Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-05-17 i Saturday Star

Dating in your thirties is a whole new ballgame. It’s not just dating, it’s intentional, emotionally charged, and often frustrating. After all, the carefree, experimental nature of dating in your twenties has given way to a more focused approach, one that reflects your growth, evolving priorities, and the harsh realities of modern relationships. But why does dating feel so difficult in this age bracket? Is it the smaller dating pool? The emotional baggage we accumulate over time? Or the social pressure to “settle down”? Why is dating after 30 so challenging? The dating pool shrinks By the time you hit 30, a significant portion of your peers may already be married, engaged, or in committed relationships. According to a 2022 report by Statistics South Africa, over 50% of South African…

I don’t know about you, but seeing Vince Vaughn on screen is always a treat. From Wedding Crashers to Dodgeball, the man’s unmatched comedic timing makes him a walking punchline with heart. So it was surprising (in a good way) to see him in something a little more grounded and heartfelt. Vaughn’s been lighting up our screens since the mid-’90s, but Netflix’s Nonnas lets him flex some emotional muscle we rarely see. And you know what? He pulls it off. Nonnas, based on a true story, is a love letter to the women who’ve kept families full, connected and comforted for generations: grandmothers, mothers, aunties. And through food, glorious, healing, life-giving food. From homemade pasta to the kind of soup that could cure a heartbreak, the film wraps you up…

The Bulls host the Dragons today at Loftus Versfeld, and while they will tearfully recall former teammate Cornal Hendricks, they will also understand that he would have wanted nothing more than an emphatic performance in his memory. The 37-year-old Hendricks passed away on Wednesday from an ongoing heart condition. He had been playing a key role for the Boland Cavaliers in the SA Cup, and his Boland and Bulls teammates will take heart in knowing that he continued to do what he loved most — play rugby. The Cavaliers, fittingly, have secured promotion to the Premier Division of the imminent Currie Cup. Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone stated that Hendricks had been receiving the best possible medical care for the condition that had troubled him for some time. “I need to…

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has rejected rumours claiming that double grant payments will be made in June, describing the reports as completely false and misleading. This comes following reports that claimed that grant recipients would receive double payments next month, a message that has been spreading rapidly, particularly on social media. In a statement issued to the media this week, the agency said it was "concerned about the mushrooming and the rapid spread of fake news and disinformation targeting the Agency and its services almost daily". SASSA further said that the spread of such misinformation is intended to mislead, cause panic, and create false hope among beneficiaries and the public at large. "SASSA can make it categorically clear that there has been no announcement made for double…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced on Friday that it plans to appeal the recent acquittal of televangelist Timothy Omotoso, following legal opinions indicating reasonable prospects of success. This development comes after Omotoso and two co-accused were cleared of numerous sexual offences last month, a verdict that has prompted a vocal response from lawmakers and victims' advocates alike. National Director of Public Prosecutions, Shamila Batohi, revealed the NPA’s intentions during a briefing for the justice and constitutional development portfolio committee. Batohi stated that the NPA has formally requested clarification from the trial judge regarding factual findings in the judgment, an essential step prior to launching a formal appeal. She said although the judgment has been a setback, she underscored that it should not distract from the real work being done…

In the decades since apartheid ended, one of the lingering questions that continues to quietly shape conversations — often behind closed doors — is this: what really happened to white people in South Africa and Namibia? It is a question loaded with discomfort, political risk, and emotional complexity. But it must be confronted, not to divide, but to understand, to heal, and ultimately, to move forward as a country still scarred by a deliberately engineered racial order. Let us begin with a difficult truth: “whiteness” itself is a construct, one built for power, not for identity. It is not a culture. It is not ancestry. It is not a shared language or history. Whiteness was invented to justify hierarchy, exclusion, and economic dominance under colonialism and apartheid. Today, that very…

Just one day before its Tuesday opening ceremony, the Cannes Film Festival changed the rules of its always- controversial dress code, in a move certain to send celebrity stylists into anaphylactic shock. Nudity is barred from the red carpet “for reasons of decency”. Fair enough. This seems intended to stop any stunts like Bianca Censori’s naked outfit with Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, at the Grammys this year. Far more worrying – at least to drama-loving celebs – is the new ban on “voluminous outfits.” The rules specifically call out “those with a large train, that hinder the proper flow of traffic of guests and complicate seating in the theatre.” What does this mean? How big is voluminous? How long must a train be to hold up traffic? How…

Nickelodeon is about to experience the charm and sass of the Pretty Girl from Jo’burg as Tyla gears up to host the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. The 23-year-old South African sensation is breaking barriers, left, right and centre, continuing to dominate 2025. Nickelodeon has announced that the Grammy-award-winning superstar will host the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, which will take place on June 21 at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. The Water hitmaker is also nominated for Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for WizTheMc and bees & honey’s Show Me Love, on which Tyla is featured. The singer is no stranger to the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards; in 2024, she was nominated for Favourite Global Music Star, Favourite Breakout Artist and Favourite Viral Song Water.…

At just 24 years old, Liam Jacobs has emerged as one of the youngest and most determined voices in South Africa's political landscape. Known for his strong stance on accountability and his growing influence in parliamentary oversight, Jacobs recently drew attention for flagging financial discrepancies in Netball South Africa's record. His journey from student activist to the national stage reflects a steady climb rooted in community, conviction and a commitment to change. Speaking to Saturday Star, he recalls his early fascination with politics, which dates back to his youth in Kimberley, Northern Cape, where he hails from. Growing up in a province which Jacobs says is often overlooked during national discussions, he developed a keen awareness of the socio-political challenges. “When you have that understanding of where I come from,…

At 17, Joyce Malindi won her first beauty contest under the suffocating limits of apartheid South Africa. Fifty-five years later, she was back on the catwalk, silver curls gleaming and brown clogs clicking, in a pageant for grandmothers only. The event in Thokoza outside of Johannesburg featured prayers, speeches and a performance against domestic violence, a national scourge. But the main attraction was on the red carpet stretching down the community hall where grandmothers paraded with pride in a competition that is rare among the host of others for younger women. “This takes me way back, brings my youth back,” Malindi, a great-grandmother of five, said, breaking into a joyful jig to Happy Mama by legendary jazz musician Hugh Masekela. In this version of a beauty contest there were no…

Acclaimed SA director, Mike van Graan’s new production, The Good White has theatre tongues wagging. The bold new play and gripping drama runs at The Market Theatre from May 8 to June 1. Set in 2016 during the height of the #FeesMustFall protests – a time when South African students were demanding free, decolonised education while the country was reeling from political scandals and corruption – the play brings together four sharply drawn characters, portrayed by an all-star cast: Russel Savadier, Renate Stuurman, Vusi Kunene, and Shonisani Masutha. As the characters navigate a volatile social and political landscape, they are each pushed to re-examine what it means to live in a South African society still healing from its divided past. At the centre of the play is Professor Simon…

Just over 74% of South Africa’s electricity still comes from burning coal. In 2021, the country negotiated the Just Energy Transition Partnership with Germany, the UK, France, the US and the EU. They committed to providing South Africa with $8.5 billion (R157bn) to move away from coal to renewable energy. (In March 2025, US President Donald Trump withdrew the US and its share of the funding, about $1.5bn, or R27.7bn, from the arrangement.) Researcher Nqobile Xaba talks to The Conversation Africa about how the partnership is going. What has the partnership done so far? After its launch in 2021, the Just Energy Transition Partnership attracted additional pledges from the Netherlands, Denmark, Canada, Spain and Switzerland. The total amount pledged is now $11.8 billion (R218bn). Although the US has pulled out,…

As consumers continue to battle with making ends meet, income is being eroded by inflation, and jobs are being lost, one solution is to start a side gig. Research indicates that between 14% and 16% of middle-income households earn additional income from one or more side hustles, according to loan provider DirectAxis. This comes as debt is increasing, with DebtBusters stating that, as of the first quarter of this year, 91% of consumers who applied for debt counselling had a personal loan – a record since it started compiling its regular Debt Index. “Personal loans, especially one-month loans, remain a lifeline for many, because income has not kept pace with rising expenses,” says Benay Sager, executive head of DebtBusters. Inflation has had a serious compounding effect on people’s ability to…

The value of having a trusted financial adviser is not to be underestimated. Research in the US shows that advisers can boost clients’ returns by about 3% a year, on average. That’s not necessarily by putting clients into better-performing investments; it’s mainly about influencing their financial behaviour. A recent report from Momentum states that 9% of South Africans use a financial adviser. A more interesting statistic might be the percentage of South Africans who have an established relationship with their adviser, as someone would have with a family doctor, for example. I would estimate that to be below one percent. The best advisers are professionals with the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, who adhere to high ethical standards and belong to the Financial Planning Institute of South Africa (FPI). Unfortunately,…

The Bulls have done a great job of honouring Cornal Hendricks this week after his sudden death on Wednesday night. The Pretoria side will continue to do so in the coming weeks, and indeed in today’s United Rugby Championship clash against the Dragons at Loftus Versfeld (3pm start). There will be a round of applause in the 14th minute to acknowledge Hendricks’ No 14 jersey for the Bulls and Springboks over the years. They had asked the fans to post messages on social media and at Loftus this week, which will continue until next week. But the best way coach Jake White and his team can pay tribute to Hendricks is by producing a stellar performance and grabbing five log points against the Dragons. That won’t be as easy as…

Kevin de Bruyne can add another honour to his haul as Manchester City’s most decorated player of all time with a fitting farewell in today’s FA Cup final against Crystal Palace (5.30pm SA time start). The Belgian’s trophy-littered decade in Manchester will come to an end at the conclusion of the Premier League season. But Wembley’s showpiece is the 33-year-old’s final chance to lift silverware at the club where he grew into one of world’s best players. A six-time Premier League winner, De Bruyne could add a third FA Cup to his five League Cups and 2023 Champions League win with City. He has expressed his “surprise” that City did not seek to extend his stay, filled with the belief that he can still perform at the highest level. De…

Cricket West Indies have urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to give Caribbean nations a chance to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Games and avoid the region being “shut out of history”. LA 2028 will see cricket returning to the Olympics for the first time since 1900, with a six-team T20 event in both the men’s and women’s game set to be included in the programme. The ICC, cricket’s global governing body, have yet to announce the qualification process but there are concerns in the West Indies, long one of the sport’s established major international teams and the one closest geographically to Los Angeles, that their constituent countries could be excluded. That’s because while the likes of Barbados, Jamaica – the home of Games sprint great Usain Bolt –…

As wanderlust continues to inspire, an increasing number of explorers are embarking on solo journeys across the diverse landscapes of Africa. While the thought of travelling alone may initially provoke uncertainty, the rewards of doing so can be profound. From wildlife-rich national parks to serene coastlines, Africa is brimming with safe and intoxicating destinations ideal for solo sojourners. Solo travel is a powerful catalyst for personal growth. Whether it’s building confidence, fostering self-reliance, or embracing independence, the benefits are numerous. Striking out alone allows you the freedom to tailor your adventure, craft an itinerary that suits your interests and pace, and leaves room for spontaneity. While the thrill of navigating un- familiar territories can be daunting, overcoming challenges empowers solo explorers and enhances problem-solving skills. Thoughtful planning, such as hiring…

We all love a good serum or a miracle hair mask, but what if the secret to glowing skin and healthier hair wasn’t in a bottle? According to Dr Suhail Alam of Aventus Clinic, it’s not about buying more products but more about rethinking the little things you do every day. “Your daily routine has a bigger impact on skin and hair health than any single product,” he says. “Simple tweaks to your habits can help you preserve your glow, prevent damage and even maintain a youthful appearance.” Below are seven sneaky habits that could be sabotaging your skin and hair. Your phone might be wrecking your skin: Think about how many times your phone touches your face. Now think about all the grime, oil, and bacteria that might be…

South Africa’s HIV/Aids programme is not collapsing despite recent declines in viral load testing linked to funding cuts from the US’ President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar), Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has said. This comes after Reuters reported this week that data from an unpublished document by the National Health Laboratory Service, a government entity, seen by the agency, showed that viral load testing declined by up to 21% among key groups in the last two months. For people living with HIV and taking anti-retroviral therapy, viral load testing measures how much of the virus is in their bloodstream.Viral load testing for individuals aged 15-24 declined by 17.2% in April compared to last April, after dropping 7.8% year-on-year in March. Overall population testing decreased 11.4% in April, according to…

CORRECTIONAL Services Minister Pieter Groenewald has announced new measures permitting prisoners who are enrolled in higher education programmes to use personal computers in their cells for the purpose of studying. This comes after the Constitutional Court in April confirmed the constitutional invalidity made by the Supreme Court of Appeal that the department’s Policy Procedure Directorate Formal Education was unconstitutional and invalid. The court found that the policy prohibits the use of personal computers in cells for purposes of further education in circumstances where such use is reasonably required for such further education. It ordered the department to prepare and promulgate a revised policy within 12 months from the date of the judgment. Responding to questions in the National Assembly, Groenewald said the apex court had ruled that no electronic equipment…

A Free State mother and a traditional healer have been charged with attempted murder for pouring petrol on the woman’s son and setting him alight. According to police, this was an attempt to perform a ritual meant to remove a tokoloshe. The mother, 39, and the traditional healer, 40, were arrested by the Ficksburg Family, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit on Wednesday. Provincial spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said the incident took place on January 4, 2025. Speaking about the incident, police said the 8-year-old boy who lives in Meqheleng near Ficksburg was falsely reported missing on the community social media. “It was established that he was sick,” said Mophiring He added that the mother allegedly took her son to a prophet who said that the child…

The 15 women are all named Betty, so when they gather, they call each other by their last names as if they’re on a sports team: Krueger, Mehmen, Bittfield. The average age of the women is 85, and one member is 102. They are the Original Betty Club, a social group founded in 1994 in Hastings, Nebraska, by Betty Krueger. There is only one requirement to join the club. “Either you’re named Betty, or you go by the name Betty,” said Krueger, who is 99. Krueger got the idea to start the club after hearing a radio story about a similar group in California. Having recently retired as a social worker, she had free time, and “it just seemed like a fun thing to do,” she said. But she hesitated,…

Several black-owned wine brands – including Amari, House of Azari, Khulu Fine Wines, Nanola Wines and Siwela Wines – will be in attendance at the upcoming Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival, which takes place on May 24 and 25 at the Inanda Polo Club in Sandton from 11h00 to 16h00. This year, the hugely popular annual event will feature some of South Africa’s finest Cap Classiques including several from black producers which it is hoped will continue to unlock greater opportunity for their economic participation in South Africa’s wine industry. Says Sazi Ngcobo, co-founder of Amari: “We will be pouring and selling our Amari Lush at the festival, and we’d love attendees to visit our stand, say hello and have a taste. It’s a lush Cap Classique embodying…

Local actors reflect on their transformative experience in the new local film Sabbatical, which explores ambition, familial ties, and the weight of silence within the context of corporate scandal. At the helm is Mona Monyane who portrays Lesego, a brilliant corporate climber on the fast track to becoming the next CEO of LouwFin. However, her rise to the top takes a devastating turn when she is implicated in a financial scandal involving the embezzlement of a miner's pension fund. This twist forces Lesego back to her childhood home, where she must confront the woman who raised her and the ghosts she thought she'd left behind. Known for her performances in Muvhango and Kalushi, Monyane describes her role as a career-defining moment, allowing her to re-establish her presence in the film…

A SOUTH African pensioner who bagged R12 million in the Lotto Plus 2 jackpot plans to invest in better healthcare and retire on the coast. The ticket was purchased on he banking app for the April 30, 2025, draw. The National Lottery Ithuba said the winner spent R20 on a quick pick. Winning this amount of money has not only been an exciting time, but a huge financial relief. “My wife and I have been facing significant medical challenges, and the financial burden has been overwhelming," the winner told Ithuba. "Now, we'll finally be able to access the quality care we need – this win couldn’t have come at a better time." Soon after finding out that he was a multi-millionaire, the winner said he shared the news with his…

Banele Phaladi wolfed down a thin slice of bread and kissed his mother goodbye before walking through the dilapidated streets of Alexandra to his colourful classroom at the Kgololo Academy. At this elite primary school in one of the most destitute areas of Johannesburg, classes are small, teachers enthusiastic, and every child is known by name - a learning environment miles away from the under-resourced local state school marred with overcrowding and discipline issues. Jumping between potholes and puddles, 12-year-old Phaladi passed the gates at dawn, welcomed with a cheerful greeting of hugs and high-fives from the school's staff and his fellow classmates. The daily greeting "allows us to make sure everyone is seen, who's in a good or bad mood, but also who has been injured, sick or has…

South Africa’s Car of the Year for 2025 is the BMW X3, and this marks the eighth time that the Bavarian brand has won the local competition in its 39-year history. But why did the X3 take overall honours? Based on the jury evaluation following two rigorous days of driving, it was actually the BMW M5 that scored the highest. However, the competition, sponsored by Old Mutual since 2023, also has an automated scoring component based on extensive data sets supplied by Lightstone auto. This element, which accounts for 20% of the final score, focuses on value aspects, taking into account the vehicle’s features, pricing and actual sales figures versus its natural competitors. This automated scoring process elevated the X3 to overall victory, with the M5 falling down to third…

Planes, dolls and pencils – how many does a person really need? America’s children will have to make do with fewer pencils when they’re doing their schoolwork. And when play time comes around, they’ll have to be satisfied with fewer dolls. This is the observation of their president, who has been cranking tariffs up and down like a thermostat as he runs hot and cold on allies, antagonists and his own standing with the public. US President Donald Trump offered this assessment in response to questions about the possibility of rising prices and empty store shelves and just how much financial uncertainty and pain Americans should expect. His answer targeted a kind of modest excess that might be considered part of the American Dream – the freedom of parents to…

South Africa is facing a job crisis, and it’s worsening. The latest employment figures are hard to stomach: 237 000 jobs lost in the first quarter of 2025, pushing the official unemployment rate to a staggering 32.9%. That’s 8.2 million people without work. If we include those who’ve given up looking for work, that figure balloons to 12.7m, roughly 43.1% of the workforce. These aren’t just stats. Behind each number is a household battling to survive, young people losing hope, and communities on the brink. Unemployment at this scale isn’t just an economic issue, it’s a social crisis with far-reaching consequences. It’s no surprise that poverty continues to tighten its grip. Over half of South Africans, around 55%, live below the poverty line, according to recent data from Stats SA.…

When Mandla Ncikazi joined Orlando Pirates four seasons ago, he was tipped to become the head coach of the club in the near future. But that’s yet to take shape. The closest he came to calling the shots was when he was a co-coach alongside Fadlu Davids. His influence in the team alongside Davids didn’t bear fruit during the 2021/22 season as he was deployed as an assistant when Jose Riveiro arrived the next season. Ncikazi didn’t sulk or moan around under the Spaniard. Instead, he welcomed Riveiro with open arms, supported him and learned from him. The duo did incredibly well at Pirates together - they won five trophies, finished as runners-up in the league three times in a row and reached the CAF Champions League semi-final. And so…

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has lauded the manner in which his troops showed their determination to wrap up the league title early. Sundowns bagged their record-extending eighth Premiership crown in a row, and 15th overall in the PSL era, after beating Chippa United 3-0 on Wednesday night. While their run looked easy on the eye, it needed Cardoso to be smart in his tactical approach as they have bigger fish to fry in continental football later this month. Sundowns will face Pyramids in the CAF Champions League final over two legs, eager to return to the top of African football for the first time since 2016. With that clash in mind – the first of which will take place at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria next Saturday – Cardoso rotated…

History beckons for Crystal Palace at Wembley in today’s FA Cup final (5.30pm SA time kick-off) as Manchester City have one final shot at avoiding a rare trophyless season under Pep Guardiola. Twice FA Cup runners-up, Palace have never won a major trophy in their 119-year history. The Eagles sense this may finally be their time up against a City side far from their former glories of Guardiola’s trophy-laden reign. Palace warmed up for the Wembley showpiece by cruising to a 2-0 win at Tottenham last weekend to equal their record of 49 Premier League points with two games of the season to spare. The south London club finished in the top 10 for the first time in the Premier League era last season after just a few months under…

South Africa’s tourism industry has long been recognised as a powerful economic engine. Last year, it contributed more than 3% to GDP and supported close to 700 000 jobs. So, it’s no surprise that the government’s promises to modernise travel processes, including the long-awaited rollout of an e-visa system, have been welcomed. But for many in the industry, it’s clear that a digital visa alone won’t fix deeper issues holding back growth. Yes, the move towards digital travel authorisations is the logical next step in a tech-driven world. But the road to South Africa remains frustratingly uneven. Tourism leaders argue that digitisation alone will not solve the country’s “sluggish” tourism recovery or competitiveness on the global stage. Anton Gillis, chief executive officer of Hamac and Kruger Gate Hotel, says the…

We live in a time where scrolling through Instagram or TikTok is like flipping through a modern-day beauty magazine. Flawless skin, perfect bodies and “ageless” faces seem almost ordinary, especially when celebrities like Khanyi Mbau openly share their cosmetic journeys online. But as the allure of cosmetic procedures grows, so do questions around self-worth, societal pressure and the gap between expectation and reality. For many South Africans, it’s easy to relate when public figures discuss hair loss (traction alopecia, anyone?), pigmentation or the desire to age gracefully. Yet, as cosmetic surgery becomes more mainstream, the line between empowerment and insecurity gets blurry. Mbau, a household name in Mzansi, has become synonymous with transformation, sometimes controversially so. Her openness about skin lightening, fillers, Botox and a range of surgeries (from blepharoplasty…

Karabo Lediga’s directorial debut, Sabbatical, is a bittersweet mother-daughter drama. It explores profound themes of family roots, ambition, integrity, deception, and loyalty. If you haven’t seen it yet on the big screen, it is highly recommended. The film benefits greatly from the exceptional performances of Mona Monyane as Lesego and Clementine Mosimane as her mother, Dorris, a truly remarkable pairing. I had the pleasure of a tête-à-tête with the actresses, who have developed a strong offscreen bond, marked by their noticeable warmth towards one another and praiseworthy comments. It was truly heartening to witness, especially since this is the first time they have worked with one another. Mosimane said: “It was delicious working together, and I think it’s because we were giving each other the space to deal with the…

Just two days after arriving in the US as a refugee from South Africa, Charl Kleinhaus found himself at the centre of a very American media firestorm. Kleinhaus, 46, drew widespread criticism this week over his social media posts over the past two years about Jewish people and Israel - criticism that came while he and his family are being aided by a Jewish-affiliated resettlement group in Buffalo. In one post, he responded to video of a scuffle between Israeli police and Christians by writing that “Jews are untrustworthy and a dangerous group.” But Kleinhaus, one of the 49 Afrikaners who was welcomed under an executive order by President Donald Trump, says his posts on X were taken out of context. In an interview on Thursday, he denied the allegations…

Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane’s decision to reverse the appointments of chairpersons for several Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) has been welcomed by parties as some claimed credit for applying pressure on her. Nkabane made the about-turn on the appointments on Thursday following public outrage after a leaked list of appointments to SETAs surfaced. The appointments had included ANC-aligned people that included former KwaZulu-Natal premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube and Buyambo Mantashe, son of ANC national chairperson Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe. Also on the list was KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport head Siboniso Mbhele, and ANC deputy regional secretary in Johannesburg, who is the wife of former Gauteng health MEC Bandile Masuku, and SACP leader and former higher education director-general Gwebinkundla Qonde, among others. DA national spokesperson Karabo…

Out west, they groove with fast, evenly spaced beats. In the east, it’s more free-form and fluid. Like humans, chimpanzees drum with distinct rhythms - and two subspecies living on opposite sides of Africa have their own signature styles, according to a study published in Current Biology. The idea that ape drumming might hold clues to the origins of human musicality has long fascinated scientists, but collecting enough clean data amid the cacophony of the jungle had, until now, proven elusive. “Finally we’ve been able to quantify that chimps drum rhythmically -- they don’t just randomly drum,” lead author Vesta Eleuteri of the University of Vienna told AFP. The findings lend fresh weight to the theory that the raw ingredients of human music were present before our evolutionary split from…

A spectacular week of surfing, sunshine, and South African longboarding spirit came to a close on Saturday as the 2025 Billabong SA Longboard Championships wrapped up in unforgettable style at Lower Point, Jeffreys Bay at the weekend. Durban North’s Christy Gilmour and Jeffrey Bay’s Steven Sawyer took top place in the Open Ladies and Open Men’s divisions at the final showdown. The event saw five days of world-class longboarding, competitors across 17 divisions - from Under 14 to Over 75 - were treated to flawless J-Bay walls, glowing sunrises, and daily dolphin sightings, setting the perfect stage for what is being hailed as one of the most successful editions of the event to date. This epic contest is proudly presented by Billabong - one of the world’s most iconic surf…

When 16-year-old Jason Hendricks first laced up his rugby boots in Grade 8, inspired by watching his father Kyle on the field, he couldn't have imagined that sport would soon carry him across continents. Now in Grade 11 at Hoërskool Birchleigh, Jason is preparing to board a plane for his international tour - an unforgettable 10-day journey to Italy as part of the prestigious Danie Rossouw Rugby Tour. "I was shocked," Jason said, as he recalled the moment he found out. "Especially when I found out I was the only 16-year-old in my school to feature in an under-19 tour team for Italy. I am excited for the journey ahead." The tour, which runs from October 6-15, will see Jason and his teammates play matches against local rugby clubs in…

The Encounters South African International Documentary Festival is making a highly anticipated return to Cape Town and Johannesburg from June 19-29, showcasing an impressive selection of over 60 documentaries from more than 40 countries. Marking its 27th edition, festival manager Tarha McKenzie says the festival continues to be a vital platform for film-makers and audiences, providing a platform for stories that challenge authority, champion social justice, and explore the complexities of the human experience. McKenzie emphasised the unique strength of Encounters stating, “Its strength lies in not imposing a fixed theme, but rather in allowing the themes to emerge organically from the films selected. In this way, the festival keeps its finger on the pulse, attuned to global trends and urgent contemporary issues. This year’s compelling programme reveals recurring threads…

It's been a Premier League season of tough lessons for Leicester City. Despite relegation being confirmed, the Foxes are focused on finishing strong. Ahead of their weekend clash with Ipswich, Nigeria-born midfielder Wilfred Ndidi shares his honest reflections on a challenging campaign and offers insights into playing alongside the legendary Jamie Vardy. The most prominent news from Leicester City is the departure of club icon Jamie Vardy at the end of this season. Could you reflect on your experience sharing the dressing room and the pitch with a player widely regarded as one of the Premier League's greatest ever strikers? It's been an honour. It's been a pleasure to be a teammate with Jamie Vardy. Even after football, you'd be like, oh, I play with Jamie Vardy. He's been an…

Suppose South Africa is to turn the tide on fraud and corruption. In that case, the country’s political leaders, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, need to lead by example and subject themselves to lifestyle audits and be transparent with the process and findings to the public. This is according to Devoshum Moodley-Veera, an Integrity Activist, PhD Student at the School of Public Leadership and ACCERUS at Stellenbosch University. Lifestyle audits have become topical after a recently released report revealed that 37% of senior Gauteng provincial government officials failed their mandatory lifestyle audits, designed to expose corruption and financial misconduct. On the other hand, the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC), an entity of the Department of Human Settlements, said it has referred more than 150 employees for lifestyle audits. Moodley-Veera describes…

In the shade of a tree on a sunny day, Isac Matate set up a rickety bookstand in a ragged square that was once a beacon for the struggle that ended apartheid in South Africa. Some of the books that Matate packed into the shelves held together with rope touched on the themes of the landmark: political history, black consciousness, the Bible. The site in Kliptown outside Johannesburg commemorates the Freedom Charter of principles that guided the decades-long fight that ended white-minority rule in 1994. Around 3 000 people of all races gathered here in a historic act of defiance 70 years ago to draw up the charter, which inspired the liberation movement and lives in the text of the post-apartheid constitution. Its principles, such as "The People Shall Govern",…

Defender is well on the way in its preparations for entering the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), having finished prototype testing in Morocco with the Defender Dakar D7X-R. They have also signed 14-time Dakar Rally winner Stéphane Peterhansel alongside emerging talent Rokas Baciuška. Peterhansel joined the Defender Rally team in Morocco, completing early testing with the prototype of the Defender Dakar D7X-R as they began preparations for competing at the Dakar Rally in January 2026. Dakar success Peterhansel, 59, the most successful Dakar Rally driver of all time, has competed in the Dakar Rally 35 times on both bike and car, and has won the ultimate off-road race 14 times. In 2026, he will race for Defender in all rounds of the W2RC to help pave the way for Defender’s future…

For many South Africans, offshore investing is a strategic move—one that provides access to global markets, reduces reliance on the local economy, and protects against currency volatility. While some investors pursue offshore exposure to meet specific future liabilities, others seek broader diversification across industries and jurisdictions that are not available locally. Whether driven by rational planning or a desire to mitigate domestic risks, investing offshore can be an essential component of a well-structured portfolio. A primary reason to consider offshore investing is diversification, keeping in mind that South Africa currently accounts for less than 1% of global GDP. As such, a portfolio fully concentrated in local markets is subject to significant country-specific risk. By investing offshore, one gains access to a broader universe of global industries, more stable economies, and…

South Africans are feeling the financial squeeze, and car ownership is no exception. With over 80% of households concerned about the rising cost of living, the difference between securing a good deal and falling into a financial trap often lies in the fine print. One of the most common pitfalls is opting for an “affordable” car, only to realise later that it comes with significant hidden costs. “A vehicle should offer freedom, not financial strain, but too often what looks affordable upfront ends up costing far more over time,” says Heide de Lange, spokesperson for Motor Plan Direct. From long-term financing traps to unexpected maintenance costs, de Lange shares seven key strategies to help South Africans reduce financial risk and make smarter long-term car-buying decisions: Beware the 84-month trap Long…

Fresh off their Nedbank Cup triumph, Kaizer Chiefs are riding a wave of optimism, but Sekhukhune United are determined to be the storm cloud that threatens to rain on their parade in today’s Premiership clash at the FNB Stadium. The teams enter the match with contrasting Premiership scenarios. Sekhukhune are on a five-match unbeaten run, which includes a win over highly fancied Orlando Pirates, while Chiefs are seeking to recover from a five-match winless streak. Currently seated third on the standings, Sekhukhune hold a one-point cushion over fourth-placed Stellenbosch FC. The pressure is on as they vie for a coveted CAF Confederation Cup spot with only two matches remaining. Chiefs recently found their winning touch, edging out Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final last week, but their dreadful league form…

This weekend, Kyalami Park Club will transform into a battleground as South Africa’s top equestrians compete for glory in the Toyota World Cup Qualifier, paving their path toward a coveted World Cup ticket. With a capacity crowd expected, the stakes are high for both horse and rider as they tackle awe-inspiring jumps and face intense performance pressure. The competition proper starts on Saturday, showcasing elite talent in classes ranging from 1.30m to 1.40m in height. Here, riders will confront demanding courses designed to test their skill and tactical prowess, with substantial prizes adding an enticing layer of competition. The excitement peaks on Sunday when all the action takes place on the course, crafted by the renowned Frank Rothenberger. With over 35 years of experience and a portfolio that includes layouts…

With summer approaching in Europe, Greece offers an appealing escape for global travellers, particularly South Africans who are looking to avoid the winter cold. Renowned for its pristine beaches, rich cultural artefacts, and vibrant culinary delights, Greece offers a diverse range of experiences set against the backdrop of its Mediterranean climate. Millions flock to Greece yearly, with a notable influx of visitors from South Africa. While the larger islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos, often steal the spotlight, a treasure trove of hidden gems beckons those in search of a more intimate connection with Greek culture and landscapes. Here are a few islands that promise authenticity and tranquillity, away from the bustling tourist hotspots. Syros: a blend of culture and relaxation Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, offers a delightful…

In an era dominated by fast-paced connectivity and the ever-present buzz of social media, South African DJ and producer Fistaz Mixwell has taken a daring plunge into the soothing sanctuary of solitude. Striding away from the vibrant night- life that typically characterises his profession, Mixwell has embraced an unexpected adventure: solo camping. As a testament to his hard work and commitment, he recently unveiled a self-built camper, a project he described as a true “labour of love”. Sharing glimpses of his journey on social media, he captioned a video of his completed project with the phrase, “Solo camping. Solitude. One man. No music.” This declaration echoed deeply with fans, reflecting a newfound appreciation for quietude and introspection in an industry often characterised by relentless noise. The path to creating his…