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20 December 2022 | Story Gerda-Marié van Rooyen | Photo Supplied
Crystal-Donna Roberts
Crystal-Donna Roberts is a multifaceted lady. She appears regularly in soaps and is now a published author too. Speurder Sammi, an Afrikaans book written for early teens, explores themes such as anxiety, trauma, and pain.

She loved mysteries from a young age. Growing up, Crystal- Donna Roberts was fond of Columbo and Murder she wrote. Roberts, who graduated with a BA Drama and Theatre Arts in 2005, says she had always liked the tricky puzzles Scooby-Doo and Nancy Drew had to solve. She eagerly joined them on their missions page by page. Being an actress and having a busy schedule in front of cameras, Roberts actively decided to put time aside last year to write while participating in the Jakes Gerwel mentorship programme for upcoming authors. A lifelong dream came true when she wrote her debut novel, Speurder Sammi: Die blou steen (Detective Sammi: The blue stone). Tafelberg published her mystery-based story, which Roberts launched in September.

“Sammi is a teenager who lives with her artist aunt Valerie. The duo went on holiday visiting Oumie and Dedda in the Northern Cape. Although Sammi will miss her friends, April and Lerato, she is looking forward to a change of scenery. It will also distract her mind from the anticipation of waiting for acceptance at an art school she fancies. However, rural towns are full of surprises – and chancers.”

“There are teenage memories we seldom forget. The memory of growing pains is still vivid in my mind. I recall it and draw inspiration from it.”

Roberts doesn’t have set rituals when she writes. “I allow myself to do what my body and soul likes. Sometimes this means simply sitting down and enjoying a cup of tea.” Looking back on her fellowship, she discovered her love for creating new worlds and allowing the story to develop a storyline of its own. “I’ve learned I still have a lot to learn – this excites me. I also learned the importance of deadlines, even though they are scary.”

The former UFS student says she chose the Northern Cape as the setting for her story as it is one of the most beautiful parts of our country. “It is one of the prettiest parts of our country. I wanted my character to explore new horizons, but to remain between her loved ones when she goes through her healing and strengthening process.” Although Roberts is determined to write her second book, the details are still unknown. In the meantime, she enjoys reading Walter Russel’s The Secret of Light. She draws inspiration from Andrew Davidson’s The Gargoyle. “Apart from the story that deeply resonates with me, I can appreciate the detail in the story and Davidson’s writing style.”

To enquire about stockists selling Speurder Sammi, visit www.nb.co.za.

Presenter and television, theatre and film actress, Roberts is currently starring in kykNET’s drama series, Fraksie. She is also known for her roles in 7de Laan, Getroud Met Rugby, Montana, Vallei van Sluiers, Krotoa, and The Endless River.

News Archive

UFS to implement a policy on HIV and Aids
2005-03-14

The Council of the University of the Free State (UFS) approved the implementation of a policy on HIV and AIDS.

“With this policy we recognise the seriousness of the HIV and AIDS epidemic and the potential impact this disease can have on both the UFS and the wider society.  We are committed to addressing HIV and AIDS in a positive, supportive and non-discriminatory approach by providing resources and leadership to implement HIV and AIDS university-based, as well as community outreach programmes,” said Dr Ezekiel Moraka, Vice-Rector:  Student Services at the UFS.

The objectives of the policy include:

  • The protection of individual rights of confidentiality and freedom from discrimination.

  • The promotion of a sustained educational programme that provides counseling and current accurate information to the University community and to the outside community.

  • The promotion of behaviors that reduce or minimise the risk of acquiring HIV infection and generally create a safe environment.

  • The provision of leadership in teaching, research and community service on HIV and AIDS and its impact.

  • The provision of leadership in promoting the human rights based approach to HIV and AIDS, and thereby also breaking down the stigma attached to the illness.

“The policy also makes provision for the establishment of a Centre for HIV and AIDS within Kovsie Health.  This centre will render HIV and AIDS related support services and initiatives to the whole campus,” said Dr Moraka.

According to Dr Petro Basson, head of the Centre for HIV and AIDS at the UFS, there is less than 1% incidence of HIV positive cases amongst undergraduate students on the main and Vista campuses.  All these students take part in a voluntary confidential counseling and testing programme (VCCT).  In the case of postgraduate students, there is about 1% incidence on both campuses.

“The Centre for HIV and AIDS has led in the development of information campaigns and workshops for students and staff to make them aware of the risks of HIV and AIDS and the necessary measures to ensure their safety.  We have found that, because students have access to the right information, they are more cautious when it comes to HIV and AIDS.  Awareness campaigns are also conducted throughout the year – especially during rag and intervarsity,” said Dr Basson.

“Some departments have also taken the lead in introducing aspects of HIV and AIDS into academic programmes while important research on the HIV and AIDS topic has already been completed and receives continuous attention,” said Dr Basson.

To achieve a coordinated approach, a Life Skills Forum will be established consisting of representatives of among others the Student Representative Council (SRC), academic departments, trade unions, Kovsie Counseling and Development, etc.

“With this policy the UFS pledges its commitment to participate actively in the fight against the disease,” said Dr Moraka.

Issued by: Lacea Loader
Media Representative
Tel:   (051) 401-2584
Cell:  083 645 2454
E-mail:  loaderl.stg@mail.uovs.ac.za
14 March 2005

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