Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-10-18 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Global superstar Tyla is set to satisfy the Tygers after weeks of teasing her new single Chanel. The global superstar took to Instagram to announce that she will be dropping the highly anticipated track on October 24. She wrote: “CHANEL OCT 24. NEXT FRIDAY PRE SAVE LINK IN BIO for the girls fighting me onlineeeee!!!! We did our big one.” She also posted some of the catchy lyrics from the track: “If you say you love them, put them in Chanel”. Within just a few hours of posting, the announcement attracted more than 170k likes. But before Chanel makes its debut, fans were treated to another surprise. Tyla recently featured on Body Go, a collaboration with Ghanaian singer and songwriter Moliy, popularly known for her single Shake It to the…

If you have managed to get through the first few gruesome and disturbing episodes of the new Ryan Murphy series Monster: The Ed Gein Story, you will gain insight into the schizophrenic disorder that plagued the notorious serial killer. True crime fans know Ed Gein as the “Plainfield Ghoul” whose horrific acts in the 1950s inspired famous fictional characters like Norman Bates in Psycho and Leatherface in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. Unfortunately, the portrayal of mental illness in the media, especially in true crime and horror, often causes harm. Think about movies like Split, where the main character has a “split personality”, a condition actually called Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), and is shown as a violent, evil person. When characters like this are constantly shown as villains, it creates…

Ashley Kriel, born on October 17, 1966 in Bonteheuwel, emerged as a pivotal figure in the anti-apartheid movement. As Ras Hein Scheepers articulates, Kriel embodies the “conscientisation of the oppressed into agents of their own liberation,” reflecting Paulo Freire’s belief in the power of education to awaken critical consciousness. Within the Bonteheuwel Action Committee, Kriel proved his leadership and organisational skill. He later became a founding member of the Bonteheuwel Inter-Schools Congress (BISCO). Learners and young people realised that their lived experience of marginalisation was systemic. They studied apartheid’s tactics, confronted police brutality, and organised grassroots resistance. The Bonteheuwel Military Wing (BMW) was later founded by underground militants after Kriel went into exile. The activism of radicals from Bonteheuwel was rooted in praxis – linking consciousness, reflection, and progressive community…

Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier has extended his best wishes to the province’s matric candidates ahead of the start of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. “The matric exams begin on Tuesday, and we wish our Western Cape candidates the very best for the exam period ahead,” Maynier said. “We offer a special vote of thanks to our matric teachers, who are tasked with rounding out a child’s schooling and bringing more than a decade of investment in our learners to fruition. Our teachers have done an incredible job in supporting our candidates and helping to prepare them for the challenge ahead. “Their efforts will continue to pay dividends long after our learners complete their exams. Behind every dream realised is a teacher who believed. “We also thank our…

In a ground-breaking initiative, Tygerberg Hospital’s Department of Urology suspended all non-essential surgeries for two weeks to focus entirely on clearing its growing backlog of kidney stone cases, a campaign aptly dubbed “Battle of the Stones”. The drive, led by Professor André van der Merwe, Head of Urology at Tygerberg Hospital and Stellenbosch University, was aimed at preventing patients from losing kidneys or their lives due to treatment delays. “The big problem with kidney stones, is that we simply don’t have enough operating time to treat people fast enough. When someone arrives with a small stone, we often have to place a temporary stent, a small tube between the kidney and bladder, to relieve the blockage. But those stents need to be replaced every three months. If they’re left too…

“They were very good people, they were not just good for each other or together, especially when they drank together…” These were the words of Bilqees “Beaula” Peters, whose son, 31-year-old Riaan Hendricks, was found hanging from his bedroom window last week. The Kalksteenfontein community was left in complete shock after a suspected murder-suicide in which Hendricks allegedly stabbed his 27-year-old girlfriend, Megan Marthinus, originally from Kreefgat, to death before taking his own life. The couple, who had been dating on and off for about a year, were known to have a tumultuous relationship marked at times by arguments and alleged abuse. According to a well-placed source, an argument reportedly broke out between the two on the day of the incident. Hendricks allegedly stabbed Marthinus in the stomach during the…

Another chapter in the Fundación LaLiga, Mzansi Equality League’s youth development continues on Saturday, following the weekend’s opening round of the six-week tournament at the Fives Futbol courts at Century City. The tournament aims to provide young girls an opportunity to develop leadership skills and a chance to showcase their talent on the pitch. Joey Ruiters, playing for the Schaapkraal-based Oasis Foundation, a spirited Grade 11 learner from Zeekoevlei High School, in Lotus River, was among the excited participants in this year’s opening round of matches, where she played a leading role in her beloved Oasis Foundation side’s success. Her passion for football has seen her develop into one of the senior players since she joined the Oasis six years ago. She is also one of the beneficiaries of…

Teenage sensation Lisakhanya Situlweni continues to be a shining star for Cape Town Roses. The 15-year-old baller from Gugulethu knows exactly where the net is and keeps finding it with ease. At the recently concluded Engen Champ of Champs tournament, she was once again among the top scorers, proving that her talent keeps reaching for new heights. She was a joint top scorer with teammate Siyamthanda Macingwana, netting seven goals. This comes after she scooped the top scorer’s award during the Cape Town leg of the same tournament, an achievement she’s managed for the second year in a row. Lisakhanya is on a steadily rising path to football stardom. A pupil at Bothasig High School, Lisakhanya is one of the most promising young footballers of the women’s game in the…

In the heart of Richmond, Virginia, a beloved feline fixture has captured the hearts of shoppers and employees alike at the Lowe’s home improvement store on West Broad Street. Francine, a friendly white calico cat who has called the store home since 2017, has become more than just a pet; she is a cherished part of the community. But when she mysteriously vanished in mid-September, the store's staff and local residents came together in a remarkable effort, showcasing their unwavering love for their furry friend. Store manager Mike Sida described Francine as the store’s unofficial mascot. “She’s the first stop for probably 75 percent of our customers,” he said. “She’s extremely friendly, and she loves people.” With her knack for weaving through shelves and lounging on pallets, Francine had become…

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is in mourning following the death of Professor Zoë Charlotte Wicomb, one of the most significant literary figures in late-apartheid and post-apartheid South Africa. As the most accomplished novelist and short-story writer to have emerged from UWC, her legacy is indelibly etched in the hearts and minds of those she inspired. Born in 1948 in Namaqualand, Wicomb represented the pioneering spirit of UWC’s first generation of students, sharing her class with the university’s former Rector, the late Professor Brian O’Connell. Her seminal work, the short story collection You Can’t Get Lost in Cape Town (1987), provided a semi-autobiographical account of her formative years at the institution, capturing the essence of a young woman navigating the complexities of apartheid South Africa. In the 1970s,…

While the Jaguar part of JLR (Jaguar Land Rover) seems to be quiet – both literally with its stated intention of EV only, and figuratively because we haven’t really heard anything significant from them for a while, except in Formula E – the Land Rover part of the business is regularly launching special editions. Think Defender Octa Black, Defender Trophy Edition, Range Rover SV Polar Night, Range Rover Sport SV Carbon, Range Rover SV Black and several others, including the subject of this review, the Range Rover Sport SV Edition Two, of which only 23 have been allocated to South Africa. Engine As opposed to Jaguar, the good people at Defender, Range Rover, and Discovery provide a range of power plants that include mild hybrid, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, diesel and…

South Africa has seen a surge in demand for new vehicles, with September’s sales reaching a 10-year high of 54 700 units, but used car sales are also experiencing a healthy uptick. Data from vehicle listing giant AutoTrader for September 2025 shows used vehicle sales increased by 16.4% year-on-year to 33 907 units. Its sales chart for used cars shows that South Africans are prioritising value and reliability over status as affordable models continue to grow their sales. Interestingly, the average selling price for a used vehicle fell to R416 302 last month, down from R418 105 the previous month but up from R405 154 in September last year. The Ford Ranger was South Africa’s most popular used vehicle last month, with 1 904 sales, followed by the Toyota Hilux,…

Investors in local funds, especially those with high exposure to gold mining companies, should be smiling – the performance figures for the third quarter and for the 12 months until September 30 have been exceptional. According to Corion Capital’s Corion Report for September, which uses data from Morningstar, the resources sector of the JSE was up 50.8% for the quarter and up 99.1% for the 12-month period. This is largely owing to the extraordinary rise in gold and platinum prices. Gold rocketed from about $2,660 at the beginning of October 2024 to about $3 900 at the end of September this year, or about 47% in US dollar terms. Platinum, which had hovered around $950 for months, surged in May, reaching around $1 600 by the end of September, a…

The Stormers may boast one of the most dangerous backlines in the United Rugby Championship (URC), but they won’t abandon their balanced gameplan when they face Zebre Parma in Italy tonight. Fullback Warrick Gelant returns to the starting lineup, bringing extra spark and another kicking option on attack alongside utility back Damian Willemse and flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. He combines with wings Seabelo Senatla and Leolin Zas to form a lethal back-three for the duel at the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi (8.45pm kick-off). Despite their attacking flair, the Stormers have built their early-season unbeaten run on a disciplined, forward-driven platform. Their scrum and lineout dominance have allowed them to overpower teams before unleashing controlled bursts of backline brilliance. The Stormers may boast one of the most dangerous backlines in the United Rugby…

Orlando Pirates will be looking to extend South Africa’s wave of footballing optimism when they take on Saint-Eloi Lupopo of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup final preliminary round clash in Lubumbashi tomorrow (3pm). The fixture arrives at a time when South African football is riding high after Bafana Bafana’s qualification for the 2026 Fifa World Cup, and Pirates — a club that has supplied the national team with depth and leadership — will aim to keep that momentum rolling on the continental stage. Eight Pirates players were part of Hugo Broos’s triumphant Bafana squad during the recent international window, underlining the club’s growing domestic influence and international pedigree. The likes of Oswin Appollis, Evidence Makgopa, Sipho Mbule, Nkosinathi Sibibi and Mbekezeli…

THAPELO Morena says Mamelodi Sundowns are braced for a bruising encounter in an unforgiving atmosphere when they kick-start their CAF Champions league campaign away to Nigeria’s Remo Stars tomorrow. The South African champions, along with Egypt’s A Ahly, had a bye in the preliminary round due to their top rankings on the continent and are only entering the fray now with just a round to play before the group stages. Fresh from helping South Africa qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the first time since the country earned a ticket to the global showpiece on the pitch in 2001, Morena is excitedly looking ahead to assisting his team qualify for the money-spinning round robin phase. He knows though that they have a tough hurdle to jump over. “Phew!” he…

Helman Mkhalele is the coach – and the man – he always believed he could be. He has completed a full-circle career that many of his peers can only dream of. Mkhalele will now coach at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, 28 years after he represented Bafana Bafana at their maiden global showpiece in France. This incredible milestone couldn’t be more fitting for the man. Since becoming Bafana’s assistant coach under Hugo Broos, Mkhalele has proven his worth. When you watch him on the pitch during training sessions or on the bench on match day, it’s clear he’s not a man of many words. Despite the ample freedom Broos has given him to issue instructions to players on the field, Mkhalele only steps in when necessary. He’s…

With the summer sun warming the southern hemisphere, many South Africans eagerly anticipate escaping daily life to unwind on pristine beaches. Africa boasts some of the most breathtaking coastal destinations, perfect for relaxation, adventure and cultural immersion. A beach holiday in summer can significantly reduce stress levels, promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Spending time by the sea encourages physical activity, whether through swimming, beach games or leisurely walks along the shore. Exposure to sunlight helps boost vitamin D levels, which is essential for mood enhancement and overall health. Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts, vibrant marine life or unique cultural experiences, here are the top African beach destinations that should be on your radar. A tropical paradise – Seychelles: Often regarded as the ultimate beach getaway, Seychelles is renowned…

We’ve all been there, sitting on the couch, glass of wine in hand, scrolling through Netflix, thinking, I need something that’s a blend of Sex and the City, Big Little Lies, True Detective and Desperate Housewives. We’re always here for strong female characters leading a storyline. And The Hunting Wives is just what the doctor ordered. I was pleasantly surprised by the murderous-Republican-bisexual antics in this new drama, based on May Cobb’s novel, which recently dropped in South Africa. This show is rated PG-16. It’s sexual, messy, and unapologetically chaotic. If you’re okay with married women being romantically curious about each other, welcome to Maple Brook. Everyone carries secrets; it’s very White Lotus energy. Some are fake Christians hiding behind mega-church facades, others are murderers, and most are navigating complicated…

Sea Point residents say the suburb’s charm and sense of community are being threatened by an unrelenting wave of commercial development that is reshaping its traditionally residential streets. While few oppose progress, many argue that development has become unchecked, with traditional homes and small apartment blocks being replaced by oversized, commercially driven projects and little meaningful consultation. Apartment owner and Summertide trustee Tobie Louw said residents support development that is “considerate and consistent with the City’s Spatial Development Plan,” but added that what they are seeing isn’t “considerate” but more an “over-commercialisation”. “Long-term residents are watching the residential character of our streets disappear under constant construction, dust, noise and traffic.” Louw said residents often learn about new developments too late to have real input, describing the process as “a tick…

Members of the public have expressed anger and frustration after being denied entry to the Mitchells Plain Magistrate’s Court, with many claiming the decision not only prevents them from witnessing justice in action but also places their own safety at risk. The restrictions were implemented following a shooting incident outside the court on August 26. According to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, overcrowding at courts in the area has occasionally led to security threats and the compromise of sensitive information, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures. In consultation with the Judiciary, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and other stakeholders, the Court Security Committee temporarily restricted public access to manage crowds and protect everyone within the court precinct. While the principle of open justice remains a cornerstone of South…

The community of Parkwood was given an opportunity to provide feedback on the recently deployed City of Cape Town Neighbourhood Safety Officers (NSOs), part of a historic expansion of neighbourhood safety across the city. Residents had expressed a general wish to have officers present on weekends as well, especially at night, when criminal activity tends to spike. This initiative follows the rollout of 700 new Metro Police officers, with five officers assigned to each of the city’s 93 wards – one sergeant and four constables trained to engage with communities and manage safety challenges effectively. Parkwood, long plagued by cable and copper theft, drugs, and gangsterism that often escalates to murder, saw a strong show of force as officers took to the streets to engage with residents and assess the…

When the gavel comes down at a packed auction all eyes are on the person with the chant yet few realise that moment is the culmination of hours, days and years of hard work and training in order to make it a success. To get an idea of the preparation it takes to become successful, this year’s South African Institute of Auctioneers (SAIA) Auctioneer of the Year 2025, Henco de Kock of Elite Auctions, shares a day in his life to give an insight to the public to see the amount of work that goes into auctioneering. A Champion’s day Henco’s alarm rings at 5am but most days he’s already awake. His mornings are a carefully structured routine he said that is less about beating competitors and more about beating…

The planned Cape Winelands Airport was given a significant boost with an announcement by Growthpoint Properties of a planned investment in the proposed airport precinct. With an initial investment aimed at developing the Cape Winelands Airport, the collaboration seeks to create an advanced aviation, hospitality, and industrial hub that stands ready to serve the Western Cape and its booming tourism sector. Setting the stage for progress, Growthpoint, which has a stellar track record in managing and developing iconic destinations like Cape Town’s renowned V&A Waterfront, aims to leverage its extensive expertise in mixed-use and tourism-related developments. With property assets valued at R155.8 billion spread across retail, office, and logistics sectors, Growthpoint is poised to make significant enhancements to the Cape Winelands Airport precinct, which will take shape on…

The World Robot Olympiad (WRO), one of the world’s largest robotics competitions, has made major inroads across Africa, expanding from just five participating countries in 2020 to 14 this year. More than 40 000 young people are taking part in the 2025 season, supported by over 2 000 trained teachers and global partners including Google and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). The initiative is equipping a new generation of Africans with future-ready skills in coding, engineering and artificial intelligence (AI). Each year, WRO challenges students to design and build robots that solve real-world problems. This year’s theme, “The Future of Robots,” has inspired bootcamps and workshops across the continent, reaching hundreds of learners, including those from underserved and special needs communities. South Africa’s involvement in the programme…

Capetonians are invited to come together in celebration of the nation’s diverse heritage at Heritage and Harmony, a free open-air cultural showcase taking place at the historic Maynardville on Saturday, 1 November. Supported by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Heritage and Harmony promises an evening of music, dance, and performance that captures the essence of South Africa’s vibrant cultural mosaic. Hosted by acclaimed Afrikaaps Hip Hop artist and performance poet Jitsvinger (Quintin Goliath), the show will weave together powerful stories, rhythmic beats, and expressive movement under the direction of renowned producer, actor, and writer Basil Appollis. Event organiser Azhar Salie from BMAS says the event is designed to be more than just entertainment. “Heritage and Harmony is more than a show – it’s a free celebration of our…

In a startling revelation, a new report by global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS International has shed light on the lack of transparency among fashion brands regarding a brutal practice known as live lamb cutting (LLC). Despite 84% of the 102 brands investigated across eleven countries publicly opposing this archaic and inhumane practice, a staggering 67% failed to disclose how they address the issue within their wool sourcing policies, leaving consumers in the dark about the true animal welfare standards behind their purchases. Live lamb cutting involves the painful mutilation of lambs, primarily in Australia, the world's largest wool exporter. This outdated practice affects up to ten million lambs annually, causing them severe suffering for the sake of wool production. Experts assert that while effective and humane alternatives exist, the…

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) has taken a significant step toward addressing the ongoing crisis in student accommodation by signing a landmark development agreement with Kovacs, culminating a decade-long collaboration. This celebratory ceremony held in October underlined a commitment that began in 2010 when both entities first united to remedy the acute shortage of student housing in the region. Employing a Build Operate Transfer (BOT) financing model, the partnership has steadily transformed the Kovacs precinct into a vibrant residential hub, which currently provides 1,100 safe, modern, and accessible accommodation spaces. This latest phase of development will see 896 new beds added, thus increasing the total capacity to nearly 2,000 beds. Strategically located within walking distance of lecture halls and campus facilities, the new development will incorporate shared living…

The end of a vehicle’s life isn’t a pretty sight. Metal groans, glass shatters, and an excavator tears into what was once the beating heart of a BMW. In a few minutes, the car is reduced to a pile of parts, stripped of its valuable materials. But this violent-sounding process marks the beginning of the rebirth of resources. At BMW’s Recycling and Dismantling Centre (RDC) in Unterschleissheim, near Munich, sustainability takes on a new form. Since 1994, the complex has been the centre of innovation, dedicated to rethinking what happens when a car reaches the end of its life. What began as a modest facility to dismantle pre-series and test vehicles has evolved into a global centre of excellence for circularity, the idea that nothing should go to waste. Full-circle…

IndonesiaN humanitarian Abie Zaidannas reminds us that “media plays important roles in a democratic society and cannot be separated from the democracy itself. Ideally, the media is a tool to educate voters, giving them facts, news and balanced opinions about how the government is run and managed. Well-informed voters ensure accountable governance. Media also acts as a watchdog, facilitating people to articulate their views, demands and aspirations, keeping politicians and public officials in check.” Zaidannas’s perspective captures the aspirational vision of the media as democracy’s conscience, educating citizens, restraining power and preserving public trust. Yet in South Africa, this ideal remains increasingly distant. The press often functions within webs of political, commercial or personal interests, eroding its impartiality and diminishing its capacity to act as a genuine pillar of accountability.…

Buying your first home can be overwhelming, with so many factors to weigh up before deciding. From price trends and location to insurance and hidden costs, experts say doing your homework upfront is the best way to avoid expensive mistakes and ensure your investment grows over time. The Absa Homeowner Sentiment Index for the second quarter shows the average age of first-time homebuyers is trending downward, with buyers now registering properties at 36 years. Bradd Bendall, BetterBond’s national head of sales, says new homeowners need to be aware of several key aspects before buying. One of these is the price point of the property market. The latest FNB Residential Property Barometer (August) shows freehold prices rising 3.7% and sectional title properties 3.8% – both comfortably above August’s 3.3% inflation rate.…

“The most valuable real estate in the world isn't a penthouse or a sprawling estate; it's the graveyard. There lie millions of half-written books, ideas never launched, and talents never developed. Most people die with everything still inside of them,“ quotes Derek Sivers. But what if there was another way to measure our worth, a way to truly "die empty" by getting every idea out of our heads and into reality? In a world where attention is fragmented, trust is scarce, and digital noise is deafening, the difference between the "haves" and the "have-nots" isn't just financial. It’s a social thing, and it's built on what we create and contribute. For too long, we’ve measured ourselves on one metric: Our bank balance. This has left many of us feeling perpetually…

South Africa is celebrating a long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage after Bafana Bafana sealed qualification for the 2026 Fifa World Cup. For the first time since 2002, the national team will join the world’s elite — and the reaction from former stars has been both emotional and pointed. Two of Bafana’s former forwards Lehlohonolo Majoro and Simphiwe Shabalala, have praised the team’s achievement while underlining the responsibility that comes with it. Both believe this moment can serve as a springboard not only for the national side, but for the wider football ecosystem in South Africa. Majoro, known for his directness on and off the pitch, credited coach Hugo Broos’s stability and consistency for Bafana’s resurgence. “It shows that football in South Africa is evolving. For the first time in…

Sri Lanka: 105/7 (Vismhi Gunaratne 34; Nonkululeko Mlaba 3/30) South Africa: 125/0 (Laura Wolvaardt 60 not out; Tazmin Brits 55 not out) South Africa won by 10 wickets with 31 balls to spare Proteas women’s captain Laura Wolvaardt guided South Africa to their fourth consecutive victory of the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Wolvaardt played a captain’s knock against Sri Lanka on Friday, reaching an unbeaten 60 off 47 balls including eight boundaries as the right-handed batter continued her rich vein of form over the last couple of games in the showpiece event. With the game having been reduced to 20 overs per side following showers of rain that lasted over four hours, Sri Lanka had set a target of 121 runs…

The 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, taking place tomorrow, marks another milestone in South Africa’s premier road race, which now stands just one step away from joining the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors series in 2026. With a new dual-start format in Green Point and a world-class elite field, organisers are expecting one of the fastest and most competitive editions yet. “This is the best and strongest field the African continent has ever seen,” said race CEO Clark Gardner. “With eight Platinum Label and 10 Gold Label athletes, I think the race records may be broken again this year, as we saw in 2024.” Gardner emphasised the broader vision behind the event’s growth. “We understand our responsibility to develop running on this continent and give more African runners the opportunity…

Kaizer Chiefs know what is expected of them in order to gain an advantage in their CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round, first-leg clash against AS Simba at Stade TP Mazembe this afternoon (3pm kick-off). Chiefs are just two games away from qualifying for the continental group stage for the first time since reaching the CAF Champions League final in 2020. They’ll be determined to get the job done and ease the pressure currently surrounding the club. Amakhosi are currently without a head coach, having recently parted ways with Nasreddine Nabi. His former assistants, Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, have taken over on an interim basis until the end of the season. The duo, who had already been holding the fort during Nabi’s recent compassionate leave, haven’t had a…

If you've ever been on a cruise, you know the ritual – sprawling buffets, themed nights, casual eateries, perhaps a seafood grill. But lately, cruise liners are turning to haute cuisine and celebrity chefs to woo guests who want more than just “good enough” food. From intimate restraint-style dinners to culinary residencies with Michelin-starred names, the ocean liner dinner experience is being reimagined. Michel Roux and Le Gavroche at Sea: One of the sharpest examples is Michelin-star chef Michel Roux’s residency aboard Cunard's Queen Anne, dubbed Le Gavroche at Sea. Roux, a two-Michelin-star veteran, brings his signature style to sea travellers. Think five-course tasting menus, live cooking demonstrations, wine pairing experiences and sea-themed seafood specials. Sir Samuels aboard Queen Anne holds about 50 diners per evening when Roux takes over,…

Historical dramas are the holy grail for Hollywood’s writers and creators. Legacy storytelling has found a new home and a wide audience on streaming platforms. Popular examples such as The Crown, Peaky Blinders, The Gilded Age, Boardwalk Empire, Downton Abbey, and even The Fall of the House of Usher highlight the enduring appeal of this genre. Recently, House of Guinness has lured fans of the genre. This eight-part series chronicles the renowned Guinness family, tracing their brewing legacy from 19th-century Ireland to New York. Opening on a sombre note with the passing of Benjamin Guinness, it unpacks how his footprints will be taken forward as his four children – Arthur Guinness (Anthony Boyle), the eldest son; Edward Guinness (Louis Partridge); Anne Plunket (née Guinness) (Emily Fairn); and Benjamin Lee Guinness…

Scroll through Instagram or TikTok and you’ll notice a pattern – flawless faces, sculpted features and captions that promise “natural” results. But behind the polished selfies and trending filters lies a growing shift: cosmetic surgery is no longer reserved for the rich, famous, or middle-aged. Increasingly, women under 30 are opting for procedures that once seemed unthinkable at their age – from baby Botox and lip fillers to mini facelifts and subtle nose jobs. Across the world, this beauty evolution is being shaped by social media, celebrity culture, and a new openness about surgical enhancement. The taboo is fading fast. The social media effect Social media has become a mirror and a magnifier of modern beauty ideals. Apps like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are filled with creators showing their “glow-up…

Over the past two years, Israel has intensified the construction of illegal settlements across the occupied West Bank, thumbing its nose at international law, the United Nations, and even its own claims of pursuing peace. Despite repeated condemnations, including UN Security Council Resolution 2334 (2016), which unequivocally declares that settlements “have no legal validity and constitute a flagrant violation under international law”, Israel continues to expand its settler presence – deepening the entrenchment of occupation and eroding any realistic prospect of a two-state solution. According to United Nations and peace monitoring groups, the last two years have seen record-breaking approvals for settlement housing units, many in sensitive areas deliberately chosen to sever Palestinian territorial continuity. The expansion around Jerusalem and deep into the heart of the West Bank has created…

Suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu testified that he briefed President Cyril Ramaphosa about his decision to disband the Political Killing Task Team (PKTT) and added that the commander-in-chief was in agreement with it. Mchunu said the short briefing with Ramaphosa took place sometime in January or February this year. “I sought an appointment and it was granted at a particular time and I went to brief him,” he said. Mchunu was giving evidence on his second day of appearing at the parliamentary inquiry probing allegations made by KZN police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi at a press briefing on July 6 when he accused him of political interference in police operations. The inquiry was established to probe the unlawful dissolution of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), the freezing of filling vacancies…

Next Engineers, a global college and career-readiness programme dedicated to expanding opportunities for young people in engineering, celebrated the graduation of 43 learners from its Engineering Academy in Johannesburg. The ceremony, held at The University of the Witwatersrand, marked the programme’s second graduating class and highlighted its role in bridging South Africa’s STEM skills gap by exposing learners to hands-on engineering experiences and career pathways. The graduates, representing 15 high schools across Johannesburg, were joined by their families to celebrate their achievements. Many plan to pursue engineering-related qualifications at universities and technical institutions. Launched in 2022, the programme is run in partnership with PROTEC, the University of Witwatersrand, and the Kutitiva Foundation. GE Vernova engineers and employees actively engage with participants through hands-on volunteering, donating over 680 hours in Johannesburg…

As the sun dips below the breathtaking mountains of Franschhoek, the stage is set for a magical musical evening at The Sanctuary at La Roche. Acclaimed cellist Carol Thorns will present a captivating sunset concert, showcasing original compositions from her award-nominated album Sanctuary, which was recorded in this very venue and has earned her a nomination for Best Instrumental Album at the 2023 South African Music Awards (SAMA). This stunning setting is more than just a picturesque backdrop; it is a place steeped in personal significance for Thorns. “Performing at The Sanctuary is deeply meaningful to me,” she said. “It’s not only a breathtaking location, but also the place where I’ve created some of my most inspired work. I’ve recorded an album here and filmed two music videos, and the…

While the world races toward the 2030 deadline for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), South Africa is falling behind on ending hunger and food insecurity. But University of Pretoria researchers are championing a revolutionary approach: reintroducing indigenous and orphan crops to our food system to combat both nutritional deficiencies and the the loss of agricultural biodiversity. “Of the world’s 400,000 plant species, just six of them account for 57% of the primary crop production (around 9.5 billion tonnes),” explained Dr Hennie Fisher of the Department of Consumer and Food Science. These crops include sugar cane, maize, rice and wheat. “With about 3.2 billion people worldwide unable to afford a healthy diet and 900 million people experiencing severe food insecurity, we need to move away from diets that contain…

In a significant leap towards South Africa’s renewable energy future, Red Rocket, a leading renewable energy company, has announced the financial close of the Tournee Solar Park. This project marks a historic achievement as it is the first and only initiative to reach this stage, utilising land secured under Eskom’s landmark land lease initiative launched in 2022. The Tournee Solar Park is set to transform the energy landscape in South Africa, providing clean energy to hundreds of thousands of homes while contributing to the nation’s decarbonisation goals. The initiative, introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, aimed to provide “an ambitious, bold and urgent response” to the country’s ongoing energy crisis. Eskom, South Africa’s state utility, took decisive action by signing lease agreements with four Independent Power Producers (IPPs) for the commercial…

A recent study conducted by the University of Cape Town (UCT) has brought to light ongoing challenges within South Africa’s two-year medical internship programme, especially in surgical training. The research sheds a critical spotlight on proposed initiatives to shorten the internship period, cautioning that such moves could jeopardise the clinical exposure and preparedness of junior doctors entering the healthcare system. Published in the esteemed BMC Medical Education journal, the survey sufficiently canvassed the sentiments of 82 participants – comprising 63 medical interns and 19 experienced clinicians, such as intern curators and heads of department – based in the Western Cape. According to the findings, most interns regard the two-year structure of the internship as a vital transition from academic training to independent medical practice. Overwhelmingly, more than two-thirds (68%) of…

Unroadworthy vehicles are a significant contributor to South Africa’s unacceptably high accident rate, with some sources indicating that the condition of vehicles is a factor in up to 15% of crashes. With about 13 000 road deaths recorded on our roads annually, South Africans should be paying far greater attention to the condition of their vehicles, particularly in the run-up to the December holidays. The Retail Motor Industry (RMI) notes that not only was there a disappointing turnout during its recent campaign, which offered free safety checks at dozens of its accredited testing stations across the country, but the failure rate was alarmingly high. Of the 101 safety inspections that were carried out, which focused on safety-critical components such as brakes, tyres, suspension, and lights, 63.02% of vehicles did not…

For US presidents, Nobel Peace Prize long fraught with politics Maybe next year. It was perhaps not a coincidence that the announcement Friday of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for which US President Donald Trump has so openly campaigned coincided with his greatest foreign policy triumph to date – a widely praised ceasefire and hostage deal that, although still fragile, could be the beginning of the end of two years of war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. But it also came as Trump has sent troops into US cities over the objections of those who govern them, has goaded his compliant attorney general to prosecute his political enemies, and in other ways wielded executive power in a heavy-handed manner unlike any in modern US history. So it could be…

South Africa’s life insurance industry has concluded the first half of 2025 in a robust financial position, with total assets under management reaching R4.8 trillion. This marks a notable increase from R4.5 trillion recorded at the end of December 2024, according to half-year statistics released by the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (Asisa). The industry also reported a healthy solvency buffer, with a solvency capital requirement (SCR) ratio of 1.89, nearly double the minimum threshold set by the Prudential Authority of the South African Reserve Bank. The SCR is designed to ensure that insurers can meet their obligations to policyholders, even under adverse conditions. Gareth Friedlander, a member of the Asisa Life and Risk Board Committee, said the strength of the solvency buffer is a key indicator of…

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has thrown his support behind the long-standing calls for a global rugby calendar, saying it would be “fantastic” if the international windows could align with the different competitions. Erasmus believes that moving the Rugby Championship to the same period as the Six Nations would create the kind of synergy world rugby has been striving for and would ultimately benefit both hemispheres. With the recent announcement of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, a tour featuring the world champions and New Zealand, the question of a global calendar to align international matches has resurfaced. The two sides will face each other in 2026 in four Test matches, three on South African soil, while the All Blacks will also play midweek matches against the SA franchises. The Boks will reciprocate the…

“The most watched league in the world.” That’s the English Premier League’s flex — broadcast to 189 countries with 1.87 billion followers worldwide. Well, tomorrow, in a hotel room in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, at exactly 8:30 pm, a group of South Africans are going to gather in an attempt to watch Premier League champions Liverpool tackle arch-rivals Manchester United — probably off some dodgy VPN network too. “Yeah, yeah … we’ll just have to figure a way out, man,” Proteas all-rounder and ardent Manchester United fan Senuran Muthusamy tells Independent Media in an exclusive interview. “It’s 8:30 (pm) our time here in Pakistan, so it’s a reasonable hour, thankfully. Yeah, we’ll definitely watch the game somehow.” Muthusamy forms part of the minority in the Proteas changeroom. Head coach Shukri Conrad and…

For the Red Devils, the path to overcoming rivals like Liverpool hinges on consistency and mental strength, something defender Luke Shaw stresses the team is actively addressing. “I think the most important thing is the team’s overall performance,” Shaw said. “There are definitely a few positives to take from some of our games, but for us, consistency is key. Lately, we’ve been in a pattern of winning one game and then losing the next, and that’s something we’ve talked about fixing. We need to build momentum, keep winning, and pick up points regularly. “At the end of the day, even if the performance isn’t perfect, what matters most is getting the result. Winning always lifts the mood, restores confidence, and keeps the energy in the squad high. For me, it’s…

ON TUESDAY, the air across South Africa crackled with excitement as Bafana Bafana clinched their place in the prestigious FIFA World Cup, reigniting a passionate football fervour among fans nationwide. This exhilarating achievement not only signifies a triumphant return to the global stage but also fills the hearts of supporters who have long yearned for this moment of elation. As the CAF World Cup Group C qualifiers concluded dramatically, South Africa and Nigeria emerged as the standout heroes of the day, lighting up an already electric atmosphere with their impressive performances. The final matches exemplified the grit and determination of the teams as they vied for a spot in the sporting odyssey that captivates millions every four years. We look at the takeaways of Group C’s final games, as the…

New Year’s Eve provides a chance to reflect on the past year and embrace new beginnings. As the clock ticks down to midnight, the world comes alive with anticipation and celebration. What better way to mark this momentous occasion than by travelling to a new destination? Whether you seek the thrill of vibrant city celebrations or the tranquillity of serene landscapes, travelling offers a unique opportunity to create unforgettable memories and connect with diverse cultures. Embrace the adventure, connect with new people and start 2026 with excitement and joy. Here are some of the best destinations to celebrate the New Year. A dazzling countdown – Dubai, UAE: Dubai is famous for its extravagant New Year’s Eve celebrations. The highlight is the spectacular fireworks display at the Burj Khalifa, the tallest…

The World's 50 Best Hotels recently announced its first extended list, now including hotels ranked from 51 to 100. This means more hotels have been recognised for their excellence. The list now celebrates 24 different territories and 40 cities around the globe. Emma Sleight, head of content for The World’s 50 Best Hotels, said: “As we enter our third year, we are delighted to honour even more of the world’s most outstanding hotels with the extended 51-100 list. Among the highlights of the new list is Cape Town’s Mount Nelson, affectionately called “The Nellie” or “Pink Lady”, which secured the 73rd spot. The Nellie opened its doors in 1899 as a welcoming space for first-class passengers travelling on the transatlantic Union Castle Line. It has hosted important people like Winston…