Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-10-25 i Independent on Saturday

True crime has never been my guilty pleasure, but somehow The Perfect Neighbor grabbed my attention. There’s something about documentaries that shifts your perspective, that lets you peek into realities far removed from your own. Set in Florida, the documentary tells the story of a long-simmering dispute between neighbours that spirals out of control over children playing in the street. What makes it so haunting is the perspective: it is captured through the slightly fisheye, smudgy lens of American law enforcement body-cams. There are no interviews, no voiceovers, barely any context. The camera simply shows you what happened, letting the tension and danger unfold in real time. At first, the footage feels slow, almost mundane. You might find yourself thinking, “Get to the point.” But those small moments, glimpses of…

EVERY week, a South African police officer dies by suicide, and almost no one is talking about it. Experts warn that the mental health crisis among first responders, including police, paramedics, emergency room nurses and doctors, and firefighters, has reached breaking point. These are the people who rush to save others, but too often, they can’t save themselves. “This is a national emergency hidden in plain sight,” said Dr Alicia Porter, board member of the South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP). She said workers on the frontline of responding to crime, domestic violence, large-scale road accidents, medical emergencies and natural disasters are disproportionately susceptible to burnout, depression and suicide. “The problem is that they may have pre-existing mental health conditions, but the nature of the work is very unique…

A forensic investigator yesterday revealed to the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry that Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya received payments from controversial attempted murder accused businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. The police officer, identified only as Witness C, told the judicial commission of inquiry into criminality, political interference and corruption in the criminal justice system, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, that Matlala volunteered the explosive information to the team attempting to find kidnapped businessman Jerry Boshoga in December last year. Witness C said a team, including members of the police’s specialised task force, national intervention unit, and tactical response team, swooped on Matlala’s Pretoria mansion to conduct one of three parallel operations in the capital city and Johannesburg. According to the witness, the team was briefed by…

CHATSWORTH’S Dr Riona Indhur is using innovative nanotechnology to revolutionise water purification while ensuring solutions remain accessible to underserved communities The L’Oréal-UNESCO award-winning scientist turned a childhood fascination into a mission to make clean water accessible to all. At just six, Indhur peered into a microscope and watched the universe stir in a single drop of water and she was completely mesmerized. That early wonder evolved into a purpose-driven career: harnessing nanotechnology to rid water of micro-plastics and contaminants – and working to make those tools affordable for communities that need them most. The 29-year-old resident of Havenside is a postdoctoral fellow at DUT’s Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology and was recently named one of South Africa’s recipients of the 2025 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award. The accolade…

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has confirmed a probe has been launched following claims that a fake matric school is being run at its premises. This comes after hundreds of learners who arrived to write their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations earlier this week found they were not issued with legitimate examination numbers. According to Democratic AAlliance Education spokesperson Sakhile Mngadi, the institute, known as ‘Matric Scholars’ is not on the Department of Education’s database. He said Matric Scholars is believed to have received over R8000 from each learner, thinking they were due to write their NSC exams. Mngadi is calling for a full investigation into the matter. “We also call for urgent action by the DoE to assist all affected learners by placing them at recognised special…

ANANT Singh’s critically acclaimed documentary Personal Best won awarded the Best Thematic Documentary Award at the Sportel Awards, held at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco. This prestigious event acknowledges outstanding content within the sports media landscape, showcasing works that encapsulate the essence of athleticism, remarkable achievements, and the intrinsic beauty found in global sports. Singh, the executive producer of the documentary, expressed his joy at receiving the accolade, noting that Personal Best serves as a tribute to the spirit of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. It is a South African/European co-production which made him very proud. The documentary invites audiences on an immersive and inspiring cinematic journey, spotlighting extraordinary athletes who push the boundaries of human potential in their pursuit of glory. Viewers witness the powerful strides of Faith Kipyegon,…

From the township streets of Khayelitsha to the summits of some of the world’s highest mountains, Monde Steven Sitole, 35, has spent his life defying the odds and he’s not done yet. The Nyanga-born adventurer and climber, now based in the Eastern Cape, has already conquered Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe. Next year, in December, he plans to take on Aconcagua in Argentina, the tallest mountain in South America, via the demanding Polish route. But to make his dream a reality, Sitole is appealing for sponsorship and support to raise around R100 000 for his expedition fees and flights. “My mother is my biggest inspiration,” he recalled. “Watching her gave me the drive to push past my own limitations.” Sitole’s passion for adventure…

The old picture today is from the Facebook site Durban Down Memory Lane and shows the Edinburgh Castle leaving the port of Durban for the last time, probably in 1975 or 1976. The vessel was operated by the Union-Castle Line between Britain and South Africa during the mid 20th century. She and her sister ship the RMS Pretoria Castle were built to replace the second SS Edinburgh Castle (1910) and Warwick Castle (1931) which were "lost" during World War 2. She was built by Harland and Wolff of Belfast at a cost of £2.5 million. The Edinburgh Castle measured 28 705 tons, and was 747 feet long with a beam of 84 feet. She was powered by steam turbines, which drove twin propellers that gave her a service speed of…

THE South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR) is introducing annual anniversary surveys to confirm whether registered donors remain committed to being part of the programme. The move aims to prevent the heart- breaking scenario where a patient, matched with a potential life-saving donor, finds that person has withdrawn or can no longer be reached, despite still being listed on the database. “Once someone signs up as a stem cell donor, a certain level of commitment is required,” says Jane Ward, Deputy Director of the SABMR. “Lives quite literally hang in the balance. A stem cell transplant is often the last and only resort for patients with life-threatening blood disorders.” Ward explains that while people are allowed to change their minds, early dropouts are far less damaging than last-minute withdrawals. “Maybe…

In a country where mobility means progress, Toyota Financial Services South Africa has positioned itself as more than just a finance provider – it’s the bridge between aspiration and achievement. For countless South Africans, the moment their Toyota finance is approved marks a beginning filled with dignity, opportunity, and independence. Removing barriers Toyota Financial Services’ message is a simple but powerful one: finance is the enabler. By removing the barriers that separate people from their dream Toyota, Lexus or Hino, the company turns the idea of ownership into a reality. Whether it’s a first-time buyer taking delivery of their Toyota Starlet, a family upgrading to a Fortuner, or an entrepreneur expanding a business fleet, each approval represents a milestone. As the official vehicle finance partner for Toyota in South…

A ladder truck, an angle-grinder, a maxi-scooter and seven minutes. That appears to be all it took for thieves to nab priceless jewellery from the Louvre, the world’s most-visited museum. The vulnerability of this cornerstone of French soft power adds to the country’s sense of malaise, and fingers are being pointed over apparent security flaws. But it speaks to something much broader, too – criminals’ boundless hunger for gold and other precious metals and gems, not fine art, as the value of these commodities soars. Museum raids are becoming ever more audacious as the gold price has doubled in a year – and jumped tenfold in two decades. A stampede of investors fleeing erstwhile safe assets such as government bonds is making real stuff you can keep in safes or…

Let’s talk straight: life in South Africa is financially brutal right now. Food prices are climbing, electricity is unpredictable, and jobs are scarce. For many, the pressure is relentless. So when gambling flashes its neon promises, quick wins, instant cash, a way out, it’s tempting. But here’s the truth: gambling is not a financial strategy. It’s a trap disguised as hope. According to the National Gambling Board, South Africans wagered over R1.14 trillion in the last financial year. That’s not just a few Lotto tickets or a night at the casino; that’s a nation in distress. And it’s not just about entertainment anymore. The 2024 Old Mutual Savings and Investment Monitor found that 36% of gamblers say they do it to pay off debt or cover living expenses. Among low-income…

In the world of personal finance in South Africa, we are concerned about making ends meet. We need bread on the table, we need to save as much as we can, and one of our highest priorities is to ensure that our children will be better off than us. Saving is extremely difficult, but it helps to make use of the cheapest means of transport, and it is gratifying to see our children acquire an education that will assist them for the rest of their working life to ensure financial freedom. Financial liberty does not come in a matchbox, but it is to be found in dedicated, arduous work. Anarchy is seen as a situation in which there is no organization and control, especially in society, because there is no…

Some names carry their meaning, don't they? Take Saint Eloi Lupopo for instance, which can be loosely translated as "Saint, my God, it's lightning" – a striking combination of words. The Lubumbashi-based side lashed the Sea Robbers in their buzzing backyard last week, taking the wind out of their sails as they beat them 3-0 in the first leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary qualifiers' second round. And so, as Orlando Pirates return to their spiritual home, the Orlando Stadium, today (3pm kick-off), eager to breathe some air back into the skull and crossbones of the Ghost – by rescuing the tie and sailing into the competition's group stage – they know they have tough waters to navigate. Pirates need to score at least three unanswered goals to salvage…

Nick Champion de Crespigny admitted he was surprised to be named Australia captain for today’s Test against Japan — in only his third international appearance. The 29-year-old will lead the Wallabies in Tokyo as they kick off a five-Test tour that also pits them against England, Italy, Ireland and France. Flanker Champion de Crespigny made his debut in the first Test against the British and Irish Lions in July. He said he was expecting his teammates to share the leadership load and vowed to repay coach Joe Schmidt’s faith in him. “It was a little bit of a surprise, but I was very honoured and privileged to be asked by Joe just before the team announcement,” Champion de Crespigny said yesterday. “The support from the group and the other players…

the entry fees for the 2026 edition of the Comrades Marathon – the 99th running of the race – remain unchanged, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) confirmed, as it announced that early entries for Green Number Club runners and CMA members will open at noon on Monday. Entries for all other aspirant Comrades Marathon runners will open one week later, at 10am on Monday, November 3. The overall entry period will close on November 28, or earlier if the entry cap of 22 000 is reached before that date, the CMA said. This will be the only entry window for the 2026 Up Run. This marks the second year that runners with Green Numbers – those who have completed the marathon 10 times, earned five gold medals or won the…

Golden Arrows head coach Manqoba Mngqithi says his side must ignore the weight of history as they prepare to face TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final at the King Zwelithini Stadium tomorrow at 3pm. Abafana Bes’thende will walk into the clash with a grim record against The Rockets, having failed to win any of their last nine encounters since 2021 — a run that includes five defeats and four draws. Yet, Mngqithi insists he is not guided by past results, choosing instead to focus on the immediate challenge in front of him. “Sometimes I don’t know whether it’s assertiveness or arrogance, but I always want to focus on how a particular team has played against me and not necessarily the team that I’m coaching at that point in…

When it comes to breathtaking coastlines, South Africa is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. With more than 2 798km of coastline, there’s a beach for every type of traveller. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, stunning scenic views or vibrant social scenes, South Africa’s beaches offer a diverse range of experiences. Let’s dive into some of the most captivating beach destinations that promise unforgettable memories. Scenic views and vibrant vibes – Camps Bay: Nestled against the backdrop of the majestic Twelve Apostles and Lion’s Head mountains, Camps Bay is a must-visit for those who appreciate stunning scenery. The beach boasts golden sands and dramatic sunsets that are nothing short of magical. As you stroll along the palm-lined promenade, you’ll find an array of upscale restaurants, bars and boutique shops,…

South African photographer wins top award A decade of patience, persistence and passion has paid off for Pretoria-based wildlife photographer Wim van den Heever, who has claimed the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year award for his haunting image captured in Namibia’s ghost town of Kolmanskop. The competition, hosted annually by the Natural History Museum in London, is considered the Oscars of wildlife photography, drawing close to 60 000 entries from over 90 countries each year. Van den Heever’s photograph, titled Ghost Town Visitor, not only topped the Urban Wildlife category but also earned the overall Grand Title. The award-winning image depicts a rare brown hyena moving through the eerie, sand-filled ruins of Kolmanskop, a once-thriving diamond mining town now reclaimed by the desert. Van den Heever spent 10…

I find music biopics fascinating. Condensing a legacy into a feature film is no easy feat. However, Hollywood has delivered some gems over the years, like Walk the Line, Elvis, Ray, Bohemian Rhapsody, La Vie En Rose and 8 Mile, to name a few. Now, Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere has been released on the big screen. Helmed by Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen, it is written and directed by Scott Cooper. The film, which is based on Warren Zanes’ 2023 book of the same name, chronicles Springsteen’s journey in the build-up to the release of his 1982 album, Nebraska. A key character in the story is Jon Landau, Springsteen’s manager and record producer, and Jeremy Strong slips into those shoes with ease. A seasoned actor with numerous accolades…

Laura Wolvaardt will lead the Proteas Women against Australia in Indore today as South Africa look to test themselves against the favourites to win the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India. Since their first-ever meeting in One-Day Internationals almost three decades ago, the Australians have largely dictated terms against South Africa. Of the 18 ODIs played, Australia have won 16, with one ending in a tie – and South Africa claiming victory only once. That historic triumph was in Sydney a year ago. In the current tournament, Australia remain unbeaten and sit atop the standings, while South Africa have recovered impressively from a 10-wicket defeat to England in their opener with five consecutive victories to occupy second place. The Proteas will also draw inspiration from their most recent…

Former police minister Bheki Cele yesterday spoke in support of KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who has retracted allegations concerning a bank account allegedly linked to Cele. Speaking at the parliamentary inquiry yesterday, Cele described Mkhwanazi’s mistake as “genuine” and suggested that he should be forgiven for the mix-up. He made the remarks when he was responding to a question from ANC MP Khusela Sangoni-Diko on whether he accepted Mkhwanazi’s apology. “I have not seen him. I am planning to see him, but as I sit here, I believe he made a genuine mistake, and if you make a mistake and I believe you made a mistake, yes, you need to be pardoned, but I have not arrived there,” he said. On Thursday, Mkhwanazi sent a message to the parliamentary…

Human rights activist and United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Francesca Albanese, has called for corporate accountability on the Gaza situation. On Thursday, Albanese delivered a Pre-annual Lecture Dialogue at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, centred on Albanese’s latest report, titled “The Economy of Occupation to Economy of Genocide”. This lecture is a prelude to the 23rd Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture, which will be held today at the Sandton Convention Centre. In June, the UN published Albanese’s report, which labels corporate entities as key enablers and profiteers of the occupation of Palestinian territories and the Gaza genocide. Her report lists 48 corporations, including Microsoft, Volvo, Alphabet Inc and Amazon, which she says are helping Israel displace Palestinians in breach of international law. The Italian-born activist, through her…

The United States’ ambassador-designate to South Africa, Brent Bozell III, has warned that Washington sees Pretoria as drifting into China’s orbit – and vowed to challenge what he described as South Africa’s “geostrategic drift” toward America’s global competitors. Appearing before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee this week, Bozell pledged that, if confirmed as Washington’s top diplomat in Pretoria, he would “communicate our objections to South Africa’s geostrategic drift from non-alignment toward our competitors, including Russia, China and Iran.” Bozell’s statement signals that Washington’s potential next envoy to Pretoria will not shy away from confronting South Africa’s increasingly close relations with Beijing – mutual ties that have grown over the past decade to make China South Africa’s largest trading partner. “If confirmed, I will approach my ambassadorship with respect for…

It was a scene that only Hollywood’s horror film producers could conjure up: A skeleton sits in front of a bed, a woman watches and the stench of decaying flesh wafts through the street. Only this happened in a quiet street in the seaside suburb of Muizenberg on the False Bay coast. As the summer season took its last breath and tourists headed home, neighbours in Scarboro Road made a gruesome discovery that had them talking for months. It wasn’t your usual murder or crime, or even a murder or crime at all. Before that they were wondering about the absence of one neighbour in particular, that of a 90-year-old lady who they hadn’t seen for some time. Since they hadn’t heard of a death or a funeral from that…

Search teams fanned out through the dense woods of Dorchester, New Hampshire, and the sun was starting to set. Temperatures dropped below 5ºC as volunteers scoured the area for a 2-year-old girl who had been missing for hours. “It’s thick forests and swamps,” Sgt Christopher McKee of New Hampshire Fish and Game said of the area. That afternoon, on October 10, a frantic mother called 911 to report that her toddler and the family’s two dogs were missing. They disappeared from the gated front yard around 3.15pm, after the dogs seemingly pushed through a spot where a wooden fence met a metal wire fence. “The gate was secured, everything was locked,” McKee said. “Where the two fences meet wasn’t hooked together very well, and they were able to push through.”…

At a very young age, Kevin Zhang learnt that gardening was not for the faint of heart. Some of his earliest memories involve watching his grandmother deftly remove plump green caterpillars from the tomato plants with chopsticks, dropping them into soapy water. So, it’s perhaps not surprising that a trip to a nearby nursery in Chicago, where he stumbled upon a Venus flytrap, ignited his fascination with carnivorous plants – those rare species that capture and consume insects for extra nourishment. “I remember being instantly captivated by the unusual appearance and the way they were able to move,” he recalled. “I was hooked.” By the time he reached high school, after much trial and error, Zhang had mastered the art of growing carnivorous plants. This passion blossomed further during his…

Berlin, long hailed as one of the world’s great party cities, is fighting to keep its famed techno clubs alive in the face of soaring prices, shifting tastes and a tightening property market. For now, the mood is exuberant at Renate, a labyrinthine club with multiple DJs housed in a dimly-lit complex near the Spree river, a Berlin institution which recently celebrated its 18th birthday. Industrial beats, a pulsating bass and coloured lights fill the dance floor as ever – but many fear that the music will stop when the club’s lease runs out at the end of the year. British visitor Oscar Lister, 30, said it was “really sad” that it was “probably the last time” he could come to the long-cherished Renate, just like the Watergate club that…

For anyone working through their bucket list of must-play courses in golf-obsessed Scotland, dozens of venues line the eastern seaboard – with St Andrews invariably at the top of the pile. But Inverness, the nation’s northern- most cities with a population of less than 50 000, is developing into a destination of choice for those wanting successive days of high-end golf, premium dining and quality accommodation. Improved travel connections and a marketing push to get more vacation companies to add the Highlands to their golf-inclusive packages have now lured more tourism dollars to one of the more remote corners of Europe. The capital of the Highlands region, Inverness has historically been a gateway to inland adventures involving hunting rifles, fishing rods, walking sticks, whisky and (maybe) a sighting of…

The Changan brand is officially launching in South Africa later this week, with three strategically positioned models forming the initial line-up, and many more to follow. Changan is China’s fourth-largest auto manufacturer, with around 2.7 million units sold last year in over 70 countries. In South Africa, the brand will be distributed by Jameel Motors, with 25 dealers expected to be up-and-running at launch. The importer will use established partners to handle its vehicle and parts logistics, and a fully stocked parts warehouse has been set up in Gauteng, with nationwide deliveries taking place daily. The initial line-up consists of the Alsvin compact sedan, CS75 Pro SUV and Hunter one-tonne bakkie, while the Deepal S07 electric crossover and Hunter range-extended bakkie are set to join the line-up in the near…

It was time to hand the keys of our long-term Ford Ranger Wildtrak Supercab back, but not before a final road trip to Hoedspruit in Limpopo. My partner and I had taken a few days off to explore that part of the world surrounded by the Kruger National Park and a myriad private game reserves and hunting lodges. We don’t have the budget for those fancy places, so we settled instead for a self-catering tented camp close to the Orpen gate. Bags, fridges and wood We loaded our bags behind the seats and the fridge, ammo boxes with our food, wood (because braai) and odds and ends we thought we may need into the loadbox using the handy fastening rings to prevent them from sliding around. It does have a…

A lack of money doesn't just adversely affect your ability to spoil yourself, such as a dinner out, or pay bills, it also eats into your mental well-being and can be the cause of depression so great that people sometimes kill themselves. 1Life recently ran a poll that revealed just how serious this issue has become. Nearly 7 in 10 of the South Africans who took part said that financial pressure significantly affects their mental health. Another 10.5% admitted that their money worries are impacting their loved ones too. Hayley Parry, money coach and facilitator at 1Life's Truth About Money, tells Personal Finance during Mental Health Awareness Month that the “psychological link between our financial wellbeing and mental health is deep, far deeper than most of us care to admit”.…

The uMhlathuze Sports Complex will come alive today (3pm) when Richards Bay host Durban City in a Carling Knockout quarter-final that promises intensity, pride, and a provincial edge. This all-KZN showdown pits a cup-seasoned Richards Bay side against a hungry Durban City outfit eager to mark their debut Betway Premiership season with a statement result. Both teams have been competitive in recent weeks, setting up what could be one of the most balanced ties of the round. The Natal Rich Boys have become familiar faces in the latter stages of this competition, having reached back-to-back semi-finals over the past two seasons. Their resilience and tactical discipline under co-coaches Ronnie Gabriel and Papi Zothwane have made them a reliable cup side — one that thrives when the pressure rises. Richards Bay…

The Bulls will appeal the massive nine-match suspension handed to their forward, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, who has been found guilty by what is shaping up to be a kangaroo court and an embarrassing bout of publicity for the United Rugby Championship (URC). Since the news about Wessels was leaked earlier this week, there have been precious few facts given to the media and, consequently, to the public. We don’t know vital information, such as whether Wessels appeared at the hearing, and if so, whether he pleaded guilty or not. We don’t know if new evidence was produced to sink Wessels. A source at the Bulls confirmed that an appeal had been lodged. It is further understood that no additional television material has been added to what the referee and TMO saw…

The Lions go into Saturday’s United Rugby Championship clash against Ulster with consistency in selection and a smidgeon of momentum. Still, they will have to improve significantly if they are to beat the team from Northern Ireland. The Lions ended their winless start to the URC with a workmanlike victory over the last-placed Scarlets at Ellis Park last week, while over the last fortnight, Ulster have beaten the Bulls 28-7 and the Sharks 34-26. Last week’s hard-fought success, however, came with one casualty in the form of star poacher JC Pretorius, who sustained a knee injury that will see him out of action for some time. Reflecting on last weekend’s 29-18 win, Lions kicking coach Morne Steyn was pleased with the team’s composure but acknowledged areas for improvement. “Looking back,…

Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley has opened up about the club’s recent difficult run, emphasising that the team’s only way forward is to “stick together and keep fighting.” The Reds endured four consecutive defeats across all competitions before securing an emphatic 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Uefa Champions League on Wednesday night. Reflecting on the preceding Premier League loss to Manchester United, Bradley admitted the run of results had been tough for everyone at the club. “We’re just trying to recover from it,” Bradley said. “It was a tough setback for Arne Slot and the whole team, but with the group we have, we’re determined to bounce back.” The young defender acknowledged the gravity of those four losses, stressing that the focus must now shift entirely to the upcoming…

Miguel Cardoso is approaching a year in charge at Mamelodi Sundowns with a clear understanding of the high standards he inherited and the expectations that come with the job. Since taking over, the Portuguese coach has guided Sundowns to 33 wins in 53 matches, combining domestic dominance with continental ambition. The Brazilians currently sit atop the Betway Premiership, demonstrating their continued strength in South African football. Sundowns, who finished runners-up in last season’s CAF Champions League, coasted to a 5-1 win over NPFL champions in Nigeria last week and are now major favourites to advance to their 11th consecutive campaign in the group stages. Their upcoming second-leg preliminary round clash at Loftus Versfeld tomorrow will confirm whether they secure progression, as they look to continue their continental journey this season.…

As we approach the end of 2025, the list of the world’s best countries to visit has been revealed by Forbes. These countries offer a diverse range of experiences for travellers, from adventure and culture to relaxation. Two African countries, Zimbabwe and Morocco, have made it onto the list of the world’s best countries to travel for the year. Here is a complete list of the top 10 countries, and why you should add them to your travel bucket list. Zimbabwe: It has been named the best place to visit in 2025, and for good reason. This landlocked country in southern Africa boasts dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife, much of which can be found in its national parks and reserves. Visitors can experience the awe-inspiring thundering drop of 108m at…

Iconic TV star Suzanne Somers has been brought back from the dead by her husband and artificial intelligence. The beloved Three’s Company star died of cancer in 2023 at the age of 76, but thanks to her vision and widower Alan Hamel, the sitcom blonde has been resurrected. Hamel, who is at the forefront of this ambitious project, draws from Somers’ extensive legacy, which includes 27 books and countless interviews, to create a model that captures her life, career, and the heart-warming love story she shared with Hamel. According to Daily Voice, this extraordinary endeavour was inspired by long discussions with futurist Ray Kurzweil. Now, after decades of anticipation, the project is finally taking shape. The AI, developed by Realbotix Corp, has the astounding capability of engaging in conversations about…

In 1844, Berlin was struck by a cultural fever critics labelled Lisztomania. The German poet Heinrich Heine coined the term after witnessing the almost delirious reception that greeted Hungarian pianist and composer Franz Liszt in concert halls across Europe. One widely circulated drawing from the 1840s crystallises the image. Women swoon or faint, others hurl flowers toward the stage. Men also appear to be struck by the pianist’s magnetic presence (or perhaps by the women’s reaction to it). These caricatured depictions, when paired with antagonistic reviews from contemporary critics, may still shape our cultural memory of Liszt. He is often depicted not simply as a musician but as the first modern celebrity to unleash mass hysteria. What happened at Liszt’s concerts? We know a great deal about Liszt’s…

Clairwood residents gathered in large numbers outside the Durban High Court yesterday to serve an urgent application against the eThekwini Municipality. They are opposing a proposed logistics park, with many wearing red T-shirts proclaiming, “Hands off Clairwood, it is our home and we are prepared to die for our beloved Clairwood”. The Clairwood Ratepayers Residents Association is hopeful the court can intercede in saving their community from being demolished. The ratepayers are represented by the Durban Legal Resource Centre, comprising Kiara Govender, Aaron Tifflin and Anneline Turpin, Senior Counsel Glen Goddard and Muhammed Suleman. Outside the court, residents said they were apprised of the development and where it will take place in the suburb, but they believe that the new plans will not allow residents to coexist with trucks and…

UKZN’s final-year mechanical engineering students showcased their projects at an open day yesterday, demonstrating how years of hard work can be turned into innovations that improve lives. While some of the projects were a bit obscure and difficult to grasp, many others were practical and could be put to use almost immediately. The exhibits included a vacuum tumbler for meat processing and a system that transforms faecal sludge into valuable biomass through an innovative deep-frying process using waste cooking oil. “Essentially they deep fried sh*t,” one attendee laughingly told the Independent on Saturday. A team led by Ruchir Somaru and Muhammed Yusuf Ismail built a wheelchair that can navigate rough terrain and be converted into a stretcher in emergencies. The wheelchair is powered by two 500W hub motors connected…

SPORT, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie says the Milnerton High School bullying incident highlights a “toxic culture” in some schools where privileged rugby players may feel “untouchable” and exempt from accountability for egregious behaviour. He made the remarks hours before six pupils, some believed to be part of the school’s rugby team, appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court and were each released on R2 000 bail over the assault captured on video. The NPA said the six accused are facing eight charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. While there were allegedly eight boys involved, the two minors were not charged. One minor was assessed and released on warning. The other was to be assessed yesterday but was also released into the care of his…

Chef Luckson Mare is celebrating a major milestone in his culinary journey after securing a spot in the Grand Finale of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef competition, taking place on October 28 and 29 in Milan, Italy. The global competition is known for discovering and nurturing the next generation of gastronomic talent, bringing together some of the world’s most skilled and creative young chefs. Mare is the protege of one of KZN’s top restaurants, The Livingroom based in Cowies Hill, Durban. Reflecting on the journey, Mare says preparation has been as much mental as it is technical. “I’ve spent a lot of time thinking through my dish, not just cooking it, but really visualising it,” he explains. “I write everything down, read it, rewrite it and go through it again. It…

South Africa’s finest Extra Virgin Olive Oils were celebrated this week at the 12th annual Absa Top 10 Olive Oil Awards, hosted at Mynhardt’s Kitchen at Cathedral Cellar in Paarl. Regarded as the highlight of South Africa’s olive oil industry calendar, the awards acknowledge exceptional producers and products in the country. The awards follow the annual SA Olive Awards, where gold medal-winning extra virgin olive oils undergo a further round of meticulous blind tasting by an expert judging panel. From this elite group, the ten are chosen. This year’s winners (in no particular order): 1. Mardouw Investments ZA (Pty) Ltd – Mardouw Premium Delicate – Delicate 2. De Rustica Estate – De Rustica Delicate – Delicate 3. Lions Creek Estate (Pty) Ltd – Picual Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Medium…

The Randwest SPCA (SPCA Randfontein & Westonaria) team recently faced an experience that will forever remain etched in their memories. The SPCA said that one Friday afternoon, cadet Inspector Nolo Molobi received an urgent call from the police asking for help. A man had allegedly committed suicide and his dog, a crossbreed female, was guarding his body, preventing authorities from gaining access. Additionally, no relatives could be reached and there was uncertainty about other animals in the house. This led Molobi and animal assistant Micheal Makumbe to rush to the scene to help. “What they encountered, however, was beyond anything they had ever faced. The trauma of the environment left them shaken and emotionally distressed. Despite the horrifying conditions, they managed to safely rescue the dog,” the SPCA said. The…

Tony Denardo plans to run a marathon in every state – which is why his family set out on a road trip to Keene, New Hampshire, late last month. The Denardos brought their youngest child and three of her friends with them, and decided to continue on to New York City after the race. They left their home in Kittanning, Pennsylvania, early in the morning on September 26, and drove east, stopping for petrol and a bathroom break after about 160km. Tony got out of the van, and when he looked up, he saw the family’s 8-year-old cat, Ray Ray, perched atop the roof. Laughing and completely floored, Tony called to his wife, Margaret, to come see for herself. “All these things are going through my head. The roads that…

And they’re off! To the thunder of hooves, a chorus of moos and the clanking of bells, nine cows hurtle away in one of the oddest events in the Swiss Alps: the Cow Grand Prix, contested exclusively by women jockeys. The prize on offer: a 40km bag of feed for the winner, a traditional Alpine cowbell, a bouquet of flowers and a whole lot of local pride. The race is held in Flumserberg, a village more than 1 300m up in the mountains above the picturesque Wahlensee lake, close to Switzerland’s eastern border with tiny Liechtenstein. The event began in 2006 and is the highlight of autumn festivities in Flumserberg, held alongside a cheese market in the final weeks before snow turns the ski station’s green pastures white. The cows’…

We’re in the throes of a global scramble to create the first real artificial intelligence consumer gadget. Tech giants are betting big that this will end up being computers that sit on our noses. But is that the future we want? Despite all the hype, the jury is still out on whether smart glasses will take hold, especially across Asia. We seem to be at a tipping point. Roughly half of respondents (48.2%) in an S&P Global survey across eight countries – including the US, China and India – who don’t already own a pair said they were interested in purchasing one within the next year. But it will still be an uphill battle for these devices to truly go mainstream. They are unlikely to replace the smartphone anytime soon…

I first saw GWM’s Tank 300 at the Shanghai Auto Show in 2023 and knew that with its rugged looks and Chinese Brands’ competitive pricing, it would definitely find favour in South Africa. Great Wall Motors has been here for almost three decades, having made its mark with Haval and P-Series bakkies, so they understand the South African psyche well. The first Tanks arrived with 2.0-litre petrol and hybrid models, which were thirsty and struggled to tow anything significant. Range The South African leisure market thrives on diesel because of its improved consumption and better torque. GWM listened, and so now we have the Tank 300 2.4 T in either Luxury, Super Luxury or Ultra Luxury trim. We had the Ultra Luxury on test, which gets a front differential lock,…

The Trump administration’s plan to overhaul the US refugee resettlement process, including a drastic reduction in overall annual admissions, coincides with a concerted effort to prepare thousands of white South Africans to relocate to the US through the system, according to documents reviewed by The Washington Post and people familiar with the effort. If the administration succeeds, almost all people admitted to the US as refugees – as many as 7 000 from a maximum potential pool of 7 500 – could be Afrikaners, a group not traditionally eligible for the programme but one that US President Donald Trump says has been tyrannised by South Africa’s black majority. The remainder may be chosen because of their ability to speak English or their views on “free speech”, people familiar with the…

Proteas Women batter Anneke Bosch emphasised that they view Australia the same way as all the other teams in the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup ahead of their clash in Indore today. Many teams make the mistake of putting the Australia women's team on a pedestal when facing them because of their seven World Cup titles. That is a mistake that almost comes naturally, given how dominant Australia have been in women’s cricket and also in the ongoing showpiece, having gone unbeaten thus far. However, Bosch reiterated that they will not make the same mistake. The 32-year-old acknowledged Australia as a powerhouse but highlighted that they view them the same way they view the other six teams in the tournament. “We approach every game in the same way and not…

Sharks coach John Plumtree says the change room at Kings Park was “not a nice place to be” after his star-studded team was outplayed by Ulster last week. “Everyone was hurting and feeling bad,” Plumtree said on Thursday after announcing a team to play the Scarlets on Saturday that contains nearly all of the players who misfired last week. “The change room was not a nice place to be. “We know how important it is in this competition to win home games, and we want to play our best rugby in front of our fans. “When that doesn’t happen, it is terribly frustrating for everyone,” the coach said. “On the Sunday, it feels the same, but you go to work and plan for the week. Monday arrived and that was…

Max Verstappen heads into the Mexican Grand Prix with one clear mission — to win. After his flawless performance in America last week, where he dominated both the sprint and main races to secure a perfect weekend, the reigning champion must now deliver again if he hopes to keep his championship fight alive. With only a handful of races left, every point matters, and Verstappen knows that another win in Mexico could be the turning point he needs. At Circuit of the Americas, Verstappen reminded the world why he’s a four-time world champion. He was in a league of his own — fast, composed, and ruthless when it mattered most. But in 2025, the challenge is unlike any he’s faced before. McLaren’s dynamic duo, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, sit…

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has once again preached the gospel of youngsters — this time, particularly Mbekezeli Mbokazi — being advised by the right people when it’s time to move abroad. Broos has been an advocate for giving youngsters game time since taking over the reins at Bafana more than four years ago. And thanks to his mantra, he has enjoyed sustained success with the national team. Bafana have qualified for back-to-back Afcons — including the upcoming tournament in Morocco later this year — as well as the 2026 Fifa World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States. But with the core of his team made up of locally based players, Broos believes they’d grow in leaps and bounds if they moved abroad, where…

South Africa is often regarded as an attractive destination for Americans and Europeans seeking a simpler lifestyle and affordability. However, a significant number of South Africans are choosing to leave their homeland in search of better opportunities. Between 2020 and 2024, approximately 108 000 South Africans emigrated, averaging 74 people per day. In 2024, the UN estimated that over a million South Africans would be residing abroad. A recent global survey of nearly 5 000 people across 26 countries, conducted by Remitly, has revealed the top motivations for emigration and the most desired countries for relocation. According to the survey, one of the primary reasons people consider moving abroad is to achieve a better quality of life. This includes access to improved healthcare and education, as well as the peace…