This National Hair Loss Awareness Month we spotlight Alopecia – its causes, symptoms and treatments.
August is National Hair Loss Awareness Month, which aims to shine a light on Alopecia’s emotional toll and innovative treatments, sparking hope for those affected.
Alopecia comes in a variety of forms, such as: Alopecia Areata, which manifests as sporadic hair loss on the body or scalp; Alopecia Totalis, which is the total loss of hair on the scalp; thirdly, body hair loss is a sign of Alopecia Universalis and Alopecia Barbae that usually results in facial hair loss such as the beard.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology alopecia is brought on by a combination of hormonal, autoimmune, and genetic variables. In particular:
Alopecia runs in the family in 1 out of 5 instances (1:5), suggesting a strong hereditary component.
One factor contributing to alopecia is autoimmune disorders, in which the immune system unintentionally targets hair follicles.
In one out of every ten instances, hormonal imbalances—especially thyroid disorders—are the cause (1:10) In one in eight cases, alopecia can be brought on by stress, both mental and physical (1:8)
Alopecia can result from taking certain medications, including as those for cancer, high blood pressure, and depression, in 1 in 20 cases (1:20) Alopecia symptoms include brittle or fragile hair, bald patches that may enlarge or merge, redness and irritation in the afflicted regions, and hair loss or thinning, which frequently begins with small patches.
GRAPHIC: Alopecia by the numbers, understanding its impact
Sizakele Mashinini’s life took an unexpected turn in 2003, when she welcomed her second child into the world. Two years later, she began to notice a disturbing change – her hair had stopped growing, and the shedding wouldn’t cease. It was then that she discovered she had central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, a diagnosis that would alter her life forever.
For 18 years, Mashinini has navigated the challenges of permanent hair loss, which typically begins in the central crown of the scalp. As she reflected on her journey with Wits Vuvuzela, Mashinini opened up about the profound impact it has had on her sense of self.
“Alopecia has taught me that we’re different people suffering from different ‘illnesses,’ however, it is one condition that truly affects your self-esteem and confidence.” she said.
Alopecia is treated with medications like minoxidil (Rogaine), which promotes hair growth and decreases hair loss, corticosteroids, which often lower inflammation and encourage growth, and finasteride (Propecia), which delays hair loss and increases growth. Moreover, there are treatments like Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy, which uses platelet-rich plasma to encourage growth, and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), which stimulates hair growth.
Mashinini said: “For me, beauty standards don’t define me. I have discovered strategies to see past my flaws. I am aware that someone with a strong will is required. I have come to appreciate the aspects of myself that make me feel more like myself and have accepted the fact that wigs and other cosmetic alternatives exist to help us “belong.”
In this way she’s found confidence in having no hair and no longer feels pressured to conform to traditional beauty standards. Mashinini highlights the value of kindness, education, and dispelling stigmas as we promote awareness during National Hair Loss Awareness Month. “My message to others is to be kind to someone who has alopecia; it can happen to you or anyone, regardless of colour, age, or creed.”
FEATURED IMAGE: A close-up shot of a woman’s scalp, showing patches of hair loss due to alopecia. Photo by: Stock images.
People remember how you treat them, not what you do – a lesson for government clinic nurses, where kindness can be the best medicine.
Despite the progress made in reproductive healthcare, including the increase in public facilities offering abortion services, South Africa still grapples with a significant illegal sector. One in four women resort to unsafe abortions, putting women’s lives at risk.
Further, one in four aged 15-49 across all nine provinces faces unmet contraceptive needs, highlighting a critical gap in access to essential services.
These and other issues around reproductive health were on the agenda at ‘The Story of all Women’, a Women’s Month event hosted by Wits University’s SRC President, Bukisa Boniswa on August 2. Talking through the secrecy and stigma was at the heart of the discussion.
The event brought together a diverse panel of experts, including Khanyisa Booi, founder of Eve Apple Magazine, Dr.Mpume Zende, an OB-Gynae-Sexologist, Ennie Makhafola, women’s health activist, and Dr.Busisiwe Nkala-Dlamini, a senior lecturer at the University of Witwatersrand Department of social work.
Booi asked the audience about their experiences seeking contraception at public clinics. Almost half of the room raised their hands, sharing a collective nod of familiarity and discomfort, as they recounted stories of feeling judged by nurses.
Dr. Zende shared her experiences at Baragwanath Hospital, where women face belittling and neglect from nurses. In contrast to private hospitals, government clinics often lack effective contraceptives, leaving women with limited options and severe side effects, highlighting a stark disparity in care.
While Dr.Nkala reminded the audience of the history of access. During Apartheid young black women did not have the right to terminate pregnancies, until The Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act of 1996 was passed. She also noted that in many African homes, conversations about reproductive health are uncomfortable or sugarcoated, leading to confusion and ignorance.
The evening underscored the need for greater access and safe spaces where women can seek help without judgment. In the scenario where women find themselves uncomfortable to speak to nurses at their local clinics, they can call confidential hotlines and helplines for reproductive health and rights information such as Marie Stopes South Africa’s 24-hour helpline (0800 11 77 85) or the National Department of Health’s Reproductive Health Helpline (0800 601 700).
Nurses and healthcare providers must be trained to provide compassionate and non-judgmental healthcare. Additionally, access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including contraception and termination services, must be prioritised.
FEATURED IMAGE: An Image of contraceptives being handed over from one hand to another. Photo: Stock image
Education eliminates stigma, and can also improve the quality of life of those affected.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Endometriosis are two common yet often misunderstood women’s health conditions. In South Africa, the latter affects one in 10 women of reproductive age, and the former one in five women of reproductive age.
As an honours student in journalism, when navigating the challenges of upholding academic rigour and minimising self-doubt, I battle with myself.
Usually when I sit in my journalism lectures, surrounded by talented peers and esteemed professors, I often hear a nagging voice: You do not belong here. It’s a feeling that’s all too familiar: imposter syndrome. The feeling that I am just pretending, and everyone will soon discover my inadequacy.
Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon where individuals doubt their own abilities, despite evidence of their competence. In my own experience, I’ve seen talented students question their own intelligence and capabilities, attributing their achievements to sheer luck or circumstance; rather than their own hard work and dedication.
A study published in the Journal of Student Researchfound that imposter syndrome is a significant predictor of academic anxiety and depression among young graduates.
Personally, I have been guilty of downplaying my own achievements, including my decision to pursue my honours in Journalism. I have often made jokes to my friends that I am only here by some miracle, or that I am just winging it and hoping for the best.
However, the truth is, I have worked incredibly hard to be here, and I have earned my place in this programme. I started to realise that it is time for me to own that; and recognise my achievements are not a result of circumstance, but of my own dedication and perseverance.
I’ve been so hard on myself; but hearing how my close friends and family are proud of me, has helped me to start celebrating my own accomplishments.
As I navigate my own struggles with imposter syndrome, I’ve learned to not take my inner voice too seriously. When self-doubt creeps in, I reflect on my accomplishments — like completing a challenging assignment or receiving positive feedback from a lecturer. By focusing on my strengths and reframing my mindset, I’m building confidence in my abilities and overcoming the grip of imposter syndrome.
I also try not to dwell too much on my mistakes by recoginsing that perusing this degree has offered me the opportunity to learn; while I get to focus on my passion of telling stories. This has helped me to see failure as an opportunity for growth. When I receive constructive criticism or face setbacks, I use it as a chance to learn and improve.
Also, surrounding myself with a supporting community has helped because they see me behind my current struggles. I believe by acknowledging and challenging our own imposter syndrome, we can begin to break down the barriers that hold us back from achieving our full potential, and we can learn to embrace our success. And as we do, we will find that we are more confident, more resilient, and more empowered to make a meaningful impact in the world around us.
My journey to setting boundaries began with a simple realisation: I was suffocating under the weight of others’ expectations. Now I know it’s the most radical act of self-love one will ever commit.
As I navigate the complexities of life, I have come to realize that setting boundaries is not just a necessity, but a superpower. Being intentional about my time, energy, and relationships has improved my well-being.
Setting boundaries is not selfish, but essential for our survival. A study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that people who set boundaries, and prioritise self-care have higher self-esteem and better mental health. By taking care of ourselves, we can show up more fully and be more present in our relationships and lives.
Spiritual boundaries include being mindful of the company I keep and the beliefs with which I engage with, which are Christian beliefs. As Emmanuel James Rohn once said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”
Engaging with like-minded communities has also provided a supportive environment where I can share my thoughts, learn from others, and deepen my understanding of my faith. This has ultimately strengthened my relationship with God and myself, enabling me to navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and purpose.
Academically, setting boundaries means dedicating time to my studies and prioritizing my education. As Mpoomy Ledwaba an international speaker and founder of Wisdom & Wellness once said, “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.” For me, this means setting aside dedicated time for studying and avoiding distractions.
I allocate specific hours each day for studying, ensuring I minimise social media and phone usage during that time, I also create a conducive study environment by using a quiet and organised study space.
My friends joke that my brand and personality have become “Miss Journalist”, because I have become so locked in and it occupies my mind most of the time. Whilst it is true that I am currently struggling to find the balance between a social life and my studies, I can maintain a sense of accomplishment and take pride in my academic journey.
Much like a gardener tends to their garden, nurturing the soil and pruning the weeds to allow the flowers to bloom, one can tend to a person or situation with similar care and attention, to ensure growth.
Financial boundaries include being disciplined and avoiding activities that would stretch one too thin. It is essential to create a budget and stick to it, while avoiding impulsive purchases.
But let’s be real, I struggle with this one the most. Who can resist the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the glazed baked treats on display in a coffee shop? Certainly not me, every day I have to fight against my senses when I walk into the Es’kia Mpahlele building, which has a Vida e Cafe at its entrance. Their Strawberry Supresa smoothie, banana loaf, and spicy chicken mayo are to die for.
But in all seriousness, it’s a work in progress and I am trying to be more mindful of my spending habits. Maybe I will be able to resist the temptation of that coffee shop…but no promises!
Lastly, the most important boundaries are the ones I set in my relationships. As Jerry Flowers, a motivational speaker and priest for the Time of Celebration Ministries Church says “Boundaries are not meant to keep people out, but to keep yourself in.”
It is all easier said than done, and life is a continuous process of self-reflection, growth, and improvement. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so you need to take care of yourself first, boundaries are the tool that makes that possible.
Despite contingency measures, the electricity crisis persists, leaving some students hungry, and desperate.
Hundreds of students, primarily those living off campus have had a tough week without consistent access to electricity. The Wits Students Law Council stepped in to help those who have been going to bed and class hungry on Tuesday, May 8.
A note to students reads: “Parcels limited, law students priority” on a door in the Olive Schreiner building. A harsh reality check as resources are stretched thin amidst the ongoing electricity crisis. Photo: Katlego Mtshali
Between 08:00 and 10:00 in the Oliver Schreiner building, council members handed out grocery hampers containing non-perishable food items. Muhammed Takolia, a Community Development subcommittee member, reached out to Ashraful Aid to make the initiative possible.
Ntiyiso Chauke, a second-year LLB student, said: “I can no longer afford to rely on takeaways as a daily solution, as it is financially straining.”
Salim Nkosi, an Honours in Journalism student said that he has exceeded his usual expenses, “I’ve used R900 in 6 days, which is normally what I would spend in two weeks.”
First-year Bachelor of Accounting student,Sandile Gumede, said while grateful for the food, preparing it will prove difficult. The generator in his residence building is currently only operational between 08:00 and 10:00, which is when he plans to prepare his meals as he must also ensure his attendance at his morning classes. Having to make a choice between cold food and his attendance record.
During the handover, Wits Vuvuzela watched as some students had to be turned away. Katleho Ledibone, a third-year LLB student and Social Outreach and Community Development officer, explained that the council had prioritised law students, but would help students living off campus if they had leftovers or received more donations.
One of the students who had to leave was Tshepo Mathonsi who said, “It has been difficult, and I am disappointed I could not get a grocery hamper.”
Paballo Sethathi, a third-year LLB student said he has been borrowing money to get by and has fallen behind with his studies. “Libraries are full because so many of us are affected… some close early therefore I cannot work for as long as I want.” He added that all his textbooks are in PDF format, so he needs his electronic devices to be fully charged to read.
First-year Arts and Performance students Londeka Ndwandwe and Sylvia Sotomela said that while South Africans are accustomed to loadshedding, “we cannot normalize being in the dark for days…it should also be considered that we come from different homes/backgrounds our parents cannot give us money for food every day now that our groceries are spoilt.”
The Wits Senior Executive Team acknowledged the impact of the electricity crisis on students, particularly those in off-campus residences like Noswall Hall, and various South Point buildings, and is working to provide support through the Division of Student Affairs and accredited service providers. Additionally, the Wits Citizenship and Community Outreach Unit is offering extra meals and food assistance to students in need.
“We are in contact with the relevant utilities, departments, and we are hopeful that power will be restored fully in the next day or two,” the university said in a statement.
The Wits Students Law Council has promised to organise more hampers and has asked students to remain patient and be on the lookout for announcements regarding future distributions.
FEATURED IMAGE: Students affected by the power outage clutch essential grocery parcels on May 8, 2024, a beacon of hope in time of need. Photo : Katlego Mtshali
The power is still out for many, some Witsies have taken to the streets with demands in tow.
Braamfontein residents and Wits University students who live off campus, woke up to another day with no electricity on May 6, 2024. After days of not eating, showering and studying students are demanding reprieve.
Led by the Wits SRC, a group blocked traffic and stopped inter-campus buses on Jorissen Street in Braamfontein, proclaiming “if we aren’t comfortable, no one should be”. The outage follows a fire at the Fordsburg substation last week.
No power, no shopping ,Ackermans loses out on making any sales this week due to electricity crisis. Photo: Katlego Mtshali
Their immediate demands call for the all-academic programmes (including the postponement of tests and assignments), water and food provision.
Speaking to Wits Vuvuzela, a frustrated BA third-year student, Felicity Makalima said: “Where is the next meal coming from? Yes, efforts are being made by different student councils at Wits, but it still falls short. More than 500 students are affected and need to eat at least three times a day.”
Over the weekend the Wits Citizenship and Community Outreach (WCCO) and SRC worked together to secure food and tutorial rooms for studying purposes.
Takalani Netshiavha a third-year LLB student highlighted the impact on academic attendance. “There’s a sub-minimum rule of attendance, and now we won’t be able to write tests because we could not show up to class. It’s not our fault that Braamfontein has no power,” she said.
Students in Wits residences have had intermittent but steady electricity supply thanks to back-up generators.
Safety has also been raised as students are forced to study till late on campus then walk back to their residences in the dark streets of Braamfontein.
In a short statement, the Mechanical Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering and School of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics (CSAM) Student Councils say they have been engaging with the school administration, seeking a two-week postponement of assessments. Citing limited data for those off campus in particular. Wits still makes access to data available to qualifying students, but the SRC says this is not enough considering the current situation.
While some students were able to go to friends and family over the weekend to escape the crisis, many do not have that luxury. A fair few are from other provinces or simply cannot afford to. Added to this, some are anxious about falling behind academically.
The ongoing crisis has also affected retail shops in Braamfontein, with staff sitting outside closed storefronts at Ackermans, PEP, FNB, and McDonald’s on Monday afternoon.
FEATURED IMAGE: Wits SRC leaders spearhead a resolute protest on through Braamfontein, demanding urgent action to address the student electricity crisis. Photo: Katlego Mtshali
The true meaning of Worker’s Day goes beyond the public holiday.
As the sun rises over Johannesburg, the morning rush hour begins in earnest. Cars, taxis, and buses fill the roads, and pedestrians hurry to get to work on time. In the chaos, drivers often forget about the rules of the road.
Amidst this hustle and bustle, it is easy to overlook the privilege and ability an individual has to go to work based on their skills and qualifications, not their skin colour or gender.
On Worker’s Day, May 1, we remember the struggles of those who fought for us as South Africans, and others across the world, to work in inclusive, merit-based spaces,
As a student pursuing a career in journalism, I find it important to remember the tireless struggles of workers who fought for fair labour practices, equal rights, and social justice in the workplace.
I am filled with gratitude for pioneers like Emma Mashinini, former trade unionist and political activist, who became active within the African National Congress in 1956 and later founded the South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union. Or Jay Naidoo, the founding general secretary of the Congress of South African Trade unions, who spearheaded the 1950s worker’s strikes, demanding fair wages, better working conditions, and an end to discrimination.
While Worker’s Day commemorates the struggles and celebrated triumphs of the labour movement, it is a sad irony that many South Africans find themselves outside of the formal workforce. According to the latest data from Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey, approximately 1 in every 3 people in South Africa are unemployed, as the unemployment rate stands at 32,1%.
A sketch showing that skills and qualifications know no race or gender. Drawing: Katlego Mtshali
Despite the progress made in securing fair labour and equal opportunities, the reality is that South Africans face significant barriers to entering the workforce, including the lack of education, skills, and access to resources and networks.
As someone who hopes to enter the journalism workforce soon, I fear that my qualifications and skills may not be compensated with a fair salary, that my voice may not be heard, and ultimately, that my contributions may not matter.
Moreover, the journalism field comes with its own set of hurdles such as intimidation, lack of resources and the pursuit of truth in a rapidly changing media landscape.
That is why I have also started a side hustle as a makeup artist- because jobs are not guaranteed, and I want to be prepared. This also means I have to juggle both my schoolwork and longer hours of work if I have more than one client in a day, on weekends.
However, I am also excited about the future of work in South Africa. Our generation has the power to push boundaries, challenge the status quo, and advocate for a better tomorrow. During the #RhodesMustFall and #FeesMustFall protests, our generation proved to be like the generations that fought our collective freedom before democracy, they stood up against injustices and fought for equal rights, access to education and economic opportunities.
This Worker’s Day, I honour the past, celebrate the present, and eagerly anticipate the future-a future built on the foundations of solidarity, equality, and justice for all. I am proud to be part of a generation that will continue to shape the future of work in South Africa, and I am committed to using my skills and experience to make a positive impact.
Campus protection management accused of unfair treatment resulting in a petition signed by securities.
Security personnel under Campus Protection (CPS) at Wits University have formally complained about “unfair treatment” by management. They allege that there are unequal salary structures between them and their counterparts in the Crime Prevention Response Task Unit (CPRT).
Wits Vuvuzela interviewed several CPS security officers who said they feel “undervalued”. They said CPRT employees receive special attention and superior benefits such as higher salaries, the promotion of duties, and a better-looking uniform.
“We need Wits Vuvuzela to speak for us, the National, Education, Health, and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU) seems to always favour our management,” said one the CPS security guards who asked to remain anonymous due to fear of victimization.
“I will not even try apply for a better security position because I know CPRT officers are always first preference, yet I have been working here before this unit was introduced, who sees us?” asked a frustrated CPS officer.
Now, 320 security guards have taken it upon themselves to sign a petition. “The petition addresses the division and unfair treatment between the Campus Protection services and Crime Prevention Response Task Unit, unequal salaries for the same duties, and not being compensated enough for working overtime,” explained a CPS officer.
Thabo Modise, the branch secretary of NEHAWU Bheki Mkhize Wits branch, said: “NEHAWU agrees with its members that the introduction of CPRT was not necessary. In fact, it has brought about low morale and hatred among officers at Wits.”
He explained that in 2017, NEHAWU successfully advocated for security officers to be insourced at Grade 15 after negotiations. Subsequently, a phased approach of harmonization between NEHAWU and Wits in 2019 and 2020 led to a significant 14,66% increase in salaries for security officers, elevating them to Grade14.
However, disparities appeared with the introduction of CPRT towards the end of 2021 and early 2022, prompting NEHAWU’s appeal for equal pay at CCMA in 2022, which was not upheld due to CPRT officers being considered specialised therefore earning a bit more.
Wits Vuvuzela made an effort to afford protection services director, Gary Kruser, a right of reply, but emails to him went unanswered a week after the fact.
Security personnel hope their needs will be eventually resolved as they still want to remain protecting the staff and students of the institution.
FEATURED IMAGE: A security guard who asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal. Photo: Katlego Mtshali
Law students explore diverse career options at the 2024 law career fair.
The Wits Law Student Council hosted over 31 law firms and organisations on campus to grant students an opportunity to forge relationships with prospective employers; and learn more about what is expected of them in the legal profession.
Students surrounding the career fair organiser, Milkias Gebremichael as he explained the rules of a game they participated in. Photo: Katlego Mtshali
The career fair was hosted on the April 9, 2024 at the Old Mutual Sports hall.
One of the organisers of the fair, Milkias Gebremichael said the purpose of the expo was to make students familiar with the profession by allowing them to ask questions related to vacation-work, articles and the daily realities of the career.
The fair consisted of lawyers working for NGOs, engaging in pro bono work, handling commercial cases, and those that work for smaller firms.
Bronywn Quin, HR manager at Poswa Incorporated law firm said it was her first time attending the fair, and she was excited as students who have graduated from Wits law school are employees at the firm.
Quin emphasised the importance of considering both academic achievements and extracurricular involvement when evaluating candidates for employment at the firm.
“The firm has maintained a long-standing, deep relationship with the Law faculty at the University of Witswatersrand, that is why we keep coming back to the annual career fair,” said Kasheer Singh, the graduate recruitment manager at the Bowmans law firm.
When hiring graduates for internships, permanent posts, and articles, the MacRobert Attorney law firm said they vet students according to the “EISH factor”. The E stands for energetic, the I for intelligent, the S for self-motivating and the H for hard-working.
Saneliso Ngubane, who works in the personal injury department within the firm, said what sets the firm apart is that they specialise in different forms of law.
Takalani Netshiavaha, a third-year LLB candidate said to Wits Vuvuzela that even though the career expo happens annually, each year students are introduced to new firms and information.
“The expo helps broaden our options, the human contact assists students to remain inspired knowing that the people who facilitate the expos are candidate attorneys, shows me my dreams are not far-fetched,” said Netshiavaha.
“I do not know any lawyers, I do not have any lawyers in my family, so this expo makes it feel more real, I get to network with people working for the biggest firms such as Bowmans, it helps me get in the door,” said LLB student, Matthew Robertson.
The Wits Students Law Council has announced that the next career expo will be held in the second semester in case students missed this one.
FEATURED IMAGE: Thandiwe Seboletswe a Senior Associate, Litigation Attorney from Adams & Adams law firm. Photo: Katlego Mtshali
Will we ever have peace and friendship within and across our borders? In this episode of We Should Be Writing, the Vuvu team takes on the final promise of the Freedom Charter: There shall be peace and friendship. We unpack how this vision clashes with the growing issue of xenophobia in South Africa today. Our guests […]
