Elias Aba Milki - 2010 (Ethiopia/USA)

What were you studying/Where were you working?

I was working for the Watson Fellowship together with community based organisations around the world that use hip hop to benefit their community. Heal the Hood in Cape Town.

What are you currently doing (Work, studies, etc)?

I am currently working in Uganda for the “Breakdance Project” both in the northern town of Gulu as well as Kampala. I facilitate filming workshops for the organisation from using the camera to editing. The members of these organisations make short films about themselves and the beneficial use of hip hop in their community. Once in a while, I interview Ethiopian and Eritrean immigrants in the different countries I work in order to derive a better idea about why we leave our countries and what would make us go back.

Most memorable experience at Bush Radio

I had many memorable experiences at the station. I also remember Bassie leaving me alone in the studio during his live show, which gave me the opportunity to learn how the studio works. Bassie taught me so much he truly became a friend and a mentor. I also filled in for Denisia on the Morning Cruise for a week where I met amazing activists and artists. Furthermore, I joined Sive and Freedom on Everyday People for good music and good talking. On the fun side, I had a chance to braai on my own at the Bush Radio Braai.

I can go further to add about the fun I had reporting from different protests for the news team, the great conversations about politics and music with Busi, cracking jokes and conversing with my desk neighbour Adrian, buying the unhealthiest lunch with Victor on a daily basis and learning about the struggle from Brenda and Bassie. Finally, I will always remember the cold late Friday night walks from Bush with Wanda after Headwarmaz. I saw South Africa through Bush Radio and made revolutionary, funny, creative, loyal, smart and dedicated friends. A part of me will always be in the halls of Bush Radio; even my ghost might join the other Bush Radio ghosts.

Most memorable experience of South Africa

I remember playing football so poorly during my stay in Eastridge, and waiting for 4 hours for food at Mzoli's with Sive and Freedom only to realize that we didn't have enough money to buy a good amount of meat.

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