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New beginnings are often met with an array of emotions. There are overarching feelings of anxiety and uncertainty, laced with the excitement of new possibilities, new friends and sometimes, even a new identity. However, above all, one usually finds themselves, at the beginning of a new chapter, lost. With an information overload and often big decisions weighing heavy on the minds of our first years about what seems to be the rest of their life, UCT Radio, along with Student Orientation and Advocacy Services (SOAS) hosted their annual social event for our Fresher’s, showcasing some of South Africa's greatest minds, at Fresher’s Braai on 31st of January to finish off their orientation week with an exhilarating kick-start to their first year at UCT.
Over 4 500 fresh faces eagerly met us at the Greenmile with the sound of the stations best DJs – playing an extensive range of music, introducing them to the culture of not only the radio station, but that of the UCT campus. From Electro, Alternative, Hip-hop, and Trap to Gqom and Kwaito, every first year had something to bop their head to. Our local DJs, who have their own specialist shows at the station - DJ OG.D, ROOIBOSNOLOVE and Trendy DJ - performed sets that established the high standard of great music with diverse taste that we pride ourselves in.
OG.D
ROOIBOSNOLOVE
Trendy DJ
Most excitingly, was the performance of the main act, Nyota. At 18 years old, Nyota has already shared the stage with some of South Africa's A-list celebrities. This mesmerizing FemmeC gave an electrifying performance, enchanting her peers with expressive lyrics that addressed issues of identity and individuality, and catchy hooks from her latest EP, ‘The Purification Project’.
Nyota
A visit from the Fab Academic, our Vice Chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng enthralled the students with her magnetic and inspirational energy, generously and gracefully taking selfies with excited first years. She gave a rousing speech, reminding students to remain focused on the finishing line, but not to forget to use the opportunities UCT provides. To get involved in the things that move them, join societies, play sport. But most of all, she urged students to make connections, to make networks– because life is too long to be endured alone.
The students were given an opportunity to meet their Student Representative Council (SRC), who entertained the students with a memorable dance.
Over good music and a sizzling braai – generous to satiate even the biggest appetites – the Fresher’s Braai brought together students, who, not to long ago, were strangers with a world of differences, into dancing circles, and comradery that mirrored a vision of euphoric joy and inclusivity.
We wish all the first years and prosperous time at this amazing institution, may they find themselves, secure the bag and get that degree! Find your photos from our event here
