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10 October World Mental Health Day - Work both good and bad for mental health

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Every year on October 10, World Mental Health Day is observed with the goals of promoting efforts to support individuals who are dealing with mental health challenges and increasing public awareness of mental health issues. As we observe World Mental Health Day, it's important to recognize that while work can be a major source of stress and mental health challenges, a supportive work environment can significantly contribute to better mental well-being. In fact, the workplace can play a key role in improving access to mental health treatment, fostering a culture where employees feel supported and valued. We were joined by Dr. Michelle King, a member of the South African Society of Psychiatrists. Dr. King will shared her insights on how work can impact our mental health and what both employers and employees can do to create a healthier work environment.

Addressing the Rising Concern of Missing Persons in South Africa

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We had the privilege of interviewing two experts on the critical issue of missing persons in South Africa: Bianca van Aswegen, National Co-ordinator and criminologist at Missing Children South Africa, and Katie Moddrau, Country Manager at A21 South Africa, an anti-human trafficking organization. Highlights: Timely Reporting : Both experts emphasized the crucial importance of reporting missing persons immediately, as the first 24 hours are critical in these cases. Human Trafficking Connection : A21 provided insights into how human trafficking often intersects with missing persons cases, highlighting the concept of 'grooming' as a risk factor. Technology's Role : Social media and technology play a dual role - they can increase risks but are also valuable tools in locating missing persons. Community Involvement : Both organizations stressed the importance of community awareness and involvement in preventing and solving missing persons cases. Prevention Strategies : The ex

School of Hard Knocks

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Based in South Africa, the School of Hard Knocks is a non-profit organization that uses sport to promote development. They address trauma and enhance emotional wellbeing by offering three evidence-based programs to adults and kids.  On Sakhisizwe today we had the pleasures of speaking to Nikita Govneder, who is the Safeguard Lead at SOHK she was telling us a little bit more about the organisation, the programmes and skills that they offer young girls and boys that will help better equip them as they progress in life.  To here  more about SOHK and the amazing work that they are doing click on the video below. Presenter: Jasnine Roberts Producer: Lydia M

"African Queens: Restoring History," an extraordinary exhibition of portraits by the talented Chantal Coetzee.

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This exhibition, which opened on Women's Day, August 9th, 2024, is a celebration of the powerful African queens who shaped history and left an permanent mark on the continent. Hosted at the Iziko Gallery of Good Hope, this event promises to be a profound journey through art, history, and the legacy of African royalty. With the opening address delivered by the esteemed Busiswa Nkutshu, this exhibition offered visitors a unique opportunity to reflect on the rich heritage of African queens and their enduring influence. We are thrilled to have with us the renowned artist Chantal Coetzee, whose latest exhibition "African Queens: Restoring History" is currently on display at the Iziko Gallery of Good Hope.  Click on the video below to hear more about the exhibition. Presenter: Jasnine Roberts Producer: Lydia M

Nina Manzi

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On Sakhisizwe/Building the Nation/Boudienasie we are taking a closer look at Nina Manzi’s inspiring fundraising initiative with Viva con Agua South Africa. . Nina’s project focuses on providing clean and safe water to communities in need, and it’s making a significant impact. Nina Manzi is a heartwarming project by Viva con Agua South Africa that brings much-needed mobile showers and toilets to homeless people in Cape Town. It's all about making real connections and unlocking potential, providing immediate help to those who struggle with access to basic sanitation in the city. Click on the link below to hear how this campaign is working to change lives and how you can be a part of this vital mission.  Presenter: Jasnine Roberts Producer: Lydia M

Ilitha Labantu Fight Against Gender Based Violence with Siyabulela Monakali

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Gender based violence continues to effect the population in Cape Town and South Africa as a whole. Ilitha Labantu is an organization that strives to end violence and abuse against women and children in disadvantaged communities. Their vision is to assist in the elimination of all kinds of violence especially those that occur in the domestic domain where ideology of privacy is strong. They are also celebrating their 35th anniversary. In 35 years they have developed many holistic services that empower survivors of gender-based violence. Ilitha Labantu's philosophy centers around empathy, confidentiality, professionalism, listening, providing assistance, equality, integrity, and accountability. They offer clinical department resources, policy and advocacy, outreach and education, building of bridges with facilitating skills development, and a transitional house. Today we spoke to Siyabulela Monakali, the communication manager and head of outreach/education department of Ilitha Labantu

What is Rheumatic Fever? Learn more from Heart and Stroke Foundation SA

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RF is an abnormal immune reaction to a common bacterium called Group A Streptococcus and is preceded two or three weeks earlier by a bacterial throat infection, commonly called ‘strep throat’. Streptococcal infections are most common in childhood and it usually appears in children between the ages of 5 and 15. However, adults and young children can still contract the illness. In some people, repeated streptococcal infections cause the immune system to react against the tissues of the body including inflammation and scarring the heart valves. This is what is referred to as RF. RF patients typically experience a range of symptoms that can include joint pain, fever above 38°C, generally feeling unwell, shortness of breath, a skin rash, heart murmur, and on rare occasions, uncontrolled body movements. People who live in overcrowded and poor conditions, and those between the ages of 5 and 15 years are at greatest risk of developing the disease.     The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Afri