TV: 'UP South Africa' cast turn 35

The interesting @AlJazeera docu-series' participants are turning 35 years old this year.

Thought about them today on this #FreedomDay and where they are & their thoughts on SA now.

Here are the ones in the series that I find interesting

Katlego

- at 7 went to an all-white school & couldnt speak black language though he lived in Soweto
- at 14 moved to the burbs
- at 21 was at UJ
- at 28, still no black friends (or he doesnt invite them to his place). Not clear whether he speaks a black language. Got a job.

Frans

The most optimistic of the bunch. From 7, he had dreams. Like many, growing up in Alex, he just wanted to be rich and get out.

14- wanted to be a soccer star
21 - wanted to be an actor
28 - Unemployed and a father. Still living in Alex but he dreams of a better life

Lunga

Like Katlego, born in the township & went to a white school. But, his life turned differently.

14 - hospitalised after being hit by a bottle
21 - UJ but didnt care much for his studies
28 - dropped out of varsity & lives at home. Steady girlfriend his main achievement

Luyanda

Not much has changed in his life by 28. Still lived in the township and enjoys his beer. BUT, we learn his girlfriend was murdered.

7 - living in a hostel in CPT township
14 - Back in the village
21 - Father and unemployed
28 - Employed & earns under R700 a week.

Andiswa

Tragically, Andiswa ends up dying of a disease she feared & divorced her cheating husband to avoid.

7 - lives in hostel & friends with Luyanda
14 - Back in the village with Luyanda
21 - Divorced, living in township
28 - She died of Aids leaving a child