuilding and Life Skills Centre and intern Olwethu Dlepu to tell us more about how they assist ex-inmates to reintegrate into their families and communities. They were joined by Ayanda and Thando. Realistic Rebuilding and Life Skills Centre is a community based organization that aims to reduce crime by preventing the dynamic of re-offending which contributes substantially to the high crime rate. The centre also promotes and ascribes to the following values such as Dignity and integrity, commitment, discipline and leadership which are achieved through rendering services to assist ex-inmates become productive, law abiding citizens. It also offers holistic support comprising of therapeutic support as well as vocational training to both ex-inmates as well as youth at risk. For further information you can contact Realistic on (021) 633 1800 or visit www.realisticcbo.org

15 August - Gender - Khayelisha Labour, Community Advice, Media and Education Centre hosts Women's oppression and Gender inequalities seminar

In today's show, we were joined bu Lunga Guza – From the Khayelisha Labour, Community Advice, Media and Education Centre. He was speaking to us about the seminar on Women's oppression and Gender inequalities that they hosted yesterday. The seminar discussed a paper on Women's Oppression Globally and Prevention and Actions against Women's Abuse and film screening of ‘Once were Warriors’. The seminar was chaired by Nandi Mgijima of the International Labour Research and Information Group and guest speakers included Martin Jansen of Workers World Media Productions and Bonga Magazi of New Women’s Movement or Western Cape Women’s Network. For further information you can contact Lunga on (021) 823 3877.

Miracle Kidz Safe House is looking for volunteers

We also spoke to Charmaine Lillie - a volunteer at Miracle Kidz Safe House speaking to us about what they do. Miracle Kidz a safe house for abandoned and abused babies and toddlers opened its doors in 2007 after founder Elsie du Plessis and her handyman husband Ras decided to open their hearts and home to more children in need of a safe place following the adoption of two siblings in 2004 and 2005. The house is a dream come true for Elsie as she also wanted to look after children since she was also abandoned at nine months old. Children are cared for a maximum period of 6 months as the law allows for a child to be in safety care before he or she needs to be re-united with their respective families or be placed in foster care. They not only care for their physical needs but also provide a loving temporary home to them and tend to their illnesses, broken hearts and spirits. For further information you can contact Elsie on 072 761 9301 or send an email to strandmiraclekids@gmail.com

Kagiso Lesego Molope launches her third novel

We closed off with an interview with Kagiso Lesego Molope – Author. We were talking about her novel “This book betrays my brother", which will be launched by Oxford University Press. The novel focuses on sibling love and loyalty, a young women’s role in a complicated world. Kagiso is based in Canada and is involved in human rights advocacy, counselling and documentary film-making. For more information about Kagiso check www.facebook.com/Kagiso-Lesego-Molope or www.oup.com  

14 August - Human Rights - Open Data and Democracy Initiative

In today's show, we heard from Adi Eyal - Founding member of Open Data and Democracy Initiative and Murray Hunter - national coordinator of the Right2Know Campaign. The Open Data and Democracy Initiative or ODADI is said to be an open, non-partisan community of citizens, activists, technologists, journalists, and entrepreneurs dedicated to developing and applying practical open technologies and promoting open data as a means to efficient governance, increased transparency, improved service delivery and the empowerment of South African citizens. It was launched in June this year but does not align itself with any political party or other political interest group. The initiative is led by a volunteer working group representing fifteen different civil society, media, and technology organisations in the Western Cape, with active participation from government. For further information you can contact ODADI on (021) 423 3089 or visit www.coding4democracy.org

Down Syndrome SA is hosting 11th World Down Syndrome Congress

We also heard from Vanessa dos Santos - CEO of Down Syndrome South Africa. We were talking about the 11^th World Down Syndrome Congress 2012 that’s currently taking place in Cape Town. The Congress is being hosted by Down syndrome South Africa with the support of the Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The theme of the Conference is “The Big Five” focusing on: Rights, Health, Education, Employment and Social Integration for people with Down syndrome. The congress will bring together people with Down syndrome, Professionals, Parents of Children with Down Syndrome, Government Officials and activists from all over the world to craft an agenda with priorities which will assist in taking forward matters affecting people with Down Syndrome globally. The Congress will convene and come up with resolutions culminating from workshops and plenary sessions. For further information you can visit www.wdsc2012.org.za or contact 082 608 0078.

13 August - Health - Mamelani Wellness Program empowering people

On Sakhisizwe today, we spoke to Cleopatra Sawuti - Facilitator, health educator and lay counsellor for Mamelani Wellness Program. She was speaking to us about their wellness program and the workshops they offer. Mamelani Wellness Program is a community-based Health Education Program aimed at ensuring that community members have access to essential health information so that they are informed and equipped to take action with regard to health challenges they face. The workshops cover topics such as understanding how the body and immune system works, prevention, symptoms and treatment for common illnesses, how different illnesses affect the body, low-cost ways of maintaining a healthy body, information regarding access and adherence to treatment regimens and the correct use of prescribed medication and healthy eating and lifestyle. In addition to the workshops Mamelani also provides a consultation service which offers individual support that takes the form of one-on-one counselling, serving as patient advocates (assisting participants in accessing treatment and encouraging medication adherence) and referrals to other NGOs for specialised services. For further information you can contact Cleopatra on (021) 448 2725 or visit www.mamelani.org.za