Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-08-09 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Ever tried to walk a mile in Nicki Minaj’s heels? Russian influencer Mariana Barutkina did and paid a high price for it. What started as a playful attempt to join a viral TikTok trend ended with a fractured spine and a powerful lesson for us all about social media, safety, and why chasing likes shouldn’t mean risking your life. When virality turns dangerous If you’ve scrolled through TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen it: people balancing precariously in stilettos, recreating Nicki Minaj’s iconic High School pose. The Nicki Minaj Stiletto Challenge has swept through social media feeds, with users taking the dare to new (and dangerous) heights, balancing on everything from dumbbells to wine bottles to kitchen counters, all for those viral views. Mariana Barutkina, a 32-year-old mommy blogger from Russia,…

A couple from Heldervue, Somerset West, are pursuing a R620 000 claim in the Cape High Court against the seller of their home and Pam Golding Properties, after discovering severe structural defects that rendered their house unsafe and unfit for occupation. Antoné van Heerden and Schalk Pienaar bought the property in October 2017 for R1.6 million. During the viewing, an estate agent from Pam Golding Properties, reassured them the home only needed “a little bit of tender loving care and a fresh coat of paint”. The agent also allegedly dismissed visible cracks in the walls as “regular hairline settlement cracks which were normal for properties of that age”, assuring them, “This house has stood for 27 years and is going nowhere”. However, after moving in and commissioning a structural engineer’s…

Ridwaan Rajah, the sole member of Good Hope Plasterers CC trading as Good Hope Construction, has been acquitted of fraud, theft, and perjury following an appeal to the Western Cape High Court. The judgment, delivered on September 12, 2024, set aside the earlier convictions handed down by the Bellville Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. According to court papers, the charges stem from a 2010 contract between Good Hope Construction and the National Department of Public Works (DPW) to renovate buildings in the parliamentary precinct. As part of the project, Good Hope Construction appointed Winlite Aluminium Windows and Doors as a subcontractor to construct four curtain screens. The DPW agreed to make an advance payment of R519 037.90 for materials to be held offsite by Winlite, subject to a guarantee being provided.…

As the crisp breezes of spring sweep across the expansive Karoo, now is the perfect time to plan that much-needed family getaway. Tucked away in the heart of the eastern Roggeveld Mountains, the stunning Rogge Cloof Private Nature Reserve beckons those seeking a blend of nature’s glory, celestial wonders, and rich history. And what’s even better? The Weekend Argus is offering an exciting chance to win a two-night stay for a family of four, valued at R12 000! Located just 15 minutes from Sutherland, the eco-friendly Rogge Cloof provides a tranquil escape surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and an annual bloom of vibrant spring flowers. Accommodation is just 12km from the reserve’s main entrance, ensuring convenience and comfort for your family. Each morning, start your day with a delightful breakfast served…

Learners at Glenvista Primary School received tablets during a handover ceremony on Thursday, part of a national effort to expand access to digital learning tools in under-resourced classrooms. The initiative, led by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, the Department of Basic Education and the Primedia Group, aims to bridge the digital divide starting at school level. Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi and Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube officially handed over the tablets. Both ministers stressed the role of technology in transforming education and the need to equip learners with the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing digital environment. Bongumusa Makhathini, Joint CEO of Primedia OOH and Primedia Studios, said: “This occasion is not merely ceremonial; it reflects our collective commitment to dismantling the barriers that…

The Waterfront Theatre School is set to captivate audiences with its latest production, “In Flux”, a masterful ensemble of dance that explores the ever-evolving nature of human experience. Scheduled to run from September 3-6 at The Lane Theatre, this vibrant display promises not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and stir emotions. “In Flux” comprises four original pieces, each encapsulating a unique perspective on transition and transformation. The programme invites viewers to journey through the emotional and philosophical dimensions of change, offering an evocative evening that seamlessly blends movement with meaning. n Intersect (Choreography: James Bradley). A neo-classical reflection, this piece delves into the often overlooked connections we forge in our lives. With layered dynamics and meticulous movements, Intersect captures the quiet beauty inherent in both intentional and…

As global tourism is set to surge, predicted to generate up to 30 billion visits and contribute a staggering $16 trillion to the global economy by 2034, the sustainability of this industry comes under increasing scrutiny. The World Economic Forum’s newly released report, Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point, reveals a paradox: nature is the primary draw for tourists, yet unchecked tourism practices are wreaking havoc on biodiversity and escalating waste and carbon emissions. If left unaddressed, tourism's greenhouse gas emissions could soar to as high as 15% of global totals within the next decade, threatening the ecosystems that attract travellers in the first place. In this climate of concern, Boschendal Wine Estate has remarkably positioned itself as a pioneering force in sustainable tourism by officially earning the prestigious…

There’s a German electric SUV showdown looming, and it starts at the IAA Mobility Summit next month when the new BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology will be revealed for the first time. Not only will the two battery- powered midsize SUVs be direct competitors when they hit the market, but both will usher in new design and engineering eras for their respective carmakers. The Mercedes GLC electric debuts a brand new design language for the firm’s electric vehicles, with the softer lines of its current EQ models having faced criticism for their lack of imagination and identity. To whet our appetites, Mercedes released a teaser image this week, showing the new upright, and more traditional-looking, “grille” that will feature on its electric GLC. As EVs do not…

Every year, Women’s Day invites us to pause, reflect, and honour the women who’ve shaped our country’s history and the women in our lives. But it also calls us to celebrate the women who are shaping its future, quietly, boldly, and often without fanfare. In the world of personal finance, that future is being written every day by women who are budgeting with precision, investing with purpose, and making decisions that secure not just their wellbeing, but that of their families and communities. As a woman editor in this space, I see the power of financial literacy not just as a tool, but as a form of liberation. I’ve watched women navigate debt, negotiate salaries, start businesses, and buy their first homes, sometimes with support, often against the odds. These…

Unlike financial freedom – which means never having to stress about money again – financial independence is more about having your own safety net or personal buffer to fall back on during those tough times. It’s a more realistic and attainable goal. Yet the reality is that 45% of South Africans would struggle to cover a R5,000 emergency without borrowing from somewhere or someone, according to the South African Reserve Bank. And it's not just about handling the immediate financial stresses, but also the future stresses. Whether it’s unexpected medical bills or retirement, your ability to gain financial independence depends on the reserves you start building today. Start with the basics, as early as possible There is a massive difference between starting to save at 25 versus 35. Even if…

AmaZulu will open their Betway Premiership campaign with a potentially tricky home assignment against new boys Orbit College FC at the Princess Magogo Stadium today at 3pm. Arthur Zwane is under no illusions about the challenge his side faces, despite their opponents being debutants at this level. The Usuthu mentor believes the element of the unknown makes Orbit a dangerous first hurdle. “This is a difficult match because people haven’t seen Orbit and they have seen us,” Zwane explained. “This gives people hope that already AmaZulu [should get the better of] Orbit. But we’re treating this game as we would any other, just like we did with Stellenbosch. “We will give all the games the same respect. Yes, the approach might be slightly different because we don’t play the same;…

After bidding farewell to July – a month that seemed to stretch endlessly for many – we find ourselves grappling with mid-year fatigue. This common phenomenon, often dubbed the mid-year slump, manifests itself in decreased motivation, energy and productivity. Whether it’s the disill sionment following our New Year’s resolutions, relentless work pressures or the seasonal shifts, the urge to recalibrate is palpable. One of the most effective ways to combat this fatigue? A refreshing road trip. It’s more than just a break from daily routines; it’s a chance to embrace a change of scenery, indulge in mindfulness, and rediscover joy. Driving through picturesque landscapes can be therapeutic, inviting moments of introspection and clear-headed reflection. Whether journeying alone or with loved ones, road trips offer an escape – allowing you to…

As the South African winter chills your bones, you have two choices: pull your blanket a little tighter and dream of warmer days, or book a trip that will take you there. A change of scenery can lift the spirits and right now, there’s no better way to escape the cold than by booking a cruise. It’s an easy and appealing way to trade grey skies for endless blue seas. Cruising internationally during our winter is the ultimate travel hack for keeping your summer alive all year long, because somewhere in the world, it's always summer. While we’re bundled up from June to August, the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Middle East are in the midst of their summer seasons. Imagine stepping off a plane in Barcelona or Miami, feeling the warm…

Fans of the original 2004 film The Passion of the Christ have something to look forward to. Award-winning actor and director Mel Gibson’s sequel, The Resurrection of the Christ, is set to be released in two parts, with both films hitting the silver screen in 2027. Each release will fall on significant dates in the Christian calendar. The first instalment, The Resurrection of the Christ Part One, is scheduled to release on Good Friday, March 26, 2027. Following that, viewers can anticipate Part Two, which will debut 40 days later on Ascension Day, May 6, 2027. The Passion of the Christ originally grossed more than $610 million (over R10bn) globally off a $30 million (R535m) production budget. It also earned nominations at the Oscars for best make-up, cinematography and original…

The Western Cape remains one of South Africa’s most dangerous provinces, alongside Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, when it comes to national murder statistics. Despite an overall 2.7% drop in contact crimes between January and March 2025, murder rates continue to plague the region, with several Cape Town neighbourhoods ranking among the most violent in the country. Gang activity lies at the heart of much of this violence. The province is estimated to be home to between 90 and 130 gangs, with a combined membership of more than 100,000 people. It’s a challenge Brigadier Karl Wienand, the newly appointed Commander of the Western Cape’s Anti-Gang Unit (AGU), said he is determined to confront head-on. With 38 years of service in the police, Wienand officially took over the reins as Commander in 2024,…

The United Kingdom’s announcement that it will lower the voting age to 16 ahead of its next general election has stirred fresh debate in South Africa, where experts warn the country is not ready to follow suit, as it prepares for the 2026 South African Municipal Elections. According to a BBC report, the UK proposal is part of a broader reform package. Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the changes, saying young people who “pay in” to the system deserve to have a say in how their money is spent. But the decision has drawn mixed reactions. UK Conservative MP Paul Holmes criticised the timing, arguing that there will be no parliamentary scrutiny until September due to the recess, and called the proposal “hopelessly confused”. Public reaction has been just as…

The long-awaited appointment of a Western Cape Commissioner for Children has entered its final phase after the Standing Committee on Social Development officially recommended Sarah Helena Roberts for the role. If appointed, Roberts, who is a advocate and acting magistrate at the Kuils River Blue Downs Children’s Court, will become only the second person to hold the post since the Act was passed more than five years ago, after years of delays and public concern over the province’s handling of the selection process. According to the Western Cape Commissioner for Children Act, 2019, the Premier now has 21 days to either confirm the appointment or refer the matter back to the Provincial Parliament for further consideration. The recommendation was made during a committee meeting held on August 6, under Section…

It’s fascinating the way the world has suddenly latched onto the word “tariffs” since Donald Trump has once again become president. But for me, who grew up in Cape Town, that word carries a much heavier weight than just a headline. It brings back a flood of memories, tinged with a deep sadness for what we lost. Thirty years ago, when our own government started cutting tariffs, especially with China, we watched as the heart of Cape Town’s clothing industry was ripped out. It was a lifeline for so many, and its destruction left scars that still run deep. Growing up in the Southern suburbs, my wardrobe was built almost entirely from the factory shops. Every clothing manufacturer had these “side doors” open to the public, overflowing with garments at…

Mackenzie Mackay, a Grade 8 student at Reddam House Bedfordview, has returned from her first international gymnastics competition with unforgettable memories, new milestones, and a message of resilience and perseverance. Mackenzie competed in the Turin Acro Cup in Italy, an elite international acrobatic gymnastics competition. Representing Masters Gymnasts Club, she formed part of a trio in the 12–18-year-old category, delivering performances that placed her team second after their first two routines. This allowed them to qualify for the final round, which was their ultimate goal for this competition. “It was my first time competing overseas, so I was really excited, but also nervous because I didn’t know what to expect,” Mackenzie shared. “But when I heard the crowd cheering for us, it calmed me down and helped me focus on…

The countdown is on for the 52nd National Arts Festival as the organisers officially open applications for the coveted Curated Programme, set to take place in Makhanda from June 25 to July 5, 2026. This year, the festival is encouraging artists and creative practitioners to showcase their talents and submit works that reflect the rich tapestry of South Africa’s artistic landscape. The Curated Programme, previously known as the Main Programme, is pivotal to the festival’s mission, showcasing exceptional contemporary artwork across varied disciplines. The selections made by the festival’s artistic director, Rucera Seethal, and the artistic committee will not only highlight existing talent but also engage with the depth and diversity of artistic expression in the country. Submissions are now open until October 3, 2025, at midnight, via the…

Almost every week seems to bring a new report that plastic is even worse than had been thought for both human and planetary health. This week, it’s a paper in the Lancet that warns of a “grave, growing” danger from the rising tide of the material, and puts its health-related economic costs at more than $1.5 trillion a year. Yet as diplomats gather in Switzerland to negotiate an international treaty to tackle plastic pollution, the world seems further away from an agreement than it did when this process started three years ago. The gathering convened by the United Nations is the sixth round of talks, after a previous “final” conference in Busan, South Korea, failed last winter. In the interim, there have been numerous negotiations to wrangle down the proposed…

Learners from various schools across the metro stepped out of the classroom and into action this winter, teaming up for a lifesaving cause. They took part in the Week of Warriors campaign, a youth-driven initiative by the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS). Ten of the Western Cape’s top blood-donating schools joined forces to attract 1,000 blood donors in just one week. The campaign comes at a critical time, as blood stocks traditionally dip during winter due to flu season, exam stress, and colder weather. “We believe in the power of youth to lead, and these 10 schools are proof of what’s possible when young people unite for a purpose bigger than themselves,” said Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager at WCBS. “They’re not just showing up they’re setting the standard for…

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Day, it is fitting to spotlight leaders who are not just breaking glass ceilings but reshaping the future for women across the nation. Keshree Alwar, a dynamic force at Maskew Miller Learning, embodies the true spirit of inclusive, people-first leadership. Alwar’s leadership is shaping the future of education and setting the tone for inclusive leadership. She has built a women-led team with over 51% black ownership, championed digital transformation, and driven real learning outcomes, embodying leadership with both heart and impact. “For me, building a truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace is not just a professional goal it’s something that resonates deeply with my own story and values,” she explained. “Growing up, I saw firsthand how access to education and visibility of strong female role…

The Defender D7X-R Dakar programme is going full steam ahead as they prepare for the 2026 Dakar Rally and World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC). Showcased at the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed, it was the public’s first glimpse of the version of the Defender 110 that will be competing in the newly updated “Stock” category for production-based vehicles. The 2026 edition of the W2RC will implement new regulations that are aimed at making the Stock category more competitive overall, as the FIA and Dakar organisers respond to the increasing capacity and popularity of high-performance 4x4s and SUVs. The new regulations will allow increased performance benefits, enabling Defender to showcase its durability and capability through the harshest terrains. The Defender Dakar D7X-R shares the same D7X aluminium body architecture, transmission and driveline…

There’s a quiet but powerful shift happening in South Africa’s financial landscape, and it’s being led by women. We’re not just participating in the economy, we’re shaping it, one decision at a time. From buying homes and cars to managing insurance and investments, women are increasingly taking control of their financial futures. And while I don’t yet own a house, I see myself reflected in this movement. Standard Bank’s latest data paints a compelling picture: nearly 40% of all main applicants for home loans today are women, and two-thirds of those are buying property on their own. That’s not just progress, it’s a redefinition of independence. It’s women saying, “I can do this. I will do this.” For years, women have made up the majority of Standard Bank’s home loan…

As sole breadwinners responsible for the welfare of minor children, single mothers face a uniquely challenging financial landscape. Without a partner’s income as a safety net, and with the emotional strain of shouldering the family’s finances alone, the pressure can be immense. Yet, in our experience, single mothers often display a remarkable resilience and resourcefulness in managing their money. In fact, research shows that women tend to be better investors, often seeking professional advice, sticking to their plans, and staying calm during market volatility. With these advantages in mind, there are some practical steps single mothers can take to strengthen their financial positions. Budgeting and money management: Running a single-income household demands disciplined budgeting. Managing income and expenses through one financial institution can simplify administration, using linked accounts such…

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) isn’t just about hyperactive little boys who can’t sit still. That’s the outdated image many of us were taught, and it’s part of the reason why so many women are silently living with undiagnosed ADHD, blaming themselves for years of mental overload, emotional exhaustion, and never feeling “together enough”. This Women’s Month, the South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) is urging the public to reframe how we understand ADHD, particularly in women and girls. For too long, ADHD has worn a masculine mask, hiding the often invisible reality of how it presents in females. “ADHD in women is not less severe. It’s just less visible,” says Dr Wisani Makhomisane, psychiatrist and SASOP member. “These women aren’t lazy, disorganised or overemotional; they’re living with a neurodevelopmental condition…

In 1956, women were at the forefront of confronting deep-rooted injustices. Today, their legacy is visible, yet women’s voices are increasingly diluted. The brave spirit that inspired nearly 20 000 women to march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria on August 9 of that year appears to be a distant memory. The march remains one of the most courageous acts of resistance in South Africa’s history. It was not only a bold rejection of the extension of pass laws that criminalised Black men and sought to do the same to women. It was a direct challenge to the core of racial, gender and economic oppression. Nearly 70 years later, much of that radical spirit has been softened. While National Women’s Day is widely commemorated, its original intent is often lost.…

today, on National Women’s Day, 115 red roses will appear across Cape Town, not as symbols of romance, but as silent protests against the violence that women endure. The installation is the work of artist RA Searll, in collaboration with other artists and the organisation Women for Change SA, in a protest action named “The Truth Beneath the Roses”. Each rose represents one of the 115 women who report rape in South Africa every day. But the real number is far higher, only one in nine rapes are reported, meaning as many as 1,000 women may be raped daily. These roses will not be placed in galleries or on manicured lawns. They will bloom in places heavy with unspoken histories: post offices, bus stations, police stations, and court buildings. Places…

A historic breeding pond used by the endangered Western Leopard Toad in Constantia has been fenced off and conservationists are warning of devastating consequences for the species. The recent fence installation along Schoenstatt Avenue, has raised concerns amongst conservation groups. One such, Toad Nuts says a perimeter fence was erected without proper environmental consideration, cutting off access to a vital pond used by the toads each winter. “These ponds are vital for these animals,” said Toad Nuts spokesperson Alison Faraday. “They live in our gardens through summer, and in winter they migrate to breed. They follow the smell of water and they don’t know how to go around fences.” A City official reportedly recommended that a 10cm clearance be left at the bottom of the fence to allow toads through.…

In a heart-warming initiative that has brightened the spirits of many young learners, Walter Sisulu Primary School celebrated Nelson Mandela Month with a generous donation of school shoes. Pioneered by Lerato Ndlovu of Sizwe Africa IT Group, the drive underscored the importance of dignity, responsibility, and self-care among the country’s youth. Ndlovu, discussing the shoeshine initiative with Saturday Star, shared insights into the programme’s goals and impact. Ndlovu says that usually, the project involves providing shoes, brushes and polish to encourage pupils to learn about maintaining their footwear. “So what informed the initiative? As Sizwe, we have been donating school shoes to our adopted schools. And what we’d usually do is buy polish and brushes when we are donating. If it is 100 pairs, we would do 100 brushes and…

A ground-breaking sod-turning ceremony took place in Westridge this past week, marking the beginning of a new era for autism education and support in the heart of Mitchells Plain. The future Autism Connect Centre will be the first of its kind in the area, a space designed not only for early childhood learning but for long-term inclusion, therapy, and skills development for young adults on the autism spectrum. What began as a deeply personal mission by Autism Connect founder Nicolette Ripepi has blossomed into a collective dream. “When I founded Autism Connect, it was with a clear vision: to bridge the gap where marginalized communities had almost no access to early learner support and autism-specific education,” Ripepi told attendees. But as the work deepened, so too did the need. “It…

For those of us old enough to remember, the original Land Rover Defender 130 was an extra-long wheelbase double-cab bakkie, much loved by outdoor enthusiasts and was considered by many as one of the best overlanding vehicles ever made. Built on a 130-inch ladder chassis (hence the name 130), it was the ideal vehicle to set up and kit for extended expeditions, with the large load bay providing the ideal platform to make a home away from home. The original 130 bakkie has been shelved in the annals of history with the introduction of the “new” Defender, but the 130 nomenclature remains with a monocoque chassis in a luxury-wrapped package. Make no mistake, it’s still extremely capable with its modern comforts and high-end technology, as I experienced over a couple…

As we mark another Women’s Day today, we must shift our attention to one unspoken challenge that affects women in South Africa – sexual corruption. Sexual corruption happens when women and girls are requested to perform sexual acts in exchange for access to public (and private) services or privileges. It is the abuse of actual or perceived power that sexually exploits those who seek benefits or seek to avoid deprivations tied to that power. The sexual exploitation may be physical, emotional or digital. It takes various forms, such as coercion, exploitation and the abuse of power to obtain sexual favours. Manipulation: South Africa has a problem with corruption, as well as sexual and gender-based violence. Sexual corruption lies at the intersection of these ills and is reinforced by patriarchy,…

The importance of women in the workplace, not just because of the so-called softer skills they bring into an often testosterone-filled environment, but also because they nurture young talent, cannot be overstated. Many studies cite the benefits of women mentoring other women. Others note that having more women in leadership brings diverse perspectives, improves decision-making, enhances organisational performance, and fosters a more inclusive environment. As Tamra Veley, MD of Corporate Image, puts it, “mentorship between women in the workplace is not, nor should it ever be – about ticking a diversity box – it’s about building capability, confidence, and continuity”. Dominique Rossouw, a social worker, has experienced this first-hand. She says women bosses “were able to guide me in terms of the way that they would do things as social…

ARE you a do-it-yourself investor or toying with becoming one? You may be relatively young, with a promising career path ahead of you, but have not, until now, seriously considered investing a portion of your monthly salary cheque with a financial goal in mind. Or you may have received a large sum of money, perhaps as an inheritance, that you are looking to invest and are considering doing it yourself. DIY investing is incredibly easy and becoming easier by the day, thanks to the proliferation of online share trading and investment platforms. The banks have their own share platforms that you can link to your bank account. For unit trust funds, most providers make it relatively easy for retail investors to invest in their products directly via an online application.…

If World No 1 and 2, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, are raising adrenaline levels at the Cincinnati Open – their first official ATP foray since Wimbledon – then the venue itself is also causing a stir. A $250 million refurbishment has added more courts and locker rooms, extended workout areas and dining lounges, and enhanced fan experiences. Former WTA No 30 Shelby Rogers, who holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, observed that “players spend the majority of their time waiting to go on court, and quiet, comfortable space in which to do so comes at a premium.” Clearly, tennis in the Midwest is no longer a parochial affair, and Ben Navarro – father of World No 11 Emma Navarro, who is partnering Sinner in the upcoming US Open mixed…

As we commemorate Women’s Day, it’s essential to recognise the remarkable contributions of women in various fields, particularly in the realm of content creation. In South Africa, women creators are not only shaping the digital landscape, but also inspiring others to embrace their passions and share their stories. Three incredible young women: Priscilla Nkoane, Karabo Matlala and Farirai “Fari” Sanyika, are making waves in lifestyle, travel and wildlife photography. Through their journeys, they remind us of the importance of empowerment, connection and the beauty of exploring our world. Priscilla Nkoane: Celebrating everyday moments Nkoane, a 26-year-old content creator from Bloemfontein, now residing in Durban, has carved a niche for herself in the lifestyle and travel space. With a background in marketing management, Nkoane’s content focuses on celebrating the beauty in…