While millions of South Africans are counting down the days to when we can all return to normal life –it doesn’t seem like this will be the case anytime soon.
As the fight against the coronavirus continues, the world at large is carving a new normal which may be the future for many in countries that remain under lockdown restrictions.
A number of citizens globally have crossed off once-in-a-lifetime milestones and occasions while having to observe social distancing regulations.
From having weddings officiated over a Zoom call, to grieving loved ones over video call, we take a look at some of the things which have migrated online since the whole world began social distancing.
1. Tying the knot online
In America, New Yokers can gear up for Zoom weddings. According to NBC, the state governor Andrew Cuomo signed an executive order amending New York state law to allow people to obtain their marriage license applications and marriage licenses through video calls.
While this is not the case locally, some have already had their wedding over Zoom, regardless.
2. Virtual funerals
In Moscow, Russia, the number of people attending funerals dropped from an average number of 50 to eight as the city became Russia’s epicenter of the coronavirus and suffered stringent lockdown restrictions. Artyom Yemikov, the head of Moscow’s largest funeral company, Ritual told Vedomosti business daily that the demand “for remote services increased significantly” and they have held over 100 livestream broadcasts since April.
3. Virtual prom
The US state of Ohio saw a prom night which facilitated the rite of passage for their 500 senior students of Twinsburg High School class of 2020.
Participants streamed the evening on Instagram using their phones and computers. Some attended “together via Zoom.” Saving many the pretty penny they had saved for their limo rides and designer dresses.
4. Online graduation
Due to lockdown many local universities have had to do virtual graduations for their students.
While universities and colleges such as University of Cape Town and Damelin have decided to suspend their 2020 graduations, others such as University of the Western Cape have hosted virtual graduations for their students.
Read more: I had a virtual graduation ceremony because of coronavirus – and this is how it felt
5. Learning from home
In Mzansi millions of parents are splitting their heads while playing teacher and caretaker during these trying times. Many schools have decided to go the online route and this has affected many parents and children who have had to adjust to the unexpected change.
Read more: Four learners on their lockdown online school experience
