By Mathews Nthinya
Rhodes University TV students showcase unique profiles
In the bustling world of Journalism and Media Studies at Rhodes University, fourth-year students specialising in Television are making waves with their creativity and dedication in the media space. Before diving into their visually captivating documentary projects, these students initiated a unique exchange of personal profiles, where they formed groups, taking turns to produce, direct, and film for each other while sharing their remarkable stories.
Owethu Mabaso: Finding Solace Through Journaling
Hailing from Australia but growing up in South Africa, Owethu Mabaso shared her profound journey of solace and peace through journaling, a practice she adopted from her therapist at the age of 16. She revealed that she turns to journaling during moments of spiritual disconnection, documenting her conversations with God. Mabaso, who battles social anxiety, expressed a preference for morning and night journaling. In the morning, she records daily affirmations for her goals, while at night, she reads her favourite Bible verse to stay rooted and connected to her spirituality. She highlighted the role of journaling in helping her navigate the challenging times, especially during the loss of her father to COVID-19 in 2021. This poignant profile was expertly directed and filmed by her classmate Yolanda Pondo.
Yolanda Pondo: Embracing Self-Love and Fitness
Born in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), Yolanda Pondo’s profile, produced by Mabaso and directed by Grace Moya, delves into her journey of embracing self-love and fitness. Pondo shared her daily commitment to 15 minutes of skipping rope exercise, coupled with resistant bands, for weight management. Emphasising the importance of maintaining a healthy mind, she revealed her shift away from societal pressures, finding security and progress in her fitness journey.
Nwabisa Moya: Messages to God Through Journaling
From Johannesburg, Nwabisa Moya shared her belief in spirituality over religion in a profile titled “Messages to God”. Journaling is her expressive outlet, a practice she started in Grade 7. Moya disclosed that her journal is everything to her, using it to communicate with God, document her scholarship application journey, and explore her past love experiences.
Zyrte Gertse: A Passionate Formula One Enthusiast
Closing the series, Zyrtes from the heart of the Western Cape, shared her love for Formula One. Living far from her family as a Rhodes University student, Formula One serves as a connection to her roots. She narrated receiving a hoodie from her parents for her birthday, which she proudly wears every Sunday during F1 events. Despite initially disliking her father’s habit of dominating the TV with F1, Zyrtes eventually fell in love with the sport. She humorously declared her intention to pass on her F1 jersey to her future children, ensuring they too fall in love with the thrilling world of Formula One. Zyrtes stays updated on the sport through Instagram, with a special affinity for Lewis Hamilton’s page, her favourite driver.
These engaging profiles provide a captivating glimpse into the diverse and inspiring lives of Rhodes University’s fourth-year journalism and media studies students, showcasing their talents, both behind and in front of the camera.
The short films are available here: https://www.youtube.com/@RUTVJournalismRhodesUniversity/videos
