Salt Magazine l Issue TWO l Dec 2013

1ISSUE TWO

A f r i c a n - A u s t r a l i a n N e w s M a g a z i n e .

Hamza can danceInside this issueCan Africans in Australia unite?

Shedrick’s art imitates life

When two worlds collide

Recipe: Isatu’s Krain-Krain is Hot! Hot!

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ISSUE TWO / DECEMBER 2013

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We do all the hard work for SDA members when it comes to wage rises and better workplace conditions.

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1ISSUE TWO

All too soon we find ourselves at the end of another year in which, sadly, so much ongoing conflict is still occurring - in too many parts of the world, including Africa.

As a by-product of this global upheaval, we hear of the tragedy of lives lost as desperate people seek to escape to a better future. In October a boat carrying around 250 African refugees capsized near the Italian island of Lampedusa, leaving at least 50 dead including children; and a further 12 died as a boat carrying 500 refugees capsized off the Egyptian coast.

Regrettably these tragedies are repeated in Australian waters, and we stand as helpless witnesses as they continue to unfold....and as political influences seem to outweigh humanitarian considerations.

What then makes people so desperate as to risk their lives to seek refuge in a ‘developed’ country?

From the Editor’s deskBy Sidique Bah

Want to contribute?SALT Magazine is all about the community so we are always looking for contributors for future issues. Perhaps you have a story idea or a passion for writing? Get in touch at [email protected] and we’ll contact you.

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Welcome to the second edition of SALT magazine, and many thanks to all those who have sent us their messages of encouragement and appreciation after our launch in October. Your comments, good or otherwise, are always welcomed and will help us to provide the type of magazine you want, and that we wish it to become.

A friend once told me that he thought life and living conditions in Australian detention was preferable to a life of freedom in Africa.

This is truly a cruel indictment of both worlds.

With the abundant riches and resources of Africa, it borders on incredible that people are prepared to flee their homelands, risking their lives in search of better living conditions elsewhere - leaving behind the poverty, the corruption, and the wasted opportunities.

A friend once told me that he thought life and living conditions in Australian detention was preferable to a life of freedom in Africa. This is truly a cruel indictment of both worlds - reflecting both the paradoxes and the cultural divides between them - what one nation sees a deterrent, the other sees as an attraction.

This is not a problem that the United Nations, or America or Europe or just money can resolve. Over time humanity may prevail, but sadly, our aspirations for a fairer, better world seem too far distant to provide any comfort, even if hope remains as ever, optimistic.

Should we take the blame for building irresistible magnets for those desperate people; or for making entry to our standards of living so difficult; or for failing to resolve the deprivations of most third world nation states?

From an African perspective, I think it’s time for African leaders to stop pointing their collective fingers of blame and take responsibility for their part in creating this human tragedy.

We will hold to that hope in wishing a better, happier New Year for our readers - and for all our countless brothers and sisters wherever they may be, who are still seeking an entry to the type of life we enjoy and all too often, take for granted.

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Inside this issue

Can Africans in Australia unite?The current state of affairs in the African

community in South Australia and their new leader, Mabok Marial.

When Two Worlds CollideArtist Lauryn Arnott has paid a price

for opposing apartheid, injustice and the politics of Africa.

Art imitates lifeOn stage, Liberian-born Shedrick Yarkpai

portrays a refugee struggling to build a new life.

Learning to be a confident ‘Mama’

From an Aussie persepctive, Tanja Rudd talks about the way African women dress to impress.

Hair today... cornrows tomorrow

For African women, great hairstyles rule!

CoverHamza and the ‘Beat Breaker’ crew dance at Pure Funk School Photo: Ben Searcy

Credits EDITORIAL

Sidique Bah, Amadu Barrie, Tanja Rudd, Sulaiman Timbo, Bob Dixon-Short

PHOTOGRAPHYBen Searcy, Matt Nettheim

DESIGNInadifs Productions

PRINTINGReplica Press

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At a time when it appears several African communities in South Australia are in disarray, some being divided over leadership struggles, SALT Magazine wonders if there is something wrong with Africans when it comes to uniting and prospering together.

As individuals we can be easy going, accommodating and generous - but as organisations or associations we seem to resent working together for the common good, as evidenced by the rifts in our community groups.

Recently the African Communities Council of South Australia (ACCSA) elected Mabok Marial as its new Chairman, and we took the opportunity to talk with him about his appointment. To us it doesn’t seem to be an enviable position considering the turmoil and tensions in the various African communities.

Since its inception, ACCSA has been seen by most in the African community as an arm of the Migrant Resource Centre (MRC). Ongoing complaints and concerns about this issue brought no real changes, and many members avoided involvement with the council.

As a founding member of ACCSA, Mabok was privy to this situation as well as all other issues facing the African community. He talked about the history of the ACCSA, and remembered that when he arrived in Australia in 1998 there were two African organisations: the African Communities Organisation of South Australia (ACOSA) which still exists; and African Heritage Association of South Australia (AHASA).

He believed there should only be one body and decided to join neither, and worked toward the formation of a single peak organisation and ACCSA came about representing and supporting all Africans in SA.

In relation to the mistrust some have over the relationship with MRC, Mabok said he was very aware

THE AFRICAN COMMUNITY IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Where is the way forward?

3ISSUE TWO

of this reservation but asked that people understand it is a normal relationship between a community based organisations and a well established entity which among other things auspices grants and assists with governance issues. “We have excellent relationships with many other service providers and community organisations,” said Mabok, “Including with for example, Relationships Australia, who will be providing the council with a meeting hall for African elders to meet.”

Mabok is very optimistic about the future of the African community in South Australia and firmly believes that over the term of his Chairmanship, he will work with member organisations to address and resolve all the challenges and issues they face together. There are currently 18 registered African community groups and he hopes more will register during his term.

“My main aim is to unite all the African community groups and bring them to the fold of the ACCSA. I know about the various conflicts in the communities, and I will be consulting and engaging with them all to seek solutions and find a way to move forward together,” he said.

“I believe a centre for the African community in South Australia is the key to bringing all the communities on board, and I want to secure a place for the African community to call its own. Then we will not be relying on others and will have use of the hall whenever we want to ensure all communities have the chance to consult and be consulted.”

That way, he says, they can see that they are really involved in the process rather than being told about what is being done. “The more I engage with them, the more they will feel part of what is happening.”

We asked if ACCSA was affected by religious differences amongst its members. After some thought, Mabok said he didn’t think there were any serious tensions within the African community, but he would continue to work with all communities and support them during their religious functions.

“I demonstrate and encourage tolerance within the various communities,” he said, “We don’t want any discrimination against people based on race, religion

or anything else. Whatever religion you believe in, you will be part and parcel of ACCSA … if a community is doing something we should all go and participate, whether you are Muslim, Christian, Buddhist or whatever, we should all participate and enjoy the experience of joining in with our fellow Africans”.

In the future Mabok sees ACCSA becoming more involved in charitable works in Africa, and will continue its liaison with the University of South Australia to welcome new international students from Africa.

Sport is another angle that Mabok will use to unite the various communities. ACCSA is currently working with the Office of Recreation and Sport, the Football Federation of SA and the City of Salisbury to promote soccer amongst the African communities. The recently concluded African Soccer tournament was a very successful event, and next year, Mabok says, it will be even bigger.

“We’ll be inviting A-league coaches and the clubs to attend the tournament and look at our talented players,” he said. “The idea is we want our prospective players to be noticed and drafted in the bigger clubs”

Mabok’s final message to the communities he represents is simply UNITY.

We wish Mabok the very best and hope he takes the time to keep us updated with progress.

If we are united we can achieve our goals and gain respect for our communities...we need to be one big strong voice, be united, work together, respect each other.MABOK MARIALACCSA Chairman


Young, hip and hopping to the beat, nine-year-old Hamza from Sudan is wowing his viewers on stage and making waves on the competitive dance circuit.

Despite his youth, he’s impressing show promoters from all over the world with his dance moves and skills, earning him and his crew a place in the top 10 at the Annual World Supremacy Battleground contest held in Sydney on December 6th.

Hamza takes lessons at Pure Funk dance school and is a member of the youngest group called the ‘Beat Breaker Crew’ the members of which range in age from 7 to 12.

His crew members include Latifah, Electra, Declan and Brad and their coach and choreographer is David Placentino.

After impressing the judges at the Battleground SA dance tournament, the Beat Breaker Crew were able to score a spot in the Annual World Supremacy Battleground contest held in Sydney, competing against some of the finest crews around the world.

Pure Funk founder Kirsten Burt said she was very proud of them, particularly since her goal is to inspire young people from all backgrounds to be better dancers, develop self-discipline and work as a team.

SALT Magazine visited Hamza before his trip to Sydney and talked to him about his dance and ask his family how they are coping with their upcoming superstar. We found Hamza in the family lounge room colouring a book while his younger sister ran around. He was coy and shy to start with but warmed up as he started explaining what his dance story is all about.

Hamza and the crew dance their way to sydney

Hamza and mum Hafsa, Sister Ezaawa and father Alison John

5ISSUE TWO

Hamza and the crew dance their way to sydneyHamza and his parents moved to Australia in 2004 when Hamza was 11 months old. At three years of age Hamza showed interest in dancing and has featured in dance competitions across Australia, performed at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre and met with award winning choreographer Dave Scott.

According to Hamza for now he is just doing it for fun and for people to know him. “I like dancing mostly to hip hop and break dance …. But break dance gets more people excited”. One of his favourite dance idols is Michael Jackson and his favourite moves are his spins, his six steps and krumping.

Hamza is also doing well at school and he likes reading and playing soccer. His Mum Hafsa says dancing helps Hamza with his confidence.

“He dances with passion and when he is dancing and you are watching him …… it’s not like you are watching someone who is learning, you are watching someone who is really enjoying what he’s doing.”

With help from his mum and dad, Hamza is doing what he likes but it does come at a cost. His mum said she has been looking to see if she can get some sponsorship for him as the dance classes, tournaments and flights cost are adding up. “The Sydney trip will cost about $2700.

But despite the hurdles and the challenges Hamza’s mum is happy and excited to see her son perform. And for all the young and aspiring dancers out there Hamza’s message is ‘be creative’

SALT Magazine wishes Hamza and his crew the best of luck in their future endeavours.

The Beat Breaker crew at training, (l-r) Latifah, Brad, Hamza, Declan and Electra.


If you are interested in seeing more of Lauryn’s

work, her exhibitions and her art workshops you can

contact her via email [email protected]

Lauryn working on her recent artwork in the studio

7ISSUE TWO

Lauryn Arnott is a unique individual whose intriguing background and history has left her feeling torn between two cultures.

We first met at the Voice of the Village Festival, staged by Mitcham City Council in October. Lauryn was reading a copy of SALT Magazine which was on display, and she introduced herself, saying “Hi, I’m also from Africa.”

She was eager to tell her story as a white African now living in Australia, but who has experienced life from unique perspectives in traumatic times, and even now, still feels the pull of the Africa she grew up in.

She is an artist who started drawing and painting at an early age in Zambia, continuing through her schooling in Zimbabwe and then later in South Africa, where she made the connection between art and life - using the canvas as a vehicle for expressing her thoughts about apartheid, injustice, and the politics of Africa

“Through art’, she said, “I could convey my message without the use of words, which would have been banned.”

In South Africa her ‘protest through painting’ caused her to lose a scholarship to study art at the Royal College in London, when, finding that one of her works was being exhibited in a gallery to celebrate apartheid rule, she ripped up her painting, leaving the destroyed work in the frame as a silent protest

She moved to Zimbabwe, but also found the political, social and economic regime of President Robert Mugabe left her feeling an outcast from her own heritage. After experiencing the discrimination and disadvantage of ‘reverse apartheid’ because of the colour of her skin, she lost her home to the whims of President Mugabe’s policies.

Absurdly, against that backdrop, in 1994 she was presented with an art prize by President Mugabe personally for a work she entitled ‘May Peace Prevail’. The irony of this award was obviously lost on Mr Mugabe, as the work was Lauryn’s memorial to a massacre incited by him on the Matabele people, and carried out by his supporters, in which a close friend

lost not only her family but also all the livestock, pets and animals on her farm which was ‘repatriated’ in the name of national unity.

After arriving in Australia, Lauryn channelled her passion and her energy into her art, and was awarded a Master of Visual Art’s degree from Central School of Art.

“When I arrived here, I was very sad about what I had gone through, my displacement, the violence, the people I cared about who had been killed. We were driven out of our home, and we were driven out of our country of birth!” Her drawing Crossing Over reflects her experiences of fleeing and of being exiled from the continent she loves, and which show not only her leaving, but also convey a sense of hope of someday returning.

Despite all however, Lauryn’s love for Africa and the African people remains unchanged and undiminished. She is curious about what motivates people, what changes them and how they adapt to those changes into a new culture. Transformation is a recurring theme in her work which symbolises the transformations she too has endured, eloquently expressed in her painting Journey Home which won the International art prize, the Association of Commonwealth University Art Prize in ‘Place in the World’ competition, and is now in the collection of the Association of Commonwealth University headquarters in London.

Currently, Lauryn is enjoying her new life in Australia, holding exhibitions and facilitating art workshops; focusing on themes of memory, history and transformation. She is using her artistic skills and abilities to share with others the transformative power of art and the experience of living between two cultures.

‘Cro

ssin

g O

ver’

and

‘Jour

ney

Hom

e’


In a case of art imitating life, Shedrick Yarkpai’s recent theatre role was based on a refugee family’s struggle to build a new life.

Liberian-born Shedrick fled his war-torn country, lived as a refugee and is now South Australia’s most promising African Australian actor.

He migrated to South Australia in 2005 under Australia’s humanitarian refugee program with extended family members.

Since then he has delved into the arts performing in music, acting in theatres and movies and has been working hard to make a name for himself. His most recent role in The State Theatre Company’s Maggie Stone, an Australian play based on a refugee family and their struggles to build a new life in the diaspora, has propelled him into the limelight with radio, print and TV interviews in mainstream media.

SALT Magazine caught up with Shedrick at the State Library for a chat and an insight into his life as an actor.

What it’s like to be the first African Australian actor to gain prominence in the theatre stage. What are the challenges and barriers he has to face in his journey?

Despite acting in school Christmas plays, Shedrick was studying IT at TAFE and didn’t consider acting as a career.

Then a friend told him about an audition for a play.

“He asked me you want to come? I thought why not, let’s go...So I went and that’s how I met Rob Crosser, the director...I auditioned and got the role and that’s how my acting career started”.

Since then, Rob, who is a founding member of the Independent Theatre, took Shedrick under his wing and became his mentor.

With all the accolades and momentum, Shedrick has grown more confident and would now like to take his acting career to the highest level.

He’s thrilled to be with the State Theatre Company. “They are one of the biggest companies in SA. So I’m

“The thing is, I enjoyed all the roles I’ve played so far as each

time I perform in a play I learn something from the story”

SHEDRICK YARKPAI

Shederick on stage in his first performance with the State Theatre

Comanpy in the show ‘Maggie Stone’PHOTO BY MATT NETTHEIM

9ISSUE TWO

really happy, I feel privileged to get a gig with them and now I have to make use of this opportunity”.

With 10 plays under his belt, Shedrick likes playing good guys and heroes but wouldn’t mind tackling the role of bad guy eventually.

In “Cry my Beloved Country’ Shedrick said he felt very emotional because it was about South Africa and apartheid. Also in his role as Tom Robinson in “To Kill a Mocking Bird” he was moved by the overall plot, especially the part in the play where his lawyer addressing the court told the jury that ‘You can’t really know a person until you get into their skin and walk around in it.”

Shedrick said he faces numerous challenges to be on top of his craft. English as a second language is a huge barrier when you have to act in English and imitate accents from all over the world.

And then there is time management. There’s no room for late arrivals at rehearsal or meetings. He stands out as the only African Australian in the cast and he’s had to conform to mainstream western expectations.

“Sometimes people find it hard to understand me and my accent but once you are an actor you treat your cast like family, generally they’ve been really good”.

Shedrick would also like to expand into movies and music.

As long as it is to do with the Arts, count me in, I’ll give it a shot

Shedrick wants more African people to come to his plays. “They don’t come to see my shows; they hardly know what I’m doing. I’m glad you are interviewing me, we should be getting involved to let people know what we are doing in the community”.

Shedrick’s message to other young aspiring African Australian actors is to keep at it, concentrate on what you want to achieve, try getting your foot in the door and surround yourself with people who share your aspirations.

Shederick Life’s no dress

rehearsal for Shedrick


STORIES FROM NAMIBIA - AN AUSSIE’S EXPERIENCE

Learning to be a more ConFident “mama”By Tanja Rudd

From our first few days in Johannesburg to our current stay in Namibia I often get called “mama” or “meme” in public places. I guess I much rather prefer that to Mrs or even worse ma’am…. but even “mama” took a while to get used to.

Jay Weatherill and Labor Building a Stronger South Australia

www.sa.alp.org.au facebook.com/JayWeatherillMPAuthorised by R. Martin, 141 Gilles St, Adelaide SA 5000

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Yes, of course I am a proud mum and adore my girls but I am also ME and the moment you call me “mama” it makes me think “do I look old and suddenly look like a mum?”, “is it something I’m wearing?” On the same token the title comes with a sense of pride and immeasurable love. Yeap, I’m a mama…and learning to be a more confident one!

African women, especially, inspire me daily. Women here take so much pride in their appearance…it’s amazing! Whenever I finish my workout at the gym I usually tie up my sweaty hair, grab my bag, pick up the kids and go home. Yet, most of the women here bring along a whole beauty salon to the gym. I’m not joking! Make-up, straighteners, creams of all sorts...not to mention the super high heels and bling no matter what

Tanja and baby Vida

11ISSUE TWO

STORIES FROM NAMIBIA - AN AUSSIE’S EXPERIENCE

Learning to be a more ConFident “mama”By Tanja Rudd

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Tanja’s experiences!

time of the day or venue. African women literally spend hours getting themselves ready for whatever they have scheduled. (talking about heels and bling and on a side note here, I just remembered the day we saw a young girl along the highway just outside Johannesburg, walking a small herd of goats in her tight jeans and 12cm heels while texting on her mobile. Now that is commitment! I wish I took a photo!)

I’d love to be able to change my hairstyle every week…. But then again I wonder if I would have the energy to do so? It’s just so easy to tie it up in a bun or a braid and forget about it. Be it the dreads, the cornrows, the braids, short, long, straight, wigs of all colours and shape – women always look immaculate. And from one week to another they can look completely different. I have to admit you could easily walk past someone you know because they suddenly look so different.

And it’s not just the hair, curves here are something to be proud of, especially if you are a “mama”. Yes, I’m sure even African women would like to “get rid” of some excess baby weight...But what I have been learning by observing so many mums here is to respect and value the changes a woman’s body goes through when you experience pregnancy. And why wouldn’t you be proud? Your body has carried, nurtured and supported the development of a human being.

I love observing people when I’m out and about. Not that it’s that easy to do it these days as I’m usually trying to pay attention to where I am going as well as watch the girls and what they are doing – but when I do get a chance…. There is something to be said about movement, posture and attitude in Africa. Motion here equals emotion, confidence, sex appeal and happiness. It’s as if some guys have an ongoing hip hop or rap beat in their joints which just makes them move and be so cool. The girls on the other hand must visualise flashlights and a big catwalk…

And, even though I may not have the cool hair or moves…. I am learning by observing and being inspired every day of the importance of personal presentation independent of financial background and body type. I can only hope to pass on this learning to our girls as they grow up…

There is something to be said about movement, posture and attitude in Africa.

Motion here equals emotion, confidence, sex appeal and happiness.


Current hairstyle trends

Tight curl weaveBrazillian weave Pencil braids

“I’m proud that I have a truly self-made business, I started from zero...some people even laughed at me, thinking

this business will be closed after a month, but I’m still here, still growing and still improving.”

SUNDAY GOLDA

13ISSUE TWO

Almost all African women love their hair. In their eyes it symbolises beauty and is ritually looked after on a regular basis - spending money on it, changing it, and using it to get a fresh new look.

Braiding hair in Africa is not only a skill girls learn from an early age; it is also a social activity, and an excuse to chat and gossip while doing each other’s braids! So, here in their new country, the numbers of African beauty parlours are on the rise, especially it seems in Adelaide.

To find out more, SALT Magazine went to one of the longest established African Hair Dressing Salons, ‘African Beauty & Hair Stylists’ on Prospect Road, to talk to owner Sunday Golda about the hair business.

Sunday was born in Khartoum, Sudan, and has been running her shop for over 5 years, after arriving in Australia 7 years ago. Becoming a hairdresser was actually her plan B as she had studied Biology in Syria, but, as she was taught in Arabic, her qualification was not recognised here. She thought it would take too long to improve her English language skills to follow her chosen field and opted for hairdressing as something she had always loved doing.

“I’ve loved doing hair since I was little and I’m good at it, so I did a 6 month hairdressing course in Melbourne, got married and moved to South Australia and opened my salon two years later,” she said.

She now does hairstyles on a full time basis and to improve her business skills she will soon undertake online management studies.

Braids and weaves are currently in high demand, says Sunday, but she also does cornrows (also called Ghanaian lines) dreadlocks and any other style that makes her customers stand out, and keep coming back to her salon.

Now after 5 years of operating her business, Sunday is still very grateful for the support she got from her community. “I was the first Sudanese woman to open a Salon here, and when my first customers arrived saying, ‘We finally have a salon’, I felt good, as if I had done something for my community”.

These days her clients also include Australians and Asians, as well as Africans of course.

Sunday makes no secret of the fact that running a business has its downside, mostly because of the time she has to spend away from her family. “Raising a family and doing business is very challenging but one has to do what needs to be done to keep everything running smoothly” she says with a shrug of her shoulders, “....and as long as my customers are happy I’m happy to keep doing what I’m doing.” Her advice to anyone thinking of starting a business is: “Know what you are doing, enjoy what you are doing, and give it 100% all the time.”

African Beauty Hair Stylists 313 Prospect Road, Blair Athol, Adelaide. Phone 08 8342 9905 or 0431 586 894.

Curly weave with highlights Big curl weave Box braids

Hair today, cornrows tomorrow…


Round Robin TournamentMoseley Square, Glenelg (Between monument and jetty)

Saturday 29th December 20124.00pm to 7:30pm$20 per team, register at www.3ballsa.basketball.net.au Contact Phil Allan 0431 213 409

3Ball-ThirdPage-Dec2013.indd 1 8/12/13 9:31 PM

Basketball is on the rise among the African community in South Australia. Though soccer is more popular, some African youngsters in the community are challenging stereotypes and shooting hoops instead.

The Office of Recreation and Sport in collaboration with Basketball SA are reaching out to new and emerging community groups through 3 on 3 basketball, encouraging them to take to the court and try some slam dunks.

SALT Magazine went to where it’s all happening at the Adelaide Secondary School of English to talk to some of the players and organisers of the games.

The court was packed with young people sweating it out. Alpha Turay (Alfonz), President of 3Ball SA Basketball Association and the event coordinator for Freetonix Basketball club, spoke to SALT Magazine about the game and what it means for young and upcoming basketball players in SA.

According to Alfonz, it’s all about bonding and keeping fit. He said the turn out is improving as there are about 20 players on the court which means they can play 5 on 5 "we are always encouraging more people to come...

the idea is to start with 3 on 3 then if we get more people we increase the size of the team."

Alfonz said two teams have been nominated to participate at the St Clair Christmas Carnival and two more tournaments are lined up before the end of the year. One is at Torrens Parade in the city and the other is at Jetty Road Glenelg and is sponsored by the City of Holdfast Bay.

Talking about his club, Alfonz said Freetonix has been playing as a team since 2008 and the club has participated in several tournaments.

Basketball SA Development Manager Danny O’Brien said 3Ball SA was formed to give opportunity and exposure to the game for young people from multicultural backgrounds.

Future basketball players in the making

Even when we lose it’s a ‘win’ as long as we go out and have a go,

we are winnersALFONZ TURAY

Freetonix Basketball Club

15ISSUE TWO

Zoe Bettison MPMEMBER FOR RAMSAYStanding up for the North2/40-42 Commercial Road, Salisbury SA 5108P 8258 0480 E [email protected] www.facebook.com/ZoeBettisonMP

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Authorised by R. Martin, 141 Gilles St, Adelaide SA 5000

3 on 3 Basketball is modelled around American street ball and the idea is that even with fewer players the game can still go on and doesn’t require time consuming commitment or financial commitment for its players. It is a casual approach to the game and if more interest is developed then teams can form their own clubs and compete in tournaments.

Phil Allan, one of the founding members of 3Ball SA, said it is a way of getting youth from new and emerging

communities linked to mainstream activities such as sport which is a part of the Australian psyche.

Gerard Chuku, a Nigerian international student at University of Adelaide, said he saw the 3Ball flyer at Uni and has been participating since. “I love playing basketball … I had to find somewhere to play"

Newly formed basketball club Fullah Dynamics Team Coordinator Ibrahim Bah said he is new to the game but finds it fun, enjoyable and engaging.

3 on 3 basketball in Adelaide encourages young people from multicultural backgrounds to take to the court.


Kissi speaking people are an ethnic group living in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia, well known for making baskets and weaving on vertical looms. In the past they were also famous for their iron working skills, having produced the ‘Kissi penny’ - iron money that was used widely in West and Central Africa.

South Australian members of the group launched ‘Diompillor Kissia SA Inc’ on Saturday 9th November 2013 at their national convention held at Adelaide’s Slovenian Club.

Sahr Bockarie, the Chairperson of the new organisation welcomed guests and said he is happy to be sharing Kissi culture with SA’s Multicultural communities and the general public. Over $1500 was donated by guests during the event, with proceeds earmarked to provide assistance to disadvantaged schools and hospitals in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia.

Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to those who contributed to the success of the organisation, and guests were treated to traditional Kissi music, dance, stories, humour and food.

South Australia's Kissi Group hosts National Convention

Even though the Federal government has brought down its axe on the Foreign Aid budget, thousands of Australians continue to provide much needed lifesaving support and building prospects for a brighter future for millions of the underprivileged around the world.

The School of St Jude in Tanzania, Africa, is among the hundreds of projects sponsored by non-government Australian aid and one of the most remarkable success stories.

The School of St Jude was founded in 2002 by a young woman from a sheep farm in New South Wales, Gemma Sisia, with three students, and today it is Africa’s largest charity-funded school providing over 1,600 of the brightest and poorest children around Arusha region with a free, high-quality education, and boarding facilities for over 1,000 of these students.

Over 94% of the school’s sponsorship income comes from Australia. During 2011, AU$6.2 million was contributed to run and further expand the school. Australian donations go towards sponsoring students, teachers, buses and boarding rooms. It has also helped buy water tanks, electrical lines, school buses and education material.

A two-man delegation from The St Jude School was on a four-week tour of Australia to thank their sponsors and to promote the school.

Australians helping alleviate poverty through educationBy Amadu Barrie, Canberra

17ISSUE TWO

SALT Magazine caught up with one of the delegates, Felix Mollel, who is a Visitor Coordinator at the School of St Jude, during his visit to Canberra’s St Edmunds College - a sponsor of St Jude’s.

Asked why his team chose to visit Australia, Felix said “to meet and thank our wonderful sponsors and to report to them about the great work that’s being undertaken by our school through their generous effort and sponsorship”.

“Since our arrival four weeks ago my delegation has so far conducted about 40 presentations at schools and rotary clubs all around Australia; Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Canberra,” he said.

Enrolment at The School of St Jude’s is very competitive and is open only to children from disadvantaged background around Arusha, and every year 150 preparatory students are selected from this group. The school works with orphanages to ensure the poorest children do not miss out on the opportunity to enroll at the school.

One of the challenges of the school, according to Felix is getting sponsors. “That is why every year the school sends delegates around the world to find new sponsors

and to tell more people about the ‘Fight against poverty through education’ program,” he said. “Fortunately, we have a dedicated and effective international board that looks after the day-to-day running of the school.”

In the same vein, SALT Magazine also caught up with one of the individual Rotarians that sponsors St Jude’s. Paul Street is a member of the Rotary Club of Canberra and is currently sponsoring two children. Every month, Paul said, he sends $500 to the school and even though more than 90% of sponsors of the school are Australians there is a very substantial benefactor base in the US.

Paul added that some of the challenges of the school include budget. He estimates between 5-6 million is needed to run the school a year. “Raising this amount every year is a major challenge in keeping the school revolving.”

Another challenge, is how to look after the students who graduate in 2015. “Will those students who continue on to university or technical colleges continue to receive sponsorship?” he asked.

To learn more about the St Jude School, please visit their website www.schoolofstjude.org

Felix Mollel and some of the students from the School of St Jude in Tanzania

It is only with thanks to generous sponsors, donors, supporters and international volunteers that St Jude’s can open its doors everyday.


My beloved Africa is poorly equipped to accept the truth about the barriers to its development - simply, and almost without exception, the barriers begin and end with the quality of the leaders and leadership which prevail throughout the continent.

African leadership has failed and will continue to fail by its own efforts, even though preaching the entrenched and convenient propaganda of laying the blame at the door of the capitalist western powers which colonised our continent. After the significant time which has elapsed, I say it is apt for all Africans to correct this fiction.

Leaders and their regimes promote the myth which is a symptom of the African disease called the Blame-Game, and results in the general world wide view that the whole of Africa is heartless, dictatorial, corrupt and overall, unable to take responsibility for its own plight.

In those nations where the ruling power appears to be a permanent fixture, as for example in Zimbabwe, the ruling cabal ensures its incumbency by allowing its supporters to share in the spoils of power. Leading to the self perpetuating situation that foreign entities have a one-stop shop where they can receive a license to exploit in exchange for a secret addition to the worth of the rulers and the sycophants who support them. In these situations I ask, “Is the definitive crime one of giving or of receiving?”

Elsewhere the various factions appear to form queues for the opportunity to share in this largesse. As one power structure is toppled and another takes it place, the seeds are already being sown for the next candidate to take a place at the table of foreign investment and to gather the crumbs which always fall.

Notably, some will say, this process is possible because of the relative lack of democratic institutions and a general absence of the basic human rights - such as freedom of speech, independence of the press, and, (where a form of democracy does exist), an honorable electoral system.

Coupled with this observation, I find it appalling to hear some scholars describe particular African countries as ‘failed states’. By definition and implication being those with no apparent central control, legal system or public order - where the situation has degenerated to total anarchy.

In my view these observations fail to recognize the socio-political history of most of Africa, where an ordinary citizen had little if any say in either the self-determination process or the appointment of a ruler. In the main, the ruler and ruling class was determined by inheritance, nepotism or obtained as the spoils of battle. Provided there was food on the table and a reasonably peaceful existence guaranteed, democracy as a means of governance, was an unnecessary intrusion into the mundane tasks of daily life.

Whether it is called apathy or self-preservation, this ability to exist without taking an active role in the governing process was exploited by the colonists and misunderstood by the independence reformists.

TO BE CONTINUED NEXT ISSUE...

Africa’s Dilemma - as was the past, so too the future?A personal perspective by African-Australian Sulaiman Timbo.

In Africa our philosophy and wisdom is based on sayings and proverbs. It is through them that discussions are held

and opinions swayed.

“An army of sheep led by a lion can defeat an army of lions led

by a sheep”GHANAIAN PROVERB

19ISSUE TWO

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Nineteen women and two men from South Australia’s West African community participated in a project called ' A Taste of Hospitality' funded by Community Benefit SA during the month of October.

The program aims to enhance the cooking, catering and business skills of participants, during which they are given both theoretical and practical instruction in food preparation, hygiene, presentation as well as in basic economics and bookkeeping. The initial two parts of the program ‘Running a Successful & Safe kitchen' and 'Planning & Starting a Business' were provided at the Workers Educational Association (WEA) facility in Angas Street, and MCCSA thanks the WEA for their input and assistance with these classes.

In the final part of the program, held at MCCSA, participants prepared their own traditional dishes to showcase their acquired skills. Master Chef and Proprietor of the Marrakech Restaurant, Mohamed

Bartaouch, demonstrated how the appearance of the dishes could be enhanced by professional presentation and treated attendees to a meal of succulent Moroccan food as part of his demonstration.

MCCSA Executive Officer, Vivien Hope said the aim of the program was to help participants improve their employment prospects and income producing activities, as well as to assist them when catering for community events.

The final session was attended by Shellie Jones, Board Member of Community Benefits SA, and Paula Dixon, Executive Officer of Community Benefit SA. Shellie and Paula presented all participants with a Certificate of Participation at the end of the project.

A taste of hospitality


Isatu’s RECIPE TIPSWHERE TO BUY INGREDIENTS?All the ingredients in this recipe can be purchased from the African Pride Superstore at 15 Kilkenny Road.

A SIDE NOTE ABOUT CHILLIMost Sierra Leonean's like a lot of chilli and would steam chilli in sauce, remove and beat in a Mortar and Pestle before adding back to the sauce. The habanero chillies are VERY hot so be warned, if you are not a fan of HEAT, we would suggest leaving it out!

FRESH KRAIN-KRAIN LEAFIf you have managed to find the fresh leaf, it's traditionally cut in a very skilful way, where the bunch is held in your hand and you use the knife to slice finely (see picture) but you can also use a cutting board to slice as finely as possible.

Isatu Bah busy preparing Krain-Krain

21ISSUE TWO

It's safe to say that all Africans living in Australia would yearn for a home cooked meal from their country of origin. Over the years foodstuff from Africa has been finding its way to Australia and now you can buy all your local ingredients you used to buy in Africa right here in South Australia.

SALT Magazine dropped by to visit Isatu Bah - originally from Sierra Leone for some home cooked Krain-krain, a popular dish served in West Africa. It is one of many 'plassas' sauces cooked across Africa that seem similar but are actually very different in their preparation and flavour.

It is also known as Molokhia (Mulukhiyah, mloukhiya, molohiya, mulukhiyya, malukhiyah, or moroheiya) and comes from the Corchorus plant, the same plant that the fibre Jute comes from, which is the most widely cultivated vegetable fibre after cotton. It is also used widely in Egyptian, Lebanese, Palestinian, Kenyan, Sudanese and many other cuisines. It has quite a slimy texture when cooked, similar to that of Okra. In fact, Mloukhiya is also the Moroccan term for Okra.

One thing we've learnt is that 'African' cooking in general is not something that is measured. It seems as though it’s a skill that is in the blood, an instinct learnt from watching mothers and grandmothers cook, rather than from following recipe books. This makes it very tricky to produce a standard recipe, but we've tried to follow how Isatu prepared it to create one for our readers!

Traditionally served with steamed rice, the dish has a distinct flavour but the overall result is tasty. We definitely urge you to give it a try, as Sierra Leoneans would say, 'it's a good chop!’

RECIPE

STIRRING THE POTSIERRA LEONE, WEST AFRICA

Krain-Krain PlassasServes 6

INGREDIENTS

500 grams of diced beef (Sierra Leoneans prefer to use 'curry pieces' that include the bone

1 Dried catfish

1 Cup of palm oil (can be substituted for peanut or any vegetable oil)

1 large onion, diced

3 Packets of Molokiah leaf (or 3 ties of the fresh leaf)

1 Maggi stock cube

1 Habanero Chilli (or more if you like!)

METHOD

1. Place dried catfish in boiling water and leave to soak.

2. Rinse beef and season with salt, chicken stock and season all salt (roughly one teaspoon of each). Place in pot and steam on a high heat until the meat has started to cook through (there should be a small amount of water in the pot left from rinsing the meat). Before the water has evaporated, add 1/2 cup of water and allow to simmer for a further 10 minutes, keeping an eye on it to make sure the water does not evaporate.

3. Add palm oil (or peanut / vegetable oil) and allow to simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, remove soaked catfish from water and 'pick' the flesh from the bone. Sierra Leoneans tend to use most of the fish so you can remove as much of the flesh as you like.

5. Add diced onion, fish, maggi cube and salt to taste and leave to simmer for a further 5 minutes.

6. Remove Molokiah leaf from packet and add. Leave to cook for anywhere between 15 - 30 minutes, depending on how much water there is in the pot. You will know it’s cooked when the water has 'dried' up and the oil is sitting on top.

7. Serve on a bed of steamed rice with fresh lime on the side.


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Salt Magazine l Issue TWO l Dec 2013