Devoted Magazine#29

Issue 29 www.devotedmag.co.za Wellness magazine – toward a healthy and fulfilling life KSB and CRL Can KwaSizabantu expect a fair hearing? FEBA, another Meet a jack A chairperson should Good News success story of all trades remain neutral www.devotedmag.co.za 1

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Now is not the time to stop marketing your business! It’s time now to be more strategic and use cost-effective options. That’s why Devoted has implemented smart and cost-effective advertising options to mitigate the pandemic’s impact on your business. Marketing your business helps you • Build relationships with your customers • Get ahead of your competitors and learn more about your target audiences • Build your business relationships • Set your business up for success • Build your brand. Send us an email today to secure your advert in the next issue. There is limited space! WHY ADVERTISE IN DEVOTED? • We are an online magazine with authentic and inspiring content with a loyal readership • Through collaborations with likeminded people and organisations, we reach a wider target market and readership • The latest issues are available on the website free of charge, and • Devoted meets the two most critical elements necessary to carry out a successful advertising campaign: reaching a focused target audience AND doing it cost-effectively. OUR LOYAL READERS FOCUS ON A POSITIVE AND BALANCED LIFESTYLE, AND - • establish strong bonds with their publications of choice • often reread past issues an average of 2.3 times, and • share copies of our magazine with friends and family members. Like us on Facebook: www.dViesitvouor wteebdsitemat ag.co.za www.facebook.com/devotedmagazine Emails: [email protected]; or [email protected] Cell: +27 (0)082 896 0955 www.devotedmag.co.za 3

Editor’s Note What is wrong with mainstream media? Arecent report found that the KSB has invited the media and the (the exact words of the chairperson in BBC’s Martin Bashir used Commission numerous times to visit them, question)? “deceitful methods” to secure an but they failed to do so. I visited them to interview with the late Princess get the story behind the stories, and I was Another concern is the continuous and Diana, and Prince William has described inspired with what I saw and heard. There malicious media onslaughts on KSB. Did it the painful impact on his family. This has are so many good stories at the Mission play a role in shaping public and individual brought the issue of unethical journalism waiting to be told! opinions, and will these media stories to the fore once again. have an impact on the outcome of the It saddens me to say that some envisaged hearings? We asked revelent Our articles in the previous issue about mainstream media has followed the trend questions, and you can read our thoughts ethical reporting were well-received. of sensationalism and unethical practices on the matters: I was surprised with tons of compliments, in the case of KSB. I know the real stories positive feedback, and congratulatory behind the false stories spread by the • Can KSB expect fair hearings? messages. Clearly, we have many readers media, and others – because I made the (pages 6-8) who think like us and enjoy good news effort to get the facts and not rely on false instead of the constant fake and bad news narratives on Facebook and unreliable • What if a chairperson overstep bombarding us. sources! boundaries? (pages 10 & 11) I started following News24’s brutal Some journalists and editors abuse • What is wrong with the mainstream attacks on the KwaSizabantu Mission (KSB) their power to attack people openly and media? (This article) months ago, as it’s a mission I hold in high use words with significant emotional esteem. The attacks seemed on-going, implications to advance their narrative, It is such a shame that a few disgruntled personal and over-the-top malicious. which does not add value to the industry people - a tiny portion of the millions of Recently I have been disappointed (and in at all. Wild accusations, made up by people who entered the Mission’s gates many cases appalled) by the mainstream unethical journalists, taken up by careless over years - are impacting perceptions in a media’s role in the inconsiderate reporting editors, and then spread on social media negative way, and creating huge damage of many untrue stories, including KSB’s. platforms at the speed of light, is unethical. and unnecessary pain to thousands You can read more about the media’s role How does a Christian organisation that is of innocent people who depend on in spreading false information in Issue 28 not used to the dog-eats-dog attitudes of the Mission for their livelihoods. My of Devoted by following this link, https:// the secular world defend itself? How do grandfather used to say that the “pen is online.pubhtml5.com/qulw/scxp/#p=1. they counter such smear attacks? How mightier than the sword”, but he meant do they get the facts out – especially if that it should be used for good. Devoted I urge our readers to also read Issue Christian media outlets keep quiet? And, remains a “good news” publication and 250 (March/April) of the Noseweek online why do the Christian media keep quiet therefore we love to share with you the magazine to get the truth behind the false about the good work the Mission does and following inspiring stories: FEBA, another stories about the Mission. It provides the the lifechanging and inspiring events that Good News success story (pages 12 & context you need to really get it, so you happened there over fifty years? 13), and Meet a jack of all trades who is can understand the danger of believing mastering all (page 14.) everything you read, especially on social I have several concerns that prompted media! Noseweek investigated the KSB me to continue with the KSB story. During Enjoy the read, until next time! saga and false information. They also recent media interviews, the Chairperson looked into News24’s role (read the article, of the CRL Rights Commission said it is Gerda Kwasizabantu and News24. Did News24 the first time they are using the media in editor-in-chief Adriaan Basson go on a their investigations. This does not make Like us on Facebook: mission of his own?). any sense! Is the media in cahoots with www.facebook.com/devotedmagazine the investigators or the family members Following media reports, the CRL (former members of KSB) who started the www.dReeadvoourtneewdslemtteras ogn.co.za Rights Commission (the Promotion and vicious attacks on the Mission? Why does Protection of the Rights of Cultural, the Chairperson rely on the mainstream Share the good news articles with others Religious and Linguistic Communities) media to “connect the dots” for him investigated the Mission. 4 www.devotedmag.co.za

CONTENTS In this Edition 6 12 14 Editor’s Note 4 Front cover picture What is wrong with mainstream media? “The KSB case is another instance of Christian KwaSizabantu Mission and the CRL: 6-8 churches and ministries that have come under Can they expect a fair hearing? the spotlight and been investigated by the CRL (Rights Commission) in recent years, in response A chairperson should remain neutral, to allegations of abuse and malpractice. These unbiased, and fair: Did the CRL overstepped instances have been used by the CRL to justify, and boundaries? 10-11 drum up support for, its repeated proposals for what effectively amounts to State regulation of religion. FEBA, another Good News success story 12-13 These proposals, which some would regard as an attack on Christianity”, have largely been rejected by Meet a Jack of all trades who 14 the Christian community”. is mastering all (Advocate Nadene Badenhorst, founder member of Freedom of Advertise with us & build relationships Religion South Africa (FOR SA) We have introduced special advertising rates to help you and your Credits business during these trying times. NOW is NOT the time to stop marketing your business, rather be more strategic and use cost- MANAGING EDITOR effective options. Make use of our special - see previous page. Gerda Potgieter EDITOR Jeannie Millington LANGUAGE EDITOR Mignionette de Bruin EditA CREATIVE AND DESIGN Annerine Lubbe Square Design Studio • 071 897 6240 CONTENT DISCLAIMER: All rights reserved. While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of information, the editors and Devoted magazine cannot accept liability of whatsoever nature arising out or in connection with the contents of the publication. The views expressed in this on-line publication are not necessarily those of any of the Devoted team members. It remains the sole responsibility of the writers. Like us on Facebook: www.dViesitvouor wteebdsitemat ag.co.za www.facebook.com/devotedmagazine Emails: [email protected]; or [email protected] 5

KwaSizabantu Mission and the CRL Can KwaSizabantu expect a fair hearing? KwaSizabantu Mission (KSB) A llegations of “gross violation of human end of this article containing interviews the has been unfairly targeted rights” were made against KSB by media held with Professor Mosoma). and put under the spotlight disgruntled former members and by the media for several the media. Because of the seriousness of This is what happened so far… months. It now appears that the allegations, the Mission itself appointed the media and institutions an independent panel, and gave them an KSB attended a meeting (which was live unfettered mandate to investigate all the streamed) with the CRL Rights Commission investigating the unfounded accusations. The panel consisted of experts on 7 October and found the Commission had allegations against them with proven track records and expertise in already started with “fact-finding” two days are all speaking with one issues such as money laundering and sexual before the scheduled date; and had listened offenses. In November KSB was cleared from to the media and their witnesses during voice and spinning the same all the allegations made against them; and those days. This was without allowing the narrative to discredit the they all remain unsubstantiated. The panel’s Mission to present their case or the evidence Mission and all the good report did not satisfy some media and the to be tested. They also found the Chairperson work accomplished there. accusers, and they demanded that more had by then already made clear his opinions The Promotion and investigations were needed. to the media representatives. At the Protection of the Rights meeting the entire CRL-team had sided of Cultural, Religious and The online magazine, Noseweek, (Issue with the Chairperson. Linguistic Communities 250) revealed that some of the original (CRL Rights Commission) complainants and the media’s “informants” The Commission requested KSB’s legal are untrustworthy and their stories team to leave the room at the beginning of responded to media reports unreliable. Some are second and third the meeting and they refused. KSB’s legal and started to investigate generation family members and in-laws; team subsequently pointed out that they and some are plainly disgruntled because (KSB) have the right to legal representation the claims against KSB. Can they left KSB (or was asked to leave) under and were side-lined by the Commission and KSB expect a fair hearing? questionable circumstances - or they think the media. They then requested that the they can manage the Mission better. Chairperson and his team recuse themselves, One would assume so, which they (CRL) refused. but let us follow the I smelled a rat and decided to delve deeper to determine the facts and understand what …”you are profoundly compromised proceedings so far… was going on. and you are not able to continue as chairperson of the hearing and I would The CRL and the media alert you specifically to 15 (1d) of the Act. A member of the commission may The CRL Rights Commission responded to not act in any way that compromises the allegations in the media against the Mission credibility, impartially, independence, or last year. The Chairperson of the Commission, Professor David Mosoma, heard these integrity of the commission.” unfounded allegations in the absence of the implicated persons (or “alleged perpetrators”) (Adv Keith Matthee SC - Legal representative for and allowed the media to broadcast the KwaSizabantu Mission) overdramatised and untruthful propaganda without restraint, leaving little doubt that KSB’s legal team respectfully requested KSB is guilty of the unfounded allegations. permission to consider their legal options It seems the Mission has already been judged, even before their side of the story has been told (refer to the list of videos at the 6 www.devotedmag.co.za

before the Commission continued with My curiosity was triggered, and I delved • KSB felt they were prejudged and the hearings, which the Chairperson even deeper into the way the Commission was unhappy that their fair and granted. Here the media also misinformed handled the case so far. rightful request that the presiding the public on the facts and claimed, “KSB officer and the rest of the team to walked/stormed out of the meeting,” One would assume that the Chairperson recuse themselves was denied by the which is false. and commission acted ethically at the Chairperson. hearing of KSB and treated both parties The collaboration between the fairly. I asked KSB for the original invitation • KSB pointed out they have been denied mainstream media and the CRL, as and this document painted a different a fair opportunity to state their case and far as the KSB case is concerned, is picture: present witnesses to date. extraordinary, and the Chairperson • The first interaction between KSB admitted, “This is the first time that the Dirk Combrink CRL is collaborating with the media,” and, and the Commission was put on “it was the first time the Commission record as an invitation to a meeting We want to work with the CRL . used so-called expertise (referring to the “to come and share your perspectives “We have invited the media to media) to help them “connect the dots”. on the abovementioned allegations”. KwaSizabantu numerous times, as well as In the same letter, there is mention the CRL Rights Commission members. The mainstream media is not always of “the veracity of the allegations”. We want them to see how the Mission and to be trusted and I would be very This statement states the unfounded the communities have been blessed by careful to expect them to help me (untested) allegations already as God’s grace. Why don’t they come to visit “connect the dots.” A must-watch video accurate, true and a fact. Subsequently us?”, asks Dirk Combrink, spokesperson is, www.youtube.com https://youtu.be/ the KSB’s legal team expressed their WEdhiu4Hb91. Chief Justice Mogoeng dismay that “you (the Chairperson) of the Mission. Mogoeng exposing the media to the core: seemed to have already decided on the “Our constitution states that our media veracity of the allegations before even houses exist to inform, not misinform, meeting with our client”. the public … An injustice is an injustice, • Although the heading of the first letter regardless of who the perpetrator is.” clearly indicates that it is an invitation, the sentence, “further actions will be Was KSB treated impartially? taken”, in the last paragraph contains a subtle threat if the invitation is not As a linguistically inclined thinker, I picked accepted. up some intimidating language, lexical • When KSB attended the meeting on and logical semantics that were used to 7 October as per the invitation, they influence public opinion concerning the were surprised to learn that the hearing Mission. I noticed them in some of the had already been in session for two documentation, media reports, letters days. The media had their say on the from role players and decision-makers, second day, and the Chairperson then streaming of the hearings, and media also expressed his opinions on the case interviews (see sources below). then at a press conference. www.devotedmag.co.za 7

During media interviews with the “While the CRL, in terms of the are hurting badly. Workers, individuals, Chairperson of the CRL, the following CRL Act of 2002, has the power to and communities are impacted daily. comments were made by him: investigate any complaint referred to it and for this purpose, to conduct I had discussions with many people • ”… really, what’s happening in hearings, any such investigation and at KSB. What stood out for me was the KwaSizabantu is not religion. It’s what hearing need to comply with the damage caused, the hurt and the painful happens when somebody abuse(s) general principles for a fair hearing, experience of all the negative publicity religion or turns religion upside down.” including the rule of audi alteram impacting those dependent on KSB for partem (“let the other side be heard their livelihoods. • “…we expect even more explosive as well”). When these principles are testimonies of people who have had not adhered to (and, when they are A proper and fair hearing can only their experiences dashed in that be accomplished when everyone who institution (referring to KSB) and our repeatedly not adhered to), deserves to be heard is given a fair aim as a commission is to probe deeper, it can understandably give rise to, opportunity to tell their side of the story. to understand the extent and the or strengthen, the perception of Each party is entitled to a fair hearing gravity of the experiences and abuses bias against Christian churches and given the opportunity to respond to of human rights and religious rights; evidence against them. and whether or not these abuses and ministries”. (not allegations of abuses) can be Is this the case with KSB? You be the corroborated if possible.” (Advocate Nadene Badenhorst) judge on that! • “And what is even more disturbing KwaSizabantu has not yet had an Sources: is the caricature of individuals that opportunity to tell their side of the story, 1. Video, KwaSizabantu Mission: “Cult” allegations have been created by that institution but they have already been prejudged. (referring to KSB) and I don’t think The media has also played their role investigated (eNCA)) they do understand that the inner in shaping public opinion against the 2. Human Rights Violations: Police to take the stand disturbances, the inner convictions Mission. Meanwhile, KSB and its people that have been drawn out of that (eNCA)) environment have made them, some 3. https://youtube/watch?app=dessktop&v=KedP- of them social misfits.” ylYr84) (5 Oct 2020 Newzroom Africa) • “This one (KSB) treats the Constitutional 4. https://www.news24.com Rights as if it does not exist.” 5. https:www.enca.com.news.crl-commission-hearing 6. https://citizen.co.za.news) Note that some of the Utube videos have since been removed but is still available on request. What an expert says Advocate Nadene Badenhorst says, “There is no objection to the media being invited to a hearing where the witnesses will be given an opportunity to testify, if the party who must defend itself against the allegations, is also invited to the same hearing and has equal opportunity to hear the allegations made. It is a fundamental legal principle that a party has a right to know what case it has to meet, i.e. the allegations made, and evidence presented against, them. How else will they know how to counter the allegations and evidence against them? It would further not be fair to invite the media only to part of the hearing – from a legal ethical point of view, the media has the right to know (and should report also on) what the other party has to say in defense to the allegations made’. ‘In so far as the Commission’s own comments to the media are concerned, for as long as the hearing is still ongoing, the Commission should refrain from prejudging the matter and restrict their comments to information regarding what transpired at the hearing. It would only be appropriate to make comments on the merits of the matter, once both parties have had a full opportunity to present their case, the (whole) Commission has considered the evidence and made a decision”. (Advocate Nadene Badenhorst is a founder member of Freedom of Religion South Africa (FOR SA) and Advocate of the High Court of South Africa. In this capacity, she serves as the full-time Legal Counsel of FOR SA and has represented religious freedom rights in multiple court cases, including before the Constitutional Court.) 8 www.devotedmag.co.za

“If you are going to believe everything you read, then start reading the Bible.” (Unknown author) If you did not hear it from the horse’s mouth … …you heard it from a jackass! “Unfortunately, it has become difficult for the public to distinguish between fake news (nothing less than propaganda) and REAL news. The mainstream media provides a stage where journalists, through their coverage (or non- coverage) of incidents and events, mislead their audiences. An ethical journalist will get both sides of the story. The firmly established audi alteram partem rule also determines that a judge must lister to both sides of every case, also the defendant, before any judgments are made. ” Gerda Potgieter, managing editor of Devoted. The “good-news” magazine Read it online: www.devotedmag.co.za Read my articles, Unethical journalism impacts people’s livwews,w.idnevoItsesdumeag.2co8.za. 9

Ancheuaitrrpaerls,ounnshboiaulsdedre,maanind fair. The CRL Rights Commission T he background article on the KSB case One should keep in mind that an is a constitutional institution (see pages 4-6) raised a few questions important right is to be present in established in terms of section and Devoted zoomed into the direction any hearing where one is the “alleged 181(1)c) of the Constitution, given by the Commission as an institution perpetrator” (see S35(3)(e) of the and the actions of the Chairperson as its Constitution); and to adduce and challenge 1996, to strengthen face, especially during media interviews. The evidence (see S35(3)(i) of the Constitution), constitutional democracy. following questions are asked: e.g. by cross examination (as is done at the Zondo Commission). The Act determines the • Did the CRL Rights Commission chairperson must be totally Chairperson and his team show Michael Miller states the following, prejudice for or against any parties? “A party has a right to adduce and challenge independent and ensure evidence. It is unknown what the result of a compliance with natural • Was the Chairperson unbiased in his complete cross-examination may have been justice in all its dealings. role as the presiding officer of the first or how it may have affected the outcome As the presiding officer of “fact-finding” meeting with KSB? of the case. Whether it is because of the a meeting, a chairperson right of an accused person to adduce and should act impartially in • Was the Chairperson impartial, or did he challenge evidence in terms of s 35(3)(i) of carrying out his duties. act in a way that can be seen as treating the Constitution, or the right of a litigant in a This brings me to ask, did the some parties unequally? civil case to a fair public hearing in terms Chairperson of the CRL Rights of s 34 of the Constitution or whether it is Commission remain neutral, • Is there more to this case than meets because of the audi alteram partem rule, unbiased, and fair during the eye? a party has the right to be afforded an the fact-finding meetings opportunity to complete cross-examination regarding the KwaSizabantu • Can this be seen as a general attack on of a witness called by the other party Mission (KSB) case in October Christianity, as many believe? whose evidence is prejudicial or potentially prejudicial to him or her. Without that it last year? How important is it that a chairperson cannot be said that there was a fair trial.” (Completed cross-examination - A pre-requisite should be impartial? for a fair trial? DR, November 2013:28 [2013] DEREBUS 220). A chairperson should be fair and impartial towards all parties involved. A chairperson’s Is there more to this case than meets role and function within the confines of an enquiry are to represent neither of the eye? the attending parties. Facts presented by both parties must be considered before What happened in the CRL case, was that judgments are made. A chairperson must the “accusers” were allowed to testify with ensure that a fair process is followed so that impunity and in doing so violating the most both parties have an unbiased, equal, and basic and internationally recognised right to fair opportunity to present their cases to fairness. make an informed decision. One can ask the questions, “Why”? and The rights of the accused also include the “What is the agenda”? assistance of legal representation; stating the case before any decisions are made; and Is it perhaps (as was discussed in April having an impartial presiding officer chairing 2021 when the CRL appeared before a the meeting. In the press release after the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee) that this CRL original meetings, KwaSizabantu’s legal was a golden opportunity to promote the team stated that the Mission was not treated agenda to regulate churches? Is this an effort without bias (read full press statement by by the CRL to try to “ride the media wave?” following the link, https://m.youtube.com/ Cross examination of the accusers would watch?V=SG24GmZuxam). have defeated this object. Bias may lead to unreasonably My Christian friends are very outspoken about Christo phobia, which is used when turning down reasonable requests for someone refers to an irrational dislike, even hatred, for anything Christian. This includes representation or making findings (or all Christians and Christianity in general! sharing opinions with the media) on unsupported facts. 10 www.devotedmag.co.za

A friend says, “Look at who the attackers What experts say in this case are, and you immediately sense the animosity displayed by them. Advocate Nadene Badenhorst says, “It is a well-recognized It seems from the media streaming I legal principle that, for a hearing to be fair, the presiding officer must be recently saw that the CRL’s Chairperson unbiased and impartial. Importantly, the test for bias is not whether the has jumped on the nasty bandwagon. presiding officer is actually biased, but whether there is a reasonable They (KSB) don’t stand a chance to prove perception of bias - i.e. whether a reasonable, objective and informed their innocence through these platforms, and a godly intervention is needed here, person would, on the correct facts, reasonably conclude that the and very soon.” presiding officer will not bring an impartial mind to bear when deciding the KwaSizabantu has a right to be treated case, that is a mind open to persuasion and the arguments of the legal representatives. The presiding officer should be quick to recuse him-/herself, with fairness if there are any reasonable grounds to believe that he/she was not, will not Chairpersons have an important role to or cannot be, impartial. (President of the RSA vs SA Rugby Football Union play. They can make or break a hearing (Constitutional Court), 1999)’. as they provide the leadership. If they have firmly entrenched attitudes, it will ‘The CRL Act of 2002 itself echoes this principle by stating that the be difficult, even impossible, to change Commission “must be impartial and must exercise its powers and perform them. A chairperson must therefore have a clear understanding of what constitutes its functions without fear, favor or prejudice”. The same obligation rests apprehension of bias. on each individual member of the Commission (including therefore the Chairperson), who can be found guilty of misconduct in terms of the Act for KwaSizabantu has the right to a committee led by an effective chairperson compromising the impartiality of the Commission”. because his/her leadership is critical for the way the committee conducts ‘The KSB case is another instance of Christian churches and ministries that its business. The chairperson must have come under the spotlight and been investigated by the CRL in recent be completely neutral, impartial, and years, in response to allegations of abuse and malpractice. These instances objective to ensure a fair process is have been used by the CRL to justify, and drum up support for, its repeated allowed and both parties to the enquiry proposals for what effectively amounts to State regulation of religion. These have had an equal and fair opportunity in proposals, which some would regard as ‘an attack on Christianity’, have presenting their respective cases for the chairperson to make an informed decision. largely been rejected by the Christian community”. It helps a lot if the chairperson is tactful and approachable. (Advocate Nadene Badenhorst is a founder member of Freedom of Religion South Africa (FOR SA) and Advocate of the High Court of South Africa. In this capacity, she serves as the Only time will tell what the outcome of full-time Legal Counsel of FOR SA and has represented religious freedom rights in multiple the KSB hearing will be. However, what court cases, including before the Constitutional Court. Also watch the PEPUDA video series we know NOW is a proper and fair hearing can only be accomplished when everyone on www.forsa.org.za) involved is given a fair opportunity to tell their story. Was this the case with KSB? I Dr Kenneth Meshoe says, “We as Christians do not fight against will let our readers decide for themselves. flesh and blood, but it is a spiritual fight, and an orchestrated attack. It is Below (in the block) are just a few videos not about KwaSizabantu, but about religious freedom. The government’s to watch that will bring you to the proposed PEPUDA bill will bring oppression upon the church in SA. It is the answers. greatest threat to religious freedom we have ever faced in this country. We can stop this proposed bill from becoming law, but the ball is in our hands, Sources: 1. Blog.seesa.co - The Importance of an impartial and we have to take action”. chairperson) Dr Kenneth Meshoe is a respected Christian leader and president of the African 2. Strata-G’s newsletter on the importance of an Christian Democratic Party (ACDP). Visit, www.acdp.org and read more about the proposed impartial chairperson) PEPUDA bill. 3. http://crlcommission.org.za 4. https://ewn.co.za>topic>crl-rightscommission 5. For more information on the PEPUDA Bill, visit www.acdp.org.za or click on http://www.acdp.org. zo/2021/06/18/help-us-protect-religious-freedoms- oppose-the-perpuda-bill/ The following media interviews held with the Chairperson, of the CRL Rights Commission, also form part of our sources: https://www.facebook.com/newzroom405/ videos/2584405381872195 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=wVnklxBpkQQ (eNCA) https://m.ouube.com/watch?v=iOAua6TaGcm (Note that some of the U-tube videos and life streams have since been removed from the Internet) www.devotedmag.co.za 11

FEBA, another Good News success story EBC’s story began over 75 years ago implemented in Malawi and Mozambique, with Chad and Mali next on the list. FEBA South Africa, a with two youngsters, Bob Bowman and John Broger. While studying at the The same model was also implemented in non-profit Christian FCalifornia Bible College they started Russia and Ukraine for minority groups in rural media organisation a missionary radio station in the Philippines areas. Designated programs and equipped that originally broadcasted the gospel into group leaders help to spread the Word to neighbouring villages, which gradually leads and member of FEBC China and other southeast Asian countries to the forming of new groups. The clubs where missionary activity was prohibited. function as a vital social and support network for the radio ministries. International (Far East They obtained funding to start FEBC in 1945, and the rest, as they say, is history. Today FEEDBACK FROM LISTENERS Twenty FEBC listeners and new believers Broadcasting Company), the organisation broadcasts the gospel to were recently baptised in Chad, and one over 50 countries in more than 130 different wrote, “I am so happy to listen to your languages daily; and more than 9 million programs, that are a source of strength is aimed at spreading listeners provide feedback annually through to me. I will continue to raise awareness different means of communication. among young people so that they can the Gospel and inspire FEBA South Africa, based in Pretoria, also know Christ.” people through radio, is headed by National Director, Dr Jurie Buurmaa from Mongolia wrote, “First internet, and other Vermeulen. Radio and online broadcasts, of all, I truly appreciate you all for smart phone applications, and speaker boxes broadcasting such effective programs media platforms. To with memory cards are only a few of the tools to make happy and healthy Mongolian which FEBA uses to spread the Gospel of families possible. I am a widow. The radio expand their reach Jesus Christ to the hardest-to-reach nations gives me hope and a friendship. I like of the world. Social media is one of the most telling people to listen to Family Radio throughout Africa, effective tools which they use to share fact- FM 104.5”. based news, information, thought provoking Enguun (also from Mongolia) says, “Due to they have successfully content and spread the gospel. Various other the program I have learnt how to interact digital mediums are also constantly being with listeners, and ask questions, I have won many prizes at school because of implemented an Africa’s explored. FEBA is at the forefront of ground- this. I recently won 2nd prize at a speech breaking digital evangelism and the results contest.” Listeners’ Club model show that many lives are being impacted daily through their ministry. (Subscribe to FEBAs newsletter online which has also How do you reach an entire village? for more information and testimonies). been duplicated FEBA implemented the Africa’s Listeners’ Club, a model that allows them to reach villages Link to Sign up for the Newsletter: in unreached with success. The model was implemented https://febaradio.co.za to ensure growth and facilitate long-term eastern countries. discipleship of new believers. The Listeners’ Club, where a group of people simultaneously listen to broadcasts, proves to be the best model for outside broadcasts in African villages. These groups consist of between 5-50 people, and the model has been successfully 12 www.devotedmag.co.za

Communicating the Good News “A single radio can help reach someone who has not yet heard about the Lord Jesus. For only R750-00 you can buy a radio and donate another”. You can partner with FEBA’s ministry by making a financial gift. This way you contribute to the Gospel’s life-giving message of hope and uplifting information to people who urgently need it. You can contribute to our mission if the Spirit of God leads you to support us financially in the following ways: By phone: Contact our team on 012- 335-5708. Online: Visit https://febaradio.co.z/partner.html EFT: Use one of the following accounts to make a deposit or electronic transfer: Standard Bank, Gezina: Branch code: 014845 / Account number: 201084775 ABSA Bank, Ben Swart Street. Branch code: 632005 / Account number: 4055313541 Committed giving: Send an email to [email protected] and we help you fill out a debit order form. A gift in your will: Contact us to continue your legacy of sharing the Gospel with the least reached. App Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/ details?id=com.FEBA.FebaRadio Subscribe to our newsletter online. https://febaradio.co.za/email-sign-up.html www.devotedmag.co.za 13

Meet a Jack of all mtraadesstewrhionisg all! MI recently found a diamond zisi is a very talented youngster who It is not easy for people from impoverished in the rough in an joined the radio station in 2008. rural communities to break the cycle. But Mzisi He fulfils many roles at the station is living proof that it is possible if you put your but being a presenter is top of his list. He likes mind to it. He did not give up on his studies, unexpected place - Radio to help where he can and even works in the and despite hardships, he finished school, became a teacher, and later joined Radio Khwezi (morning star in garden when the gardener does not turn up! Khwezi permanently. Zulu), a community radio He is a passionate writer, and he glowed as he explained how much he enjoys writing scripts Mzisi is especially thankful to Radio Khwezi’s for the station. He has also authored eight management for allowing local community station in the heart of books already! He was recently notified that members to showcase their talents. His work he has been prenominated in the first annual at the station has allowed him to create a KwaZulu-Natal that draws Book Behind Awards - an eThekwini initiative. foundation that helps other impoverished, talented youngsters with school registration talent from the community. This man is an inspiration and an hour in his fees and uniforms. Two of his many outreach company is so uplifting! His life experiences projects include a poetry competition and a His full name is Mzikayise include taking care of his family’s cattle as a spelling competition. This is his way of paying young boy because his parents could not pay it forward and helping the next generation Ndlovu, but after becoming school fees; struggling to attend and finish develop their God-given talents. “But it is all for God’s glory”, says the humble young man. friends, I call him Mzisi school due to an endless lack of finances; “If I see my neighbour happy, then it is when I “because life is too short for working in other people’s gardens to get am happy.” money to further his schooling; starting primary school and finishing two grades in The value of community radio stations lies in long names”. His giggle at one year; and eventually ending up at Radio the fact that it improves the livelihood of the community members it operates in. It plays a my remark is confirmation Khwezi as a guest when he was in Grade 11. significant role at a grassroots level for rural of his good sense of humour, Here he could demonstrate his passion for development. It speaks to its listeners in their drama, poetry, acting, and presenting. language, helps to build a sense of community Mzisi also shared his love of photography and, most importantly, informs and uplifts its and his eagerness to become with me and left me a voicemail, “I would love listeners. Radio Khwezi is a success story to become involved with a magazine such as and lives up to its motto, “Changing lives, better at all he does is Devoted, especially to take photos.” So, I took giving hope”. evident for all to see. him around one day to explore the potential, and I was amazed at his performance – I am convinced he is a world-class photographer in the making. And I would like to be part of his journey! Note from the editor: Radio Khwezi is a non-profit radio station that has its roots in serving the rural communities. The station is based at the KwaSizabantu Mission and receives tremendous support from the Mission. They are one of South Africa’s most successful and largest rural community radio stations; they serve the north coast and KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and broadcast to more than 100,000 listeners. The station’s essence is built on Christian values, and the station manager, Daniel Wunderlich, says, “ It is our vision to uplift our communities and to improve their lives.” To learn more about this incredible community radio station, visit www.khwezi.org.za. 14 www.devotedmag.co.za

BACHELOR OF EDUCATION FOUNDATION PHASE TEACHING ENROL NOW FOR 2022 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.CEDAR.AC.ZA T. 032 492 0600 • [email protected] MISSION KWASIZABANTU www.devotedmag.co.za 15

The publication WE AIM TO BE A VESSEL TO INFORM, INSPIRE AND EDUCATE A WIDE AUDIENCE TO LIVE A FULFILLED LIVE. WE ARE COMMITTED TO - • Providing good and informative articles. • Being a trusted source of information and positive news. • Providing our readers with opportunities for personal growth. • Encouraging our readers to leaving a legacy. • Facilitating the building of spiritual strengths. • Equipping and empowering people to become better servants of others. OUR CORE VALUES ARE A FUNDAMENTAL BELIEVE IN: • God almighty • Ethical values • The importance of family • Respect for others • Trustworthiness, & honesty • Helping those less fortunate • Authenticity • Speaking out against social ills “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” (Martin Luther King Jr) 16 www.devotedmag.co.za