#Shock Zulu

[meaninginmakeup]

Primers- Priming Potion in original formula by Urban Decay Cosmetics.

Mascara- At Long Lash by Laura Geller (gifted by the brand and BeautyTap).

Eyeshadow: yellow- matte yellow from the Zulu Palette by Juvia’s Place. For the shimmer I added Trophy Wife by Fenty Beauty on top.

Orange- matte orange from the Zulu Palette by Juvia’s Place. Then Super Shock Shadow in As You Wave (no longer sold) by Colourpop.

Red- Matte red from the Zulu Palette by Juvia’s Place. Rebel from the Break the Rules Palette by It’s Bel Cosmetics (use code BRITTANYBELL for 10% off your order).

Setting Spray- Photo Focus by Wet N Wild.

Foundation- Double Take Liquid Foundation in Porcelain by Laura Geller (gifted by the brand and BeautyTap).

Powder- Filter Finish Setting Powder in Universal by Laura Geller (no longer sold, gifted by the brand and BeautyTap).

Highlighter- none today.

Lips- Luvbug by Sugarpill.

[thehollowwriter]

I've been thinking about Nkulu and what he would sound like and how he would talk. He's got a heavy Xhosa accent when he speaks English or Japanese, and he uses a lot South African slang because though one parent was originally from (twst) Brazil, he was born and raised in (twst) South Africa which I think is at least in the Afterglow Savanah.

I thought I'd share some examples of slang and expressions, cause I think it would be fun to share with everyone and I don't really use South African slang online (I also think it's funny how confusing some of them can be. It feels like opposite day)

☆"Just now/now now"

The second one especially makes it sound like you mean right now at this second, but here it could be anytime between right now and tomorrow. "Go wash the dishes" "Yeah I'll do it now now" and "now now" could be in half an hour. Who knows.

☆"Shame"

Though it is used when expressing pity a lot ("Ag, shame that's terrible") it's also used in a positive way, mostly when referring to cute things. "Look at that kitten!" "Aww shame man." So uh dw we're not insulting your kitten/j

☆"Ja, nee:"

"Ja nee" is just "yes, no" in Afrikaans, and it's generally used similarly to "okay"/ to confirm or agree with something or to disagree with something. "Where you there yesterday?" Yeah, no, I was there." "The movie was good, right?" "Ja, nee I was a bit disappointed." Or just "Ja nee, I don't know."

☆"Jislaaik"

Pronounced "Yislike." Jislaaik is an Afrikaans expression of amazement, shock, or surpise. "Jislaaik that looks cool"

☆"Haibo"

(Hi-boh) This is a Zulu term that has a ton of meanings, but can basically be boiled down to an exclamation of surpise, shock, or disbelief. "Haibo, what happened?!"

☆"Yebo"

(Yeah-boh) Another Zulu term, this one means yes. However it's usually used as a very energetic and excited way of saying yes. "Hey, wanna hang out?" "Yebo!" "Hey, hey!" "Yebo?"

☆"Ag, nee man"

"Ag" is basically "Oh" (pronounced like how Germans pronounce "ach", according to Google, bc I literally have no idea how to describe the sound for G in Afrikaans sbsbdndn) "Nee, man" means "No, man." in Afrikaans. The man is pronounced "mun" kinda. The phrase is essentially a way of expressing frustration, pity, or disgust. "Ag nee man, did he really do that?"

☆"Eish"

Eish (E-sh) It's an expression of surpise for a lot of things line frustration, surpise, regret, or sympathy. (you can see we have a lot of those lol) "Eish man, that sucks."

☆"Lekker!"

(Leck-ir) There's no English equivalent for this word, but basically it's an informal Afrikaans word that has a lot of meanings depending on the context. It can mean something's great, cool, yummy, etc. "Oh, that food looks lekker." "Lekker braai, neh?" (A braai is basically a barbeque but we only cook with charcoal and it makes everything taste amazing. "Neh" is basically just our "Eh")

-

So yeah that's my little list of slang words! I hope you guys found it interesting!

Tagging: @distant-velleity @br3adtoasty @rainesol @theleechyskrunkly @jovieinramshackle

@galaxies-and-gore @cyanide-latte @cynthinesia @officialdaydreamer00 @krenenbaker

@offorestsongs @kitwasnothere @elenauaurs @boopshoops @inotonline

@1dont-really-know @kazumify @minteasketches @elysia-nsimp @skrimpyskimpy

@casp1an-sea @offorestsongs @tixdixl @poisoned-pearls @the-trinket-witch

@ramshacklerumble @ghostiidasponk @thegoldencontracts @sillyslipperybananapeel @cloudcountry

@skriblee-ksk @twstinginthewind @lumdays @theolivetree123 @natsukishinomiyaswife

@authoruio @jewelulu @raguiras @moonyasnow @skibidibabygirl

@quartztwst @yuizenihaswriten @devosin @oya-oya-okay @b0njourbeach

@kirans-wonderland @coffinkissez @idikeis @s-t-y-x @tixdixl

[saintwrld]

Akulaleki

Akulaleki - there's no sleep/ I've got no sleep

summary: in which reader takes Shuri to groove in South Africa, for Shuri to better understand reader's love for music and randomly dancing around the lab.

mood of the one shot: fun, comedic

warnings: party girl!reader, confused but excited!shuri, cussing (in both english and zulu), just super fun vibes and a lot of brand names bc i'm a fashion gyal and i like things 🤚🏽, (rich le$bean things 🥂)

translations: haibo - literally can’t explain this one, it’s like a sound of shock, bathong - another sound of shock (it’s got different meanings), ngiyeza - i’m coming, voetsek- fuck off (in afrikaans), nawe- you too, wavula icircle - she opened a dance circle, mntanasekhaya - sibling (not direct meaning), majivane - dancer (in a celebratory way), hawema! waletha undlukulu - oh my goodness! she brought royalty!, yoh - damn (kinda), chommie- friend (in afrikaans), ugirl uyakuthanda - the girl loves you.

inspired by: akulaleki - sun-el musician, samthing soweto ft. shasha

taglist: @pinkwright @zayswriting @inmyheadimobsessed @verachii @quintessencewrites @axailslink @shurismainbxtch @laurensmabel1 @heejayy @generallysapphic @vixentheplanet @abenomeiiii

(major love for you guys!)

a/n: this is for my party people!!! this is dedicated to all of you amazing people who are reading this. basically this one shot is gonna show you what it's like to party with South Africans. Groove is like the club but more fun 🕺🏽. reader will be South African (hope you don't mind!) and i'm excited to write as a sa party gyal myself 😝🫡. you'll also see a lot of south african celebs mentioned btw.

side note: are there a lot of translations? yes but the more you know 🫶🏽

-

With your ugg boots barely making a sound on the lab floors, you approach your girlfriend with her back turned away from you and the soft sounds of rnb playing in the background. It was quite a peaceful scene playing out in front of you. Scientists were working together on new projects and Shuri was sitting down, that's what shocked you most.

You stood behind her trying to peak at what she was busy with and it seemed as if she hadn't noticed you yet. "I can practically hear your heartbeat from here, my love." She remarked, making you groan as she turned around to face you. Her outfit was simple, a plain figure hugging sweatsuit with sneakers and because the outfit is on your girlfriend, it made you swoon.

"What if I wanted to surprise you?" You raised your eyebrow at her and she chuckled. "You'd obviously have to try harder, duh." Shuri rolled her eyes jokingly as you lightly shoved her.

"How's your day going? Can't watch the housewives without you." You asked, sitting on the empty seat next to Shuri. She lightly sighed and pointed to the formulae in her lab notebook. "First off, you watch two episodes every week and leave me behind so, shh. Second, these formulas are coming together and I'll start these projects in a week or two." Shuri said, closing the notebook and holding your hand that was situated on your lap.

"Oh so what? There's a real housewives of biochemistry that you're probably watching without me, huh?" You mocked, acting offended by her first comment. "Wouldn't you like to know?" She replied sarcastically, causing you to roll your eyes with a smile on your face.

Shuri looked at the table and grabbed a few loose kimoyo beads before beginning to work on them. "Now there has to be a reason for my lovely girlfriend to visit me on a Monday." She mentioned, causing you to fake gasp. "Haibo! Can I not visit my girl in her lab?" You asked, placing your hands on your hips and tapping your foot.

She ignored your antics and stood up to her sand table with you following close behind. "Just to talk about housewives? There's no way you drove all the way here just for that. What's on your mind, sthandwa sam'?" She snickered, seeing you drop your shoulders in defeat.

"I drove the Cullinan so it was a leisurely ride." You muttered, looking anywhere but your girlfriend's eyes. She gently grabbed your chin to focus your attention on her. Her eyes were warm, looking at you as if you held her entire world in your hands. Gaining up the courage to even ask this was eating at you and she could clearly see.

"It's going to sound bad but I wanna go home." Your sentence made Shuri confused. "But you just came from there-" "No, I mean my home country. Just for a few days." You cut her off, holding both her hands. On Shuri's side, her heart broke a little because that meant you were leaving her side for a few days.

"No no no, don't be sad! I wasn't done. I want you to come with me. Last time we were there, it was just a quick visit but this time, we're gonna have fun." You smiled at her and she looked at you in surprise. You and Shuri have different meanings for the word 'fun'. Hers would be driving around the city with you or relaxing with you on vacation, just listening to soft music and just loving each other.

You, on the hand, loved fun which included not chilling on a beach in Turks and Caicos. Back home, it was party time all the time, mainly because of the genre 'Amapiano' taking over the country and the world. Because of your love for dancing and your country's music, you would go to groove with your friends regularly, resulting in you becoming famous just for having fun and that's when you made friends with all of the South African artists. Being famous along with your many artist friends came with perks such as travelling, getting into anywhere free and a lot of love from your fellow south africans.

Whilst travelling to Chicago just for funsies, that's where you met Shuri. She was leaning against a cool car and saw you from afar, dancing with your friends to a song she couldn't exactly recognise. When Riri had eventually come out of the pizza shop, she was curious to what had gotten Shuri's attention. Riri recognised you from instagram on multiple people's stories. Riri being Riri, helped Shuri get over her anxiety of talking to you and went over to one of your friends, immediately gaining your attention.

Your curious eyes fell on Shuri, which you couldn't fully recognise because of her shades, and you went up to her only to be shyly greeted by the princess of Wakanda. You initiated the conversation and it formed a new friendship. After a few dates, she was no longer shy and asked you to be her girlfriend. After a few soft launch posts, you finally went public with her, gaining even more fame for dating a royal. For the past few months, you've been living in Wakanda and enjoying your peace but lately, you've missed your partying and your friends.

"If I say yes, will we just spend a week there?" She questioned, already making you smile bright. You nodded. "You already packed your bags, haven't you?" She sighed, removing her hands from yours and placing them on her hips. You back away from her, ready to make your exit before she says anything.

"We leave at 2 pm and I need to get a new suitcase for clothes for when we're shopping that side. Love you, bye!" You exclaimed, making a run for it while Shuri looked at you lovingly as you ran into the elevator. The other scientists looked at you two in adoration but truth be told, it was an everyday experience for them.

You hopped into your car after getting to the secret parking lot, feeling your phone buzz with a text.

panther bae

I love you too

-

y_n

liked by ririwiliams, champagnepapi and 694,637 others

y_n home 💫

view comments

uncle_waffles you are the moment

↳ y_n love you loads 🥹

user pls tell me you're coming back to sa

↳ y_n yup!

anok.yai you're so beautiful

↳ y_n guys, she called me beautiful 😝

kehlani is it party time??

↳ y_n it's party timeeeee!!

coachella_randy majivane is coming back? 🥹

↳ y_n literally just to dance with you my love

ayrastarr my moms are so pretty

↳ y_n Ayra, my child 🫂 (literally a year older than her)

flolikethis you are very much missed this side ma'am 🤨

↳ y_n i miss the three musketeers too

user i wonder if she's coming back with shuri

user my crush ( i told my village about us )

user pls we have so many new dances now. are you ready?

↳ y_n already learned them. i'm always ready for a good time 🫡

user ARE WE PARTYING WITH THE PANTHER?!

↳ y_n bathong 😭

kekepalmer and WHEN am I seeing you and partying with you again, Mrs Udaku?

↳ y_n now Keke 😭

-

After an hour long flight, it landed in the yard of your previous home before moving to Wakanda. Using the Royal Talon jet was a much better option in terms of safety for Shuri. With Aneka grabbing your suitcases and Ayo grabbing Shuri's, they placed them on the doorstep, waiting for you to open up.

The door clicked and it opened wide, taking in the sight of the home and all its memories. The many nights of Shuri always surprising you at your doorstep, showering her with love and affection that you missed over the times you hadn't seen her. When finished with her missions, she would often go straight to your house just to be in your presence. You had fallen in love with her and she had completely fallen for you. Uttering the words "my heart is yours and it will be yours till the end of time" during one of your cuddle sessions.

Seeing the house clean hadn't surprised you much as Shuri had programmed nanotech into the walls and rooms to keep the house clean for however long you weren't there. You didn't question how she did it but you greatly appreciated it.

In your peripheral view, you could see her yawn. "You wanna take a nap before we get ready?" You asked her, making your way to hug her which she greatly returned. You could feel her settle her head onto your shoulder and stay there for a while. You shook her a little but she didn't move. Is she really sleeping while standing? Her breathing became a bit slower and that's when your suspicions were confirmed. Using all the strength you had, you lifted her up by her legs and resting her on your shoulder. As much as Shuri was lean and literally looked like she was floating while walking, the panther was heavy and you were struggling to carry her up the stairs. You heard her giggle as her head was facing your backside.

"Shuri, leave my ass alone." You warned. "Baby, it's literally in my face, what am I supposed to do?" She shrieked, barely speaking because she was laughing.

After a few seconds, she kept quiet and you were curious as you were still struggling to get to your room. Next thing you know, you felt a sting on your ass.

"Shuri!"

-

Standing at your mirror in your closet, you observed your outfit and you were having a struggle choosing which shoe matched. Walking out the closet to find Shuri and ask for her opinion, you halted and almost fell to your knees. You knew Shuri had style but you didn't expect for her to wear any outfits you bought her.

The outfit had showcased her in a new light for you and you never wanted this Shuri to leave. In the mirror, she observed herself, adjusting her black tight fitting crop top along with her black black cargo pants. She had on the green Louis Vuitton varsity jacket with green low dunks to keep up the theme of her outfit. Her midsection was not fully exposed, showing off her petite figure. Her Kimoyo beads and earrings stayed on but extra accessories were added, such as a diamond encrusted cuban link you gifted her, a cartier love bracelet (that you both wore) and prada sunglasses.

She acknowledged you through the mirror and gave you a smirk, seeing your reaction to her outfit. Eyes raking over your body, she beckoned you over to the mirror, taking a step back so that you could stand in front of her. Stepping in front of her, Shuri wrapped her arms around your waist, looking at you through the mirror. Feeling her breath fan over your neck gave you shivers down your spine, her hands slowly moving towards your hips and staying there, pulling your body against her.

"Sthandwa, you look so good. Can I please show you how much I appreciate your outfit?" She said through kisses gliding from your ear onto your neck, feeling the coldness of her grill as she landed an open mouthed kiss on your burning skin. Her right hand moving from your hip, inching closer to the hem of your skirt and grabbing the flesh of your thigh. She was clearly enjoying watching you unravel at the slightest touches from her. As much as you seemed to be the confident one in the relationship, when it came to pleasure, Shuri made sure to show you a good time.

Knowing that you two would be late to your own welcome back party, you held onto Shuri's wrist and giggled when she groaned out load. "After the party and many years after that, I'm all yours. But for tonight, I wanna show you what it's like here and I promise. We can do that thing you like when we come back." You turned around to face her and tried your best to convince her by flashing a smile at her.

She looked at you a little while longer before eventually letting up, making you give her a quick hug and run to the closet to get your shoes. Looking back at her, you noticed her flashing the grill to herself in the mirror, clearly feeling herself.

What a night it's going to be.

-

Stepping out of the car to which Shuri kindly opened your door for you, you greeted by the small crowd of photographers of the club and fans who were waiting for you to show. They just had no idea that the Princess of Wakanda would also show up. Greeting everyone on your way to the entrance of the club, you held Shuri's  ring clad hand and literally felt the ground vibrate because of the music from inside.

Hearing your favourite genre of music brought warmth to heart, especially when the people were celebrating you, You were buzzing at the thought of being back in your element, dancing with your close friends, being by the dance floor and showing off choreography on the dance floor and usually you did all this without a drop of alcohol in your body.

The security had been tightened tonight because of the amount of status within the club. The capacity was apparently at its maximum tonight which was a little off putting to you but Shuri assured you of your safety, reminding of you of the Dora that had eyes everywhere plus she was literally the Black Panther.

The bodyguards at the entrance were alerted of your arrival and immediately opened the doors for you two, hearing the dj announce you and Shuri's arrival which made club goers cheer, eventually turning into screams at the sight of you two.

Shuri had definitely undermined your fame in your home country. She always knew that you were well known across the world but to see people cheering as if Beyoncé just showed up. Shuri herself hadn't really acknowledged her fame as she's always busy but to be up front with it was a different experience.

A sparkle girl came up to you two, completely starstruck and she led you two to the vip section, a large upstairs section over looking the huge club. You greeted the crowd from the balcony who excitedly greeted you back, phones pointed at you as you blew kisses to them.

Walking back to your booth, you sat next to Shuri who looked at a kid in a candy store. "You always give the best surprises, my love." She said. "What do you mean?" You looked at her confused. Placing her hand on top of yours, "Just how you seem introverted in Wakanda but the minute you stepped foot in here, you were a different person." She commented.

Leaning closer to her as the music became louder, "Looks like we both have superpowers." You smiled which she reciprocated. You two stare at each other a little longer until you were interrupted by the sound of your friends entering the vip section as well. The first one to spot you was your best long distance friend, Lihle, better known as Uncle Waffles.

"My favourite couple ever!" She shouted, walking closer to you two. Her pink hair matching with the strobe lights of the club as her distressed denim set made a statement. You two stood up to greet her with open arms. Shuri had only met Waffles so she was familiar towards her however she would be meeting your other friends today.

"You don't mind if I sit here? It's a bit hectic down there."  She gestured to the crowd beginning to fill up the capacity.

"No, you're okay." Shuri answered for the both of you. After a few minutes of catching up with Waffles, a few more of your friends came to greet the two of you. Shuri's social battery was fueling up, making her more excited for the night ahead of her. Seeing her like this, all comfortable and chatty with your friends, made you really happy.

"Y/n! It's almost time for my set. Do you wanna be by the dj booth with me?" Waffles called to you. She could see you were itching to be on the dance floor, fucking shit up. A larger smile beamed across your face as you nodded. "As if I would ever say no." You expressed, grabbing her awaiting hand.

Looking at Shuri, she was in deep chats with your other friends, laughing her ass off at their terrible jokes. She was okay. Seeing the wide smile on her face made you smile. Feeling yourself being dragged by Waffles made you laugh. "Okay, ngiyeza!"

Dancing to your friend's set behind the dj booth was too fun, especially because it was like you two were synced. The crowd went crazy when you two went onto the mini stage in front of the dj booth to show the choreo for the particular song playing. As the djs switched, your friend Daliwonga (and apparently Shuri’s new best friend besides Riri) came up to perform. “Ah mntanasekhaya!” He greeted you warmly as you were still behind the dj booth. “How are things going? Just to let you know, I’m besties with your wife. You didn’t tell me she was this funny, funnier than me even.” He smiled, getting his mic ready.

“Please, everyone’s funnier than you, Dali.” You rolled your eyes to which he deadpanned. “Voetsek.” He kissed his teeth making you laugh. “Nawe. Please don’t fall from the stage.” You walked down from the stage with him giving you the finger.

An hour later, you're still cutting it up with Waffles on the dance floor with your other friend, Randy, joining in on the fun. "Hawema! Waletha undlukulu!" Randy exclaimed once you pointed out that you were here with Shuri.

"We're so happy that you're back, chommie. Life was beginning to be boring so when I heard that majivane was visiting, you know I had to show up for my girl." Randy smiled, making you hug him just for his words. "Yoh, ugirl uyakuthanda." Your friend Kamo Mphela commented with a smile on your face as some of your friends stood by you on the dance floor.

You looked up to the balcony only to see Shuri peering down at you with the most loving eyes. You send back an innocent wink at the woman but she doesn't react. She knows how you get when you tease her in public.

The dj's had switched and now all your favourite Amapiano songs were playing. Some of the songs were oldies while a few were brand new. Immediately running to the dance floor, you barely realised that a large crowd formed around you in the shape of a circle. People filming you from all different directions, chanting ‘wa vula icircle!’ which you were sure was going to trend the next day. After dancing with a few supporters of yours, you smelt Shuri's scent next to you, with her surprising the people around her.

"Come, let's dance." She smirked, causing you to look at her otherwise. You knew Shuri to be the swaying type of girl, if she wants to get a little wild, she'll add a whine to the mix. The dancing in Wakanda was extremely different to that of South Africa. Usually at groove, the aim is not to sweat but because you made this your living, you gotta give the people what they want.

"Are you sure? It's a fast song." You questioned, hearing the beat drop nearing closer and closer. "I've had my lessons." She smirked once again. The best finally drops and it was if Shuri had been dancing her whole life. She knew the choreos you would practice were hard but she didn't mind learning them for you.

The crowd was hyping you and Shuri up, eating up the dance moves. However the night was still young.

-

Hearing the birds chirp by your bedroom window, you picked your head up, slightly opening your eyes and feeling the heaviness of your eyelids. You looked to Shuri who was laying face down in the pillow, wearing the same outfit as last night and so were you.

Feeling for your phone on the nightstand, you grabbed it and stood up to stretch and open the curtains. The sudden light in the room caused you and Shuri to groan out. "Sthandwa, please come back to bed." Shuri's voice muffled because of the pillow as she felt for your body in the bed.

"I'm hungry and I'm craving iKota." You croaked out, clearing your throat. "You're craving what?" She questioned, sitting up slowly. "A kota. It's an uncut loaf of bread filled with chunky fries and sauce. They add other things as well." You explained, walking into the bathroom to get a proper look at yourself and what a sight. Your wig disheveled while your makeup tried its best to stick it out.

"Okay let's get ready to get that abomination because I'm also hungry." She got up from the bed to stretch as well.

"Not too much on my food now, babe." You joked.

[dear--mars]

Academic rivals…? Pt 5

Synopsis: You hated Alhaitham. From his arrogance to his grades. Even looking at him made your stomach turn. But then why were you two embracing each other in the broom closet intertwining breaths together…?

Notes: Fem reader, OCC Alhaitham, Kissing, Graduation Ceremony

[Translations at the bottom]

Taglist: @sharkiestory

900+ words [not edited]

4 years. You endured 4 years as a student in the Akademiya. It was your graduation ceremony. 

“Please put your hands together for the valedictorian Alhaitham!” claps were heard throughout the gymnasium. You rolled your eyes at him before zoning out of his speech. That was until you heard your name being called.

“As for my dedication, I’ll be dedicating my speech to [Name].” Your head shot up. 

“And that concludes my speech.”

“...” Everyone was silent. The sage fake coughed before he asked.

“Are you not going to elaborate as to why…?”

“I don’t feel as if I need to.” was the last thing he said before he walk off the stage.

“Well, now we will be moving on to the awards.”

It was safe to say that people were getting annoyed at the fact that the only people who were getting any awards were you and Alhaitham. 

“For the creative writing certificate: [Name] and Alhaitham!”

“The mathematics award: [Name] and Alhaitham!”

“The science award goes to [Name] and Alhaitham…”

“Geography: [Name] and Alhaitham… Wait. I’ll be right back.” We watch as the announcer walks off to the back only to come back shocked. 

“Well, I’ve been told to call out all at the same time. Art, history, music, physical education, biology, chemistry, physics, social studies, technology, philosophy, graphic design, literature, algebra, and geometry will all be awarded to [Name] and Alhaitham.” 

“...” The gym was silence. No one said anything. 

The rest of the graduation proceeded as usual. 

It was only when the afterparty started when things got weird. 

The party was going fine but someone had spilled some juice all over the floor, so like a good person, I volunteered to get a mop not knowing what your friends had in mind. 

“Yeah, the mop should be in the broom closet!” One of your friends yelled as you made your way down the halls. Just as you opened the door you felt the sensation of hands pushing you. You collided with someone. Just before the door closed, you heard one of your friends say “Have fun!”.

“What's that supposed to mean?-” You were cut off be a deep voice.

“Could you stop pushing against me?” You let out a small yelp at the sudden voice.

“A-alhaitham?!”

“What?”

“Why are you here?”

“I came to get a mop but someone pushed me in here and locked it.”

“Wait. Was it because someone had spilled juice?”

“Yes and I’m guessing they got you too?”

“...”

“Why would they do this to us specifically?” He questioned before you gulped. 

“Probably because you like me…” You feel his breath hitch before he let out a scoff.

“There’s an error in your logic. I’ve never stated I’m romantically interested in you.” You think very carefully before blurting out that you knew what he said in Zulu.

“...”

“...”

“Hey, Alhaitham!” You called out to him.

“Hm?” He turned around to face you.

“I heard you can speak over 7 languages!”

“Yes, I can.”

“Wow! Tell me something in a different language.”

1 “Ufuna ngikutshele ini?”

“What did you say?”

‘They don’t understand me…?’

2 “Ngiyakuthanda. Ngikuthanda kabi ngaso sonke isikhathi uma ungekho kimi, kungenza ngifune ukukhipha inhliziyo yami. Ngiyakubamba kakhulu, noma ukhuluma nentombazane kungenza ngibe nomona ngoba udonsa umoya kangangokuthi ngisho netshe lingawela kuwe.” 

“That was so long. What did you say?”

“Figure it out by yourself.” he said before walking away.

“Wha-! Come on! You can’t just leave! Tell me!” Unfortunately, he was out of earshot.

“How long have you known…?”

“I found out a week afterward. People had heard you and spread rumors… Someone came up to me and congratulated me on dating you…” You said as you tilled your head down, hoping he didn’t see your face growing red. Fortunately, he didn’t but that was because he was looking away so you weren’t able to see his ears growing red. 

“How long do you think we’ll be trapped here..?”

“Knowing them, they’ll probably forget. Let’s wait for a little bit and if not we can just break the door.”

“Whoa! This is someones house! We can’t just break the door down!” You said as your head shot up. 

“It’s their fault for locking us in here…” he said tilling his head down only to meet eyes. Silence overtook the closet as your eyes lock with his. Your eyes scan all over his face and you ultimately land on his lips. It wasn’t long before Alhaitham started leaning in. 

You started leaning in too but as soon as you wrapped your arms around his neck a shock ran through your body and you pulled away. Alhaitham raised an eyebrow. 

“A-are you sure you want this?” You asked. His eyes widened.

“You have no idea what I want.“ He said, snaking a hand to the back of your head before pushing your head towards him. The kiss was a lot more tender and passionate considering Alhaitham. It was a long, deep kiss that left you breathless. You pulled away trying to catch your breath. But Alhaitham followed your lips, wanting more. Your chest swirls at the feeling of care and affection behind the kiss. Warmth spreads throughout your body as your knees get weak. 

You finally break away. You huffed heavily as you try to catch your breath. You looked up at Alhaitham who was as red as a tomato. Your eyes widened before giving him a smirk. 

“Oh~? Is the all mighty Alhaitham blushing?“

“Shut up.”

“Wow. We literally just made out. Don’t tell me to shut up, bro.”

“Don’t “bro” me. I just had my tongue down your throat.” 

Translations

1 ”What do you want me to tell you?” 2 “I love you. I’m so madly in love with you every time you’re not with me, it makes me want to rip out my heart. I get so possessive of you, even if you’re talking to a girl it makes me so jealous because you’re so breathtaking that even a rock would fall for you.”

[Pt 1]  [Pt 2]  [Pt 3]  [Pt 4]  [Pt 5]

- Navigation -   - Prismarine -

[innocent-diamond-2090110]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVIXHuDi1lU - THISSS COVERRR!!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsJ3hiAAEG0 - What do you think?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUtd4IKb4lE - This is starting to sound like a winter ballad???

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n01BljCjzhE - Isn't this the Korean version with a Japanese remix?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JobAZ4n8Xjo - This is my personal recommendation :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYZ4fzq4x1U - I think the instrumental was overdone on this one.

Stray Kids performed a LOT of songs, therefore I couldn't pick a favorite LOL

NMIXX — I did NOT expect them to cover an f(x) song, especially "Electric Shock"! Lily totally looks like Krystal, & Bae could pass as Amber if she wore baggy shorts. I was also surprised that they performed "BEAT BEAT" (never escaping the anime vibes in JAPAN).

xikers — These guys went for a "fierce" concept, whereas SVT maintained their "classy" concept, which isn't a bad thing! I wish this was a full cover, though.

ITZY — Kind of! But with those stage outfits, I'll shamelessly call this a "hot winter"! :P

LE SSERAFIM — Oh come on! I wanted them to perform the "rock version" at least once (hopefully at 2024 Winter Gayo Daejeon). I literally just discovered the "Chaki Zulu Remix"... Close enough!

ZEROBASEONE — Why does "SWEAT" sound so much catchier than their other title tracks from this year?! (not too familiar with these guys) But these stage outfits made me think of ENHYPEN!

n.SSign — I love SHINee & have nothing against n.SSign (not too familiar with these guys either), but I agree that the backing track was a bit excessive. I couldn't hear some of the vocals. But you know, "Lucifer" will NEVER get old!

Stray Kids — I'm sticking with "Chk Chk Boom". Their new song "Walkin on Water" hasn't quite grown on me yet. (Apparently, NEXZ covered "S-Class".)

[dickensianenglishbulldog]

Me (starting Allan Quatermain): Hurrah! Time for another adventure! Where shall we go this time H. Rider Haggard? Are we to return to Africa with our favourite band of elephant hunter, Zulu warrior, overdressed naval captain and peer of the realm? 😃

The first line of the introduction:

Me (already tearing up): What the hell? What the actual hell?

*Cue series of adventures and escapades with the gang*

Me (breathes a little easier): we’ve had rather a shock, but it’s all fine now.

*throws myself into the exciting culmination of the plot*

H. Rider-pluck-my-heartstrings-out-one-by-one-why-don’t-you-Haggard:

Me (through tears):How dare you kill Umslpogaas? You ought to be put away! You’re on a spree! A killing spree! What will you do next? Bump off our dear friend and narrator Quatermain?

H. Rider: 😏

Me: No! Please! No!

H. Rider:

My heart: *breaks*

Tears: *flood my eyes*

My life: *falls to pieces*

[alterrune]

New Message Sender: Albert To ColorStreak Battalion, I have finished scanning Shadow Laurence's dungeon within the Midnight Channel. Loading Details, Standby.... loading finished. Shadow Laurence's Dungeon: Decaying Security Base A twisted recreation of the Zulu Security Base, the shadows inhabiting the base take the form of Zulu Security Members roaming and protecting the base from any potential threats. Shadow Laurence resides inside his office, you must make your way through the base to the office to confront him. There are multiple traps set up in the base such as turrets, shock traps, mines, spikes, and security doors that will activate if your presence is found. I will reload the details of the ColorStreak Battalions spirits if you need a refresher: https://www.tumblr.com/alterrune/670571707328823296/sir-we-just-finished-development-of-4-of-our?source=share GEOGRAM is doing whatever they can to handle Terence Suave and the Toppat Radicals, but Laurence and Lily must resolve their conflicts with their Shadows, otherwise the Shadows will continue to interfere with Operations Emperors Abyss. I will be the navigator for you all once you enter the dungeon. The Midnight Channel is open to Shadow Laurence's Dungeon, Good Luck. - Albert

Alright, everyone, on the count of 3.

(The 5 of us are ready to dive into the TV.)

One...two...THREE!

(On my signal, the 5 of us jump into the TV. Upon entering, we fall into an area that seems to be covered in fog.)

Kyle, we all can't see shit. What's going on?

Ah, crap, that's right! I forgot about the fog!

TEDDIE?! Dude, it's been ages! How've you been?

(Teddie hands me 4 pairs of glasses, one red, one purple, one blue, and one pink. I put each of them on the respective CSB members' heads, then put a black pair on my own face.)

Whoa! What are these?

Specialty glasses to help make the fog a non-issue. Courtesy of this little teddy bear over here.

GAH! Is that thing a shadow?

A FRIENDLY one. I met him shortly after getting Maggy-Izzy. Teddie, you think you can sniff out the location of two particular shadows for us? Names are Laurence Burnway and Lily Burnway.

Uh...Kyle? Quick question: Do you think we can trust Teddie's nose on this?

We don't exactly think he can actually sniff them out.

I agree with Teddie, guys.

Wait...didn't Albert say he'd be our navigator?

Why are we trusting Teddie, then?

Because I know where the dungeon is, but not the way there.

GAH! Wait, Albert?! How are you on my phone screen?

I am actually still in the GEOGRAM base. This is so I can keep watch on you all and make sure this mission goes according to plan.

Alright, fair. And Teddie is good in a fight, so it's good to have him.

Just try to ignore the constant slew of bear puns, though. Anyways, lead the way, Teddie!

(We all then follow Teddie to the dungeon. It's huge and just as imposing as Albert described.)

Teddie, Shadow Laurence is at the top floor, I presume?

Hey, one of two ain't bad, Teddie. You still did the job you were tasked to do.

Exactly. Now then, everyone? We have a shadow to beat.

(We all start to rush into the building before I suddenly remember what Albert said.)

WAIT! Albert, you said this place was trapped, correct?

Indeed. As I stated earlier, there are turrets, shock traps, mines, spikes, and security doors that will activate if your presense is found. While I believe being stealthy is not an option here, it would be wise to take care of any enemies if they spot you as to ensure they don't alarm the others.

Thought so. Let's not do our whole "storm in hard and loud" routine this time, guys. Let's just head into the area calmly.

You got it, Kyle.

Let's do this. You coming, Teddie?

(We all enter the building after hearing Teddie's words of encouragement. Get ready, Shadow Laurence, we're coming for you!)

[paulinawoodpecker]

Tad the lost explorer and the spear of blood and tears chapter 13

@jakkiisthatboy2

Tad arrived with Ramirez and Victoria with a sad look on them

“tad? where were you?” She asked as he responded with a hug. “woah woah woah. It’s okay. It’s okay.” She starts to hug him back. what happened?” “oganda is dead…she was shot by zulo and Zula.” “and I got back of being scared and afraid”

“tad…I know what’s the problem.” “what?”

“your bravest hero energy is draining.” Ramirez told him. “what?!” Then tad began to cry while Ramirez and Victoria were comforting him. “but I’m so sorry she’s gone.” That made tad freak out “oh my god…I can’t believe I saw her corpse! it was a nightmare…” “well I’m so sorry we weren’t there with you.”

“we’ll be able to fight against them together.” Victoria promised him. Tad wipes his tears away and sniffs “okay. but I’m gonna need to find my teacher: Dagenia.” wait. Does she know about this?” Asked Ramirez. “yeah…I’ll tell her…”

Tad arrives with a dead oganda zulo shot and he wipes his tears as he sheds more when Dagenia entered

“tad! Where were you! I was worried sick!” “well..I…I went off and”

“where is oganda? what have you done to her?!” Dagenia got mad at her. “I didn’t even do any harm on her.” “Then where is she?” Asked Dagenia. Tad said nothing as tears flow down his eyes. “I’ll find oganda myself.” She starts to leave him.

“please! Let me explain!” “you have nothing to say anything about her!”

Tad takes a lot deep breaths and he starts gets upset and runs to her

Dagenia stops walking and senses that Tad’s behind her

Dagenia suddenly gets out her dagger and yelled: “WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO OGANDA?!”

Tad hugs Dagenia and yelled out: “OGDANDA IS DEAD!!!” Dagenia got shocked when she heard the news.

“zulo and Zula pretended to be cops and shot her! Just because I didn’t protect her enough! She gone! And it’s all because of me!!!” He began to cry hard and loud which made Dagenia drop her dagger and hugs tad back as he cries.

Dagenia starts to shush tad and comfort him “it’s okay tad. I’m right here little brother. Everything is going to be fine. I promise…”

Suddenly Dagenia got an idea and starts humming to tad a lullaby to calm him down in Zulu. Then she starts singing a song to him to calm him down.

“you still remember it? even right after when you sang it to me whenever I’m upset?” “got it all memorized.” He felt so happy and gives her a hug.

“now let’s go and prepare the funeral.” Dagenia offered him a suggestion to cheer him up and tad nodded in agreement.

[sekwanele]

UKZN OT Curriculum offering European Greatness

"Education is the movement from darkness to light." - Allan Bloom. Sometimes I feel like that when I sit and reflect on my formal education journey. It got me thinking about how it has gotten me to walk the streets of MR and Zwelibovu communities and speaking to managers of prestigious private health institutes at such a young age, places I have never dreamt of. And actually feeling like I know what I am doing and can be in these rooms communicating and adding valuable Occupational Therapy knowledge. This is all due to the rich OT curriculum UKZN provides which is ineffectually delivered at times. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.picturequotes.com%2Fthe-only-thing-that-interferes-with-my-learning-is-my-education-quote-183&psig=AOvVaw0J_ej6Dq3ybebKK0DQgl42&ust=1726327182084000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCKiqtoWcwIgDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE . This image just reinforces my belief that this curriculum can at times interfere with one’s learning. Where it forces you to conform to other people’s thought processes, which can leave one not thinking on a local and community needs basis.

The most shocking revelation for me is that the university is located in KwaZulu-Natal, which has the largest number of Zulu ethnic people (Minority Rights Group, 2023), and takes its Occupational Therapy students out into these communities following a traditional Western standard as stipulated by the World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT). “The Federation can positively influence health, welfare, education and vocation at an international level,” (WFOT, 2024). This shows the UKZN OT curriculum’s commitment to producing an international Occupational Therapist (OT) and not so much a local OT. To me the OT course has basic isiZulu offered in its package, which I have not found beneficial at all, for teaching non-Zulu-speaking folks. This became very evident in my community module when we went into the deep Zulu community of Zwelibovu. Where I saw my non-Zulu-speaking OT partner struggle with communicating with the patients, not because she did not know the OT content but just a communication problem. Upon which I asked her if she found the isiZulu module beneficial, of which she stated that she wishes she had been taught meaningful Zulu words and sentences that would help communicate health related matters to the patients and not taught about the names of animals and reciting Zulu kings clan names. This to me shows the gaps within the OT curriculum that fail to offer comprehensive Zulu modules for a predominately Zulu-speaking province.

When I look at this image I am reminded of the Western body of knowledge we follow. This is evident when this curriculum has taught us assistive devices which are fancy and are to be given to patients, which are not at all relevant to them, financially and even culturally. This became evident to me working at the community doing home visits. Where there now is no electrically controlled bed, no bed at all just a sponge on the ground. This was my reality first week of community in my client’s home, where ideally in a hospital setting transfers would have been easy, using transfer boards, Sara Steady etc. Which I realise I would have recommended to the patient if I had seen her at the hospital rather, due to what I was taught. However, the curriculum does offer us lecturers who have experience in the community, who make us mindful that what they teach us might not be a reality for most of our patients. The UKZN OT curriculum does teach us to be client-centred and holistic and be very able to adapt. However, when doing wheelchair practicals in lectures, we were never taught the realities of the community like transferring from the floor to a wheelchair. Which in my case I had to adapt on the spot, looking for things like benches that would assist my client in transferring the wheelchair and offering her water bottle to maintain the fingers in extension as they had gone into composite flexion, and I was afraid of a developing contracture she could have. Showing that although equipped with information from the curriculum which was fairly Western and not contextualised to the African context.

The OT curriculum teaches us to be critical thinkers, which allows us to expand our minds into thinking about the other issues with regards to the client, not take things at face value. In a conversation with the project officer and manager at COC, we were able to analyse the community which we attended where we saw that the client’s insights are poor into some other conditions. Where usually it is likely for patients to believe that conditions like stroke are caused by witchcraft in rural areas, (Mpanza et al, 2022). This reduces the client's attendance to important therapy and hospital visits and reduces compliance which increases risks or worsening of the conditions. This critical thinking skill taught to me, helped me figure from the PO and manager why my client suffering from a stoke, had a wheelchair but it had no footrest. They made me aware that the community clinic in that area had OT services once a month through the community service programme offered in PHC. They raised the point of the clinic not having enough resources which is why the client did not have the footrests. This led to research as to why this clinic was not working effectively, where it was found that PHC was failing due to limited financial, political and human resources, (Chimezie, 2015) which explains why the client has a wheelchair with no footrests.

However, I feel sometimes the curriculum, does offer the UKZN OT students in the community skills, like critical thinking skills, as this allowed me to analyse another occurrence in the community I am working in. There was a young client who was not doing well in school suspected of having a learning difficulty. The mother struggled with getting assistance with finding a special school and receiving disability grant for him to send him to these schools. This is where I found that the curriculum does not give us any detailed information with regard to the application of these grants. Had I not been with the PO who is a social worker, who then filled in the gap of the protocol, of the client’s needs to get the SCREENING, IDENTIFICATION, ASSESSMENT AND SUPPORT forms from the client’s school, then only can we (OT) can see them for an assessment. After that, the client can go to the SASSA doctor where he can assess him to be placed on grant. This lack of knowledge of procedures not provided to OT students in the curriculum really affects the ability of the therapist to be useful in the community, (Buchanan, 2016).

In conclusion, the OT UKZN curriculum is very useful and provides students with a lot of insight into engaging and analysing the community. However, their insatiable need to produce an international OT needs to take a back seat and produce a curriculum that will offer comprehensive knowledge to operate in the community. And understand that global recognition in a locally lacking curriculum is futile and somewhat silly and does not go with the university’s motto of “Inspiring greatness” but rather inspiring European Greatness.

References:

van Stormbroek, K., & Buchanan, H. (2016). Community Service Occupational Therapists: thriving or just surviving? South African Journal of Occupational Therapy, 46(3). https://doi.org/10.17159/23103833/2016/v46n3a11

Mkhize, P. Z., Phehlukwayo, S. M., & Mpanza, D. M. (2022). Health seeking pathways for stroke survivors in a rural setting: Optimising early intervention for stroke rehabilitation in occupational therapy. South African Journal of Occupational Therapy, 52(1). https://doi.org/10.17159/2310-3833/2022/vol52n1a4

World Federation of Occupational Therapists. (2017). WFOT. https://wfot.org/education

Aaqil De Vries, Jo-Celene De Jongh, & Wegner, L. (2024). South African occupational therapy students’ reflections on ethical tensions experienced during fieldwork. South African Journal of Occupational Therapy, 54(2), 27–35. https://www.ajol.info/index.php/sajot/article/view/275728

Zulus in South Africa. (n.d.-b). Minority Rights Group. https://minorityrights.org/communities/zulus/

[maximuswolf]

An update on a Hip-Hop Legend named Afrika Bambaataa...

An update on a Hip-Hop Legend named Afrika Bambaataa... About a week ago, in the beginning of August 2024, Afrika Bambaataa, Ronald Savage and Universal Zulu Nation were at Crotona Park in the Bronx for a family day event to honor someone that passed away. Afrika Bambaataa was the DJ of this event, and was endorsed on video by Mickey Bentson (zulu nation leader) who told the general local Bronx Community that attended this event to give Bambaataa a round of applause, which they proceeded to do. Bambaataa also proceeded to take photos with attendees, including Ronald Savage. They took photos together, with Ronald's arm around Bam. Post from Ron "Bee-Stinger" Savage - YouTubeBefore this event, some months ago, Savage had allegedly gone rogue and recanted his position to be in support of Bambaataa and Zulu Nation. He said on video that survivors were allegedly lying and were of age and willful participants. He even went as far as to allege this about John Doe (who currently has a pending civil lawsuit for heinous crimes against Afrika Bambaataa and the Zulu Nation) without knowing who the survivor is! He then allegedly hijacked Leila Wills' Hip Hop Stands With Survivors organization to protect Bambaataa and Zulu Nation's interests, and also vindicated all of her research on the topic as lies. (Leila Wills is the investigative journalist covering this story) Leila Wills - YouTubeFast forward to last week, Bambaataa and Savage were together. Some observers of this now believe that it was all an alleged lie and that people made up stories about Bambaataa and he is innocent. I am deeply disturbed, appalled, and very shocked by all of this.Please, don't fall for the PSYOP! I am one of the Survivors of Afrika Bambaataa, from the year 2000! And I was under the age of consent when it all took place. I actually know the truth because I experienced it. And I'm telling you, without a doubt in my mind, as a Survivor, that Afrika Bambaataa, Universal Zulu Nation and unfortunately Ronald Savage are running a huge con-game on the General Public at large. They are using this to clear Afrika Bambaataa and the Universal Zulu Nation from being held accountable. And sadly, it seems to be working so far. And I may not know Ronald Savage personally, but as a fellow Survivor, I feel thoroughly betrayed. And I'm sure other Survivors feel the same way because he KNOWS the truth about Bambaataa and he KNOWS how dangerous that man is! But, he's over there playing these type of games. It makes no sense to me at all!The Rabbit Hole is very deep! And they don't want anyone to know how deep this Rabbit Hole can go. And this is their way of preventing others from finding out. In fact, at this point, I allege that this is a conspiracy. Not just a conspiracy theory, but an actual very real conspiracy that's taking place in real-time. They are openly conspiring against victims and investigators in the public eye with zero shame!Thank You for reading. And I apologize for the nature and sensitivity of the topic. Submitted August 10, 2024 at 06:29AM by Gamepad_Pianist https://ift.tt/48ZnVrT via /r/Music

[aaliyahnakoodawrites]

Reflections Week 2: Cultural Humility

Culture is an important aspect of the lives of many South Africans. Our cultures are what makes us unique from each other as the practices, traditions, and mannerisms of each culture is so different. Similarly, in therapy, culture is what makes us different from each other. How I might do something in therapy would be because of my culture and it might differ from the next therapist or even the patient.

During fieldwork, the patients that I have seen have had a very different culture than me. It is always interesting and somewhat shocking to discover these differences while assessing and treating patients. My patient is a black South African woman in her 60s. I am a Muslim South African Indian. The differences in culture are vast.

I have been raised to respect others and their cultures, but I think that this takes on a whole new meaning when you work in the healthcare field. I think that there is so much more consideration to be made about simple things like how I talk to the patient or how I make eye-contact with a patient. If it were a normal situation, I would speak gently. However, since this is therapy, it is important that I be firm with the client. In both our cultures, this is not the norm. In my culture when speaking to the elderly, we have to be respectful to them. We are younger so we are inexperienced in this world compared to the elderly. They have a right to our respect. Even in my patient’s culture, young adults are to respect their elderly. These are the people who have raised them so to say, so the respect for them should great. At first, I think my client felt I was disrespectful to her. She did not say anything but when I looked directly at her and explained things, she was almost shocked at my behavior. I was curious about this and asked my black classmates about this. They confirmed my suspicions about how I may have approached the situation that may have not been culturally sensitive to the patient. Researching this was necessary. When I asked around, people from the same culture as her told me to approach her kindly and explain that I am the therapist and that I would be making her do things that would make her better. They explained that maybe she would understand better why I was firm with her and spoke directly to her.

I think this has been a huge learning curve for me, especially as a person from a different culture. While most of my counterparts are black that know how to approach and deal with the majority of black patients we get, I struggle with this. they have a similar culture and i always think that it easier for them to relate to the patients. I have learned a few things after researching.

The one thing I noted was to be aware of the cultural differences and to not make assumptions. This can avoid any offensive mishaps that can affect therapy sessions. I have also noted that it is vital to learn about the patient’s culture even if she cannot explain it or is particularly cultural. How I have rectified this is by talking to other people of the same culture and asking them to describe their experiences in healthcare and if they could change how they were treated in terms of their culture then what would they change. Another thing that I could do is to use the language of the culture. In this patient’s case it is Zulu. While she speaks Zulu, she speaks and understands English well. My Zulu is subpar at best, so I worry that I will not explain correctly and the patient will get confused.

I think that cultural humility and sensitivity is very important in healthcare. It guides treatment and helps the therapist to know how the patient will like to be treated. It also encourages the therapist to step out of their comfort zone and to learn the different cultures and their practices and traditions.

Cultural humility also helps the therapist to relate to the patient and understand the patient better. This makes the treatment session more holistic as you have included aspects of the patient's life that influences their daily choices.

American Occupational Therapy Association. (2020). Educator’s guide for addressing cultural awareness, humility, and dexterity in occupational therapy curricula. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 74(Supplement_3), 7413420003p1-7413420003p19.

[zkthepoet]

“What, what, nigger?”

this coon 

this grubby spear chucker 

this fuzzie 

chip-on-his-shoulder pickaninny with navy gums 

this lemon-eyed teapot 

musical wog 

this thieving zulu 

blubber-lipped savage, swinging his shlong 

this midnight 

chocolate convict 

nig-nog gorilla and golliwog 

jigaboo dancer, chalkie, tar 

negroid shadow-face 

darkie, spook 

nigger in the swimming pool 

in his monkey-suit 

uggah-buggah boogie 

nig-jig ape 

jungle bunny, african 

black, black, slave… 

but I don’t mind niggers 

a nigger’ll buy a round 

                 it’s these ungrateful, rag-headed, racialist pakis I wanna skin alive, torture and set alight    now  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This was a poem I wrote in 2012 that won the Stephen Lawrence Poetry Prize presented by Doreen Lawrence, Stephen's mother.

The words that the racist gang that set upon Stephen that Eltham night shouted were 'what, what, n****r!' This piece squeezes all of that vile energy, finds its many incarnations and ends with the directive of later discriminatory language.

Over a decade later, I find this piece difficult. 'N*****' has been utilised to bring about so much suffering to those of colour, that persons of my race should not be allowed to employ it in virtually any context. In my younger days, experimenting with language and uncovering more innovative ways to express dismay at the multifaceted presence of racist thought, it felt very worthy. I wouldn't perform this now, as I did then, however I hope that its deliberately shocking nature reminds us that the end goal of these anti-non-white thinkers is death of those they hate and that three vicious words hide even more.

[ear-worthy]

Season Finale of “Spotify: Mic Check” — South African Amapiano Artist Tyla

Spotify saved the best for last on its season finale this week of “Spotify: Mic Check.” In this episode, we learn about Amapaino music, which is a Zulu or Xhosa word loosely translated to “the pianos”, is a subgenre of house and Kwaito music that emerged in South Africa in the mid-2010s. It is a hybrid of deep house, jazz, and lounge music characterized by synths and wide percussive bass lines.

 In this episode, listeners will head overseas to South Africa to learn more about South African Amapiano artist Tyla whose sound fuses pop, classic R&B, and African Beats. 

You can listen to the full episode here. 

Tyla discusses her beginnings in South Africa, her DM to Drake, the pivotal moment when she almost gave up on music, working with accomplished producers like Tricky Stewart and Kooldrink, the impact of joining Spotify’s RADAR program in Africa and sharing a sneak peek of her new single, “Water.” 

 RADAR is Spotify’s program created to spotlight up-and-coming music talent — allowing them an opportunity to broaden their fanbase and supporting them in their path to superstardom through comprehensive marketing, content, and editorial campaigns. 

 Available to stream for free exclusively on Spotify, please see below for interview highlights in the episode. 

Tyla on growing up in South Africa. “… I always wanted to actually grow up in America. When I was younger, I just always thought, ‘If I were born in America, I would have been famous by now,’ and all of these things. But I mean, now that I’m older, I just realized how amazing my childhood was. Just like the culture, the music, the food, the people. Yeah, South Africa is amazing. I still believe that everyone needs to visit South Africa at least once in their life.”     Tyla on sending one of her earliest songs to Drake via direct message on social media. “Literally, when my first song started doing well, I unsent the message. I was like, ‘There’s no way he’s seen this small little girl on his phone singing.’ So no, he hasn’t. But I have a feeling one day soon he’s going to reach out.” 

 Tyla on what makes a song fit into the Amapiano genre. “I feel like it’s a genre that grew over time. There are definitely roots in Kwaito and jazz, South African house. But I feel the thing that makes it Amapiano is that log drum. The log drum that just slams you, like, I feel that’s what makes Amapiano.” 

Tyla on why she believes her first single, “Getting Late,” resonated with so many people globally. “You know, I was actually so surprised. Initially, I was just like, ‘I like the song and hope it does well.’ And then, when people from America, Europe, and all of those people started jumping on, I was so shocked. I was like, ‘Why? Okay, this is cool.’ I feel the dancing, the song, the music video. I feel like it just made a whole package for everyone to consume, and then they just loved it, I guess.” 

 Tyla on working with famed music producer Tricky Stewart who has worked with the likes of Beyoncé and Rihanna. “Crazy. Like, when I heard that I was going to work with him, I was like, ‘You guys are lying. You guys are literally lying.’ But then we met, and he’s such a good person. Such a nice person. I always imagine these hectic producers to be serious, you know? But he’s just so fun and he was very welcoming. And I don’t know, I just love working with him because you can see his passion for music. So, yeah, just the fact that he worked with Rihanna, with Beyoncé, all these different artists. I was just so grateful to even be there.” 

Tyla on being a featured artist in Spotify’s RADAR Africa program. “Yo, the opportunities that I’ve been given, like billboards and a documentary that’s coming out soon — I’m excited about it! My whole family was in it. They keep asking me every day, “When can we watch the video? When can we watch the video?” I’m just so happy that Spotify was able to do this for me because, I mean, it’s a huge opportunity. And yeah, I’m excited to see how much further we can go with it.”

You can listen to the full episode here.

[alterrune]

Shadow Laurence: They took down the Marauder? Not surprised, you've all done a-lot of feats. If you know what was really at stake here, your head would spin. Laurence isn't a hero, he's a pouting child. The only reason he's still walking is because of you all and his sister, he's a lost cause beyond saving, he should've understood. I'm activating my bodyguards to keep you all out of office, but if you best them, know that I won't hesitate to take matters into my own hands. Oh, and if Laurence gets here... let him that mom is coming home real soon.

*Activating Buddy and Lucy*

Strategic Info: Zulu Security Engineers have developed two prototype models, codenamed Lucy and Buddy, which represent a huge step up in lethality, intelligence and durability. They are designed to work closely together, and are considered inseparable.

Buddy:

M18 Light Machine Gun While primarily a combat support unit, Buddy is still more than capable of dealing serious damage with this dorsal-mounted light machine gun. Armor Repair Unit Buddy is capable of restoring armor integrity to both himself and his sister unit Lucy. EMP Generator Buddy can emit a power EMP, disabling nearby electronics. Both Buddy and Lucy have integrated Faraday shielding rendering them immune to these effects.

Explosive Seeker Mines Adapted from recovered Agency technology.

Lucy: Dorsal Minigun This heavily modified 7.62 mm minigun has a 360-degree field of fire. It can fire from all six barrels at once in a devastating shotgun-style blast, or use a traditional rotating configuration for medium to long range engagements. Electroshock Cannon This compact device fires a piezo-electric projectile that releases a painful shock on impact, temporarily immobilizing targets. Proximity Mines Used tactically as area denial or to channel hostile forces into fire zones. Overcharge Buddy and Lucy are both capable of boosting system performance to three increasingly powerful levels. Overcharge significantly improves their combat effectiveness, but can be remotely deactivated. Massive overcharge triggers automatically when one of the Warhounds is structurally compromised, and only stops when both are stabilized. Critical overcharge bypasses safety protocols and makes both Warhounds far deadlier.

Strategic Data Both prototype Warhound have bleeding edge diagnostic software, and if one of them is compromised they will both immediately take necessary steps to protect them. Lucy is designed to eliminate large numbers of hostiles in a matter of seconds with her 360 degree arc Dorsal Multigun, so recognizing when she is about to activate it is key to survival. It seems that Lucy and Buddy's first level of Overcharge can be remotely reset, while it's better not to trigger the higher levels.

Both Warhounds are weak against Nuclear damage once comproise, but be careful that Electricity will increase their firepower.

Laurence is NOT a child, asswipe. He's a good person. You're just the bad parts of him that can't see that. Regardless, can anyone back me up with Buddy and Lucy, here?

The heck is a Kentucky-Douey?

Kintoki-Douji, Alter. It's Teddie's Persona.

OH GOD WHY IS IT HOLDING A GIANT BOMB?!

(Kintoki-Douji uses Mabufudyne on both of them. Unfortunately, it doesn't kill them, but only downs them. Luckily, that's good enough.)

How could I forget?

TIME FOR SOME BRUTALITY!

(I quickly move in and attack both of them.)

Ladies and gentlemen...

(SLICE)

THE SHOW IS OVER!!!

(The two are left on the ground with slit necks after the All-Out Attack. Black ooze is gushing out from their wounds like blood.)

Of course I haven't, Teddie. And neither have you! Using Mabufudyne to down them, you're clever!

Fair enough, Morgana. Come on, guys, let's get going!

...what is even happening anymore?

Honey, we will NEVER get an answer to that question no matter how much we ask it.

[dailynation]

LUBINDA’S ARREST UNLAWFUL - MAKEBI

LUBINDA’S ARREST UNLAWFUL - MAKEBI …as the PF acting vice president says his arrest is bizarre, shocking because Speaker Nelly Mutti had already made a ruling over the matter

The arrest and detention of Given Lubinda on account of his failure to appear before the Privileges Committee at the National Assembly is illegal and unconstitutional which shall be challenged, lawyer Makebi Zulu has said. [ihc-hide-content ihc_mb_type=”show” ihc_mb_who=”4,5,6″ ihc_mb_template=”2″ ] And Mr Lubinda has described his arrest as bizarre and shocking considering that the Speaker of…