South Africa Panel - October 10, 2008

Today we were suppose to have a panel of citizens from South Africa, but many were not able to make it. One representative, Ms. Carolyn Ward, was able to attend and she gave some insightful information about her beloved country South Africa. Carolyn told of her childhood experiences growing up in South Africa during apartheid. Since apartheid the country still faces issues regarding race, but Carolyn says it is all about how your family raised you. In her case, her family raised her to regard all people as equal, but there are still some South Africans that believe blacks and coloureds( mixed white and black) are beneath them. She also talked about the issues that are going on right now with the South African president resigning. She says that she is not worried and feels that everything will work itself out. She also mentioned that South Africans are more welcoming than Americans. Which I can believe.
Now to the fun stuff! After Brian left, the discussion wasn't as serious anymore. Lol! We asked Carolyn things about South African fashion, which resembles European dress. Interesting! We talked about the food. She says that South Africans are not big on going out to eat at fast food restaurants. They tend to stay at home and eat with the family. South Africans eat the same foods that Americans eat, but they eat also some things that we don't eat, like ostrich. Yeah! I said it ostrich. She also talked about the Alfred & Victoria Waterfront which resembles a harbour. It is the perfect destination for food and shopping in South Africa. Corey, his crazy self, asked about women and relationships. Yes people, he took it there. Carolyn says that South Africans do not participate that much in PDA.
Overall the discussion was exciting and very informative. Now I know a little bit more about South Africa than I knew before. I'm so excited to go and I can't wait til May. Signing off!


Jamilah Hankins
Link Leads 2008-2009