Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-11-08 i Saturday Star

Netflix’s Bad Influencer is giving all the chaos, clout and glam you’d expect from the influencer world, but honey, with a proper Jozi twist that makes it feel oh-so-local. From fake designer bags to slang that doesn’t always make sense (“math isn’t matching – it’s giving…”), this show dives headfirst into the highs and lows of online fame. And sis, it’s messy in the best way. At the heart of it: BK Msinga, played by Jo‑Anne Reyneke, is a single mother and fashion designer with major grit. When she can’t make ends meet, she turns to counterfeiting luxury handbags to save up for her neurodivergent son Leo’s specialised schooling needs. Then there’s Pinky Sithole, portrayed by Cindy Mahlangu, a mid‑level influencer who’s all about the flex, the content and the…

Olexander Scherba, Ukraine’s Ambassador to South Africa, has issued a stark warning to South Africans caught up in the turmoil of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, urging them to “surrender” rather than engage in the fighting. The advice comes after the South African government announced on Thursday that it had received distress calls for assistance to return home from 17 South African men, aged between 20 and 39, who are trapped in Ukraine's war-torn Donbas region. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the men were lured to join mercenary forces involved in the Ukraine-Russia war under the pretext of lucrative employment contracts. Of the 17 men, 16 are from KwaZulu-Natal, and one is from the Eastern Cape. Ambassador Scherba stated that they learned about the 17 South Africans in Ukraine's Donbas…

Operation Dudula leader Zandile Dabula says the movement will appeal a Johannesburg High Court ruling that bars it from preventing foreign nationals from accessing public healthcare facilities. The controversial group argues that public clinics and hospitals are overwhelmed by the influx of undocumented foreign nationals. Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg on Thursday, Dabula urged members to comply with the court order for now. “The judgment sets a dangerous precedent that may weaken law enforcement, erode state capacity to manage illegal immigration, and undermine the interests of South African citizens,” she said. “We have instructed our legal team to launch an appeal to protect the interests of South Africans and the rule of law.” Dabula said her party had noticed more political parties adopting hardline stances on undocumented immigrants.…

Tom Brady revealed this week that a young dog of his is actually a clone created from a family pet, who died almost two years ago. In a statement shared by Colossal Biosciences, a company that says it specialises in “species restoration,” Brady thanked it for giving him and his family “a second chance with a clone of our beloved dog.” Brady is an investor in the company. The original dog, Lua, died in December 2023, according to Brady’s ex-wife, Gisele Bündchen. On Tuesday, Brady said he “worked with Colossal and leveraged their noninvasive cloning technology through a simple blood draw of our family’s elderly dog before she passed.” He credited the company with taking just “a few short months” to provide him with the clone, reportedly named Junie. Brady’s…

The interview begins with laughter as Masana Mkhabela and Lilly Playne recall the moment they heard they had been elected head girl and deputy head girl, respectively, of Roedean School (SA) for 2026. “It was a great and surreal moment,” they agree – a mix of disbelief and quiet joy at being trusted to lead a school they’ve both called home for more than a decade. What are the chances that two four-year-olds who met in crèche would grow up to lead their high school together? For the pair, it’s not just a coincidence. Masana and Lilly have spent their entire school journey side by side, from pre-primary through to the leadership roles they’ll step into next year. It’s the kind of full-circle story that rarely happens by accident and…

For the 1 700 learners at Erasmus Monareng Secondary School in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg, a new chapter in their learning journey has begun – literally. A brand-new library, donated by Hyundai Automotive South Africa in partnership with DP World and the Motus Community Trust, is set to transform how learners at the school read, study and explore new ideas. The facility gives learners a quiet, safe space to read, do research and study, something many have long wished for. Grade 11 learner Relebogile Nakeng said she was overjoyed at finally having a dedicated study space. “I’ve tried studying in different places, even local eateries, but it was hard to concentrate,” she said. “Having a proper library makes me really happy. I can already see myself spending a lot of…

Johannesburg audiences are set for an evening of music, dance and festive fun as the city welcomes the start of the holiday season on Thursday, November 13 at Hyde Park Corner Centre Court, Sandton. Performances by Swing City, featuring Graeme Watkins and Nathan Ro, will offer a soulful mix of classic favourites, while the Soweto Gospel Choir will bring its signature South African energy to the stage. Mzansi Ballet will enchant viewers with scenes from The Nutcracker, Teddy Bear’s Picnic and The Bare Necessities from The Jungle Book. Young attendees can look forward to Christmas Fairies distributing festive goodies, while a giant illuminated teddy bear installation provides interactive entertainment. In collaboration with the Teddy Bear Clinic, the event highlights community engagement and the joy of giving during the festive season.…

Some people find new hobbies in retirement. Jennifer Doon from Pretoria found an entirely new world. In her seventies, with fading eyesight and no painting experience, she picked up a brush - and hasn't put it down since. Just over two years ago, Jennifer hadn't so much as held a paintbrush. She had always been artsy, dabbling in wedding cakes and flower arranging. Friends often told her she should paint, but she never quite believed she could. "I have always wanted to paint," she says. "People would tell me I was artistic, but I never painted." That changed when a family friend, who has since passed away, invited Jennifer and her husband, Pooran, to join him at art class. Pooran declined - he's colourblind - but Jennifer decided to give…

A new AI chatbot, Self Cav, that is set to be launched this month, aims to provide young South Africans with access to crucial mental health and sexual health services. The AI-driven self-care platform, developed by Audere Africa in partnership with Shout-It-Now, will be accessible to youth of all ages, and genders across South Africa and includes multilingual chat support and additional features. According to Dr Dino Rech, CEO of Audere Africa, answers are not standard, as in traditional chatbots where everyone who asks a question gets the same answer but instead is tailored for each individual. “Based on the conversations you've had to date with the companion, information collected, their style of speaking, and selected persona (i.e. bestie vs clinician), answers are pulled from the knowledge base, augmented with…

A Volvo has become the first battery electric vehicle (BEV) to drive up the historic Sani Pass into Lesotho in the Drakensberg Mountains. Closing South African Transport Month, the EX30 Cross Country ticked a box in the record books, proving that sustainable mobility can also thrive in some of the harshest conditions 56 years after the first Volvo climbed the pass in 1969. Exploration and innovation “The ascent of Sani Pass by the EX30 Cross Country is a defining moment for electric mobility in South Africa,” said Grant Locke, the managing director of VCSA. “It demonstrates that electric vehicles can tackle the most challenging terrain, and that clean, sustainable energy can power adventure in even the most remote and rugged locations.” Locke added that the historic journey also marks a…

Single motherhood is becoming the norm in South Africa, with 42.3% of households headed by women. But with the cost of raising a child hitting R1.6 million and women's unemployment at 35.9%, financial planning has become a matter of survival. Gerda van der Linde, Verso Wealth MD, says she and the female financial planners in her team have specifically seen that more women are finding themselves solely responsible for raising a child. She explains that this could happen for a variety of reasons, including divorce, the death or absence of a partner, or having to step into this role as the oldest child. “Becoming a single mother can happen to anyone,” says Van der Linde. “This shift in family dynamics is not just a social issue - it's an economic…

In an increasingly interconnected yet uncertain world, South African investors face a unique set of challenges. Local market volatility, political risks, and the persistent threat of a weaker currency have led many people to look beyond our borders for security and growth. However, offshore investing is far more than simply ‘chasing returns’ abroad; it’s a strategic and powerful tool for long-term wealth building, risk diversification, and building financial security. Nonetheless, navigating this complex landscape requires more than just a desire to invest globally and ideally necessitates professional guidance from a financial adviser. The value of global diversification One of the primary benefits of global investing is diversification. By spreading investments across different economies, currencies, and industries, you can reduce the impact of local market downturns on your overall portfolio. Not…

Max Verstappen has issued a clear rallying call to his Red Bull Racing team, they must now be ahead consistently if they are to claw back the deficit in this season’s Formula 1 title race. The defending champion sits 36 points behind McLaren’s Lando Norris in the standings, with only a handful of races left in the 2025 campaign. After a late surge of form, Verstappen knows that nothing short of constant front-running will be enough to keep his championship hopes alive. “We just try to do everything we can until the end,” Verstappen said ahead of this weekend’s São Paulo Grand Prix. “If we want to close that down further, we need to be ahead constantly now, and that, I think, will be a big challenge.” The Dutchman’s remarks…

Glenrose Xaba has had a stellar season, winning just about every race she has entered. Early next week, she will be officially crowned the queen of the popular SPAR Grand Prix Series for the second year running. She would love nothing more than to go to the awards ceremony on the back of yet another victory – this time in the inaugural Boxer Super Run Joburg taking place tomorrow at Marks Park. The fact that the race is organised by her club, Boxer Athletic Club, will make the victory all the more special, as she will be completing a hat-trick of success. Xaba has won this year’s Durban leg of the popular 5km race – her second win there after she was crowned champion in the inaugural race in 2023.…

Karma might be real after all. And that’s why you have to feel for Thembinkosi Lorch, as his improper conduct on and off the field seems to have caught up with him. Lorch is playing some of his best football in a long while. And while he was hoping for the grandest honour a footballer can get – a chance to represent his country at major tournaments – the only recognition he’ll get now is the loud cheers and applause from the Wydad Casablanca passionate ultras. Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos is not endorsing the return of the attacker to the national team – not now or in the near future. In fact, Lorch must forget about having an international career as long as Broos is still in charge. Broos…

Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel is on the brink of what could be one of the biggest milestones of his coaching career – guiding the Natal Rich Boyz to their first-ever domestic final as they face Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium today. Having climbed through the ranks of South African football, winning league titles from the lower divisions up to the professional ranks, Gabriel admits this competition holds a special place in his heart. The 48-year-old tactician has achieved almost everything in local football – except lifting a top-flight trophy – and this weekend represents a golden opportunity to complete that journey. “Personally, as a coach, I’ve coached at all levels, won all the leagues in South Africa from the lower leagues…

The smoking gun behind SA’s blood-soaked streets may be closer to home than many realise. Stolen police firearms, missing civilian guns and smuggled weapons from neighbouring countries such as Namibia are moving easily through the country, often arriving first in the Mother City before being used in killings and gang wars, then travelling inland to arm other criminal groups involved in robberies, assassinations and cash-in-transit heists. Recent mass shootings in Gauteng underline the deadly impact of these weapons: on October 21, two teenagers were killed and five others injured in a Westbury shooting, while in Reiger Park on November 1, six people were killed and three wounded in a drive-by attack. According to analysts and police insiders, the theft of guns from law enforcement is “the root of the evil”…

Being surrounded by his children, teammates, coaches, and the people who have shaped his life and rugby career has left Springbok captain Siya Kolisi calm and content ahead of his 100th Test match for South Africa. Kolisi will become only the ninth Springbok to reach a century of caps when he leads the world champions out against France at the Stade de France in Paris this evening (10.10pm kick-off). While the occasion marks a major milestone for both him and head coach Rassie Erasmus, who will take charge of his 50th Test, the double World Cup-winning skipper insists it’s not about personal achievements. For Kolisi, the focus remains on honouring the jersey and making South Africa proud. “It doesn’t matter about the milestone — if the team does well, then…

Former public enterprises minister, Dr Malusi Gigaba, has not been arrested following his visit to the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) offices in Lynnwood, Pretoria East, on Thursday morning. Earlier reports indicated that Gigaba had handed himself over to authorities in connection with the Transnet corruption investigation. However, IDAC spokesperson Henry Mamothame has since confirmed that Gigaba “has not been placed under arrest” and that “there will be no court appearance today.” “Mr Malusi Gigaba has not been placed under arrest. He is engaging IDAC and there will be no court appearance today. IDAC will not be commenting any further on the matter,” Mamothame said in a brief statement issued to the media. Gigaba’s visit to the IDAC offices marks a new development in the NPA’s ongoing…

Selling for nearly R18 000 a cup, a café in Dubai is offering the world’s most expensive coffee, brewed from Panamanian beans sold at a premium price. The wealthy emirate is known for its extravagant ventures, including an enormous mall with an indoor ski area, the world’s tallest building and an artificial island dotted with five-star hotels. “We felt Dubai was the perfect place for our investment,” said Serkan Sagsoz, co-founder of the Julith cafe with the pricey offering. Located in an industrial neighbourhood that has become a hotspot for coffee lovers, Julith plans to serve “around 400 cups” of the precious beverage starting on Saturday, Sagsoz said. For a price tag of 3 600 dirhams (around R18 000), the brew offers an experience of floral and fruity flavours reminiscent…

A crocodile took a dip in a luxury hotel pool in northeastern Australia this weekend but failed to stir guests relaxing in the sun a few steps away. Video posted on social media showed the juvenile carnivore lying on the bottom of the pool at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort in Port Douglas. “I don’t want to alarm anyone but there is a crocodile in the Sheraton pool,” TikTok user Lisa Keller said in a video showing the scaly predator. A handful of tourists could be seen taking it easy on sun lounges around the edge of the pool, though none ventured into the water. “Not a single person cares,” Keller said. The video matched images of the pool on the hotel’s website. Hotel manager Joseph Amerio said the crocodile…

As a new year unfolds, it brings with it an opportunity for South African music lovers to embrace the enchanting melodies and vibrant performances of the Ndlovu Youth Choir. Set against a backdrop of prior sold-out shows, the choir’s concerts in Johannesburg and Cape Town have evolved into essential experiences for fans of all ages. This year, in preparation for their much-anticipated performances, Showtime Management has announced the tour dates for the Ndlovu Youth Choir’s 2026 South African tour, promising to bring joy and a celebration of culture to audiences. The tour kicks off with a riveting series of performances at the Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town, starting on Thursday, February 5, at 7.30pm. This will be followed by another show on Friday, February 6, at the same time…

The University of Pretoria (UP) will participate in the 2025 Diabetes Summit from November 11 to 13 at The Radisson, OR Tambo in Bredell. The event will explore ways to include mental health support in diabetes care. For millions of South Africans living with diabetes, the greatest challenge is not only managing blood sugar, blood pressure or cholesterol – it’s coping with the emotional and psychological toll of the disease. Salih Hendricks has lived with diabetes for more than four decades and knows this reality all too well. He has endured severe complications, including amputation and stroke. “Diabetes is not just medical – it’s emotional, social and psychological,” he says. “The body carries the illness, but the mind and soul carry the weight.” His story echoes that of thousands of…

The annual Sun City GM Kasi Ride once again brought together fitness enthusiasts, families and community members for a day that blended sport, entertainment and purpose, all in the name of raising awareness for mental health and wellbeing. Now in its fourth year, the event has become a much-anticipated highlight on the resort’s calendar, growing in both scale and spirit since its inception. “It was a phenomenal event,” said Sun City general manager and founder of the initiative, Brett Hoppé. “Mental health awareness and care is critical and Sun City is gratified to have started this initiative which has grown over the past four years. Registrations, though free, were capped at 4 000 and closed a month before the event date, a clear sign of the strong community support it…

Mazda’s stand at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo played host to the debut of two stylish new concept cars: the Vision X-Coupe and the Vision X-Compact. Both were designed to embody the theme for this year’s exhibition: “The joy of driving fuels a sustainable tomorrow” for the year 2035. Hopefully, we won’t need to wait that long to see production models on the road that take inspiration from these two new concepts, but if the brand’s previous “Vision” design studies are anything to go by, we shouldn't have to wait too long. The Vision X-Coupe takes a unique approach to “sustainable” motoring by combining an electric motor with a two-rotor turbocharged rotary engine to produce a maximum output of 375kW. The plug-in hybrid model can cover up to…

I wonder if, as adults, we monitor the number of times we use the toilet, especially for the number two business, as much as we do with our children? I want us to talk about our relationship with toilets, particularly with those who find toilets, or perhaps any mention of them, somewhat distasteful. My sister and I were talking the other day about what it means to raise children in South Africa’s current economic climate. She laughed so hard when I told her that beyond the rising costs of living, what truly tested me as a first-time mom was changing nappies. I am assured that anyone who has raised a baby knows the unspoken science of monitoring stool colour, texture and frequency. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary because one…

Here’s a question for young working South Africans. What is your most valuable asset? No, it’s not your property, and it’s not your retirement savings. It’s you. Unless you are in retirement or close to retiring, your ability to work and earn an income is more valuable than the assets you have accumulated. It is therefore essential to protect yourself as a living asset. Long-term insurance comprises mainly life cover and disability cover. If you’re young and single and own little in the way of assets, life cover is not essential; it only becomes so once you start a family and have dependants. Disability cover, on the other hand, is a must-have from the beginning of your career, because if you become disabled and cannot earn an income, you still…

Do you have questions about your last will and testament? David Thomson, Senior Legal Adviser at Sanlam Trust, answers some of the key questions South Africans have raised with Sanlam during Wills Month. He says that with two-thirds of South Africans (66%) not having a will (according to the 2025 Sanlam Legacy Wills Survey), this is a real concern for many South Africans. Understanding the process of drafting a will can help more people leave lasting legacies of love and avoid situations where families are left vulnerable and estates remain bogged down for years. Thomson addresses some of the main questions: Forged Wills: how do I stop someone from faking or manipulating my will? Sadly, you can’t stop someone from trying. What you can stop is a forgery being accepted…

The Comrades Marathon Association confirmed the breakdown of entries for next year’s race, after a fake press release on social media inflated the number of novice runners in the 2026 list of entrants, claiming that this had prompted the CMA to reconsider a change in qualifying times. The false document was released after the general entries for the 2026 Comrades Marathon sold out in less than 10 hours on Monday – a record for the event. “While this press release looks genuine, even with our official letterhead added, I can confirm that this is fake news,” said CMA general manager Alain Dalais. “To begin with, the percentage of novice runners provided in this fake statement, 73%, is massively inflated – the actual percentage of novices in the field is 25.8%.…

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is bracing himself for one of the toughest tests of the season when the Sky Blues host Premier League champions Liverpool tomorrow. The Norwegian marksman lauded the quality of the opposition, describing Jürgen Klopp’s side as a formidable outfit with no obvious flaws. “I think they’re a really solid side,” said Haaland. “They won the Premier League, so they’re obviously a fantastic team with a lot of quality players. “I don’t really see any weaknesses. Of course, they’ve had a few struggles here and there, but overall, they’re such a complete team. “That’s what makes them one of the strongest sides in the league. They’re the champions, playing with the golden badge, so it’s definitely going to be a tough game.” Pressed further on potential…

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has stirred up some controversy by expressing his hope that Orlando Pirates will be eliminated from the Carling Knockout this weekend. This unexpected statement comes as Pirates prepare to face Richards Bay in today’s semi-final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Broos has a strong interest in the club, as his latest national squad selection includes nine Pirates – the most from any PSL club. The Pirates players are Sipho Chaine, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thalente Mbatha, Sipho Mbule, Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa and Masindi Nemtajela, . “I’m sorry to say this, but I am happy that Sundowns are out and that Chiefs are out,” said Broos, reflecting on the elimination of the two teams in the Carling Knockout’s earlier round. “I hope…

In an increasingly individualistic world, the African continent stands as a beacon of kindness and community spirit. A recent study from the 2025 World Happiness Gallup Report highlights six African countries among the top nations known for their generosity towards strangers. From communities offering helping hands to warm welcomes for visitors, these countries exemplify the African philosophy of Ubuntu – an idea that emphasises the interconnectedness of all people. Acts of kindness stimulate the release of “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, inducing happiness and reducing stress. These are the top 10 countries known for helping strangers: 1. Jamaica: The island nation took first place globally for its openness to welcoming strangers. Known for their warm hospitality, Jamaicans often go out of their way to help visitors feel at home. 2.…

“New York, concrete jungle where dreams are made of, there’s nothing you can’t do…” Right now, these iconic lyrics by Alicia Keys and Jay-Z are more than just an anthem for the city that never sleeps. They feel like the perfect soundtrack for Zohran Mamdani’s historic rise as New York City’s newest mayor. Viral TikTok videos from Mamdani’s campaign often show him singing along to Empire State of Mind. He comes across not just as a politician seeking votes, but as a real New Yorker who reflects the energy, diversity and resilience that make the city shine. When Mamdani took the stage to deliver his victory speech as the newly elected mayor of New York City, the energy in the room was electric. “Donald Trump, I have four words for…

Reboots have become a revolving door in Hollywood, whether it’s a TV series or film. Recently, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle dropped on Disney+. It is loosely based on the 1992 movie of the same title, helmed by Annabella Sciorra, Rebecca De Mornay, Matt McCoy, and Julianne Moore. Directed by Michelle Garza Cervera, the premise has been tweaked by Micah Bloomberg. The story centres on Caitlyn Morales (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), an attorney, who recently gave birth to her second daughter, Josie (played by Nora & Lola Contreras). She has the picture-perfect life with her supportive husband, Miguel (Raúl Castillo), and young daughter Emma (Mileiah Vega). What starts as an incidental meeting with Caitlyn representing Polly Murphy (Maika Monroe) before giving birth evolves when they bump into each other months…

Motorists should not expect amnesty for past infringements when the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (Aarto) Amendment Act and demerit system are rolled out in 69 municipalities across the country from next month. The Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA), which manages South Africa's road safety, driver compliance and administers Aarto, has indicated that the phased rollout of the amended legislation will begin on December 1 and continue until September 1, 2026. According to the RTIA, on April 1 next year Aarto's third phase will be implemented in 144 municipalities and the fourth phase will see the introduction of the points demerit system and rehabilitation programme six months later on September 1. During phase one, issuing authorities were expected to finalise refresher training for law enforcement officers and back-office staff…

In relation to a case initiated by KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi concerning accusations of defeating the ends of justice, suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has turned over electronic devices to the police. Mchunu’s newly appointed spokesperson, Sithembiso Mshengu, said that the minister voluntarily handed over the devices on Thursday. This is part of ongoing investigations into alleged corruption and interference in the justice system. “We believe it relates to the case opened by the KZN commissioner for defeating the ends of justice,” Mshengu said. He said Mchunu would continue to cooperate fully with the authorities. “Mr Mchunu reiterates his full cooperation with all lawful processes and reaffirms his unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law,” Mshengu said. The spokesperson also emphasised…

Every year on October 29, at exactly 1.11am – the time he was born – Josh Chace’s mother would send him a birthday text. “Happy birthday to the best guy I know,” she wrote him in 2012. “A very happy 35th Josh,” she wrote in 2014. “Dad and I are very proud of you and your family.” After Chace’s mother, Carol Chace, died unexpectedly in 2021, the 1.11am birthday messages stopped. The annual silence became a painful reminder of the loss. “She would stay up the night before my birthday just to text me,” said Chace, who lives in Merrimack, New Hampshire. On his birthday last year, Chace shared screenshots of his mom’s old 1.11am messages on Reddit, figuring others might relate. “I think it helps people,” he said, adding…

A German court on Wednesday ordered a life jail sentence to a palliative care nurse for the murder of 10 patients and attempted murder of 27 others with lethal injections. The court in the western city of Aachen found the 44-year-old man guilty of the offences committed between December 2023 and May 2024 in a hospital in Wuerselen near Aachen. The court also determined that the offences carried a “particular severity of guilt” which should bar him from early release after 15 years, normally an option in such cases. The man, who has not been publicly named, was accused by prosecutors of playing “master of life and death” over those in his care. His defence had demanded an acquittal at the trial, which began in March. Prosecutors said he injected…

New murals at Altena Primary School in Strand have been brought to life by the drawings of the school’s pupils. Mieke Hall, the lecturer at the Visual Arts Department at Stellenbosch University, recently created the four murals together with the teachers, parents, pupils, and volunteers as part of her PhD research. “I worked with learners in different classes through art lessons where they drew the school’s values. I chose to start with their drawings because I did not want to impose my own ideas of what should be on their walls,” she said. The murals face each other in a courtyard in the foundation phase block, between Grade 1 to 4 classrooms. Ms Hall said the existing murals at the school primarily depicted characters from prescribed reading books imported from…

The buzz is real in Mzansi right now for Bad Influencer, the latest South African series hitting it big on Netflix and topping the charts across South Africa. No surprise, it’s got everything from street-level grit to influencer glam, and viewers are eating it up. Media personality Anele Mdoda has been bold enough to throw some well-deserved praise at the series, writing: “Bad Influencer is a good show. BK’s character development is [at its] peak! Pinky as well. Such great chemistry between the two leads. Brilliant premise as well. Believable. Bonke.” The series, which dropped at the end of October, follows BK (played by Jo-Anne Reyneke), a single mum trying to make ends meet for her special-needs son. To keep the lights on, she starts crafting fake luxury handbags but…

Monique Muller, well-known South African influencer and former girlfriend of award-winning presenter Katlego Maboe, has returned to social media after spending about a week behind bars. A few weeks ago, Muller was arrested in Ravensmead, Cape Town, on charges of illegal firearm possession, with connections to gang-related activities. It was reported that the home where the firearm was found is connected to a known gang hitman, raising concerns about the extent of her involvement. SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that Muller faced charges of illegal firearm possession. She appeared before the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court on October 30. Since the ordeal, Muller had not been active on social media - that is, until Thursday, November 6. Upon her return, Muller took to her Instagram Stories to post a sultry…

The skies above Gauteng are set to roar to life as the Wonderboom Airshow returns to Wonderboom Airport on Friday, November 15, promising a high-octane flying festival showcasing the best of South African aviation. For those new to airshows, it is not just about planes flying by; it’s a celebration of flight. Attendees can expect the thunder of jet engines, the artistry of formation flying, and the thrill of seeing everything with wings - from vintage warbirds to state-of-the-art airliners - all performing in one aerial showcase. This year’s highlights include full participation from the South African Air Force (SAAF), delivering precision fly-pasts and tactical displays that show off the nation’s air power and skill. Airlink will also debut its latest airliner, demonstrating cutting-edge commercial aviation. Crowd favourites, the Puma…

More than 1 200 elderly residents of Marlboro, Alexandra and surrounding townships received free eye care during October, thanks to a joint initiative by the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA), Bombela Concession Company (BCC), African Eye Institute (AEI), University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH). The outreach, held every weekend at Gautrain’s Marlboro Station, offered comprehensive eye examinations, with 84% of participants prescribed spectacles to improve their vision. In addition to eye care, attendees underwent health screenings for diabetes, blood pressure and HIV, acknowledging the direct links between these conditions and eye health. Those requiring further treatment were referred to Gauteng Department of Health facilities. “This initiative exemplifies the African Eye Institute’s unwavering commitment to reaching those most in need,” said Professor Khathutshelo Percy Mashige, chairperson of…

From the striking new Corolla concept to the futuristic Hi-Ace concept and the rugged Land Cruiser FJ, Toyota had something for everyone at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, held in Tokyo this week. Approaching the Japanese manufacturer’s stand, it was difficult to get up close and personal with the highly anticipated new Land Cruiser FJ, such was the intense interest shown in this new 4x4. As previously reported, the new FJ is under consideration for South Africa. However, with the Japanese launch only scheduled for mid-2026, don’t expect to see it on local shores any time soon. Built around the IMV platform that also underpins the current Hilux and Fortuner, the FJ aims to make the Land Cruiser sub-brand more accessible to prospective consumers, without taking away any of its…

BAIC South Africa has confirmed that the new BAIC B30 SUV will be assembled locally at its facility in Coega, Gqeberha, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term commitment to the South African automotive industry. The announcement follows the B30’s debut at the Festival of Motoring and comes ahead of its official national launch in November. Local assembly will commence shortly thereafter, reinforcing BAIC’s strategy to build key models in South Africa and expand the plant’s production footprint. “Localising the B30 is about more than manufacturing – it’s about investing in people, skills, and a sustainable automotive future for South Africa,” said Ameena Hassan, the brand and the PR manager at BAIC South Africa. “Our Coega facility was built to support long-term growth, and the addition of the B30…

Black economic empowerment in South Africa is not collapsing by accident. It is being dismantled deliberately, but from two different ends of the political spectrum. From above, through constitutional litigation framed as “non-racialism”, but designed to protect historic advantage. And from below, through state incompetence, elite capture and patronage networks that hollowed out BEE’s purpose until the public could no longer recognise justice in its name. This is not policy failure – it is political sabotage. When the DA challenges BEE in court, it does so under the language of fairness, equality and constitutionalism, but the effect of its strategy is not neutral. It is racially restorative for those who already sit atop the economic ladder. Removing remedial measures in a society where ownership, capital and opportunity are still…

The 2025 DebtBusters Money-Stress Tracker reveals that South Africans over the age of 45, earning more than R20 000 a month, are facing a growing debt crisis. These individuals are now among the most financially stressed in the country, with 48% spending nearly half of their take-home pay on debt repayments. However, it’s possible to regain control of your finances and secure a stable future with strategic action and a clear understanding of your financial position. Data from the Sanlam Credit Solutions Credit Confidence Index, which analyses over 818 000 active credit users, supports this trend. The index shows that a significant 37% of Gen X users (44-58) spend over half their monthly income on debt repayments. With the cost of essentials like food, transport, and electricity continuing to climb,…

Proteas Test batter Ryan Rickelton says he will draw confidence from his performances in the recently concluded Test series against Pakistan as South Africa prepare for an altogether different challenge in India next week. Rickelton impressed in Pakistan, scoring 71 and an unbeaten 45 in the first Test in Lahore, followed by 14 and 25 not out in the second Test in Rawalpindi, as the two-match series ended level at 1-1. The 29-year-old reaffirmed his reputation as one of the Proteas’ better players of spin, and he told Independent Newspapers that those hard-earned runs will serve him well as the team departs for India tomorrow. Rickelton admitted the Pakistan series was a reminder that Test cricket in the subcontinent is always a battle of attrition. “I actually felt pretty good.…

Proteas top-order batter Tony de Zorzi says he went back to his routines on and off the field to be able to turn his form around in the ongoing tour to Pakistan. A little over a month ago, many wouldn’t have had De Zorzi in their Proteas squads, let alone a playing XI, because the 28-year-old was struggling for runs at the time. He showed good form during the white ball tours of Australia and England; however, he still couldn’t put together big runs. When he got injured in England, his involvement in the ongoing Pakistan tour looked even less likely. However, the left-hander has been able to make a full recovery and was selected in the Test squad against India next week, likely replacing Temba Bavuma. In the first…

There’s a quiet revolution brewing at Marumo Gallants, led by a coach barely older than some of his players. Tomorrow, the unflappable Alexandre Lafitte will stride into the King Zwelithini Stadium with a chance to write a new chapter in the club’s young story – a place in the Carling Knockout Cup final. The 28-year-old Frenchman has been one of the season’s most intriguing figures in South African football. Since taking over earlier this year alongside assistant Julien Outrebon, Lafitte has transformed the Bloemfontein-based outfit into a confident, compact, and tactically disciplined side – unafraid of facing the giants of the local game. Under his watch, Gallants have produced memorable performances against Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns, earning admiration across the league for their structure, spirit, and growing…

As summer approaches, South Africa’s coastline comes alive, and the announcement of the Blue Flag Beach status for the 2025/26 season brings excitement to beachgoers. Every year, the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (Wessa) reveals the best beaches across the country, recognising those that excel in coastal management and sustainable tourism. This year, 70 beaches and pilot sites have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag status, highlighting their commitment to cleanliness, safety, and environmental management. Among the 70 beaches, 12 are in KwaZulu-Natal, with eight of these situated along the picturesque South Coast. The Western Cape boasts 21 Blue Flag beaches, while the Eastern Cape is home to 17. Notably, McDougalls Bay in Port Nolloth, Northern Cape, has also received Blue Flag status as a pilot site. This…