Ten signs that you are a Lowvelder
The people from the place of the rising sun - that's us!
MBOMBELA – Mpumalanga is known as the place of the rising sun. For those of us who live in the Lowveld, the sun is always shining. Apart from its breathtaking beauty, the Lowveld is also known for its people. Lowvelders are a lovely, unique bunch.
These seven phrases and their descriptions depict some of Lowvelders’ unique outlooks on life.
1. What heat?
Wikipedia describes the Lowveld as “bloody hot.” Those of us who live here get used to the climate. As a result, a Lowvelder is usually the one with a jersey when Highvelders reckon that it’s a good day to wear a t-shirt.
2. It can happen tomorrow – life is not a race
The nickname “Slowvelders” depicts our relaxed approach to life.
3. Appreciate it – it’s yours
Although we live in one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions, we don’t get used to it. When driving to work, Lowvelders can see green hills in the distance. And we appreciate it every day.
4. We stand together for good
Our community is one that stands together. Time after time, a local comes up with a noble idea, which we support wholeheartedly. Bossie’s Community Justice is just one example of how Lowvelders that unite for a cause can make a difference.
5. Who doesn’t skinder?
“They” say that Lowvelders skinder an awful lot. If we comment on someone who skinders a lot, that would be skinder-ing. Let’s leave it at that.
6. I’m almost Mosambican
We live closer to Mozambique’s shores than to our own. When going to Mozambique, you’ll spot the Lowvelder – it’s the one who looks quite at home over there.
7. ‘S all right
We’re satisfied people. Who needs hustle and bustle and a hub of activity? Life in the Lowveld is simple – and simply good enough.
8. Oh yes, THAT guy! I know him…
Many of us live in Mbombela – a city with more than 3 million people. Yet there is something familiar about the place and its people. The Lowveld offers visitors and residents some small-town warmth.
9. We are braai masters
South Africans love to braai. Lowvelders are completely obsessed with it. We braai. We would have done it daily if we could. Maybe three times a day. The Lowveld also holds the record for the world’s biggest braai.
10. Three cars in a row?
It’s considered a traffic jam around here! We don’t do traffic jams that last hours. That’s why our quality of living is something we treasure dearly. People from Gauteng have a good laugh when Mbombela drivers complain that they were stuck in traffic – for a full five minutes.
