The Byo Story online magazine July 2021

Ayanda Dube

Editor’s Note

This one particular day, sometime not God’s calendar.
God says in His word in Isiah 60 vs 22
this month, ngike ngagodolaaaaa. The smallest one will become a family of
I literally asked God if this cold is a thousand. And the least one will
personal because WOW. I felt like become a powerful nation. I, the Lord,
the whole cold front was sent to my will make it happen in its time.
house, deliberately . It was as if God Just want to encourage someone who
just opened a freezer right on top of feels left out and feels like things are
my roof. Bekuhanjwa shem. moving way too slow and the vision
Anyway we now in the last half of seems not to be attainable. Hang in
the year. Let’s continue to make it there. Qhubeka. Remember God blesses
count. Let’s continue working on our the work of our hands so continue doing
dreams. One thing that I know and what you doing and it will pay off.
very sure of is that our calendar is

CONTENTS PAGE

COVER STORY BUSINESS HUB
Zibusiso & Kelly Manzini Viazi Vitamu
Ylicious Cakes

ARTS HUB WRITERS HUB
A twisted society
-Born To Serve Langelihle Bhule
Vuyo Brown Relationships with
-Upclose With Kathlyn Bhebhe
Valee Music Poetess of the month
-The Njube Giant Thabitha Williams
Bruce Ncube Poetry Corner
-Artist of the month Short story
The Unitribe
-Tarryn Talana Studios The history of Makokoba
-Model of the Month Fitness
Zvoluga Moyo The Hot Seat

Born to serve
Vuyo Brown
Nokufeza Vuyolwethu Ngwenya is a
dynamic award winning singer, songwriter,
performing artist, entrepreneur and Pastor.
Her charisma, smooth tone and
inspirational lyrics are a few of the r
easons this vocal powerhouse we all love
and know as Vuyo Brown stands out.
Imvana, Thula Wazi and Mayeh are a few
of the many songs that have uplifted and
found a special place in a lot of music
lover’s hearts.
The Journey
Vuyo Brown was raised in various parts
of Zimbabwe namely Harare, Bulawayo,
Gwanda and partly Masvingo. This helped
shape my knowledge and understanding
of different languages and cultures. This
translated to different sounds in the
music I make. I did my education at
Coghlan Primary School, Blackstone, The
Dominican Convent and later The
National University of Science and
Technology. I come from a family of
academics, so I have always wanted to
serve and learn more.
I do not know if there is a journey before
music because music has always been an
integral part of my life. I was partly bullied
for singing and sounding different but the
love I got from my family and even
teaching staff got me through such times.
Being raised by cosmopolitan and liberal

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one gets inspired or saved. It might be
two or thousand people who are
waiting for the music. As a song writer,
the music is not about me but its about
message and lives it touches.

One of the many career highlights has
been performing at the Music in Africa
live in Harare at the Theatre in the park
in 2020. Being one of the three
musicians chosen to perform at one of
the biggest regional stages was truly an
honor. It was the first ever performance
that I got to direct and performed
music composed by me.

parents truly instilled the confidence The next step
that any daughter needed.
I believe so much in timing and
The Music seasons. Many things are scheduled
and will
Professionally I started in the year 2014. happen during the right season. As a
I decided to join groups so I could learn full creative, there are a lot of
from fellow musicians. The first studio forthcoming attractions. Watch this
experience I ever got was at a studio in space. It is time to fulfil our purposes.
Luveve run by the late great Cal_Vin. I I would like to be a testimony of what
did backing vocals for Flabbs on a song I did with the talent God bestowed on
entitled “Lead Me.” That was truly an me. It would be rewarding to be a child
unforgettable experience. that God has been well pleased with.

The music I pen introduces the listener
to a new reality. A reality that they are
not aware of. A reality where God is a
certain way. In 2014 God redirected me
to do music that helps people meet the
God I met. The God that inspires me
and gives renewed hope.As most artists
have experienced financial setbacks, I
too have. I am a self-funded artist. There
are a lot of financial constraints, but the
grace of God has sustained me.

The reception from listeners has been All socials vuyobrownzw
rewarding. All this has been worth it.
There is no point in making music if no The Byo Story page 06

Valee Music

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UPCLOSE

AND PERSONAL

Valee Music)

Valerie Menyiwe Sibanda

LS : Where did you grow up and how was your childhood like?
VM :I grew up in both London and Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. I’d say, I literally spent the
earlier part of my childhood in Bulawayo and came to the UK when I was around 13/14.
I had a good childhood – in Zimbabwe. I was surrounded by extended family members,
we’d often have my cousins from South Africa visiting. I come from a beautiful family
lineage so I really appreciated the wealth of our cultures, traditions and family
gatherings.
LS: You started performing at a young age in Bulawayo, can you tell us about the
whole experience when you started?
VM: My first show ever was at Miss Bulawayo. I was a child dancer and it was my first
experience of being on stage. From then on I did a modelling pageant in Barham Green,
I won 1st Princess for Miss St Anthony’s Junior. I quite enjoyed it but my secret passion
was music – I say secret because only my family, friends and music teacher/ school choir
at Petra High School new I could sing. I owe my Career to those who inspired me, my
grandfather Tymon Mabaleka and people like Busi Mhlongo and Lebo Mathosa who
helped shape my voice quite early on.
LS: You moved to the UK how were your first days like there?
Coming to the Uk was a bit of culture shock, I also went from a private school in
Zimbabwe to a public school in England so there were some slight differences besides
the accent and lifestyle. By God’s grace I managed to make some amazing friends very
easily. Also identiy wise, being a black woman in the UK makes you a little bit more pan
African because here you’re not just Ndebele, let alone Zimbabwean. Here you’re Black;
and you begin to see similarities with our other African counterparts in the diaspora and
focus less on differences (which are so small in the larger frame of things). Now London
is definitely my home and it’s an amazing, very vibrant city.
LS: What inspires or motivates you?
VL: Myself, the dream and vision I have for myself motivates me. I’m inspired by my
purpose in this life and my desire to fulfil it. I also want to leave a beautiful legacy
behind for my kids and future generations to come.

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LS: Who’s your target audience?
VM: Everyone is my target audience. When we talk about who I want to inspire it’s
definitely the African girl. If I can do it; so can you!
LS: When was your first major breakthrough?
VM: Being featured on BBC Africa, that was my first major breakthrough. I got to talk
about my music, especially how it was so different at that time. Being a Ndebele woman
singing AfroHouse, not so many people understood the genre at that time but here I
was doing it and talking about it on BBC! Definitely a big highlight.
LS: How many songs have released and do you have albums?
VM: I’ve released about 6 singles so far. Not to mention some great collaborations and
features from Artists from all over. Like DJ Andre Curato (Italy), Afro-Warriors (Portugal)
Regalo Joints & Cuebur from (South Africa), Theory Sound (Nigeria) not to mention my
recent collabo with Charlie Kay from Inkredible Muzik and so many more!
LS:What are you career major highlights?
Being on the credits for Black is King by Beyoncé is Major Career Highlight. Having a
No1 with my last single Sondela for 6 weeks on Gagasi FM is a major Highlight. Also
reaching ½ a million views for the music video is BIG! I celebrate even the little
milestones like having my music played on platforms like Trace, Channel O, MTV Base
– those are TV Channels that I grew up watching! So it just shows growth for me! I’ve
certainly got more things I’ve achieved but there’s more to come – just watch this space!
LS: Your music videos attract thousands of viewers, what’s your secret behind
such?
VM: Hardwork and marketing! I’m always promoting. I don’t care if 10000 people have
heard it; I want a million people to hear it. I do what it takes to expose the sound to new
ears and I don’t box myself or my sound! Some of my music is being enjoyed in Sweden
and Japan! Albeit, it’s Amapiano and House and Southern African.. But I can never tell
where my fans will come from; Music is Universal.
LS: What can we expect from you in the next coming year or two?
VM: What you can expect is Collabos, Stage Performances, Award Wins and more hot
music! I’m always working but I hope to drop an EP or an Album when the time is right.
Everything I do, has to be a new level!
LS: What’s your take on the Bulawayo music industry?
VM: Bulawayo music is great. We have legends like Lovemore Majaivana to new talents
like Kyla Blac! Byo has some hidden gems, I tell ya!

LS: Are there any other projects that you are currently involved in.
VM: Yeah, I’m working on Collaborations with a few people. It’s too early to say but I’m
excited about what I have to offer in 2021. I can confirm as well that there are more UK
Amapiano vibes on the way; so expect new Music soon!

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All my music is available on this link: https://sng.to/valee-music
To stay in touch with me follow me on my social media:
Instagram: @valee_music
Twitter: @valeemusic
YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/ValeeMusic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/780ChRgKqguVRixxZ0hrE-
B?si=c3sLSUXHTXSYthvH7OqObw&dl_branch=1

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ARTIST

OF THE MONTH

Background

I was born and raised in Bulawayo. I did my secondary education at Mpopoma
High School. That’s where my passion for the arts began. I was part of the
Mpopoma High School Drama and choir group and then later on I joined Siyaya
arts, Grassroots Theatre and Nobuntu.

Arts when i started

Competition was high because there were many talented people. All of us were
hungry for a break through. It was that competitive atmosphere that moulded us
into who we are today.

Your Big break

I reckon it was in 2007 when I joined Siyaya Arts. That was
when more opportunities unveiled themselves. I had my
first tour with Siyaya which l must say
increased the confidence level in me.

Countries i have visited

Botswana ,United kingdom ,Spain
Austria,Germany AbuDhabi UAE.

My memorable performance

The first day when I hit the
international stage with Siyaya Arts
performing the renowned
Zambezi Express.
Projects am currently involved in.
I am collaborating with an Artist called
Calvin Mangena on his new single.
Am working on my first single called Indlela
to be released end of August.

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On Bulawayo arts

Bulawayo is not called the cultural hub of
Zimbabwe for nothing. There are many
talented artists in Bulawayo and many with
great potential. Unfortunately there is a lack
of support and exposure for these artists.
If you had to change anything about the
city arts what would it be.
I would work hard to curb the migration
of artists from the City of Kings to other
parts of the country and even outside the
country. I would also love to see the well
established artists supporting the up
coming artists and allowing them to
shine.

My biggest dream

I would love to be involved in arts
promotion locally and
internationally for
entertainment and Awareness
People i would like to work
with locally and
internationally.
Locally Willis Wattafi
Internationally ……..
Fatoumata Diawara
from Mali.

Siphiwe Dube

Siphiwe and the Unitribe
on Facebook
twitter and Instagram
www.unitribe.co.zw

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Vlog

of the Month

The Njube Giant

Bruce Ncube

As the sound of the African drumbeat and footsteps” are forever engraved in
can be heard across mountains, seas and the minds of the lover of the arts.
valleys, so can the “footsteps” of a giant. THE WALK
Bruce Ncube is a renowned UK based Bruce began his Arts career at
percussionist, music teacher, Umkhathi Theatre Works Juniors and
entrepreneur, father and husband. his steady progress saw him graduate
Born and bred in the vibrant township to the senior team at the tender age
of Njube, he is one of the founders of of 12. At 16 Bruce started traveling the
Africa Day In Njube which is an initiative Southern African region. At the age
started with Derick Tembo. of 18, Umkhathi Theatre Works was
The festival is to date has seen various a part of the Aberdeen International
superstars grace the Njube stage and Youth Festival.
some stars were shone brighter since This was a monumental experience
the advent of the festival. The path for an 18-year-old as that assured him
from Njube is a fast growing vlog that that the world is truly his stage. In the
applauds and celebrates home grown year 2006 he toured the United
talented individuals who have made an Kingdom with Grassroots
impact on the Bulawayo Arts Industry. Theatre Company for 6 years in a
Talk about giving someone their roses row. His big break came in the year
whilst they can still smell and appreciate 2012 when he got the opportunity
them. The Njube Giant is a selfless and to tour solo through the support of
humble giant that will walk to ends of The African Drum Village in Scotland.
the earth to make sure the “footprints From then he established himself as

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an artist in major European festivals like WOMAD, Edinburgh Fringe
Festival, World Music and Workshop Festival just to mention a few. From then
Bruce has imparted his extensive knowledge in drumming to educational
institutions, choirs, drumming and dance groups.
AFRICA DAY IN NJUBE
The year 2017 saw the birth of Bruce’s brainchild which had been a long time
coming. Africa Day In Njube was established and since grown into one of the
countries biggest events. Africa Day In Njube attracts more than 3000 people in
just that one day. The event was started with one of the founders and
directors of KAISA. .
The idea behind the festival was to bring something big to the high-density
uburbs and to promote and cultivate local talent. The locals got to see old and
new talent that otherwise a lot of people would have not heard or had the chance
to see before. The event was also set up to bring the superstars of our time to the
high-density suburbs and get them to interact and perform to new audiences.
Over the years the event has been graced by artists like Mimmie, Vocal Ex,
Umkhathi, IYASA, Victory Siyanqoba, Nobuntu and the late great CalVin just to
mention a few.
THE PATH FROM NJUBE
Like everything else, the show is a work in progress. It started from the bottom
but bit by bit it is getting the recognition it deserves. Having been fortunate
enough to work with and know various artists has made the pool of artists for
interviews a lot wider. It has also played a vital role in grow an audience for the
show. The audience can expect familiar European based guest to grace The Path
From Njube platform.
MONUMENTAL MOMENTS
One of Bruce’s career highlights was establishing himself as a solo artist. It had its
fair share of challenges but learning from the bath hole experience was worth it.
We can also add bringing a major event to his hometown is a dream come true.
The community embraced this dream in turn making it theirs.
In the words of The Njube Giant Bruce Ncube “Qhubeka”.

Facebok : Bruce Ncube
Twitter : NJUBE_GIANT
Instagram : NJUBE_GIANT

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Tarryn Talana Studios

I am Tarryn Talana, executive producer
and owner of TarrynTalanaStudio. The
studio is an audio recording one where
we capture vocals, arrange, mix and
master songs.
We started the Talana sessions on the
16th of April 2021 and so far we have 6
episodes. The goal is to help unknown
talent to be discovered and for people to
know that there is talent in Bulawayo.
For people who want to feature on the
sessions they can send in an audio of
them singing to 0773722950 and we will
decide if they are good enough to come
through.
As Bulawayo we are a very talented city
musically and I would just encourage us
all who are in the arts industry to work
together and support each other.
-TarrynTalana Studio is on all social
platforms or they can message or call on
0773722950.
-https://youtube.com/channel/
UCpVfT5KBRyeyj3xVYovPamg

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Model

Of The Month

My name is Zwoluga Moyo, I am 22years old. I was born and bred in the City of Kings.
I am currently doing my 3rd year in my Honors degree in Business Management. I
started modeling professionally at the age of 15 and I have thus far earned 2titles; Miss
personality for Miss E68 2017 Miss Tourism midlands second Princess 2019
When I graced the stage for the firt time, which was a Talent show at my high school
when I was in form 1.I was so nervous and I’m pretty sure I did everything wrong but I
went through with it and I enjoyed it. From there on I knew I needed to get grooming
and etiquette classes and do it at a professional level.
I was chosen amongst other contestants to represent Zimbabwe in the World
Championships of Perfoming Arts which was to be held in the United States of
America, but due to financial challenges I couldn’t make it.Currently i am the reigning
Second Princess for Miss Tourism Midlands.
The passion for making money has motivated me to want to start my own
businesses in future so that I can push myself to make as much money as I want.I also
wish to have an international title and to establish myself in the digital platform as a
model and working with brands.
Iwould like to be remembered as someone who believed she could and so she did
I want to be remembered as someone who brought change to the way
Zimbabwean youths view our country. I want to be remembered as someone who
changed the norms of our society that “education is the key to success” but what is
success?.

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Viazi Vitamu

Brand name is *Viazi Vitamu* Swahili nutritious, delicious and highest quality
meaning sweetpotatoes . sweet potato and other
History organic foods which lead to a healthy
It all began on 11 February when I and affordable lifestyle for all.
went to my rural homestead to grow Target market
sweet potatoes and had to find a Those who work out. Why they need
way to better sell them rather than the right foods for the workout they do
the traditional way of selling them hence the shakes.
raw and in buckets. So I had to find 2. Working class. Why? Most of them
other means I can sell my sweet skip breakfast which is the most
potatoes hence the shakes. But the important meal of the day hence by
shakes are just a start also working taking the shake, it provides them with
on making organic cakes, muffins, enough energy for the day not just
chips and other staff from sweet energy but other nutrients
potatoes. required for a daily living.
Vision 3. Just anyone who needs something
Creating client pleasure through healthy and organic.
providing healthy balanced foods Base
which will enliven people’s lives. Bulawayo CBD. I do morning
Our Mission deliveries around Bulawayo cbd from
Our goal as a firm is to offer 830 provided the client pre-ordered.

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YLICIOUS CAKES

WITH

YEUKAI RUTENDO CHIMUKA

T.B.S: Who is Yeukai?
Yeukai: She is a young energetic lady, who is ambitious in baking and cooking.
T.B.S: Is baking and cooking your passion or you do it as a profession?
Yeukai: It’s a passion.
T.B.S: When did you find your sweet tooth for cakes?
Yeukai: During my childhood. My mother used to bake delicious cakes for us.
T.B.S: How did Bulawayo Polytechnic College’s School Of Hospitality and
Tourism help you boost your passion?
Yeukai: It helped me to some extent because l used to see other students who
did Bakery Studies doing their work.
T.B.S: You are independent or in joint venture? And what are the
advantages?
Yeukai: Independent
Advantages
Enjoy all the profits
No conflicts
Do my work perfectly
I bake at my own time
Accountable to errors
Gives sense of ownership
T.B.S: What is the name of your business?
Yeukai: Ylicious cakes.
WhatsApp or Phone call: +263 77 1 932 497
Instagram: ylicious cakes
Facebook: Yeukai Rutendo Chimuka

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Cover Story

Zibusiso & Kelly Manzini

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SHOTS BY MR&MRS

The photography business, happy model images
ShotsbyMrandMrs is for advertising. And
nothing short of a love that is what we want
story, hence the name. Our for our clients, to have
business is run by both a good time during
myself (Zibusiso) and my their photoshoot
wife (Wandile). Our story is sessions and for the
simple, yet God designed, photos to reflect the
destined and driven. We good memories
met at church, a good created.
place to meet right?! Based on our first
paying client,
We became friends, then ShotsbyMrandMrs was
best friends then got into established in 2020.
a relationship and here However, I [Mr Shots]
we are today, Mr and Mrs had been
Manzini also known to previously doing
our clients as Mr and Mrs shoots for friends,
Shots. [Zibu] When I first colleagues, and family,
saw her, I was love struck, free of charge with Mrs
my heart was overwhelmed ture, not just towards me Shots being the
and afraid at the same but people in constant model. Mrs
time. general. It was so Shots’ love for pictures
unbelievable that was met by my passion
I was not oblivious to the someone outside of my for taking pictures/
fact that you cannot just family had the guts and capturing moments,
love someone at first sight patience to listen to me allowing me to
and be loved back the talk non-stop and not get improve my skills.
same way. To that end, I tired. He always had a She started off as the
was on a mission to gain way of business model and
her affection. She was and making me laugh and still is, moved to
still is, full of life and my well, he still makes me being an assistant,
boring life needed just that. blush and laugh in a then creative director
I saw in her my best friend weird way, and her newfound love
and life partner and now is compiling concepts
my all-time favourite I am never bored for milestone shoots/
model. really, and it makes being cake smash sessions.
his model much easier, I And of course, her
[Kelly] For me, it was his just laugh throughout our
loving, kind and caring na- sessions, and we get

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economics background awards her
the position of CFO. We basically
complement each other,
support each other and hold each
other accountable for the better
running of our business.

Running ShotsbyMrandMrs has not We provide the following
come without challenges. One of photography services:
our biggest challenges has been • Studio sessions
finding our uniqueness in an • Individual/Family/Couple/Group
ever-changing industry that is sessions
already flooded. Yet still, we • Maternity sessions
continue to ensure that we provide • Milestone and Cake smash
our clients with the best experience sessions
while improving our own skill sets • Corporate sessions
and discovering ourselves in the • Events photography
industry. Every session is a • Customised packages
learning curve for us and with the
ever-changing technology, trends Instagram: @shotsbymrandmrs3
andso forth, we remain open to Facebook: ShotsbyMrandMrs
learning, every opportunity we get. Zibusiso Manzini and Wandile Kelly
And the most amazing part is living Manzini
in the same house with your favou-
rite model, so random days can be
for fun filled random photoshoots.
Through it all, in each other we
have found a best friend, life
partner, and business partner. More
than anything we are grateful that
we get to have front row seats of
seeing God’s grace and faithfulness
at work in each other’s lives and in
our business. We have witnessed
our work being published in
media outlets such as Business
Times (careers), Asante Afrika
Magazine and The Byo Story. But
more than that, we have gotten to
work with amazing people making
connections and being
exposed to diverse backgrounds.

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Langelihle Bhule

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A

TWISTED SOCIETY

Langelihle Bhule is my name, a young multi-talented lady in her twenties from
the city of Bulawayo in Zimbabwe. The book A Twisted Society is the living proof
that writing is one of her many unmentioned talents in this article as being a
rising author takes the spotlight.

THE BOOK
A twisted society is a book of series of stories enlightening about the practical
lives of the members of the society that have mental and psychological effects on
our well-being. The first copy released on July 16, 2021 is but the first of the six
more stories to come of the same book. This first copy is about a young girl who
has finished her first level of university studies and her mother is already
pressuring her about the demand of the society of her to fulfil, in the cost of her
dreams and relationship. On the other hand there is a young man also pressured
by the family demands and living a fabricated personality to escape the
judgements of the society about his true nature. Eventually, everyone pays the
price.

I published the book with Billionaire publishers and currently working solo to get
the book out there in the world for engagements. I cannot say much as of yet
about the out come as it is only a rising sun, however I can say I am pleased with
the responses and the interest shown towards its release. The biggest intention
with the book is to make open conversation with readers, penetrating deep to
the stories, discussing situations related to it until I can finally be able to turn it
into movies. Also, through it I look forward to being able to live my childhood
dream of growing my charity work by giving ten percent profit of the book to
Solrika Investments charity. Prayerfully, the book will reach far and wide and serve
its purpose of enlightening us of the things we ignore or take lightly, yet are
living and effective.

A definitely must read book among books. Everyday is sells day, order yours any
day, anytime and enjoy your reading.
To purchase or order the book contact:
Cell : +263 783 701 048
Email : [email protected]
Facebook : Langelihle Bhule
Instagram : langelihle_bhule
Twitter : Langelihlebhule
The above contacts may also be used for questions and discussions on our own
personal experiences related to the book and how best we can manage the
situations we come across with. It can also be purchased on Amazon as an ebook
to read it on our devices and paperback to be delivered at our doorstep
worldwide.

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HOT SEAT

featuring

Craig Dennit

T.B.S: Who is Craig Dennit? Makhandeni, how are they different
Craig: Craig Dennit is a middle aged from Burnside and the likes?
young man from Victoria Falls, a Craig: Okay, as a person who has lived in
small well recognized part of different places mentioned, Burnside is a
Zimbabwe. very quiet place with very private people
T.B.S: Now tell us, how has been whom you can only meet when doing
your stay in the city of Kings and your morning jog or going to do grocery
Queens? but despite the high life they live they
Craig: The city of Kings and Queens are soft spoken individuals and they
has proven to be a warm treat you well. As for Makhandeni and
welcoming city with humble and Pumula on the other hand, you meet
down to earth people who have everyone everywhere, I was treated as
practiced living together in a very if I was one of them, as neighbors we
unique way. I remember the first time meet and greet each other. With
I came to the city of Kings, I always youngsters I didn’t know, we started
thought of a small Jo’burg as people chilling together as if we have known
always portrayed it to have a very fast each other for a while as they showed
life and numerous thieves as I was me what I would call an ancient Koi San
always told and I “unanzelele, living together type of life where there is
amasela le nkunzi”. That’s how I no one called a visitor.
thought I would live with fear of T.B.S: If you had a chance to relocate
walking in the streets but no, what to Bulawayo either permanently or
I was told is what I didn’t get as I work
would freely walk in the streets at related, would you take it and if so,
any given time as I was an outgoing why?
person. I enjoyed my recreational Craig: Well, to be honest I would
activities, I managed to visit Matopo gladly accept the offer, despite I would
Hills and Hillside Dams just to feel “the away from home” feeling. But I
mention a few to chill out with know I can easily fit in back to the
friends. Bulawayo environment as I wouldn’t be
T.B.S: How about the high density treated like a stranger for I know I would
suburbs for the likes of Pumula or make new friends and companions who
would treat me like an old friend. For
they are welcoming people and jovial.

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T.B.S: Any developments you the high density areas in my stay there, I
would wish to see in the city of observed that teenage pregnancies
Kings and Queens? had increased drastically because of
Craig: Well, frankly as an outgoing children vulnerable to not having
person, firstly, I would love to see the educational opportunities. I would
old club rule no “under 18” therefore like the government schools to
being observed for morals are being give opportunities of moderate charged
lost and girl child is being abused school fees so that almost every parent
in these public areas by the elderly can manage to take children to school
whom they now have given the and reduce teenage dropouts.
nickname “Amablesser”. And also in

Exchange Building

The Exchange Building was originally the first Post Office of the
city. It used to be Cecil John Rhodes and his colleagues’ haven.
The Town Board acquired the building in 1914.

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THE MISSING by

BREAKUPS Kathlyn Bhebhe

In grade 7 I had a boyfriend named X. I don’t know if we can by any standard call
that a boyfriend, you know 12 year old love, am not even sure if by any standard
that was love, but we liked each other. Being with him was some kind of peace,
by the standards of a 12 year old of course. I saw a marriage, family, a wedding
out of that, that’s what 12 year olds did at my time. I called his landline, stealing
my grandpa’s phone and vice versa, that’s how old I am. But secondary school
came and we went to different schools.
That meant we were going separate ways and by no means did we break up,
looking at it today was that even a relationship that warranted a break up lol!
Each time before now when I saw him or thought I saw him even from a distance
I got heart palpitations. This by the stands of a twelve year old is a relationship
that has a missing breakup.
The missing breakups are nothing like ghosting. For the reason that a bulk of
ghosting occurs during the talking stage or in a relationship only acknowledged
by one party; you know when you think you are dating someone that thinks you
are getting to know each other. These are relationships that start on an official
‘Can you be my girlfriend’ note and never get the memo that this relationship is
done. These relationships sometimes make it to relationship goals, power couples
and relationship what-notes and mine was all that by the standards of a 12 year
old of course. And the relationships just die out like that.
Often times both parties in the relationship realize how downhill the relationship
has gone and no one has the energy to call it quits, officially or come to terms
with it. A relationship that has previously been growing and has come to a point
of stunted growth. Because we are so accustomed to relationships ending on a
bad note, we don’t know what to do with ones where everything is perfectly fine
except there is no growth. So people leave, or they disappear because they don’t
want to hurt the other person. They don’t know how to let them down by
accepting the reality of the fact that their relationship is done. If that’s not the
case, there is sometimes some black African man that says it’s not in their place
to both ask out and dump a person. So they will withdraw their love,
communicate not explicitly though, that its high time you left them alone. And if
you don’t get the message they will most probably go silent on you, cause they
will never break up with a lady. I mean how selfish is that?

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In some instances we invest ourselves so much into the relationship that we don’t
want to see it fail. Or we are so concerned about how much we would be hurt
if ever the relationship was to end this instant. But the truth is, we always know!
We know that what we had was dead but none wants to come into terms with it
and holding onto it is a better consolation. Now there is always a problem with
relations that die a natural death without any acknowledgement of it; they always
hurt if not one party then both. Imagine if X disappeared when I was under the
impression that things were going well. Imagine how much hurt I would feel in
seeing them. Or how awkward it would be each time we see each other. What are
we, how do I say hi?
These are the things that people leave with us each time they leave without
saying bye or giving us the decency of where we stand with them. After Osama
the 2nd deadliest people in the world are the people that fall out of love and
move on without even letting us know. And these people sometimes come back
on some “hi stranger” vibes, I mean why, what is the reason? And you wonder
why people always miss their exes right!
If ever at any point or time you find yourselves falling out of love and you don’t
even know how to say it’s done, find a way! Do yourselves both a favor, and do
the other person the courtesy to let
them know where they stand, let them go. Until next time dear reader learn to
love intentionally, officially and explicitly.

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The History of Makokoba
by Sisanda Ncube
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Makokoba is the first black African suburb and the oldest township in the city of
Bulawayo which came into being soon after colonisation. In the beginning it was well
known as the Location which the Ndebele people referred to as eLokitshini (commonly
used today to refer to the city’s high density suburbs). According to history, the suburb
was named after the actions of Mr Fallon, who was a native commissioner (township
superintendent). Mr Fallon used to walk around with a stick (udondolo, ekhokhobele)
enforcing city council’s racially segregated accommodation housing. As the stick hit the
ground while Mr Fallon was moving it made the sound ko-ko-ko.
Makokoba came into being as home for black African men who worked for the whites.
During the colonial era, women were not allowed or expected to stay in the city,
however, if ever they did, they would be housed by the whites. Houses of Makokoba
suburbs were mainly single roomed to accommodate men only (history tells Mr Fallon
would peep into every household checking and ensuring that there was no woman
inside). Even today one can notice that Makokoba’s households are small and squashed
as compared to other houses in the city.
Around the 1950s, the whites built one of the biggest bars in the country popularly
known as the Big Bhawa. This was the place where most of Makokoba’s cultural icons
created works defined various kinds and classes of people. Even today, the Big Bhawa is
of interest not only to residents of Makokoba but almost the whole of Bulawayo’s
people from different suburbs that have similar interests to it. Most people go to the Big
Bhawa to have beer, play games, ukuwosa among other leisure activities.
It is in Makokoba that the Stanley Hall and Stanley Square are found. These were a
home of legendary artists like Dorothy Masuka and township jazz known as Kwela. After
independence it became home of Amakhosi Theatre before it moved to the Township
Square Cultural Centre. These places hold significant value for the people of Makokoba
and Zimbabwe at large because it is the birthplace of patriotism which led to liberation
of Zimbabwe in 1980.
The other place of interest in Makokoba is emkambo. This is probably the largest
market of traditional things in the city. Emkambo is identified by numerous stalls set
up for various products like vegetables, fruits, informal hardware, traditional medicines
among other thing. One can say you can find everything you need from emkambo. Be-
fore the Covid-19 era, the area was always crowded, with people coming from different
suburbs coming to get their necessities at an affordable price.
Makokoba is probably one of Bulawayo’s suburbs that is very highly populated. Most of
the residents are the youth (omgidlana nje). This makes the suburb one of the noisiest
too, the young going around playing music in their speaker boxes while some use their
phones in groups mostly. The young girls also move around without care, with either
mini-skirts or ripped skinny jeans while most boys are amapansula, identified by
imdobis’, earrings and all! The language used by young people is usually foul (i-slang
seKasi). That’s Makokoba for you!
Makokoba holds a huge importance because it is a home of legendary people like the
late Adam Ndlovu, Peter and Madinda Ndlovu and the late Striker Ndlovu among
others. Bulawayo’s own pride which holds huge memories on where the people of
Bulawayo are coming from. Makokoba! Asikhokhobeni sonke sike siyefika eMakokoba.

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Poetess of the month

Thabitha Williams

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Thabitha Williams is a passionate young lady who is currently doing her 3rd year in
University, studying International Trade and Economics at Sichuan University of Science
and Chemical Engineering in China. Miss Williams is an ambitious young lady who loves
to bring change not only to herself but to the community too. Through her poetry, she
seeks to advocate not only for the girl child but also for the boy child. She is the former
Chairperson for the DreamzClub at her former High School, former host of the Virtuous
Leaders, the current committee member of the “Ikhaya Labalobi” National Executive
Team and also the founder of the SUSE FORUM MAIL, a writer ‘s club that she started at
her University.
Miss Williams found her path to inking the paper back in High School when she was
doing her form 2. She got inspired through reading from as far as she can remember.
Through her first trials to publish her first book, Thabitha faced a lot of rejection and
criticism that led her to stall the publication. “The truth is, I had blocked it myself, as I
was hiding away from what the public would think of my work”, Miss Williams expresses.
Thabitha has 3 books under her name titled; WHEN TEARS SPEAK, THE WOMAN IN ME
and SPELL OF MY PIGMENT which she wrote with Tapiwanaishe Pamacheche, all these
are anthologies. After regaining her will to write, she continued to write through what
criticisms may come and undermining gestures. “I told myself that if my work would
touch at least one third of my community’s heart then I would have accomplished my
mission which is sometimes sharing hidden knowledge with the public.
Thabitha has worked with the best poets and publishers to be where she stands today.
These include “Isigilamkhuba sosiba” Onesimo Ngcotsha, Samantha Nomaswazi Nunu
as her publisher, Xesha Khumalo as her publisher as well, Vongai Monica Mujakachi,
Tapiwanaishe Pamacheche and she wrote a foreword for the novel WALK A MILE WITH
ME by Jaquelline Nyakwangwa and many more. Her poetry targets everyone,
from the elderly people to the youths. “The statement that my poetry carries is that
(Never regard me as inferior due to the spell of my pigment for I harbour greatness that
can never be matched)”, said Thabitha. “Never give up, to always look at the brighter
picture. Whenever you feel like giving up, you need to remember who you are doing it
for and why you are doing it. I believe we don’t write to boost our ego or for fame, we
write to bring change to the world”, Miss Williams’ words of encouragement. She wishes
to be awarded a noble price one day and write more books before she turns 40.

Facebook; Thabitha Williams
Instagram; thabithawilliams

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POETRY CORNER

NGALIWE

Hai keh!
Bangiphindile futhi.
Wangenza ngathemba ubhuthiza,
I let my guard down
Ngoba ngithi cha uqinisile
Ngemizwa yakhe.

Kanti yho!
Ubelinde ngilahle then he strikes.

Hai keh!
Bangiphindile futhi.
Wayivithiz’umfan’inhliziyo

Isel’isiyimvuthu.
Angazi ngiyoqalaphi ngokuyicosha.

Ngizumekile!
Wangibamba nginganakile.
Cha! Umjolo iphandemikh’ struu!

Hai keh!
Bangiphindile futhi.
Haibo! yeyisa lomfana yazi
Shuthi, ubelinde ngithithize
Bes’ihlasele ngamandla.
Ngisele nesibazi sothando futhi,
Maye! Ngomama ngavelelw’impela.

Hai keh!
Bangiphindile futhi.
Umdlalo wothand’angisadlali mina
Ngoba njalo mina ngiyahlulwa.
Cabanga nje, impela ibhadi leli,
Cha! Umjolo iphandemikh’ ngempela.
Kulungile ngizancoma abanye,
Kodwa mina ang’sadlali
Sengidubile ngidlaliwe futhi.

Ilotshwe ngu S.i.p.h.o.s.i.h.l.e
Icubungulwe ngu Ruthless_inc

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Nothing is meant to stay the same

Tell me that those stars up in the sky,
Will stay forever there.

And I’ll promise you till I die,
That I’ll always be right here.
And I know that you can’t tell me this,
‘Cause nothing is meant to stay the same and you know it.

And you just know it!
Tried to hold on to the happiness I got,

But it turned it’s back on me.
You and I are us, that’s what I thought,

Until you opened my eyes to see.
I can’t be the one for you forever,
‘Cause nothing is meant to stay the same and you know it.

You just know it!
I went downtown looking for our favorite club,
Didn’t find it at all, ‘cause it has turned into a grocery store.
Every memory we made there is now being rubbed,

And there’s no way we can help it to restore.
It is like a dead end for us,

‘ Cause nothing stays the same and you know it.
You just know it!

Tell me that those stars up in the sky,
Will stay forever there.

And I’ll promise you till I die,
That I’ll be always right here.

And I know that you can’t tell me this,
‘Cause nothing is meant to stay the same and you know it.

You just know it! (Yeah)
Written by: Edwin Mpho Makitla

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SHORT STORY

THE STARS ABOVE YOU
(continuation) By: Lungille Msimanga
Edited by: Ruthless_inc

“This is the earth now. You and I are go. The earth is dead. You must come
not in it. I pulled a rib from your body with me.”
last night, when I found you in the “To where?” you shriek, splaying your
rain. It’s what made you sleep this hands. “If what you’re saying is true, and
long. I only had to put it back again the earth really is gone, then my father is
to wake you.” dead, isn’t he? I’ll never see him again.”
“You pulled ...What? How long have I You sink to the ground, gripped by
been asleep?” you whisper, eyes filling a sudden vertigo, and bury your face
your face. against your crooked arm. The girl sighs,
“An aeon and a quarter”, she says, takes your hand in hers, and crouches
quite directly. You get the impression down before you. You study her toes,
she’s not concerned about the speed perfect little black pearls resting in the
at which you’re taking all this in. sand.
“And how long is that?” “You’ll see him again, you have my
Her shoulders rise and fall in a word,” she says seriously, looking into
delicate shrug. your face. “I can’t tell you my name, or
“I’m not sure. Time doesn’t happen to where I came from, or why I’m here, but
us the same way it happens to you.” I do think there’s a reason why it’s you I
You look at her long and hard, this came across at the time that I did.”
lithe, strange woman-child, and laugh. She rises to her feet swiftly and motions
You slap your knee, sit back on your for you to follow her. There is something
haunches, and laugh. You laugh so familiar in the curve of her faint smiles,
hard your eyes swim with tears and in the rustling of her dress against her
a pain pierces your side, then you body as she walks. You rush forward,
straighten up, dust your knees, and grabbing hold of her hand and tugging
walk away. gently.
“Zenani, there is something I haven’t “Am I dead?” you ask, falling into step
told you.” beside her. You dread the answer, and
You stop, turn around, and cock an dread also the lack of it.
eyebrow. Her eyes laugh before the sound erupts
“How do you know my name? Who from her mouth.
are you?” “No. But you’re the only one that
“I only know as much as I should, but remains of the old world. The earth is
I can’t say the same for you. I’ve being born again, recreated, and your
already told you, there’s nowhere to father will be returned to you. But you

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as you walk. You decide your miniskirt
couldn’t look more unfitting than it
does now, and your skin burns with
shame.

“Don’t worry about that,” she says,
folding a hand over yours, and you’re
flooded with a certain giddiness.
You keep walking, the light around
you growing dull, then you realize
there never was a sun, or moon, just
light that simply was.
“Where are we going?”

won’t live in his memory as you know it.” “To the bridge,” she says, pulling you
“What’s that supposed to mean?” to a stop and dipping a hand into her
“It means, Zenani, that he has forgotten pocket for something she lays in your
you. You’re caught in a time warp. This is palm, before folding your fingers over
the space that exists between what you it tightly. “It divides
would call seconds in your time, but it your world and mine. I can’t come
can actually stretch on forever here.” that far with you, but I need you to
Your body seems to slowly sink into the take this quickly, get to where the
ground. You feel your chest inhale, ex- bridge ends, release the seeds, and
hale, each breath painstakingly command that there be light. Do
measured. You’ve seen moments like you understand? You need to do this
this before, in the movies, what they call quickly Zenani, before time shifts
slow-mo. again and you’re trapped here. There
“What are you saying?” is no place for you.”
“Don’t be too frightened. This is only You study her creased brow, her
so that things will be set back into their pursed mouth, the orange flame in
natural order. It’s life, renewing itself. “ the depths of her eyes, and think how
terrifyingly strange and beautiful she
is.

“And my father?” you ask again, You nod, pressing the seeds deeper
uncertain of this renewal, if you want it. into your palm - they are soft and
“It’s up to you to decide to go back, but tiny, the flesh slightly hairy. You feel
you must. The gift of second life is given suddenly that something has settled
only once in five thousand eons,” she inside you, that you have come home
says expertly, as though explaining an now, to your belonging.
equation to a “Hey, will I be seeing you again?”
wooden-headed child. You listen to She shakes her head.
your mind churn, to the wind “No. But I will see you.”
whispering around you, and the earth The light grows dimmer, duller, until
that drinks the tiredness from your feet

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you realize she is not as near as you thought, that the ground has surrendered
you to a narrow path of rocks that grumble at your feet, hissing in protest. There
is nothing on either side, just a sea of darkness that swallows you whole as you
feel your way forward, keeping one foot firmly in front of the other.
You search the path behind you for the girl and wonder if you’ll think of her of-
ten, when the sky winks down at you with its billion silver eyes, then you realize
you can’t say where you are to begin with; below the sky, or above it. You keep
walking, until your heels ache and your thoughts run out, until there is nothing
besides you and the darkness, the darkness and you.
You gaze into the cups of your hands, at the golden seeds gathered there. The
children of the sun, the girl had called them.
A smile splits your face when you feel the end of the bridge, the beginning of
something you don’t yet have a name for. You hurl the seeds into the nothing-
ness, whisper, “Let there be light.”
Your voice is thin and fluid, nothing like the girl’s. You watch, awed, as the seeds
begin to smolder and float, dancing rapidly around you like gold dust gravitating
towards a magnet, and a strange warmth spreads from your toes right up to the
roots of your hair. Your body feels like a soft rock of dreams, and everything lost
come home.
“Let there be light!” you say, louder, your voice mending the silence.
You think of your mother, dead, and how one day she must have peered into
your face, saw the future in your eyes, and named you after this exact moment.
Zenani. You watch yourself disintegrate, parts of you floating and shifting, the
light drawing light into itself, until you surrender yourself wholly to it, your body
holding the stars beneath you. You are the loveliest sky.
The End

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Fitness

My name is Richard Chikwe. All I hear are murmurs that summer is fast approaching. Are
you passionate about getting your body in good shape for this summer? How bad do
you want it?Are you willing to work for that?
The QUESTION remains, *WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR???
If you’re that person, you have met the right person, I humbly introduce you to COACH
RICH and below are the guidelines to give your body that glow for this summer.
Maintaining Healthy Bodies through DIET
Food is the biggest factor in how much weight you lose… or gain. Junk food will
derail your fitness gains faster than you can imagine. No amount of exercise can make
up calories of pure sugar. On the other hand, eating the right foods will do more for
your weight body goals than 6 hours spent at the gym ever could.
Eating a recommended amount of protein is essential to help preserve your health and
muscle mass while losing weight.
Reducing sugars and starches, or carbs, from your diet can help curb your appetite,
lower your insulin levels, and make you lose weight.
*Don’t be afraid to load your plate with leafy green vegetables and I’ll say it again,
DON’T BE AFRAID TO LOAD YOUR PLATE WITH LEAFY GREEN VEGETABLES*. They’re
packed with nutrients, and you can eat very large amounts without greatly increasing
calories and carbs.
Leafy green vegetables are a great way to bulk up a meal with low calories and lots of
nutrients.
Eat a high protein breakfast. Eating a high protein breakfast could help reduce cravings
and calorie intake throughout the day
Avoid sugary drinks and fruit juice. Empty calories from sugar aren’t useful to your body
and can hinder weight loss
Drink water before all the meals.
A low carbohydrates diet can improve your health in a few ways,
1) blood sugar levels tend to significantly decrease on low carb diets
2) cholesterol goes down
3) blood pressure improves significantly
4) Other diet types that reduce calories and increase whole foods are also associated
with improved metabolic markers and slower aging

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