Dual identity is seen as practicing both of your parents customs and traditions for example white/Indian, with my case I describe it based on my Tswana and Christianity beliefs where I learn from. In this piece I will consider Tswana oral tradition and Seventh-day Adventist church teachings of Christian behaviour and duties as both my primary and secondary beliefs. These beliefs shaped my life from birth, during puberty even now they still persuade my behaviour as a responsible and accountable young adult.

First of all, the Tswana oral tradition as my primary beliefs helped with my cognitive and body development. The folklores, praise songs and Proverbs Tswana elders shared challenged our minds to solve problems and apply the archetypes behaviour/morals from the folklores. After a (child) newborn delivery, elders perform rituals which are meant to protect the child throughout their life and also helps in their body development. Therefore the oral tradition helped me with learning at school and interacting with the society. 

The second belief I consider is the Seventh-day Adventist church teachings of the body as a temple of the holy spirit. Most of the Adventist members are vegetarians, they're not drinking alcohol nor smoke. This belief shaped my healthy lifestyle as I consider my body as a temple of the holy spirit and it also keeps me away from toxic, manipulative or unhealthy relationships. It enabled me to help others improve their lifestyles, teach them about responsibility and accountability and support them instead of judging them. 

In conclusion my dual identity has contributed in how I see the world, interact with others and make the impact within the society. The results includes peace in the society and personal growth. This is displayed by people abstaining from recreational substances which causes distraction in the society after communicating and encouraging with them. It has also motivated my feminist traits as I believe in equality, as the same as the one that God provides us with.  

A day in my life: Initiation school induction day

The sky was painted with the colors,representing the dawn, A new day for hearing the birds chirping in their nests. The moment were I felt blessed for seeing the people I love and ready to cherish and make them proud. ”Dumela montlenyane wa me ,ke solofela fa o itse gore mosadi ke seke wa letsatsi”-meaning a woman brings light and brightness into people’s lives, that’s how my father greeted me that day.

The township was filled with excitement as young girls prepared for their journey to the initiation school The beat of the drums indicating the departure of the initiates was all one could hear. Unlike some girls, I was happy as a dog seeing a bone. It felt like the weight of the world is lifted from my shoulder as I thought of being called a woman instead of an ordinary girl. My patience of embarking on a new journey, I could not hear words of encouragement my parents offered.

One hour later, my mother knocked to help me wear my traditional garment. The garment was made from cowhide. It’s texture was firm to the touch, conveying a sense of strength and residence of the cow’s skin. The wrinkles, scars ,and grain patterns reminiscent of the cows life and journey and similarly to that of a woman.

Just before the dusk made it’s way in the village ,we the initiates gathered to start the journey. Young women’s expression conveyed both fear and determination. It was only not only a physical journey but a deep spiritual and cultural awakening. The elders guided our path as we set off on our path. The villagers ululated with joy, knowing we will return better shaped for the future.

Along the way as the induction process started, none of the preparations or expectations had truly excited or motivated me. I found myself in danger and chaos and every fibre of my being screamed for escape. Strict rules and instructions, felt like a prison from which I longed to break free. I planned , weighed risks and considered every possible obstacle. “The journey ahead leads to your grave” said to myself.

Deliberately, I started with my plan, I talked to myself, played with the sand and everything surrounding me. I physically assaulted my fellow initiates and swore at them. The guiders had enough with my madness and called the council to decide my fate. For once, I saw the heaven open as I heard the words I longed for. Free at last, I used my madness skills for the last time and ran until I reached home. I couldn’t even survive a night at the initiation school.

Learn to cherish each moment as it is a and don’t compare yourself with other regardless the social status, value or personality.

THE ROLE OF OTHERNESS IN EXACERBATING SOCIAL INEQUALITY AND IT’S IMPACT ON MARGINALIZED GROUPS IN AFRICA

In many Africans countries there is “urban-rural gap "which causes urban-rural otherness, this exacerbates inequalities in access to resources, services and opportunities. Otherness refers to the perspective of viewing or treating people differently based on their seen lack of power, values compared to privileged groups.

Factors such as race, gender, religion and ability influence an individual's perception and interaction of otherness.

INSIGHTS FROM CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHE’S: THE DANGER OF A SINGLE STORY

Adiche misunderstood their helper's situation as she was told ‘they had nothing to eat” by her mother's. This changed her perception about rural people and how she interacted with them until she saw their capabilities. Adiche's roommates' perception that Africans cannot speak fluent English contributed to the marginalization of Africa.

 MY PERSONAL INSIGHTS; IMPACTS OF OTHERNESS AT NORTHERN CAPE PROVINCE

In South Africa, Northern Cape was viewed as a deprived region until they found out that it has many mines. This affected individuals who were endeavoring to demonstrate the economic viability of the Northern Cape province as the chief rejected the RDP housing, encouraged use of traditional herbs instead of western medication due to pride.

In conclusion, education and awareness about different cultures, identities and perspective should be included in academic learning. Discrimination acts should be amended and addressed in ensuring equality.