My Yahoo email. It’s where I’ve kept some of my work when I was a journalism student and intern in the marketing, communication and development unit at Walter Sisulu University. That email has other important personal items such as my student number, attempts at poems and writing a book.

The constant reminder that I’m a father and husband, who is loved by my wife Lulama and children Uya (8), Lihle (2) and Yamie (11 months). Even when I’m down, when I think about them and their role in my life, I realise how blessed I am to have them.

Don’t let your problems define who you are. Embrace them and strive to achieve your dreams.

Expert in the field of international relations. This was my first career choice, but I ended in journalism thanks to my brother, Nkosinathi, whom I consider to be a true journalist. 

I think growing up in villages gave me no choice but to survive – so this question doesn’t apply when having to do my work. Same applies when enjoying my leisure time. For example, I will not sleep so I can catch a boxing fight, and will wake up early to watch sport.

Never forget who you are, where you come from and what you represent – no matter what.

So many times I’ve been hurt doing dumb things but I still consider playing football barefoot in a playground littered with rocks when I was growing up as the dumbest thing ever. But I would always go back there and play.

Diplomacy Theory and Practice. The Fourth Edition. I’m not into fiction.

I’ve always been fascinated by the global interaction of states. The interest stems from reading my brother’s history books during my high school days. Experiencing the real, practical activities in the field will be a nice addition to my career. 

Chiefs v Pirates derby. In fact, I just find it difficult to watch local football. Period. I used to love it when growing up but the standard has dropped.

Try to ensure my children achieve their dreams, pay respect to my ancestors and perform as many traditional ceremonies as possible.

That some among us, who are paraded and elevated to the status of being intellectuals, are actually survivalists feeding off the status quo. 

That the moment that my parents prepared me for will ultimately come to fruition. That the time to play youthful games will come and go.

Understanding the importance of setting priorities and sticking to the budget.

Wasting time on fruitless activities, and meaningless and pointless choices.

I’d cut my salary and benefits to set an example for others – and implement the same in phases for ministers, MECs and mayors. I’d redirect those to NGOs in farming, rural and townships to help set up programmes to assist and uplift the poor.

Movie: The Pursuit of Happyness. 

So many. But I guess pig’s intestines [braai-ed and cooked depending on the part] when I was a young boy in the villages.

The awkward “love and hate” relationship between Lihle and Yamie. 

Always considering myself as a sportsman. I used to play soccer and cricket when growing up. But, now that’s just in my mind.