Recently, South Africa has been gripped by shocking social media recounts of gender-based violence from women across the country. One story that has been a focus for many is that of Cici and her former manager and ex-boyfriend, Arthur Mafokate. In 2017, Cici opened a case of assault against him. She claims that he had been physically violent with her in an altercation that resulted in her allegedly being dragged by a car and having to undergo pelvic replacement surgery. Arthur was recently acquitted of the assault charges. But, Cici is pursuing a civil case against him, and as such couldn’t get into the details when we sat down to talk. So, we focused more on her future and not solely on the past.
MODEST BEGINNINGS
I enjoy learning about people’s upbringing because it sets the tone for me when getting to know them. The Ladysmith-born singer is the sixth child of eight children. She shares that she was very shy growing up. She’s named after her grandmother, Busisiwe Edith Khumalo. And, before she became Cici, she was known as BK, initials of her grandmother’s name and surname. She’s also a proud aunt to 32 nieces and nephews, and she’s always dreamt of adding to this growing number of offspring. She attributes her musical beginnings to the church since both her parents are pastors. “I started singing at Sunday school, and later joined the church choir.” Singing helped her to express herself, so she sang often. “There were so many of us at home, and music was that one thing that made me special. So, I fell in love with it more because I received attention.” She shares that when there were visitors at home, her dad would call her to sing for them. “I would be the entertainment, and he called me his radio,” she laughs.
A POIGNANT MATTER
This story is from the November 2019 edition of Bona.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2019 edition of Bona.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Damage At Work: Who Pays?
What happens when you damage company property or property that belongs to your employer? Are you liable for the costs?
Safety Tips When Driving With Kids
The roads we drive on can be quite treacherous. Car safety is not only limited to you as a driver, but also your passengers including your children. Vuyi Mpofu gives us six safety tips that you must abide by.
The Impact Of The Coronavirus
When COVID-19 hit South Africa, it came as no surprise that the virus would impact vulnerable communities such as townships and rural areas the hardest. The frequently asked questions since then have been whether the government has given enough information and resources to the people in disadvantaged areas or not. Everson Luhanga investigates further.
Financially Surviving Covid-19
Our finance guru, Sinesipho Maninjwa, shares advice on how you can navigate and survive the financial impact of the coronavirus.
All I Want Is A Baby
Trying to conceive with no success, and undergoing fertility treatment can take its toll on your relationship. This is the reality for many couples, and yet it remains a taboo subject.
THE TRUTH ABOUT - feminine hygiene products
Despite numerous attempts by medical professionals to debunk the need for feminine hygiene products, numerous women still use them. Lethabo Nxumalo finds out why and if they are truly putting you at risk.
THREE GENERATIONS OF MTOBA women
Linda Mtoba (27) is a mom, and she’s extremely happy about it. She chats to Amanda Mtuli about her pregnancy and what motherhood has taught her thus far. She also introduces us to her beautiful daughter, Bean. We are lucky to have the matriarch of the family, Linda’s mother Celiwe Mtoba (47), present during the interview. She lovingly gushes over her first grandchild while giving us insight into what it was like raising Linda.
THE OLDER SIBLING Blues
Expecting the arrival of your bundle of joy may be exciting for you and your partner, but might not be so thrilling for your older child. Experts say kids sometimes struggle to accept the changes that a newborn brings. Fundiswa Nkwanyana spoke to some of them to help you prepare your firstborn for the new family member.
Owning THE SPOTLIGHT
Film and TV star Fulu Mugovhani (29), currently graces our screens as Noli on the M-Net series, Still Breathing. The former Scandal! actress talks about getting into showbiz and lessons learnt on and off the stage.
Life After losing a child
A parent’s worst fear is the death of a child. And, when that fear becomes a reality, grief becomes unbearable and acceptance seems impossible. Four readers share intimate details of their journeys.
