Real Madrid left-back Marcelo is giving away his Champions League winner's medal, and boots.
Follow the link to his Facebook page here
Follow the link to his Facebook page here
Trends Mzansi Blog offers readers a cutting edge and humorous dose of what they want most in life: cars, gadgets, entertainment, business, sport and the know how to get ahead in the world. Twitter: @TrendsMzansi WhatsApp: +27780254850 Facebook: www.facebook.com/TrendsMzansi
Tuesday 31 May 2016
Easy recipe for homemade detox bath: the Mzansi Way
Salt – detox bath recipe:
Epsom salt – ¼ cup
Baking soda – ¼ cup
Apple cider vinegar – 1/3 cup
Any essential oil – 5-10 drops (optional)
Instruction:
Fill the tub with hot water and apple cider vinegar. Add in the baking soda and Epsom salt.
Add essential oil to that mixture.
Soak in it for 30mins.
Quick Tips:
Drink plenty of water before, during and after a bath
Detox bath should not be done daily.
If you are pregnant or have a health condition then consult a doctor.
Be careful while entering and stepping out of the tub, the ingredients can make it slippery
Try dry brushing before a bath which will help get rid of dead cells and improve circulation
Epsom salt – ¼ cup
Baking soda – ¼ cup
Apple cider vinegar – 1/3 cup
Any essential oil – 5-10 drops (optional)
Instruction:
Fill the tub with hot water and apple cider vinegar. Add in the baking soda and Epsom salt.
Add essential oil to that mixture.
Soak in it for 30mins.
Quick Tips:
Drink plenty of water before, during and after a bath
Detox bath should not be done daily.
If you are pregnant or have a health condition then consult a doctor.
Be careful while entering and stepping out of the tub, the ingredients can make it slippery
Try dry brushing before a bath which will help get rid of dead cells and improve circulation
SXOLLIE HUSTLES TO THE TOP AT THE INTERNATIONAL CIDER CHALLENGE
PROUDLY South African cider brand SXOLLIE has made its first mark on the global stage, bagging three coveted awards at the prestigious International Cider Challenge held in London in April.
Competing against hundreds of ciders from a dozen countries, SXOLLIE strutted off with a Gold medal – and the title of Supreme Champion – in the sought-after Design and Packaging category.
"We work hard to get our branding right, but we never dreamed we'd beat out cider brands from across the world," says Laura Clacey, who co-founded SXOLLIE together with husband Karol Ostaszewski in 2014.
But South African cider lovers certainly aren't surprised.
Before the crown cap has been popped, street-smart SXOLLIE grabs your attention. There's no run-of-the-mill labeling here; each and every SXOLLIE bottle is screen-printed with its eye-catching 'X' mosaic, lending texture, tactility and an urban aesthetic inspired by the ethnic pottery designs synonymous with southern Africa.
"We wanted to capture something that is unique to the continent, and present it in a modern African fashion," says Clacey, adding that key to SXOLLIE's success is the sheer simplicity of the colourful design. "A lot of cider brands try to cram too much onto the label. We decided to let the brand and the product speak for itself; to let the bottle be eye-catching on its own."
However, it wasn't only SXOLLIE's striking packaging that caught the judges' attention. SXOLLIE sets itself apart from other South African cider producers through its dedication to personality-packed single-varietal ciders. That single-minded focus paid off at the International Cider Challenge with a coveted Bronze medal for the SXOLLIE Golden Delicious cider.
SXOLLIE certainly put some of the traditional cider-making nations in their place with their supreme champion win, and is fast blazing a streetwise cider trail across the globe. The brand is currently available in premium restaurants, retailers and bars across South Africa and the United Kingdom, and will this year begin exports to both the United States and Singapore. This year also sees SXOLLIE crank the cider revolution up a notch with the release of its maiden Granny Smith single-varietal cider.
This revolution may not be televised, but you'll definitely want to have a SXOLLIE in your hand as it unfolds into 2016.
Competing against hundreds of ciders from a dozen countries, SXOLLIE strutted off with a Gold medal – and the title of Supreme Champion – in the sought-after Design and Packaging category.
"We work hard to get our branding right, but we never dreamed we'd beat out cider brands from across the world," says Laura Clacey, who co-founded SXOLLIE together with husband Karol Ostaszewski in 2014.
But South African cider lovers certainly aren't surprised.
Before the crown cap has been popped, street-smart SXOLLIE grabs your attention. There's no run-of-the-mill labeling here; each and every SXOLLIE bottle is screen-printed with its eye-catching 'X' mosaic, lending texture, tactility and an urban aesthetic inspired by the ethnic pottery designs synonymous with southern Africa.
"We wanted to capture something that is unique to the continent, and present it in a modern African fashion," says Clacey, adding that key to SXOLLIE's success is the sheer simplicity of the colourful design. "A lot of cider brands try to cram too much onto the label. We decided to let the brand and the product speak for itself; to let the bottle be eye-catching on its own."
However, it wasn't only SXOLLIE's striking packaging that caught the judges' attention. SXOLLIE sets itself apart from other South African cider producers through its dedication to personality-packed single-varietal ciders. That single-minded focus paid off at the International Cider Challenge with a coveted Bronze medal for the SXOLLIE Golden Delicious cider.
SXOLLIE certainly put some of the traditional cider-making nations in their place with their supreme champion win, and is fast blazing a streetwise cider trail across the globe. The brand is currently available in premium restaurants, retailers and bars across South Africa and the United Kingdom, and will this year begin exports to both the United States and Singapore. This year also sees SXOLLIE crank the cider revolution up a notch with the release of its maiden Granny Smith single-varietal cider.
This revolution may not be televised, but you'll definitely want to have a SXOLLIE in your hand as it unfolds into 2016.
Here are the 5 South Africans listed on Forbes Africa
Five South Africans have made it onto the Forbes Africa 30 under 30s list of most promising entrepreneurs, with Forbes calling them the billionaires of tomorrow. The list has entrepreneurs from around the continent, from Kenya, Nigeria, Madagascar, Tanzania, Benin, Gambia, Zimbabwe and many more.
1. Nadav Ossendryver
The youngest of the five is Nadav Ossendryver (19), CEO and founder of Latest Sightings, an online, real-time, wildlife spotting service for visitors to the Kruger National Park.
2. Siya Beyile
At age 22, Siyabonga Beyile is making huge waves in the fashion industry. Beyile is the founder and creative director of The Threaded Man, a leading online destination for the modern African man to stay up to date on fashion and original style. It was launched in February 2013 and has established itself as an online portal that provides men with the latest style trends, and introduces a sophisticated lifestyle which is right for today’s metro man.
3. Inga Gubeka
Inga Gubeka is a 20-something entrepreneur who is making his mark on the South African design and décor scene. Born in the Eastern Cape and raise in Durban, Gubeka established Indalo Décor in Cape Town in December 2013.
4. Emmanuel Bonoko
Emmanuel Bonoko (24), founder of the Ebonoko Foundation, is empowering youth through a potent mix of education and inspiratio. Founded in 2012, the Ebonoko Foundation focuses on leadership, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship and serving others. It was formed with the aim of transforming society by using the powerful tools of education and information in order to access opportunities.
5. Mogau Seshoene
Mogau Seshoene, owner and founder of The Lazy Mokoti, turned her passion for food into a thriving business when she realised her soon-to-be married girlfriends needed some serious help in the kitchen. Mogau says The Lazy Makoti is geared at the modern South African woman. Through The Lazy Makoti cooking lessons, students learn to master traditional South African cuisine – from milktart to chakalaka, Mogau’s got you covered.
1. Nadav Ossendryver
The youngest of the five is Nadav Ossendryver (19), CEO and founder of Latest Sightings, an online, real-time, wildlife spotting service for visitors to the Kruger National Park.
2. Siya Beyile
At age 22, Siyabonga Beyile is making huge waves in the fashion industry. Beyile is the founder and creative director of The Threaded Man, a leading online destination for the modern African man to stay up to date on fashion and original style. It was launched in February 2013 and has established itself as an online portal that provides men with the latest style trends, and introduces a sophisticated lifestyle which is right for today’s metro man.
3. Inga Gubeka
Inga Gubeka is a 20-something entrepreneur who is making his mark on the South African design and décor scene. Born in the Eastern Cape and raise in Durban, Gubeka established Indalo Décor in Cape Town in December 2013.
4. Emmanuel Bonoko
Emmanuel Bonoko (24), founder of the Ebonoko Foundation, is empowering youth through a potent mix of education and inspiratio. Founded in 2012, the Ebonoko Foundation focuses on leadership, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship and serving others. It was formed with the aim of transforming society by using the powerful tools of education and information in order to access opportunities.
5. Mogau Seshoene
Mogau Seshoene, owner and founder of The Lazy Mokoti, turned her passion for food into a thriving business when she realised her soon-to-be married girlfriends needed some serious help in the kitchen. Mogau says The Lazy Makoti is geared at the modern South African woman. Through The Lazy Makoti cooking lessons, students learn to master traditional South African cuisine – from milktart to chakalaka, Mogau’s got you covered.
Monday 30 May 2016
Cook becomes youngest cricketer to score 10 000 Test runs
England captain Alastair Cook has become the youngest player to score 10,000 Test runs.
Aged 31, five months and five days, he achieved the landmark by reaching five on the fourth day of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Chester-le-Street.
He brought up the milestone with a leg-side clip for four off Nuwan Pradeep and saluted the England balcony.
He beat India legend Sachin Tendulkar's record of 31 years, 10 months and 20 days, which has stood since 2005.
Aged 31, five months and five days, he achieved the landmark by reaching five on the fourth day of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Chester-le-Street.
He brought up the milestone with a leg-side clip for four off Nuwan Pradeep and saluted the England balcony.
He beat India legend Sachin Tendulkar's record of 31 years, 10 months and 20 days, which has stood since 2005.
New direct flights between Frankfurt and Cape Town
The Western Cape Department of Economic Opportunities believes the new direct flights from Frankfurt to Cape Town will have an enormous impact on the local economy.
The news of direct flights from Frankfurt, comes just weeks after reports that Cape Town International Airport would be receiving new direct flights from Kenya. The MEC for Economic Opportunities Alan Winde is excited by the opportunities that this presents.
The new flight plan will come into effect from December this year. Flights will depart from Frankfurt every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
“Increased air access has a direct impact on jobs and growth. Through Project Khulisa, we are making it easier for visitors to travel to our region. This is why we launched the Cape Town Air Access initiative, which is a partnership between government, Airports Company South Africa, Wesgro and airline industries,” said Winde this week.
Earlier this week, British Airways announced that it was increasing its flights to Cape Town. The MEC said the industry deserved a considerable amount of the credit for all that had transpired this year alone..
“The tourism sector continues to reinvest in itself and this is why the world’s biggest airlines have the confidence to invest in our region,” said Winde.
“We see new hotels are being built; the private sector is developing conferencing centres, such as the facility in Century City. In addition, our tourism sector offers great service, which is an important factor in repeat visits. We’re seeing these investments pay off. Our 2015/16 season was one of the best yet and we achieved strong growth in international arrivals from strategic markets,” added Winde.
The news of direct flights from Frankfurt, comes just weeks after reports that Cape Town International Airport would be receiving new direct flights from Kenya. The MEC for Economic Opportunities Alan Winde is excited by the opportunities that this presents.
The new flight plan will come into effect from December this year. Flights will depart from Frankfurt every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
“Increased air access has a direct impact on jobs and growth. Through Project Khulisa, we are making it easier for visitors to travel to our region. This is why we launched the Cape Town Air Access initiative, which is a partnership between government, Airports Company South Africa, Wesgro and airline industries,” said Winde this week.
Earlier this week, British Airways announced that it was increasing its flights to Cape Town. The MEC said the industry deserved a considerable amount of the credit for all that had transpired this year alone..
“The tourism sector continues to reinvest in itself and this is why the world’s biggest airlines have the confidence to invest in our region,” said Winde.
“We see new hotels are being built; the private sector is developing conferencing centres, such as the facility in Century City. In addition, our tourism sector offers great service, which is an important factor in repeat visits. We’re seeing these investments pay off. Our 2015/16 season was one of the best yet and we achieved strong growth in international arrivals from strategic markets,” added Winde.
#OpenView HD launch Trace Sport Stars
OpenView HD will launch a new sports lifestyle channel. TRACE Sport Stars channel 154 will go live on Friday 3 June 2016 at 12:00PM.
TRACE Sport Stars is the first global entertainment channel dedicated to sports celebrities. The channel brings a great variety of content where sport meets glamour. Viewers will see their favourite sport stars sharing and revealing their real lives during detailed and exciting interviews.
“TRACE Sport Stars will take a unique view on sport stars, giving our viewers access to content that is not currently available on the OpenView HD offering”, Said Ziyanda Mngomezulu, Channel Acquisitions Executive at Platco Digital.
Over the past few months, the platform has grown significantly and will soon hit another milestone of reaching half a million decoder sales, Mngomezulu added.
TRACE Sport Stars provides an intimate and in-depth understanding of the much loved international champions, their passions, commitments and their secrets 24/7. The channel will also delve into the lives of prominent sport legends who have made a significant difference in the history of sport.
“We are delighted about the new partnership with OpenView HD. Viewers will get the opportunity to know the real stories behind the sport stars they admire”, said, Leo Manne TRACE Senior Vice President Southern Africa.
Talented media personalities and presenters from the local and international entertainment industry will host different shows on TRACE Sport Stars. Popular London blogger Craig Mitch, together with the up and coming presenter Maya Jama and sports presenter Layla Anna-Lee, will host the show Star Rated. Star Rated takes the biggest stars in the world of sport and rates them to find out who’s at the top of their game. Who’s the coolest male sport star? Which footballer holds the craziest parties? Who will be crowned the sexiest WAG of all time?
Exceptional personal trainer and TV presenter Lisa Raleigh, and South African male model, actor and television presenter Maps Maponyane present an insight into the world of World Cups in the 101 World Cups and 101 Exercises To Do Before You Die.
The Ultimate Sport Survival Guide is presented by the witty TRACE Sport Star presenter Will Best. The show uses hilarious home video clips to show the funny perils that await exercise enthusiasts. It provides useless tips on how to avoid injuries such as don’t ever stand directly behind someone holding a golf club.
Catch all the latest updates and interviews on TRACE Sports Stars (channel 154), on OpenView HD.
TRACE Sport Stars is the first global entertainment channel dedicated to sports celebrities. The channel brings a great variety of content where sport meets glamour. Viewers will see their favourite sport stars sharing and revealing their real lives during detailed and exciting interviews.
“TRACE Sport Stars will take a unique view on sport stars, giving our viewers access to content that is not currently available on the OpenView HD offering”, Said Ziyanda Mngomezulu, Channel Acquisitions Executive at Platco Digital.
Over the past few months, the platform has grown significantly and will soon hit another milestone of reaching half a million decoder sales, Mngomezulu added.
TRACE Sport Stars provides an intimate and in-depth understanding of the much loved international champions, their passions, commitments and their secrets 24/7. The channel will also delve into the lives of prominent sport legends who have made a significant difference in the history of sport.
“We are delighted about the new partnership with OpenView HD. Viewers will get the opportunity to know the real stories behind the sport stars they admire”, said, Leo Manne TRACE Senior Vice President Southern Africa.
Talented media personalities and presenters from the local and international entertainment industry will host different shows on TRACE Sport Stars. Popular London blogger Craig Mitch, together with the up and coming presenter Maya Jama and sports presenter Layla Anna-Lee, will host the show Star Rated. Star Rated takes the biggest stars in the world of sport and rates them to find out who’s at the top of their game. Who’s the coolest male sport star? Which footballer holds the craziest parties? Who will be crowned the sexiest WAG of all time?
Exceptional personal trainer and TV presenter Lisa Raleigh, and South African male model, actor and television presenter Maps Maponyane present an insight into the world of World Cups in the 101 World Cups and 101 Exercises To Do Before You Die.
The Ultimate Sport Survival Guide is presented by the witty TRACE Sport Star presenter Will Best. The show uses hilarious home video clips to show the funny perils that await exercise enthusiasts. It provides useless tips on how to avoid injuries such as don’t ever stand directly behind someone holding a golf club.
Catch all the latest updates and interviews on TRACE Sports Stars (channel 154), on OpenView HD.
Don't look clumsy even when you are broke
Each day I wonder how almost everyone (conscious about their appearance of course) can claim to be so busy, short on cash but still look so put together?
Everyday I walk around the beautiful streets of Joburg and see men and women oozing personal style without falling into the “t-shirt and jeans” stereotype that seems to be the epitome of college student style.
Yes, people complain about the costly look that most of us exhume but like I always say, you have no reason to look untidy. Most South Africans don’t earn much money to buy a new wardrobe but somehow still pull it together.
If you generally take a peek at people at parties, barbeques and bars on weekends, or just people walking around town, you will see how everyone would be impressively dressed.
I think it is only wise to give ourselves some credit for looking so put together, given the rigid economic circumstances. Nonetheless I am awed at how great people look even when completely bundled in cheap clothing.
The motivation to look good in the worst conditions illustrates how people are dying to express their own unique style, something that i have been preaching for the past three years now. I recently engaged in a debate with someone where she said it was impossible to be well put together if you were either a domestic worker or a taxi driver.
I was obviously against that idea. Being neat and stylish is all about how you view yourself and and how you want people to perceive you.
With all due respect, taxi drivers have been labeled the dirtiest individuals working in an industry that deals with the public on a daily basis. Partly that is true as I guess once you are in that field you cease to care about your appearance.
I have come across a few smart ones and they do whack a punch on street fashion.
Being well kept and put together is all about the way you want people to think of you. There are places that offer great deals and prices for clothes, basing this argument on the fact that there are some people that don’t earn much.
Typical places include Chinese shops; I am sure most of us do our shopping there as well.
I can definitely relate to the dilemma of wanting to look trendy while not spending too much money. I am constantly mixing up my wardrobe to keep my style fresh and new each day and I hope to bring some of my own tips and ideas in order to help you do the same.
Everyday I walk around the beautiful streets of Joburg and see men and women oozing personal style without falling into the “t-shirt and jeans” stereotype that seems to be the epitome of college student style.
Yes, people complain about the costly look that most of us exhume but like I always say, you have no reason to look untidy. Most South Africans don’t earn much money to buy a new wardrobe but somehow still pull it together.
If you generally take a peek at people at parties, barbeques and bars on weekends, or just people walking around town, you will see how everyone would be impressively dressed.
I think it is only wise to give ourselves some credit for looking so put together, given the rigid economic circumstances. Nonetheless I am awed at how great people look even when completely bundled in cheap clothing.
The motivation to look good in the worst conditions illustrates how people are dying to express their own unique style, something that i have been preaching for the past three years now. I recently engaged in a debate with someone where she said it was impossible to be well put together if you were either a domestic worker or a taxi driver.
I was obviously against that idea. Being neat and stylish is all about how you view yourself and and how you want people to perceive you.
With all due respect, taxi drivers have been labeled the dirtiest individuals working in an industry that deals with the public on a daily basis. Partly that is true as I guess once you are in that field you cease to care about your appearance.
I have come across a few smart ones and they do whack a punch on street fashion.
Being well kept and put together is all about the way you want people to think of you. There are places that offer great deals and prices for clothes, basing this argument on the fact that there are some people that don’t earn much.
Typical places include Chinese shops; I am sure most of us do our shopping there as well.
I can definitely relate to the dilemma of wanting to look trendy while not spending too much money. I am constantly mixing up my wardrobe to keep my style fresh and new each day and I hope to bring some of my own tips and ideas in order to help you do the same.
UB40 coming to South Africa
Big Concerts has confirmed that UB40’s three founding members will be making a triumphant return to South Africa in November 2016 with their Red Red Wine Tour having wowed audiences across the world proving they are still a worldwide tour de force.
Presented by Heart FM, Algoa FM, East Coast Radio, Jacaranda FM and Channel24. Another Big Concerts Experience. Tickets go on sale Tuesday 31 May at 09:00 from Big Concerts.
Britain’s biggest reggae band of all time will be performing classic hits and gems from their many critically acclaimed albums, including Red, Red Wine, Kingston Town and Can’t help falling in Love .
Since reforming in 2013, the trio of Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey Virtue have remained at the top of their game, with highlights including their ongoing World tour, a sellout UK arena tour headlining London’s o2 arena, a huge sell out USA tour and critical acclaim for their new material in 2014’s Silhouette album.
Having embarked on their current world tour the three-piece’s step up to even larger venues is a testament to the longevity of their songs, as well as UB40’s status as Britain’s most successful Reggae band of all time, a true music pioneer since 1979.
Tour Information:
Cape Town
Saturday 5th November
Grand Arena, GrandWest
Ticket Price: R510 – R745
Port Elizabeth
Tuesday 8th November
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Outer Fields
Ticket Price: R480
Durban
Thursday 10th November
Durban Botanic Garden
Ticket Price: R480
Johannesburg
Saturday 12th November
Ticketpro Dome
Ticket Price: R450 – R790
©Channel24
Presented by Heart FM, Algoa FM, East Coast Radio, Jacaranda FM and Channel24. Another Big Concerts Experience. Tickets go on sale Tuesday 31 May at 09:00 from Big Concerts.
Britain’s biggest reggae band of all time will be performing classic hits and gems from their many critically acclaimed albums, including Red, Red Wine, Kingston Town and Can’t help falling in Love .
Since reforming in 2013, the trio of Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey Virtue have remained at the top of their game, with highlights including their ongoing World tour, a sellout UK arena tour headlining London’s o2 arena, a huge sell out USA tour and critical acclaim for their new material in 2014’s Silhouette album.
Having embarked on their current world tour the three-piece’s step up to even larger venues is a testament to the longevity of their songs, as well as UB40’s status as Britain’s most successful Reggae band of all time, a true music pioneer since 1979.
Tour Information:
Cape Town
Saturday 5th November
Grand Arena, GrandWest
Ticket Price: R510 – R745
Port Elizabeth
Tuesday 8th November
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Outer Fields
Ticket Price: R480
Durban
Thursday 10th November
Durban Botanic Garden
Ticket Price: R480
Johannesburg
Saturday 12th November
Ticketpro Dome
Ticket Price: R450 – R790
©Channel24
Sunday 29 May 2016
Contact
Contact
As the Editor and Curator of The Dizaldo Factor Blog, I would be interested in the following collaborations:
1. Attending your events, launches and parties for publicity purposes
2. Reviewing products or establishments (hotels, spas, restaurants)
3. Copywriting services and freelance writing
4. Sponsored reviews and sponsored blog posts
5. Being an influencer / brand ambassador
6. Selective press releases
7. Selective competitions and giveaways
8. Collaborations with brands
9. Sponsorships (sponsored ads or trade exchanges)
Please contact me on:
Email: faraidiza@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +27631936362
Gatebe and Bosman dominate #2016Comrades
By Farai Diza
Eager bodies, sweat and tears were the mainstay of a mild Sunday morning as road runners from all spheres of society converged for the 2016 Comrades Marathon hoping to showcase their "Super Human" moments.
Both men and women - seasoned and newbies - cut off their 'winter' sleep and braved the chilly weather as they assembled to the start off point before the 89km downrun race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban got underway at 5am.
The womens race got off to a pacy start as last years winner, Caroline Wostmann, made her intentions clear from the onset. The Johannesburg athlete made the gruesome race seem so easy with her charming smile.
With last years runner up Charne Bosman hot on her heels, Wostmann maintained her composure constantly waving to the cheering crowd but effects of the soaring race saw her struggling with about seven kilometers remaining.
She seemed in pain as she constantly switched between walking and running which gave Bosman the chance to sneak past her claiming pole position. Wostmann came second.
The mens race also provided some intriguing moments with renowned trail runners such as 2012 victor Ludwick Mamabolo and Two Oceans champion Chris Fokoroni of Zimbabwe all eager to claim the stake.
But it was David Gatebe who pumped up the crowd as he showed amazing resilience without showing any signs of fatigue for most of the race. He unleashed his surge for top honours with 15km's remaining by sustaining his unbelievable pace.
Gatebe romped home in a record breaking time of 5:18:19 shattering the 2007 record of 5:20:49 previously set by Russian Leonid Schvetsov. Shvetsov has since been implicated in a doping scandal.
Gatebe pocketed R500 000 for his efforts - R400 000 for the victory and a bonus R100 000 for being a South African winner put up by the Department of Sport and Recreation South Africa.
Mamabolo was second in 5:24:05 while Musa Mthembu finished third, 6 minutes behind the winner.
Eager bodies, sweat and tears were the mainstay of a mild Sunday morning as road runners from all spheres of society converged for the 2016 Comrades Marathon hoping to showcase their "Super Human" moments.
Both men and women - seasoned and newbies - cut off their 'winter' sleep and braved the chilly weather as they assembled to the start off point before the 89km downrun race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban got underway at 5am.
The womens race got off to a pacy start as last years winner, Caroline Wostmann, made her intentions clear from the onset. The Johannesburg athlete made the gruesome race seem so easy with her charming smile.
With last years runner up Charne Bosman hot on her heels, Wostmann maintained her composure constantly waving to the cheering crowd but effects of the soaring race saw her struggling with about seven kilometers remaining.
She seemed in pain as she constantly switched between walking and running which gave Bosman the chance to sneak past her claiming pole position. Wostmann came second.
The mens race also provided some intriguing moments with renowned trail runners such as 2012 victor Ludwick Mamabolo and Two Oceans champion Chris Fokoroni of Zimbabwe all eager to claim the stake.
But it was David Gatebe who pumped up the crowd as he showed amazing resilience without showing any signs of fatigue for most of the race. He unleashed his surge for top honours with 15km's remaining by sustaining his unbelievable pace.
Gatebe romped home in a record breaking time of 5:18:19 shattering the 2007 record of 5:20:49 previously set by Russian Leonid Schvetsov. Shvetsov has since been implicated in a doping scandal.
Gatebe pocketed R500 000 for his efforts - R400 000 for the victory and a bonus R100 000 for being a South African winner put up by the Department of Sport and Recreation South Africa.
Mamabolo was second in 5:24:05 while Musa Mthembu finished third, 6 minutes behind the winner.
12 black players in #Springboks squad
New South Africa coach Allister Coetzee included 12 black players on Saturday in a 31-man squad that includes nine uncapped players for a three-Test home series against Ireland during June.
Sports minister Fikile Mbalula last month barred South African Rugby (SAR) from bidding for or hosting international tournaments because of discontent with racial transformation in the sport.
Mbalula had told the national body that 50 percent of the Springboks squad that goes to the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan must be black.
South African rugby has traditionally been dominated by whites, who compose only nine percent of the population. Blacks were barred from representing their country during the apartheid era.
Heyneke Meyer, whose four-year contract as national coach was not renewed last December, stubbornly refused to give most black rugby stars in the republic a chance.
His first choice team at the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England, where South Africa came third, consisted of 12 whites and three blacks.
Meyer, who became a hugely divisive national figure in the final year of his reign, also ignored Golden Lions players whereas the new coach picked seven of the Johannesburg outfit.
As much as attention was on who Coetzee would name at Newlands stadium in Cape Town for his first series, there was also widespread public and media interest in the racial mix.
Coetzee proved the best 'transformer' in South African rugby when he coached leading local Super Rugby franchise Western Stormers for six seasons, regularly fielding a near 50-50 racial combination.
Some of the blacks he chose to face Ireland have worn the national green and gold colours before, including props Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira and Trevor Nyakane, and winger JP Pietersen.
Four are uncapped -- Sharks fly-half Garth April and Western Stormers hookers Bongi Mbonambi and Scarra Ntubeni, as well as loose forward Sikhumbuzo Notshe.
South Africa play Ireland in Cape Town (June 11), Johannesburg (June 18) and Port Elizabeth (June 25).
Squad
Forwards (17): Pieter-Steph du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, Scarra Ntubeni (all Western Stormers), Jaco Kriel, Julian Redelinghuys, Warren Whiteley (all Golden Lions), Trevor Nyakane, Adriaan Strauss (both Northern Bulls), Lood de Jager (Central Cheetahs), Steven Kitshoff (Bordeaux/FRA), Francois Louw (Bath/ENG), Tendai Mtawarira (Coastal Sharks), Duane Vermeulen (Toulon/FRA)
Backs (14): Garth April, Patrick Lambie, Lwazi Mvovo, JP Pietersen, Wille le Roux (all Sharks), Ruan Combrinck, Faf de Klerk, Elton Jantjies, Lionel Mapoe (all Lions), Jesse Kriel, Rudy Paige, Jan Serfontein (all Bulls), Damian de Allende, Nic Groom (both Stormers),
Coach: Allister Coetzee
©AFP
Sports minister Fikile Mbalula last month barred South African Rugby (SAR) from bidding for or hosting international tournaments because of discontent with racial transformation in the sport.
Mbalula had told the national body that 50 percent of the Springboks squad that goes to the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan must be black.
South African rugby has traditionally been dominated by whites, who compose only nine percent of the population. Blacks were barred from representing their country during the apartheid era.
Heyneke Meyer, whose four-year contract as national coach was not renewed last December, stubbornly refused to give most black rugby stars in the republic a chance.
His first choice team at the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England, where South Africa came third, consisted of 12 whites and three blacks.
Meyer, who became a hugely divisive national figure in the final year of his reign, also ignored Golden Lions players whereas the new coach picked seven of the Johannesburg outfit.
As much as attention was on who Coetzee would name at Newlands stadium in Cape Town for his first series, there was also widespread public and media interest in the racial mix.
Coetzee proved the best 'transformer' in South African rugby when he coached leading local Super Rugby franchise Western Stormers for six seasons, regularly fielding a near 50-50 racial combination.
Some of the blacks he chose to face Ireland have worn the national green and gold colours before, including props Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira and Trevor Nyakane, and winger JP Pietersen.
Four are uncapped -- Sharks fly-half Garth April and Western Stormers hookers Bongi Mbonambi and Scarra Ntubeni, as well as loose forward Sikhumbuzo Notshe.
South Africa play Ireland in Cape Town (June 11), Johannesburg (June 18) and Port Elizabeth (June 25).
Squad
Forwards (17): Pieter-Steph du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, Scarra Ntubeni (all Western Stormers), Jaco Kriel, Julian Redelinghuys, Warren Whiteley (all Golden Lions), Trevor Nyakane, Adriaan Strauss (both Northern Bulls), Lood de Jager (Central Cheetahs), Steven Kitshoff (Bordeaux/FRA), Francois Louw (Bath/ENG), Tendai Mtawarira (Coastal Sharks), Duane Vermeulen (Toulon/FRA)
Backs (14): Garth April, Patrick Lambie, Lwazi Mvovo, JP Pietersen, Wille le Roux (all Sharks), Ruan Combrinck, Faf de Klerk, Elton Jantjies, Lionel Mapoe (all Lions), Jesse Kriel, Rudy Paige, Jan Serfontein (all Bulls), Damian de Allende, Nic Groom (both Stormers),
Coach: Allister Coetzee
©AFP
Friday 27 May 2016
Key to make people do what you want
You can catch more flies with honey than you can vinegar. In other words, people respond better to rewards than punishments. As a leader or a marketer if you want an employee or a customer to change behavior, research says the best thing to do is give them positive reinforcement when they do what you want.
Check out the keys to getting people to always do what you want below!
1) Speak Quickly To Get An Argument Opponent To Agree With You
By speaking quickly in the middle of an argument you can often find yourself winning over your opponent. The trick lies in speaking so fast that they have less time to process what you’re saying, likewise if someone is agreeing with you, your best move is to talk slowly so they have more time to follow your argument. It turns out that ‘how’ you communicate your ideas is just as important as ‘what’ you are saying is.
2) Confuse People To Get Them To Comply With Your Request
Somewhat similarly you can try and confuse people in order to get them to do what you want. Often referred to as the ”disrupt-then-reframe” or DTR technique, it’s a classic that street vendors all over the world regularly use.
One study found that when researchers went door-to-door selling cards for charity, DTR helped them sell twice the amount then when they didn’t use it. Instead of simply telling people they were selling eight cards for $3, they told them it cost 300 pennies. It worked because it disrupted their thought processes, so while they are trying to work out how many dollars 300 pennies is they just end up accepting that it must be a great deal and pay up.
3) Ask People For Favors When They’re Tired To Get Them To Cooperate
Another sneaky trick to getting people to do something you want, is to approach them when they are tired. An alert and well-rested mind is able to think more clearly and critically when you ask for something versus someone who is drained and likely distracted by other concerns. Hence it’s probably best to ask a coworker for help with something at the end of the day rather than the beginning.
4) Focus On What Your Bargaining Partner Is Gaining, Not Losing
A super common tactic employed by businessmen and negotiators is to always focus the conversation on what the other person will gain (NOT LOSE) in any transaction or deal. The idea is that you want to persuade the other person to see things from a different perspective (your’s) and thus be more likely to acquiesce. Say for example, you want to sell your car, you should say, ”I’ll give you MY car for $1,000,” instead of, ”I want $1,000 for the car.”
5) Mimic People’s Body Language To Get Them To Like You
Another way you can trick people into wanting to do what you want is to start subtly mimicking the way someone is sitting and speaking to get them to like you more. If you are subtle enough they probably won’t even notice that you are copying their body language.
Scientists have taken to calling this the ”chameleon effect” and it works because we humans tend to like conversation partners that exhibit similar mannerisms, facial expressions and postures to our own. The weirdest thing is that this effect is almost wholly unconscious; participants in various chameleon effect studies were often not even aware they were being mimicked.
6) Ask For A Small Favor Before A Big One
Basically it means that if a person has performed a favor for someone no matter how small they are more likely to do another favor for the same person than if they had themselves received a favor from that person. This flies in the face of the common maxim that you should do a favor for someone first if you want them to return the ”favor”.
Apparently Ben Franklin used this effect to win over a hostile legislator by first asking to borrow a book from him! Ingenious no? The Ben Franklin effect works due to two things. First, by promoting investment. If you can get another person to invest in you be it with their time or by giving you something they will often post-rationalise their decision into thinking they must like you. Second, the effect helps establish a pattern of behavior. By getting someone to do something for you, you dramatically increase the chances of them repeating the favor in the future.
Check out the keys to getting people to always do what you want below!
1) Speak Quickly To Get An Argument Opponent To Agree With You
By speaking quickly in the middle of an argument you can often find yourself winning over your opponent. The trick lies in speaking so fast that they have less time to process what you’re saying, likewise if someone is agreeing with you, your best move is to talk slowly so they have more time to follow your argument. It turns out that ‘how’ you communicate your ideas is just as important as ‘what’ you are saying is.
2) Confuse People To Get Them To Comply With Your Request
Somewhat similarly you can try and confuse people in order to get them to do what you want. Often referred to as the ”disrupt-then-reframe” or DTR technique, it’s a classic that street vendors all over the world regularly use.
One study found that when researchers went door-to-door selling cards for charity, DTR helped them sell twice the amount then when they didn’t use it. Instead of simply telling people they were selling eight cards for $3, they told them it cost 300 pennies. It worked because it disrupted their thought processes, so while they are trying to work out how many dollars 300 pennies is they just end up accepting that it must be a great deal and pay up.
3) Ask People For Favors When They’re Tired To Get Them To Cooperate
Another sneaky trick to getting people to do something you want, is to approach them when they are tired. An alert and well-rested mind is able to think more clearly and critically when you ask for something versus someone who is drained and likely distracted by other concerns. Hence it’s probably best to ask a coworker for help with something at the end of the day rather than the beginning.
4) Focus On What Your Bargaining Partner Is Gaining, Not Losing
A super common tactic employed by businessmen and negotiators is to always focus the conversation on what the other person will gain (NOT LOSE) in any transaction or deal. The idea is that you want to persuade the other person to see things from a different perspective (your’s) and thus be more likely to acquiesce. Say for example, you want to sell your car, you should say, ”I’ll give you MY car for $1,000,” instead of, ”I want $1,000 for the car.”
5) Mimic People’s Body Language To Get Them To Like You
Another way you can trick people into wanting to do what you want is to start subtly mimicking the way someone is sitting and speaking to get them to like you more. If you are subtle enough they probably won’t even notice that you are copying their body language.
Scientists have taken to calling this the ”chameleon effect” and it works because we humans tend to like conversation partners that exhibit similar mannerisms, facial expressions and postures to our own. The weirdest thing is that this effect is almost wholly unconscious; participants in various chameleon effect studies were often not even aware they were being mimicked.
6) Ask For A Small Favor Before A Big One
Basically it means that if a person has performed a favor for someone no matter how small they are more likely to do another favor for the same person than if they had themselves received a favor from that person. This flies in the face of the common maxim that you should do a favor for someone first if you want them to return the ”favor”.
Apparently Ben Franklin used this effect to win over a hostile legislator by first asking to borrow a book from him! Ingenious no? The Ben Franklin effect works due to two things. First, by promoting investment. If you can get another person to invest in you be it with their time or by giving you something they will often post-rationalise their decision into thinking they must like you. Second, the effect helps establish a pattern of behavior. By getting someone to do something for you, you dramatically increase the chances of them repeating the favor in the future.
Win a Samsung Galaxy A3
Samsung is giving away an incredible new Galaxy A3 smartphone. The Samsung A series is designed to bring out the best in you.
Take the below wordsearch to find three words that describe you best. #ThisIsMe
To stand your chance of winning this great device, SMS the three words to 34 683. Terms and conditions apply.
Terms and conditions:
This competition is open from 5 pm on 27 May 2016 to 5 pm on 03 June 2016.
Winners will be contacted telephonically and are selected by random draw.
Samsung is responsible for delivering the prize within 6 to 8 weeks of closing date.
This prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash.
Staff and immediate families of Samsung may not enter.
Samsung take no responsibility for any damage that might arise from taking part in this competition.
If a winner cannot be reached after three phone calls during business hours, a new winner will be chosen.
Entrants must be 16 years or older.
By entering this competition, you give your full consent to Samsung to occasionally send you promotional and marketing material via SMS or email.
SMS cost R1.50 per entry. Free messages do not apply.
Take the below wordsearch to find three words that describe you best. #ThisIsMe
To stand your chance of winning this great device, SMS the three words to 34 683. Terms and conditions apply.
Terms and conditions:
This competition is open from 5 pm on 27 May 2016 to 5 pm on 03 June 2016.
Winners will be contacted telephonically and are selected by random draw.
Samsung is responsible for delivering the prize within 6 to 8 weeks of closing date.
This prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash.
Staff and immediate families of Samsung may not enter.
Samsung take no responsibility for any damage that might arise from taking part in this competition.
If a winner cannot be reached after three phone calls during business hours, a new winner will be chosen.
Entrants must be 16 years or older.
By entering this competition, you give your full consent to Samsung to occasionally send you promotional and marketing material via SMS or email.
SMS cost R1.50 per entry. Free messages do not apply.
UEFA CL Final: Atletico must fight hard #UCL
After 124 matches in just 8 months, the curtain comes down on the UEFA Champions League with a blockbuster of final that pits two of Madrid's most fiercest rivals - Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
It will be the second time in as many years that Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid trek across Europe to do battle for supremacy, having made a 625km journey to Lisbon in 2014.
On that day, Atletico were a minute away from their first Champions League title when central defender Sergio Ramos cancelled out their 1-0 lead and forced the game into extra time.
A rebooted Real Madrid, eager to achieve their 10th Champions League title and write their club’s name into the history books, romped home 4-1.
There will no doubt be vengeance in the hearts of Diego Simeone’s men, who were so cruelly deprived of glory, particularly those who were there that night in Lisbon.
But they will be up against a Real that ended the La Liga season with a bare cupboard, a travesty in the culture of the Bernabeu.
But before these gladiators take to the field, there will be a sweet little detour to inspire them – R&B angel Alicia Keys will debut her new album in the prematch performance.
After that, it will be up to the acumen of the coaches and the grit, strength and flair of the 22 men on the field.
Having transformed Atletico into one of the big boys, Simeone is now regarded as one of Europe’s finest coaches. He was on the verge of turning that state to “one of Europe’s great coaches” in 2014 before that devastating 93rd minute in Lisbon.
Entering that club of Champions League winners will be extra special for him if he does so with Atletico, a team that he gave his best playing years to and where his coaching style was perfected. He may not have another chance to do this with this team because he is being head-hunted by Europe’s big clubs and is likely to end up in England.
Tthe most remarkable name in the Atleti outfit is that of Fernando Torres, whose mild resurgence this season has masked an average stay in La Liga after his return from England.
Although the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Koke, Jan Oblak and Diego Godin have entered the realm of stardom thanks to the elevation of the team, they still reside in the shadow of their glamorous rivals.
But as the head-to-head record of this season shows, name recognition does not a football match win. A hard-fought first-round clash at the Vicente Calderon Stadium in October ended in a 1-1 draw, while in the second round in February, Real were booed and heckled by the Bernabeu after a tame 0-1 defeat.
What transpired in both games is that the formidable Real attack, which is second in the world only to Barcelona’s MSN, just could not handle the Alcatraz defence of Atletico.
And therein might lie the key to Atletico securing its first Champions League trophy. The stingy defence is also the launchpad for some ferocious attacks that leave opposition teams puffing.
The intensity of the Atletico play – which sees the ball ending up at the feet of Koke, Griezmann or Torres – has seen Zidane adding an extra two hours of daily training ahead of Saturday so his charges can keep up.
It will be the second time in as many years that Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid trek across Europe to do battle for supremacy, having made a 625km journey to Lisbon in 2014.
On that day, Atletico were a minute away from their first Champions League title when central defender Sergio Ramos cancelled out their 1-0 lead and forced the game into extra time.
A rebooted Real Madrid, eager to achieve their 10th Champions League title and write their club’s name into the history books, romped home 4-1.
There will no doubt be vengeance in the hearts of Diego Simeone’s men, who were so cruelly deprived of glory, particularly those who were there that night in Lisbon.
But they will be up against a Real that ended the La Liga season with a bare cupboard, a travesty in the culture of the Bernabeu.
But before these gladiators take to the field, there will be a sweet little detour to inspire them – R&B angel Alicia Keys will debut her new album in the prematch performance.
After that, it will be up to the acumen of the coaches and the grit, strength and flair of the 22 men on the field.
Having transformed Atletico into one of the big boys, Simeone is now regarded as one of Europe’s finest coaches. He was on the verge of turning that state to “one of Europe’s great coaches” in 2014 before that devastating 93rd minute in Lisbon.
Entering that club of Champions League winners will be extra special for him if he does so with Atletico, a team that he gave his best playing years to and where his coaching style was perfected. He may not have another chance to do this with this team because he is being head-hunted by Europe’s big clubs and is likely to end up in England.
Tthe most remarkable name in the Atleti outfit is that of Fernando Torres, whose mild resurgence this season has masked an average stay in La Liga after his return from England.
Although the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Koke, Jan Oblak and Diego Godin have entered the realm of stardom thanks to the elevation of the team, they still reside in the shadow of their glamorous rivals.
But as the head-to-head record of this season shows, name recognition does not a football match win. A hard-fought first-round clash at the Vicente Calderon Stadium in October ended in a 1-1 draw, while in the second round in February, Real were booed and heckled by the Bernabeu after a tame 0-1 defeat.
What transpired in both games is that the formidable Real attack, which is second in the world only to Barcelona’s MSN, just could not handle the Alcatraz defence of Atletico.
And therein might lie the key to Atletico securing its first Champions League trophy. The stingy defence is also the launchpad for some ferocious attacks that leave opposition teams puffing.
The intensity of the Atletico play – which sees the ball ending up at the feet of Koke, Griezmann or Torres – has seen Zidane adding an extra two hours of daily training ahead of Saturday so his charges can keep up.
Thursday 26 May 2016
Invest in your relationships
All of us need to seek comfort and support from others from time to time, whether we have a huge circle of friends or a few close confidants. As with many aspects of modern life, however, it is easy to dismiss what we all know will aid our general wellbeing.
New research released by the Mental Health Foundation to mark Mental Health Awareness Week (16-22May16) shows that people regard maintaining healthy relationships as the most important factor to their wellbeing than eating healthily, exercising or avoiding negative habits including smoking combined. However, 46 per cent of the 2,000 adults in the U.K. who participated in the survey also admitted they regret not investing more time in their relationships – a figure which alarmingly hits 50 per cent among men.
As part of their guide to investing in relationships, the Mental Health Foundation sets out several key ways people can stave off loneliness and create more supportive relationships which protect both the mind and body.
Give time
Make active attempts to schedule in time to connect with friends and family when possible.
Be present
It can be tempting to check your phone, social media messages or work emails when spending time with family and friends. But try to be present in the moment and be there for your loved ones by switching out of work mode wherever possible.
Listen
Actively listen to what others are saying in a non-judgmental way and concentrate on their needs in that moment.
Be listened to
Share how you are feeling, honestly, and allow yourself to be listened and supported.
Recognise unhealthy relationships
Being around positive people can make us happier. However, our wellbeing can be negatively affected by harmful relationships leaving us despondent. Recognising this can help us move forward and find solutions to issues.
Make your relationships resolution
The Mental Health Foundation is encouraging people to make a relationship resolution this week (ends22May16). Those who sign up on their website will receive a text on New Year’s Eve to check their progress and prompt them to continue their efforts into 2017.
© Cover Media
New research released by the Mental Health Foundation to mark Mental Health Awareness Week (16-22May16) shows that people regard maintaining healthy relationships as the most important factor to their wellbeing than eating healthily, exercising or avoiding negative habits including smoking combined. However, 46 per cent of the 2,000 adults in the U.K. who participated in the survey also admitted they regret not investing more time in their relationships – a figure which alarmingly hits 50 per cent among men.
As part of their guide to investing in relationships, the Mental Health Foundation sets out several key ways people can stave off loneliness and create more supportive relationships which protect both the mind and body.
Give time
Make active attempts to schedule in time to connect with friends and family when possible.
Be present
It can be tempting to check your phone, social media messages or work emails when spending time with family and friends. But try to be present in the moment and be there for your loved ones by switching out of work mode wherever possible.
Listen
Actively listen to what others are saying in a non-judgmental way and concentrate on their needs in that moment.
Be listened to
Share how you are feeling, honestly, and allow yourself to be listened and supported.
Recognise unhealthy relationships
Being around positive people can make us happier. However, our wellbeing can be negatively affected by harmful relationships leaving us despondent. Recognising this can help us move forward and find solutions to issues.
Make your relationships resolution
The Mental Health Foundation is encouraging people to make a relationship resolution this week (ends22May16). Those who sign up on their website will receive a text on New Year’s Eve to check their progress and prompt them to continue their efforts into 2017.
© Cover Media
Anele Mdoda and Jessica Nkosi to host #OPW
Isibaya actress Jessica Nkosi and media personality Anele Mdoda are the new hosts for Our Perfect Wedding. The two stars are stepping in as hosts of the show while the current host of the show Thembisa Mdoda takes a break from filming.
“After so many amazing episodes, I’m honoured that South Africans still appreciate seeing me on their screens, as we celebrate the love and beautiful weddings of the various couples. I have decided to take some time off to regroup and gear-up for more exciting weddings to come. I can’t wait to return and take the viewers through more amazing weddings after my holiday,” Thembisa in a statement through Mzansi Magic. She will be back on Sunday 10 July.
Both Anele and Jessica are excited to be part of the show. “It is a great privilege to be part of such a huge production. Our Perfect Wedding is the main course on Mzansi Magic’s Sunday viewing and as someone who loves weddings, love, décor and beautiful things, I cannot wait to be part of this experience from the beginning, to the end,” says Jessica.
“Ever since we were young, we have always looked out for each other and this is no different. I am looking forward to this experience because I am a huge fan of the show,” says Anele.
Jessica Nkosi will be up first to guest present Mzansi’s favourite wedding reality show on the 5th of June and 12 June 2016, followed by Anele Mdoda on the 19th of June until 3 July.
Our Perfect Wedding broadcasts every Sunday on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161) at 19:00.
©Drum
“After so many amazing episodes, I’m honoured that South Africans still appreciate seeing me on their screens, as we celebrate the love and beautiful weddings of the various couples. I have decided to take some time off to regroup and gear-up for more exciting weddings to come. I can’t wait to return and take the viewers through more amazing weddings after my holiday,” Thembisa in a statement through Mzansi Magic. She will be back on Sunday 10 July.
Both Anele and Jessica are excited to be part of the show. “It is a great privilege to be part of such a huge production. Our Perfect Wedding is the main course on Mzansi Magic’s Sunday viewing and as someone who loves weddings, love, décor and beautiful things, I cannot wait to be part of this experience from the beginning, to the end,” says Jessica.
“Ever since we were young, we have always looked out for each other and this is no different. I am looking forward to this experience because I am a huge fan of the show,” says Anele.
Jessica Nkosi will be up first to guest present Mzansi’s favourite wedding reality show on the 5th of June and 12 June 2016, followed by Anele Mdoda on the 19th of June until 3 July.
Our Perfect Wedding broadcasts every Sunday on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161) at 19:00.
©Drum
Masasa Mbangeni joins SABC 2's Thola
It has been confirmed, former Scandal actress Masasa Mbangeni has joined SABC 2 Thola.
A few weeks ago DRUM reported that the actress has joined the drama series, however, she dismissed the reports in another publication. The SABC 2 has now released a statement confirming the season 2 cast of Thola, and Mbangeni’s name is there.
The new cast includes Mbangeni and former Rhythm City’s Keabetswe Motsilanyane who takes the character of Dibuseng, formerly played by Nthati Moshesh and former Isidingo actress, Kgomotso Christopher.
According to the producer Kethiwe Ngcobo, the show is always exhilarating. “All the cast and crew all put such a lot of energy and effort into making something that we really hope the audience will enjoy. Marina Bekker the head writer and creator did an amazing job of writing something that will thrill, shock and amaze with every twist and turn of the plot,” says Kethiwe.
The series comes back on Wednesday 25 May 2016 at 9:30pm.
©Drum
A few weeks ago DRUM reported that the actress has joined the drama series, however, she dismissed the reports in another publication. The SABC 2 has now released a statement confirming the season 2 cast of Thola, and Mbangeni’s name is there.
The new cast includes Mbangeni and former Rhythm City’s Keabetswe Motsilanyane who takes the character of Dibuseng, formerly played by Nthati Moshesh and former Isidingo actress, Kgomotso Christopher.
According to the producer Kethiwe Ngcobo, the show is always exhilarating. “All the cast and crew all put such a lot of energy and effort into making something that we really hope the audience will enjoy. Marina Bekker the head writer and creator did an amazing job of writing something that will thrill, shock and amaze with every twist and turn of the plot,” says Kethiwe.
The series comes back on Wednesday 25 May 2016 at 9:30pm.
©Drum
Wednesday 25 May 2016
Win a lunch date with DJ Zinhle
DJ Zinhle has announced the exciting news that her fans are being given the chance to win a lunch date with her.
Zinhle, whose real name is Ntombezinhle Jiyane, has teamed up with Trace Mobile, for a competition to win a personal date with the popular DJ.
Taking to Instagram to share the news, Zinhle wrote: “@TraceMobileSA is giving away a lunch date with ME. Enter by following the instructions on this post! #TraceMobile.”
In order to stand a chance to win this special lunch date, fans have to follow three steps.
Reads the competition instructions in Zinhle’s post: “1. Follow TRACE Mobile on Facebook or Twitter (if you already have, then onto 2 and 3)
“2. TAG who you’ll be taking with you
“3. SHARE the competition from TRACE Mobile Facebook or Twitter.
“REMEMBER, YOU HAV TO DO ALL 3 TO QUALIFY FOR THE COMPETITION”
Fans have until 27 May to enter.
Zinhle, whose real name is Ntombezinhle Jiyane, has teamed up with Trace Mobile, for a competition to win a personal date with the popular DJ.
Taking to Instagram to share the news, Zinhle wrote: “@TraceMobileSA is giving away a lunch date with ME. Enter by following the instructions on this post! #TraceMobile.”
In order to stand a chance to win this special lunch date, fans have to follow three steps.
Reads the competition instructions in Zinhle’s post: “1. Follow TRACE Mobile on Facebook or Twitter (if you already have, then onto 2 and 3)
“2. TAG who you’ll be taking with you
“3. SHARE the competition from TRACE Mobile Facebook or Twitter.
“REMEMBER, YOU HAV TO DO ALL 3 TO QUALIFY FOR THE COMPETITION”
Fans have until 27 May to enter.
NIKEiD LAUNCHES IN SOUTH AFRICA WITH NIKE.COM
Nike.com and NikeiD will go live in South Africa on May 25. A 24-hours-a-day store, Nike.com is accessible through mobile, computer and device, giving athletes an all access pass to the best of Nike, including apparel, footwear and Nike+ services, to help them become better athletes*.
From gearing up for race day and looking to conquer a PR this year, Nike’s latest running innovations include the new Lunar Epic Flyknit.
Starting a new training regimen? The latest training tights, tees and tanks will help you reach your goals.
Looking for the perfect street to gym look? Check out the latest from Nike Sportswear.
From the football pitch to small-sided games, Nike has you covered.
Beyond products, Nike.com will offer the best of Nike+ services including Nike+, NTC (Nike+ Training Club), NRC (Nike+ Run Club), along with local insights into an active lifestyle from Nike’s community of expert running coach and trainers.
NikeiD will also enable consumers to customize clothing, shoes and accessories purchased through Nike.com.
*If you have a body, you are an athlete.
From gearing up for race day and looking to conquer a PR this year, Nike’s latest running innovations include the new Lunar Epic Flyknit.
Starting a new training regimen? The latest training tights, tees and tanks will help you reach your goals.
Looking for the perfect street to gym look? Check out the latest from Nike Sportswear.
From the football pitch to small-sided games, Nike has you covered.
Beyond products, Nike.com will offer the best of Nike+ services including Nike+, NTC (Nike+ Training Club), NRC (Nike+ Run Club), along with local insights into an active lifestyle from Nike’s community of expert running coach and trainers.
NikeiD will also enable consumers to customize clothing, shoes and accessories purchased through Nike.com.
*If you have a body, you are an athlete.
The real reason Siya Kolisi is such a hero
Siya Kolisi is a much-loved rugby player, his strong ball carrying and tireless hard work making him a favourite both with the Stormers and the Boks.
Then there’s THAT step from the Super Rugby match against the Lions last month, where he left potential Bok pivot Elton Jantjies grasping at thin air.
We won’t mention the final score, but we will revisit the flanker busting out the twinkle toes:
But we’re not here to talk about Siya’s ability on the field, because that’s just one of the reasons why he is such a popular figure. Dan Nicholl, host of the eponymous TV show on SuperSport, has outlined on VodacomRugby why Siya deserves our respect:
…what you probably don’t know is the story of Kolisi’s family. He has 2 younger half siblings, now 14 and 9, who’d moved away with their father; he subsequently passed away, and the kids ended up in social services, and out of contact with their big brother. Kolisi had no idea where they were – until a cousin of his found out where they were, and passed the information on to an up-and-coming young rugby player who’d just been included in the Springbok squad.
Kolisi duly set off for the Eastern Cape, tracked down his little brother and sister, and re-introduced himself. His honest recollection of that moment brings tears to the eyes (in Kolisi as well): his little sister was scared of him at first, but then reached out and touched his face, and from there the strongest of bonds took root very firmly.
The reunion itself is a beautiful story, but it’s what happened next that reveals Kolisi as a real giant of a man. He kick-started the long, administratively fraught process of becoming legal guardian to two kids who’d probably given up hope of being part of a family again. With the intent we’re used to seeing on the rugby field, Kolisi stuck to the task, and his siblings are now in Cape Town, living with their big brother, his partner Rachel, and their son Nicholas, the Kolisi tribe now happily united.
“I can’t go out all night with Scarra [Ntubeni, the Stormers hooker] any more,” Kolisi reflects with a rueful smile, as he discusses the life he finds himself living now – but there’s no sense of regret. Instead, there’s a quiet pride that, coupled with the obvious joy of having his brother and sister with him, speaks volumes of an enormously mature and level-headed man. A man who, lest we forget, is just 24-years-old.
All too often we only see one side of our sportsmen and women, and it is stories like this that remind us their most impressive performances don’t always take place in front of an adoring Newlands crowd.
©2OceansVibe
Then there’s THAT step from the Super Rugby match against the Lions last month, where he left potential Bok pivot Elton Jantjies grasping at thin air.
We won’t mention the final score, but we will revisit the flanker busting out the twinkle toes:
But we’re not here to talk about Siya’s ability on the field, because that’s just one of the reasons why he is such a popular figure. Dan Nicholl, host of the eponymous TV show on SuperSport, has outlined on VodacomRugby why Siya deserves our respect:
…what you probably don’t know is the story of Kolisi’s family. He has 2 younger half siblings, now 14 and 9, who’d moved away with their father; he subsequently passed away, and the kids ended up in social services, and out of contact with their big brother. Kolisi had no idea where they were – until a cousin of his found out where they were, and passed the information on to an up-and-coming young rugby player who’d just been included in the Springbok squad.
Kolisi duly set off for the Eastern Cape, tracked down his little brother and sister, and re-introduced himself. His honest recollection of that moment brings tears to the eyes (in Kolisi as well): his little sister was scared of him at first, but then reached out and touched his face, and from there the strongest of bonds took root very firmly.
The reunion itself is a beautiful story, but it’s what happened next that reveals Kolisi as a real giant of a man. He kick-started the long, administratively fraught process of becoming legal guardian to two kids who’d probably given up hope of being part of a family again. With the intent we’re used to seeing on the rugby field, Kolisi stuck to the task, and his siblings are now in Cape Town, living with their big brother, his partner Rachel, and their son Nicholas, the Kolisi tribe now happily united.
“I can’t go out all night with Scarra [Ntubeni, the Stormers hooker] any more,” Kolisi reflects with a rueful smile, as he discusses the life he finds himself living now – but there’s no sense of regret. Instead, there’s a quiet pride that, coupled with the obvious joy of having his brother and sister with him, speaks volumes of an enormously mature and level-headed man. A man who, lest we forget, is just 24-years-old.
All too often we only see one side of our sportsmen and women, and it is stories like this that remind us their most impressive performances don’t always take place in front of an adoring Newlands crowd.
©2OceansVibe
Beer on tap this fathers day
This Father's Day, treat your dad to beer on tap with discounted prices at SAB World of Beer.
Cost: (includes two beers and a commemorative glass)
-Beer tour and beer tasting at R120 per dad
(normal price is R160 per person / non-dad)
-Beer tour only at R80 per dad
(normal price is R105 per person / non-dad)
No under 18s will be permitted to consume any alcohol on the tour or in the pub.
Dad can also enjoy a delicious pub lunch in the taproom with lots of prizes to be won when you enter a raffle. The raffle will be held at 12.00, 14.00 and 16.00 pm.
Terms and conditions:
The SAB World of Beer Father's Day offer applies to fathers only, meaning the remainder of guests pay normal rates.
Date: 19 June 2016
Time: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Venue: SAB World of Beer, 15 Helen Joseph Street (formerly President Street) Newtown, Johannesburg
Cost: See above
More info: SAB World of Beer, in trendy Newtown, Johannesburg
Cost: (includes two beers and a commemorative glass)
-Beer tour and beer tasting at R120 per dad
(normal price is R160 per person / non-dad)
-Beer tour only at R80 per dad
(normal price is R105 per person / non-dad)
No under 18s will be permitted to consume any alcohol on the tour or in the pub.
Dad can also enjoy a delicious pub lunch in the taproom with lots of prizes to be won when you enter a raffle. The raffle will be held at 12.00, 14.00 and 16.00 pm.
Terms and conditions:
The SAB World of Beer Father's Day offer applies to fathers only, meaning the remainder of guests pay normal rates.
Date: 19 June 2016
Time: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Venue: SAB World of Beer, 15 Helen Joseph Street (formerly President Street) Newtown, Johannesburg
Cost: See above
More info: SAB World of Beer, in trendy Newtown, Johannesburg
Empire's 'Cookie Lyon' is coming to South Africa
Fox Africa and MultiChoice announced on Tuesday that Taraji P Henson, best known for her role as Cookie Lyon on ‘Empire’, is coming to SA.
The award-winning actress will be in SA for a five-day trip.
The actress is also expected to do media interviews and have a meet and greet sessions with super-fans of the smash-hit show ‘Empire’.
Taraji’s trip to SA coincides with DStv’s move to bring the channel to its Compact subscribers which will significantly increase FOX’s reach to a wider audience. The move will take place on the first of June.
The award-winning actress will be in SA for a five-day trip.
The actress is also expected to do media interviews and have a meet and greet sessions with super-fans of the smash-hit show ‘Empire’.
Taraji’s trip to SA coincides with DStv’s move to bring the channel to its Compact subscribers which will significantly increase FOX’s reach to a wider audience. The move will take place on the first of June.
Tuesday 24 May 2016
Sundowns back in CAF Champions League
Mamelodi Sundowns are back in the Caf Champions League, replacing AS Vita who were disqualified for fielding an ineligible player, Caf said in statement on Tuesday
Vita eliminated Sundowns from the Champions League on away-goals after a 2-2 aggregate draw which saw the South African side being relegated to the Confederation Cup.
The player in question is Idrissa Traore he played two legs of the preliminaries against Mafunzo of Zanzibar and went on to miss both legs of their match against Ferroviario de Maputo.
Traore missed the first leg against Sundowns but featured in the second leg at the Masterpieces Moripe Stadium in April.
The draw for the group phase will take place today at the CAF Secretariat in Cairo, Egypt at 14H30 local time (12H30 GMT).
For the Orange CAF Champions League, the eight surviving teams are Al Ahly, Zamalek (both Egypt), Sundowns (South Africa), ASEC Mimosas (Ivory Coast), ES Setif (Algeria), Enyimba (Nigeria), Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco) and Zesco (Zambia).
Vita eliminated Sundowns from the Champions League on away-goals after a 2-2 aggregate draw which saw the South African side being relegated to the Confederation Cup.
The player in question is Idrissa Traore he played two legs of the preliminaries against Mafunzo of Zanzibar and went on to miss both legs of their match against Ferroviario de Maputo.
Traore missed the first leg against Sundowns but featured in the second leg at the Masterpieces Moripe Stadium in April.
The draw for the group phase will take place today at the CAF Secretariat in Cairo, Egypt at 14H30 local time (12H30 GMT).
For the Orange CAF Champions League, the eight surviving teams are Al Ahly, Zamalek (both Egypt), Sundowns (South Africa), ASEC Mimosas (Ivory Coast), ES Setif (Algeria), Enyimba (Nigeria), Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco) and Zesco (Zambia).
Strive Masiyiwa: Never look down on a street vendor
Strive Masiyiwa: “Never look down on a street vendor, because from their ranks will come more great entrepreneurs”
The third most important skill in business (Part 1). A few weeks ago I identified the most important skill in business as the ability to read. The second most important is the ability to count (work in numbers). I’ve also talked about this before. Now what is the third? It’s the ability to sell!
This is a huge topic and one of my favorites: Every entrepreneur must be a good salesperson. You must never stop selling, even if you’re the richest man in the world.
I remember listening to Bill Gates one day talking passionately about one of the products from Microsoft. I thought to myself, “Wow, he is the richest man in the world, but he’s still interested in selling his products!”
And it’s not just Bill Gates.
__Every great entrepreneur has this skill: the ability to sell.
Let’s talk. First things first:
When I was about eight years old, my mother gave me a packet of sweets to take to school. I sold the sweets one by one over the lunch break! After that, I bought my own sweets and sold them to my friends using my profits. Before long I had a little business.
But it almost became a disaster when I took to the streets and got lost, whilst trying to sell my sweets. Then my mother intervened! She stopped me selling sweets on the street and channeled my energy into more creative things, and helped me sell them from her shop. She did not kill my entrepreneurial zeal.
There are a lot of people who dream of getting into business, but they think it’s beneath them to be seen trying to sell something.
__Never look down on a street vendor, because from their ranks will come more great entrepreneurs than from most business schools!
Whatever it is you’re trying to do, whether it’s a product or a service, you must know how to sell. There are millions of people who work for organizations, even in very senior management positions, who could not even sell an alcoholic beverage to an alcoholic. This is bad.
There’s an old adage amongst military planners which says, “A battle plan is only as good as your first contact with the enemy.” In business we say, “A business plan is only as good as your ability to sell to a customer.”
The ability to sell is a skill you need, beyond selling something to a customer. It includes “making a proper pitch” to investors and bankers. It also includes “selling your vision” to potential and current employers, and partners.
__It’s all about the ability to sell!
I want you to become conscious about what it really takes to sell something. Once you become conscious of selling at its most basic level, we can move on to things like marketing.
Let me close by saying this: Some of the greatest salespeople I’ve ever known are Americans. I have such admiration for the practice of sales and marketing in the United States.
Imagine for a moment the guy who invented Coca-Cola… How on earth did he persuade people they could overcome thirst by drinking a “black” liquid?! I imagine people would have recoiled at the idea of drinking something that looked dirty, and there were no fridges in those days.
From now on, I want you to think consciously about how a product or service is being sold!
One last thing: It doesn’t matter how good you are in sales, if the product or service is bad, you will not last. Let’s talk about how you can become the greatest salesperson, even to the point of selling ice to Eskimos!
The third most important skill in business (Part 1). A few weeks ago I identified the most important skill in business as the ability to read. The second most important is the ability to count (work in numbers). I’ve also talked about this before. Now what is the third? It’s the ability to sell!
This is a huge topic and one of my favorites: Every entrepreneur must be a good salesperson. You must never stop selling, even if you’re the richest man in the world.
I remember listening to Bill Gates one day talking passionately about one of the products from Microsoft. I thought to myself, “Wow, he is the richest man in the world, but he’s still interested in selling his products!”
And it’s not just Bill Gates.
__Every great entrepreneur has this skill: the ability to sell.
Let’s talk. First things first:
When I was about eight years old, my mother gave me a packet of sweets to take to school. I sold the sweets one by one over the lunch break! After that, I bought my own sweets and sold them to my friends using my profits. Before long I had a little business.
But it almost became a disaster when I took to the streets and got lost, whilst trying to sell my sweets. Then my mother intervened! She stopped me selling sweets on the street and channeled my energy into more creative things, and helped me sell them from her shop. She did not kill my entrepreneurial zeal.
There are a lot of people who dream of getting into business, but they think it’s beneath them to be seen trying to sell something.
__Never look down on a street vendor, because from their ranks will come more great entrepreneurs than from most business schools!
Whatever it is you’re trying to do, whether it’s a product or a service, you must know how to sell. There are millions of people who work for organizations, even in very senior management positions, who could not even sell an alcoholic beverage to an alcoholic. This is bad.
There’s an old adage amongst military planners which says, “A battle plan is only as good as your first contact with the enemy.” In business we say, “A business plan is only as good as your ability to sell to a customer.”
The ability to sell is a skill you need, beyond selling something to a customer. It includes “making a proper pitch” to investors and bankers. It also includes “selling your vision” to potential and current employers, and partners.
__It’s all about the ability to sell!
I want you to become conscious about what it really takes to sell something. Once you become conscious of selling at its most basic level, we can move on to things like marketing.
Let me close by saying this: Some of the greatest salespeople I’ve ever known are Americans. I have such admiration for the practice of sales and marketing in the United States.
Imagine for a moment the guy who invented Coca-Cola… How on earth did he persuade people they could overcome thirst by drinking a “black” liquid?! I imagine people would have recoiled at the idea of drinking something that looked dirty, and there were no fridges in those days.
From now on, I want you to think consciously about how a product or service is being sold!
One last thing: It doesn’t matter how good you are in sales, if the product or service is bad, you will not last. Let’s talk about how you can become the greatest salesperson, even to the point of selling ice to Eskimos!
Sony Max SA shifts gears!
By Farai Diza
Small screen entertainment has evolved over the years and viewers are getting more value for their money than ever before. With winter fast approaching, couch potatoes will be looking forward to quality entertainment that will keep them locked indoors.
We caught up with Sony Pictures Television Africa Channels Territory Director, Sonja Underwood to find out more about how the brand has grown over the years. Sony Max South Africa is a general entertainment channel that is part of the DStv bouquet.
Sony Max SA, which is completely localised to South African viewers, recently introduced a hot new edgy look that shows off the thrills and spills of what you can watch on the channel.
Broadcast on DStv channel 128, Sony Max has vastly grown with that growth visible through shows dished out.
"Sony Max (DStv Channel 128) has grown in recent years. We continuously look for shows that our viewers can resonate with. We stay up-to-date with what viewers are interested in and what they want to watch.
"Sony Max constantly aims to deliver a variety of compelling shows on the channel. We seek to provide the viewers with never before seen shows such as Counting Cars, Hack my Life and Cash Dome to name a few, as well as popular shows such as 1000 Ways to Die, Impractical Jokers, Baywatch and What Went Down," attested Sonja.
Sony Max now has an exciting new logo that is appealing and Sonja professed that the creative had been in the pipeline.
"For a while now, Sony Max has been looking to create a new logo and graphics that would resonate with the shows that are aired on the channel. We wanted to create something that is edgy but yet fitting to the Sony Pictures Television brand," she said.
The future is more than just camera, lights and action for Sony Max as a diverse range of programming will be implemented in the near future.
According to Sonja, Sony Pictures Television is always looking for exciting and new shows that will resonate with the Sony Max viewer. They will also ensure that shows aired on Sony Max are relevant, informative and provide for enjoyable entertainment.
"We are extremely excited for the future of Sony Max in South Africa. With interesting shows and programming that are uniquely Sony Max, we will continue to ensure that our programming stays relevant in order to keep our viewers glued to their screens and tuned into our channel," added Sonja.
Small screen entertainment has evolved over the years and viewers are getting more value for their money than ever before. With winter fast approaching, couch potatoes will be looking forward to quality entertainment that will keep them locked indoors.
We caught up with Sony Pictures Television Africa Channels Territory Director, Sonja Underwood to find out more about how the brand has grown over the years. Sony Max South Africa is a general entertainment channel that is part of the DStv bouquet.
Sony Max SA, which is completely localised to South African viewers, recently introduced a hot new edgy look that shows off the thrills and spills of what you can watch on the channel.
Broadcast on DStv channel 128, Sony Max has vastly grown with that growth visible through shows dished out.
"Sony Max (DStv Channel 128) has grown in recent years. We continuously look for shows that our viewers can resonate with. We stay up-to-date with what viewers are interested in and what they want to watch.
"Sony Max constantly aims to deliver a variety of compelling shows on the channel. We seek to provide the viewers with never before seen shows such as Counting Cars, Hack my Life and Cash Dome to name a few, as well as popular shows such as 1000 Ways to Die, Impractical Jokers, Baywatch and What Went Down," attested Sonja.
Sony Max now has an exciting new logo that is appealing and Sonja professed that the creative had been in the pipeline.
"For a while now, Sony Max has been looking to create a new logo and graphics that would resonate with the shows that are aired on the channel. We wanted to create something that is edgy but yet fitting to the Sony Pictures Television brand," she said.
The future is more than just camera, lights and action for Sony Max as a diverse range of programming will be implemented in the near future.
According to Sonja, Sony Pictures Television is always looking for exciting and new shows that will resonate with the Sony Max viewer. They will also ensure that shows aired on Sony Max are relevant, informative and provide for enjoyable entertainment.
"We are extremely excited for the future of Sony Max in South Africa. With interesting shows and programming that are uniquely Sony Max, we will continue to ensure that our programming stays relevant in order to keep our viewers glued to their screens and tuned into our channel," added Sonja.
Proteas spinners in good shape
Proteas spin bowling coach Claude Henderson is excited about the future and the current state of the spin bowling resources in South Africa.
Henderson is part of the Cricket South Africa spinners camp being held in Mumbai, where South Africa’s elite and emerging spinners and batsmen are being put through an intensive programme on the art of spin.
The 43-year-old Henderson, who played seven Tests for the Proteas, said: “We had a great mix of experience and youth at this year’s camp. South Africa has been here (India) a few times and it has been quite challenging.
“From a bowling point of view it’s about understanding the conditions and also trying to learn from the locals on how to play in the shorter and longer format.
“From the batting point of view it’s the same message, it’s about figuring out how we cope with the pressure and how we go about building an innings.
“For the more experienced cricketer you will take it to the next level and talk about variations, changing of pace and exposing the batsman’s weaknesses.
“With the younger guys who have never been to India and are just starting out their careers we focus on technique and getting them to understand the game of cricket.”
Henderson is part of the Cricket South Africa spinners camp being held in Mumbai, where South Africa’s elite and emerging spinners and batsmen are being put through an intensive programme on the art of spin.
The 43-year-old Henderson, who played seven Tests for the Proteas, said: “We had a great mix of experience and youth at this year’s camp. South Africa has been here (India) a few times and it has been quite challenging.
“From a bowling point of view it’s about understanding the conditions and also trying to learn from the locals on how to play in the shorter and longer format.
“From the batting point of view it’s the same message, it’s about figuring out how we cope with the pressure and how we go about building an innings.
“For the more experienced cricketer you will take it to the next level and talk about variations, changing of pace and exposing the batsman’s weaknesses.
“With the younger guys who have never been to India and are just starting out their careers we focus on technique and getting them to understand the game of cricket.”
Monday 23 May 2016
Standard Bank confirms Japan heist
Standard Bank told journalists, on Monday, that it had lost in the region of R300-million during a fraudulent exercise conducted at its Tokyo facilities earlier this month.
Media reports suggest the act was pulled off by what appears to have been a well organised syndicate, which had used credit cards to extract the money from ATM’s throughout Tokyo, during a period of just under three hours.
“The South African banking operations of Standard Bank Group have been the victim of a sophisticated, co-ordinated fraud incident,” read a statement released by Standard Bank.
The bank said there would be no loss to customers though, adding that investigations were still at a sensitive stage.
“The target of the fraud has been Standard Bank and there has been no financial loss for customers,” continued the statement.
“Standard Bank has taken swift action to contain the matter and the gross loss to the bank is estimated at R300-million. This is prior to any potential recoveries that may serve to reduce the loss.”
Media reports suggest the act was pulled off by what appears to have been a well organised syndicate, which had used credit cards to extract the money from ATM’s throughout Tokyo, during a period of just under three hours.
“The South African banking operations of Standard Bank Group have been the victim of a sophisticated, co-ordinated fraud incident,” read a statement released by Standard Bank.
The bank said there would be no loss to customers though, adding that investigations were still at a sensitive stage.
“The target of the fraud has been Standard Bank and there has been no financial loss for customers,” continued the statement.
“Standard Bank has taken swift action to contain the matter and the gross loss to the bank is estimated at R300-million. This is prior to any potential recoveries that may serve to reduce the loss.”
Olympic medal hopeful Wayde donates to Neonatal unit
South African athlete Wayde van Niekerk donated half a million rand to the Newborns Groote Schuur Trust to benefit premature babies on Thursday.
Wayde, who is currently the fourth fastest man in the 400m, was himself born premature at 29 weeks, weighing just over 1kg - a major reason why he wants to give other premature babies a fighting chance.
He describes his mom's experience in the days after his own birth:
“My mom told me that every day when she woke up, she didn’t know whether I was going to be alive or not, so it was easy for me to say, ‘Let’s help out other premature babies’.”
The unit at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town looks after some of the province's smallest citizens. In South Africa, more than eight out of every 100 babies are born prematurely.
Basic life-saving interventions can dramatically reduce newborn deaths, particularly for preterm babies.
These interventions include:
Providing regular checkups for pregnant mothers
Ensuring that births take place under the supervision of skilled health workers
Helping babies take their first breath
Coaching new moms on how to breastfeed
Keeping babies warm
Ensuring hygienic umbilical cord car
Wayde, who is currently the fourth fastest man in the 400m, was himself born premature at 29 weeks, weighing just over 1kg - a major reason why he wants to give other premature babies a fighting chance.
He describes his mom's experience in the days after his own birth:
“My mom told me that every day when she woke up, she didn’t know whether I was going to be alive or not, so it was easy for me to say, ‘Let’s help out other premature babies’.”
The unit at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town looks after some of the province's smallest citizens. In South Africa, more than eight out of every 100 babies are born prematurely.
Basic life-saving interventions can dramatically reduce newborn deaths, particularly for preterm babies.
These interventions include:
Providing regular checkups for pregnant mothers
Ensuring that births take place under the supervision of skilled health workers
Helping babies take their first breath
Coaching new moms on how to breastfeed
Keeping babies warm
Ensuring hygienic umbilical cord car
Cassper Nyovest vs AKA vs Black Coffee at BET
They are competing in the Best International Act: Africa category at the awards, to be held on 26 June at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, USA.
They will compete against the likes of Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania), Yemi Alade (Nigeria), Mzvee (Ghana), Serge Beynaud (Cote d’lvoire) and Nigerian starboy Wizkid.
AKA simple said, “Wow, Thank You” while Cassper said that he was honoured by the nomination.
“Look at God!!! Words cannot express how grateful I am to have such a loving God!!! All the glory to him!!! Let’s bring the first South African BET home!!! This is for all the independent artists out there!!! For all the African kids with a dream!!!,” Cassper wrote.
Both AKA and Cassper were nominated for a BET Award last year, AKA in the Best International Act category and Cassper in the Viewers’ Choice Best International Act. Neither of them won their respective categories
Rhythm City's 'Brenda' wins case
Actress Lele Ledwaba this week won her legal battle against the Metro Police officer who she sued for assault last year.
The Sowetan reports that Trekkie Ayuk Tikhoni was fired from her job as a Metro cop after she was found guilty of assault, for an incident in 2015, which left Ledwaba – who plays Brenda in ‘Rhythm City’ – with several injuries.
Ledwaba opened a case against Tikhoni, who manhandled the actress after she pulled her over and accused her of yielding at a stop street instead of stopping.
Ledwaba at the time said she tried to explain that she had, in fact, stopped at the traffic sign after she was pulled over, but that the female officer became aggressive very quickly, jerking her out of the car and twisting her arms behind her back, this while her baby cried hysterically.
The incident left her with a fractured wrist, a broken thumb, and severe bruising on her shoulder.
Ledwaba’s South African Police Service (SAPS) case was heard in March, after she was summoned to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Internal Affairs, and the case continued in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
Prosecutor Annelene Arjnan in court this week asked that the case be postponed, in order for the state to re-charge Tikhoni.
Speaking in court, Arjnan said “the state wants to add two more charges”, because it felt the initial charges don’t justify the seriousness of the allegations against Tikhoni. The state wants to add charges of assault with intention to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious damage to property.
Tikhoni’s dismissal was reportedly confirmed to Ledwana in a document, which reads: “The department investigated a case of assault against [Tikhoni] lodged by yourself. The alleged misconduct was investigated and finalised and the employee was found guilty and dismissed at a formal disciplinary tribunal.”
When approached by the Sowetan for comment on her victory, Ledwaba said: “I couldn’t work for two and a half months. I’m glad that the case is taking this route.”
Aside from her part in ‘Rhythm City’, Ledwaba is known for playing Pinkie Serobe in ‘Stokvel’, Dudu in ‘Home Affairs’, and Diksie Lebone in ‘The Wild’.
The Sowetan reports that Trekkie Ayuk Tikhoni was fired from her job as a Metro cop after she was found guilty of assault, for an incident in 2015, which left Ledwaba – who plays Brenda in ‘Rhythm City’ – with several injuries.
Ledwaba opened a case against Tikhoni, who manhandled the actress after she pulled her over and accused her of yielding at a stop street instead of stopping.
Ledwaba at the time said she tried to explain that she had, in fact, stopped at the traffic sign after she was pulled over, but that the female officer became aggressive very quickly, jerking her out of the car and twisting her arms behind her back, this while her baby cried hysterically.
The incident left her with a fractured wrist, a broken thumb, and severe bruising on her shoulder.
Ledwaba’s South African Police Service (SAPS) case was heard in March, after she was summoned to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Internal Affairs, and the case continued in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
Prosecutor Annelene Arjnan in court this week asked that the case be postponed, in order for the state to re-charge Tikhoni.
Speaking in court, Arjnan said “the state wants to add two more charges”, because it felt the initial charges don’t justify the seriousness of the allegations against Tikhoni. The state wants to add charges of assault with intention to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious damage to property.
Tikhoni’s dismissal was reportedly confirmed to Ledwana in a document, which reads: “The department investigated a case of assault against [Tikhoni] lodged by yourself. The alleged misconduct was investigated and finalised and the employee was found guilty and dismissed at a formal disciplinary tribunal.”
When approached by the Sowetan for comment on her victory, Ledwaba said: “I couldn’t work for two and a half months. I’m glad that the case is taking this route.”
Aside from her part in ‘Rhythm City’, Ledwaba is known for playing Pinkie Serobe in ‘Stokvel’, Dudu in ‘Home Affairs’, and Diksie Lebone in ‘The Wild’.
Craz-e presenter Morena Sefatsa moves on
Former ‘Craz-e’ presenter Morena Sefatsa has left his career in children’s television behind, to spend more time on his dream of having a successful music career.
According to the Sunday Sun, 26-year-old Sefatsa has resigned from his job as kiddies TV presenter and producer, so he can take his music more seriously.
Sefatsa last year took the first step in his music career, when he released a single called ‘Faith Alive’ under his stage name, ‘Morena The Squire’, which was well received.
Speaking to the paper, an insider said Sefatsa has dreamed about taking the big step of spending more of his time on his music for a very long time.
“His music is doing well, so he quit TV. And most of his friends are artists,” the source said.
“It must have been very hard for the boy to see his peers do what he also does and succeed while he has to be trapped producing a kiddies programme.”
When approached for comment, Sefatsa confirmed that he has quit his job as producer of weekly ‘Craz-e’ hip hop show, ‘Shiz Niz’.
“The plan was to focus on my music and the single is doing well,” he said.
Sefatsa also confirmed that he has joined live SABC breakfast show, ‘Mzansi Insider’.
“It’s a great show right now,” he said of his new job.
“As I’m speaking to you, I’m busy with the script for the first show.”
According to the Sunday Sun, 26-year-old Sefatsa has resigned from his job as kiddies TV presenter and producer, so he can take his music more seriously.
Sefatsa last year took the first step in his music career, when he released a single called ‘Faith Alive’ under his stage name, ‘Morena The Squire’, which was well received.
Speaking to the paper, an insider said Sefatsa has dreamed about taking the big step of spending more of his time on his music for a very long time.
“His music is doing well, so he quit TV. And most of his friends are artists,” the source said.
“It must have been very hard for the boy to see his peers do what he also does and succeed while he has to be trapped producing a kiddies programme.”
When approached for comment, Sefatsa confirmed that he has quit his job as producer of weekly ‘Craz-e’ hip hop show, ‘Shiz Niz’.
“The plan was to focus on my music and the single is doing well,” he said.
Sefatsa also confirmed that he has joined live SABC breakfast show, ‘Mzansi Insider’.
“It’s a great show right now,” he said of his new job.
“As I’m speaking to you, I’m busy with the script for the first show.”
Serena targets Steffi in French Open
Serena Williams will have a third go at winning a 22nd Grand Slam singles title at the French Open, which would draw her level with Steffi Graf as the most successful female player in the Open era.
But to do so, the 34-year-old American will have to achieve something she has so far failed to manage – defend her crown in Paris.
Just three of Williams' 21 Grand Slam titles have come in France – the first in 2002 and then a long gap until 2013 and 2015.
The year after her inaugural French Open title, she lost in three tough sets to eventual winner Justine Henin – hardly a major upset at that time.
But in 2014 she lost a second round tie to young Spaniard Garbine Muguruza, a defeat that recalled her shock first round exit at the hands of Virginie Razzano two years previously.
That defeat to the lowly-ranked French player resulted in Williams re-dedicating herself to the game under the guidance of French coach Patrick Mouratoglou.
The result has been spectacular with her winning two Wimbledon titles, three consecutive US Opens between 2012 and 2014, one further championship in Paris and the Australian Open in 2015.
Williams, who won her first title in nine months in Rome last weekend, will begin her Paris defence against Slovakia's Magdalena Rybarikova, the world number 76, who has yet to make it beyond the second round.
The American star insists she is feeling no pressure.
"I think now it's different because I want to win more than I think most people ever, but also I think it's different now because I don't have anything to prove and I don't have anything – it's just a different feeling," she said.
"Whereas five, ten years ago, oh, I'm defending and I feel that pressure. Now it's like I'm defending, I'm in Paris, it's cool, and I'm having, you know, the time of my life. I'm just happy to be here."
But to do so, the 34-year-old American will have to achieve something she has so far failed to manage – defend her crown in Paris.
Just three of Williams' 21 Grand Slam titles have come in France – the first in 2002 and then a long gap until 2013 and 2015.
The year after her inaugural French Open title, she lost in three tough sets to eventual winner Justine Henin – hardly a major upset at that time.
But in 2014 she lost a second round tie to young Spaniard Garbine Muguruza, a defeat that recalled her shock first round exit at the hands of Virginie Razzano two years previously.
That defeat to the lowly-ranked French player resulted in Williams re-dedicating herself to the game under the guidance of French coach Patrick Mouratoglou.
The result has been spectacular with her winning two Wimbledon titles, three consecutive US Opens between 2012 and 2014, one further championship in Paris and the Australian Open in 2015.
Williams, who won her first title in nine months in Rome last weekend, will begin her Paris defence against Slovakia's Magdalena Rybarikova, the world number 76, who has yet to make it beyond the second round.
The American star insists she is feeling no pressure.
"I think now it's different because I want to win more than I think most people ever, but also I think it's different now because I don't have anything to prove and I don't have anything – it's just a different feeling," she said.
"Whereas five, ten years ago, oh, I'm defending and I feel that pressure. Now it's like I'm defending, I'm in Paris, it's cool, and I'm having, you know, the time of my life. I'm just happy to be here."
Sunday 22 May 2016
All bouquets catered for UEFA CL final: SuperSport #UCL
SuperSport is lifting the football game of the year to even greater heights with unprecedented levels of coverage.
Next Saturday’s much-awaited Champions League final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid will be available on all DStv bouquets from Premium through to GOtv.
And for those unable to watch the television broadcast, live streaming will be available on supersport.com, plus the SuperSport and DStv Now apps.
Snappy TV, via Twitter, will offer social media highlights, plus there will be live updates on supersport.com and long- and short-form highlights available on the CatchUp service.
Liverpool legend John Barnes will be part of the studio build-up while analysts Andy Townsend and Neil Andrews will be reporting live from Stadio San Siro ahead of the 8.45pm kickoff.
The studio build-up will start at 7.30pm for the English-speaking channels (Select SA and Select Go SA join late due to live sport) and at 8pm for the Portuguese channels
The countdown to the big match (SS 3/3A/3N) will begin next Thursday with a season review with highlights from every match through to the semifinals.
Next Friday, past finals will be highlighted.
There will also be five-minute highlights of every Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid match in the Champions League this season from 5.30pm on match-day ahead of the big game.
The match will be on the following channels:
SS 3/3A/3N
Select South Africa
Select Go South Africa
SS 11A/11N
Select 1
Go 1
Maximo 1
Max 360
Meanwhile, the battle for footballing supremacy will centre on the Spanish capital of Madrid when the city’s two foremost teams clash for the highest honour on the continent on May 28.
Real Madrid and fierce rivals Atletico meet for the second time in three seasons in the Champions League decider as they ensure Spanish dominance of the competition continues with a third successive win for the country.
Atletico were seconds away from claiming the title in 2014, but after Sergio Ramos equalised for Real in the third minute of injury time, the latter ran away with the game in extra-time to win 4-1.
Revenge would be sweet for Atletico manager Diego Simeone, who never won the Champions League during an illustrious playing career that included over 100 caps for Argentina and 15 years in Europe’s top leagues.
But stopping Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and James Rodríguez has been a task many have found impossible this season, with Real coach Zinedine Zidane hoping Champions League glory will prolong his stay in the Bernabeu hot seat after missing out on the Spanish La Liga.
Real are seeking to extend their record of 10 Champions League trophy wins, while Atletico have yet to lift the trophy after final losses in 1974 and 2014.
Saturday 21 May 2016
Six changes for Lions team #SuperRugby
Lions head coach Johan Ackermann has rotated his side for their clash with the Jaguares in Johannesburg on Saturday.
Two alterations have been made to the backline as Howard Mnisi and Faf de Klerk come in for Rohan Janse van Rensburg and Ross Cronje at inside centre and scrum-half respectively for the game against the Argentines.
Up front Corne Fourie and Armand van der Merwe replace Dylan Smith and Malcolm Marx, with the latter duo having been named on the bench.
In other changes Lourens Erasmus comes in at lock for Andries Ferreira while Cyle Brink gets a start, as Warwick Tecklenburg takes a spell among the replacements.
Lions: 15 Jaco van der Walt, 14 Ruan Combrinck, 13 Lionel Mapoe, 12 Howard Mnisi, 11 Courtnall Skosan, 10 Elton Jantjies, 9 Faf de Klerk, 8 Warren Whiteley (c), 7 Cyle Brink, 6 Jaco Kriel, 5 Franco Mostert, 4 Lourens Erasmus, 3 Julian Redelinghuys, 2 Armand van der Merwe, 1 Corne Fourie
Replacements: 16 Malcolm Marx, 17 Dylan Smith, 18 Jacques van Rooyen, 19 Ruan Ackermann, 20 Warwick Tecklenburg, 21 Ross Cronje, 22 Rohan Janse van Rensburg, 23 Sylvian Mahuza
Date: Saturday, May 21
Venue: Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg
Kick-off: 15:00 local (13.00 GMT)
Referee: Stuart Berry (South Africa)
Assistant Referees: Cwengile Jadezweni (South Africa), Lourens van der Merwe (South Africa)
TMO: Willie Vos (South Africa)
- Team Talk Media
Two alterations have been made to the backline as Howard Mnisi and Faf de Klerk come in for Rohan Janse van Rensburg and Ross Cronje at inside centre and scrum-half respectively for the game against the Argentines.
Up front Corne Fourie and Armand van der Merwe replace Dylan Smith and Malcolm Marx, with the latter duo having been named on the bench.
In other changes Lourens Erasmus comes in at lock for Andries Ferreira while Cyle Brink gets a start, as Warwick Tecklenburg takes a spell among the replacements.
Lions: 15 Jaco van der Walt, 14 Ruan Combrinck, 13 Lionel Mapoe, 12 Howard Mnisi, 11 Courtnall Skosan, 10 Elton Jantjies, 9 Faf de Klerk, 8 Warren Whiteley (c), 7 Cyle Brink, 6 Jaco Kriel, 5 Franco Mostert, 4 Lourens Erasmus, 3 Julian Redelinghuys, 2 Armand van der Merwe, 1 Corne Fourie
Replacements: 16 Malcolm Marx, 17 Dylan Smith, 18 Jacques van Rooyen, 19 Ruan Ackermann, 20 Warwick Tecklenburg, 21 Ross Cronje, 22 Rohan Janse van Rensburg, 23 Sylvian Mahuza
Date: Saturday, May 21
Venue: Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg
Kick-off: 15:00 local (13.00 GMT)
Referee: Stuart Berry (South Africa)
Assistant Referees: Cwengile Jadezweni (South Africa), Lourens van der Merwe (South Africa)
TMO: Willie Vos (South Africa)
- Team Talk Media
Friday 20 May 2016
Chris Brown heading to South Africa
Grammy award-winner Chris Brown is heading to Mzansi again in July for an exclusive one-night only performance in Durban.
The RnB singer will headline the ‘Mother Of All Parties’ event to be held at the Kings Park Stadium in Durban on 2 July.
Held the same weekend as the Durban July‚ the event will see Chris share the stage with a host of international and local artists‚ with the full line-up still to be announced over the next few weeks.
Tickets for the event start at R450 for general access and R750 for golden circle.
There is also a VIP lounge package‚ which includes access to VIP parking and a special area with a private bar‚ waiter‚ bathroom facilities and private entrance‚ for R1800.
The RnB singer will headline the ‘Mother Of All Parties’ event to be held at the Kings Park Stadium in Durban on 2 July.
Held the same weekend as the Durban July‚ the event will see Chris share the stage with a host of international and local artists‚ with the full line-up still to be announced over the next few weeks.
Tickets for the event start at R450 for general access and R750 for golden circle.
There is also a VIP lounge package‚ which includes access to VIP parking and a special area with a private bar‚ waiter‚ bathroom facilities and private entrance‚ for R1800.
Exciting shows unveiled at #BBCWUpfronts
Signs of a very cold 2016 winter season have already filled the air and home entertainment may just well be what the doctor ordered.
The BBC Worldwide recently held their Winter Upfronts were a host of exciting shows have been lined up to keep viewers glued to their sets.
The hugely popular Top Gear (BBC Brit) brought in The Stig and new presenter Chris Harris to help launch the show in Johannesburg. Top Gear is the world’s biggest motoring entertainment show and it will premiere on Wednesday June 1st at 8pm.
The duo was joined at the Upfronts by Fishing Impossible stars Blowfish and Charlie Butcher to celebrate the new original commission for BBC Worldwide.
Below are some of what you can look forward to watching this winter.
Highlights:
*Series 23 of Top Gear returns with new hosts Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc. The series will be crammed full of fresh twists and excitement, along with familiar features like the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car, and, of course The Stig. It will premiere on Wednesday, 1 June at 20:00 on BBC Brit (DStv 120)
*An entertaining new fishing series fronted by three fanatics who embark on the ultimate extreme fishing trip across the globe. Fishing Impossible premieres on Wednesday 25th May at 21:00 on BBC Brit (DStv 120).
* Period drama War and Peace a bold and modern take on one of the most famous and epic stories of all time premieres on Sunday 26 June at 20:00 on BBC Brit (DStv 120).
*The Great SA Bake Off returns for season 2. The show will be filmed in Johannesburg and back on screens in the summer.
* An exciting new series, Pressure Cooker , reflects the real-life pressures of cooking at home when time is tight and ingredients are scarce. The show premieres on Tuesday 28 June at 20:00 on BBC Lifestyle (DStv 174).
* Ice People: Life on the Edge charts the real-life highs and lows of its quirky inhabitants in a town in Svalbard. The show premieres in August on BBC Earth (DStv 184).
* Dickensian is a bold reinvention of Charles Dickens’ timeless novels, where his most iconic characters live side by side in the same Victorian neighbourhood. The show premieres in August on BBC First (DStv 119).
The BBC Worldwide recently held their Winter Upfronts were a host of exciting shows have been lined up to keep viewers glued to their sets.
The hugely popular Top Gear (BBC Brit) brought in The Stig and new presenter Chris Harris to help launch the show in Johannesburg. Top Gear is the world’s biggest motoring entertainment show and it will premiere on Wednesday June 1st at 8pm.
The duo was joined at the Upfronts by Fishing Impossible stars Blowfish and Charlie Butcher to celebrate the new original commission for BBC Worldwide.
Below are some of what you can look forward to watching this winter.
Highlights:
*Series 23 of Top Gear returns with new hosts Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc. The series will be crammed full of fresh twists and excitement, along with familiar features like the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car, and, of course The Stig. It will premiere on Wednesday, 1 June at 20:00 on BBC Brit (DStv 120)
*An entertaining new fishing series fronted by three fanatics who embark on the ultimate extreme fishing trip across the globe. Fishing Impossible premieres on Wednesday 25th May at 21:00 on BBC Brit (DStv 120).
* Period drama War and Peace a bold and modern take on one of the most famous and epic stories of all time premieres on Sunday 26 June at 20:00 on BBC Brit (DStv 120).
*The Great SA Bake Off returns for season 2. The show will be filmed in Johannesburg and back on screens in the summer.
* An exciting new series, Pressure Cooker , reflects the real-life pressures of cooking at home when time is tight and ingredients are scarce. The show premieres on Tuesday 28 June at 20:00 on BBC Lifestyle (DStv 174).
* Ice People: Life on the Edge charts the real-life highs and lows of its quirky inhabitants in a town in Svalbard. The show premieres in August on BBC Earth (DStv 184).
* Dickensian is a bold reinvention of Charles Dickens’ timeless novels, where his most iconic characters live side by side in the same Victorian neighbourhood. The show premieres in August on BBC First (DStv 119).
Thursday 19 May 2016
Bio manufacturing centre opened in Pretoria
The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, opened a bio-manufacturing centre in Pretoria at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on Friday.
The project has been established to support small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) involved in bio-manufacturing by enabling them to exploit market opportunities.
Pandor believes the local manufacturing sector has been slow to adopt innovative manufacturing technologies leading to limited value addition to raw materials and a steady increase in the country’s trade deficit.
The project aims to enable the CSIR to develop unique insights into the potential of the bio-economy and bio-manufacturing sector and create permanent and temporary jobs while the economic impact is projected at about R250 million per annum within the next five years.
At the launch, Pandor outlined the vision behind the project.
“The key strategic focus is to provide an environment for the re-industrialisation of South Africa through the diversification of the economy, “she says.
“The BIDC therefore contributes to the development of new, innovative products and new industrial value chains which revitalise the local industry stimulate export markets and increase local competitiveness.”
The Department of Science and Technology says The Bio-Manufacturing Industry Development Centre (BIDC) is a first of its kind in South Africa. Currently it is supporting 19 enterprises of which 16 are owned by black entrepreneurs, including 10 black women-owned enterprises.
BIDC Manager Dr Dusty Gardiner says to date, 33 products with applications in the cosmetics, nutrition and biotechnology industries have been developed and transferred to the enterprises.
The programme has resulted in 105 permanent jobs being created, the majority of which are within the enterprises and their value chains, while an additional 165 temporary jobs have also been created.
Gardiner says 54 interns have received training in the BIDC vocational learning programme in order to provide the bio manufacturing sector with a skilled workforce.
CSIR Chief Executive Officer, Dr Sibusiso Sibisi said the CSIR performs research to stimulate and improve the competitiveness of industry, and thereby contributes to the economy of the country.
“We need to think differently. We need to explore new ways and mechanisms to enter areas of activities such as the beneficiation of our natural resources to create jobs, manufacture high-end components and export them,” he says.
The project has been established to support small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) involved in bio-manufacturing by enabling them to exploit market opportunities.
Pandor believes the local manufacturing sector has been slow to adopt innovative manufacturing technologies leading to limited value addition to raw materials and a steady increase in the country’s trade deficit.
The project aims to enable the CSIR to develop unique insights into the potential of the bio-economy and bio-manufacturing sector and create permanent and temporary jobs while the economic impact is projected at about R250 million per annum within the next five years.
At the launch, Pandor outlined the vision behind the project.
“The key strategic focus is to provide an environment for the re-industrialisation of South Africa through the diversification of the economy, “she says.
“The BIDC therefore contributes to the development of new, innovative products and new industrial value chains which revitalise the local industry stimulate export markets and increase local competitiveness.”
The Department of Science and Technology says The Bio-Manufacturing Industry Development Centre (BIDC) is a first of its kind in South Africa. Currently it is supporting 19 enterprises of which 16 are owned by black entrepreneurs, including 10 black women-owned enterprises.
BIDC Manager Dr Dusty Gardiner says to date, 33 products with applications in the cosmetics, nutrition and biotechnology industries have been developed and transferred to the enterprises.
The programme has resulted in 105 permanent jobs being created, the majority of which are within the enterprises and their value chains, while an additional 165 temporary jobs have also been created.
Gardiner says 54 interns have received training in the BIDC vocational learning programme in order to provide the bio manufacturing sector with a skilled workforce.
CSIR Chief Executive Officer, Dr Sibusiso Sibisi said the CSIR performs research to stimulate and improve the competitiveness of industry, and thereby contributes to the economy of the country.
“We need to think differently. We need to explore new ways and mechanisms to enter areas of activities such as the beneficiation of our natural resources to create jobs, manufacture high-end components and export them,” he says.
Wednesday 18 May 2016
Orlando Pirates coach looks ahead at 2016/17 season
Orlando Pirates coach Eric Tinkler has revealed he will continue to plan for the 2016/17 season, ahead of the Nedbank Cup final at the end of May.
The current season will be the first full campaign Tinkler has been in charge of the team since taking over from Vladimir Vermezovic in December 2014.
Tinkler has a one-year contract that includes a one-year extension option with the Buccaneers. The tactician will certainly bolster his chances of staying on at Pirates with a win in the Nedbank Cup final against SuperSport United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on 28 May.
“I have one-year contract with a one-year extension. I’m a professional coach and I will continue doing my work and we are preparing for next season, nothing changes,” Tinkler told KickOff.
“First and foremost I will be happy if I end the season with the trophy. I think that’s important. But looking back at the season I am disappointed in our league form.
“I was also disappointed in losing the CAF Confederation Cup final because that would have been highly prestigious competition to win for any coach.
“And now it is about planning for next season and it is important to try and rectify the areas that we made mistakes, and look to build on what we’ve achieved this season.”
The current season will be the first full campaign Tinkler has been in charge of the team since taking over from Vladimir Vermezovic in December 2014.
Tinkler has a one-year contract that includes a one-year extension option with the Buccaneers. The tactician will certainly bolster his chances of staying on at Pirates with a win in the Nedbank Cup final against SuperSport United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on 28 May.
“I have one-year contract with a one-year extension. I’m a professional coach and I will continue doing my work and we are preparing for next season, nothing changes,” Tinkler told KickOff.
“First and foremost I will be happy if I end the season with the trophy. I think that’s important. But looking back at the season I am disappointed in our league form.
“I was also disappointed in losing the CAF Confederation Cup final because that would have been highly prestigious competition to win for any coach.
“And now it is about planning for next season and it is important to try and rectify the areas that we made mistakes, and look to build on what we’ve achieved this season.”
Modified Lotto game is all about winning more
THE Lotto game has undergone exciting changes which will see players winning more - including more in jackpots.
Research by National Lottery operator, Ithuba, has shown that most Lotto players in South Africa want to win more in Jackpots and for matching at least 3 numbers .
As part of its ongoing mission aimed at reinvigorating the lottery games and bringing about more excitement, Ithuba is making changes to the Lotto and Lotto Plus games.
In an unprecedented move, the Lotto game will see more allocations go into the jackpots for lottery players.
Newly-introduced changes by Ithuba will also see changes such as a fixed guaranteed prize pay-out of R50 for those matching 3 numbers on Lotto. At the moment if players get to match 3 numbers, they are paid out varying amounts which were dependent on the number of people that have won in the division.
There will also be changes in the second chance game, Lotto Plus, which will now see its jackpot rolling over instead of rolling down as it's the case currently. The Lotto Plus jackpot will now keep on rolling until it's been won, leading to sizeable jackpots.
Lotto Plus will also feature a fixed guaranteed prize pay-out of R20 for those matching 3 numbers. Changes will also include the introduction of the QuickPick option on the bet slip which has been given a new look and feel for the players' convenience.
The changes which will kick in from Sunday May 22, 2016 where a mega guaranteed jackpot will be on the line for the Saturday 28th May draw.
The changes will also see Lotto tickets retailing for R5.00 while the price of Lotto Plus will retail for R2.50.
Tuesday 17 May 2016
Kgomotso Christopher joins Scandal
Former Isidingo actress Kgomotso Christopher has joined Etv soapie Scandal. The news was confirmed by Kgomotso through her through her twitter where she said she is excited to be part of the show. ” Excited to be working with the talented cast and leading show,” Kgomotso said on twitter.
Kgomotso will play Yvonne Thebe, Naledi’s mother and Hector’s ex-wife and will start appearing on screens late June.
Kgomotso’s character comes after fans were sad to see Masasa Mbangeni’s character Thembeka leave the show, her final appearance on the show will be Friday, 27 May.
Kgomotso will play Yvonne Thebe, Naledi’s mother and Hector’s ex-wife and will start appearing on screens late June.
Kgomotso’s character comes after fans were sad to see Masasa Mbangeni’s character Thembeka leave the show, her final appearance on the show will be Friday, 27 May.
The time has come for answers from SANRAL: AA
Today (17 May) marks the end of the extended period for Gauteng motorists to pay their outstanding historic e-toll accounts at a reduced rate of 60 percent, in relation to the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP).
In May last year, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the 60% reduction as an incentive to get more Gauteng motorists to settle their historic debt with the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL). This offer expired on 2 May but was extended until today by Transport Minister Dipuo Peters.
“Following the announcement of the discounts, and now the subsequent extension, we believe it is an opportune time to assess the success of the e-toll system in so far as motorists who have paid their accounts. These numbers should indicate, once and for all, what the uptake of e-tolls in Gauteng has been, and therefore provide concrete evidence as to what extent it has been accepted or rejected in the province,” the AA said.
To this end, the AA calls on SANRAL to answer the following questions:
1. How many of the 4.5 million registered vehicles in Gauteng are making use of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP)?
2. How many of these vehicles have been e-tagged?
3. Of the total vehicles using the GFIP how many have paid, and how many accounts are outstanding?
4. How many motorists have taken up the 60% discount offer, and settled their historic debt with SANRAL?
5. How many motorists have taken up the 60% discount offer, and made arrangements to settle their accounts with SANRAL?
6. How much money has been collected since the introduction of e-tolling in December 2013?
7. Of the money collected, how much has been retained for the management of the collections and collections infrastructure, and how much of it has gone to servicing SANRAL’s road-related debt and road development?
8. How much money does SANRAL believe it has lost through non-compliance of e-toll payments?
9. If SANRAL intends issuing summonses on all outstanding accounts, as it has indicated it will, how long does it anticipate this process taking to reach its conclusion?
“Since the inception of e-tolling in Gauteng, many numbers have been bandied about regarding the uptake, or lack thereof, by the Gauteng motoring public. By providing clear, and indisputable answers to the above questions, SANRAL has the opportunity to prove its assertion that Gauteng motorists have begun paying their debt and are, by extension, beginning to accept the system,” the AA noted.
The AA said should the numbers however prove to remain low at the end of this discount campaign, it will be a clear indication that motorists have voted with their wallets.
“If this is the case, then it will prove, that Gauteng motorists have rejected e-tolling and the costs associated with the collection of debts. Regardless of the result, there is an urgent need for a solution, one way or another, to bring closure to this messy saga which appears to have no end in sight,” the AA concluded.
In May last year, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the 60% reduction as an incentive to get more Gauteng motorists to settle their historic debt with the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL). This offer expired on 2 May but was extended until today by Transport Minister Dipuo Peters.
“Following the announcement of the discounts, and now the subsequent extension, we believe it is an opportune time to assess the success of the e-toll system in so far as motorists who have paid their accounts. These numbers should indicate, once and for all, what the uptake of e-tolls in Gauteng has been, and therefore provide concrete evidence as to what extent it has been accepted or rejected in the province,” the AA said.
To this end, the AA calls on SANRAL to answer the following questions:
1. How many of the 4.5 million registered vehicles in Gauteng are making use of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP)?
2. How many of these vehicles have been e-tagged?
3. Of the total vehicles using the GFIP how many have paid, and how many accounts are outstanding?
4. How many motorists have taken up the 60% discount offer, and settled their historic debt with SANRAL?
5. How many motorists have taken up the 60% discount offer, and made arrangements to settle their accounts with SANRAL?
6. How much money has been collected since the introduction of e-tolling in December 2013?
7. Of the money collected, how much has been retained for the management of the collections and collections infrastructure, and how much of it has gone to servicing SANRAL’s road-related debt and road development?
8. How much money does SANRAL believe it has lost through non-compliance of e-toll payments?
9. If SANRAL intends issuing summonses on all outstanding accounts, as it has indicated it will, how long does it anticipate this process taking to reach its conclusion?
“Since the inception of e-tolling in Gauteng, many numbers have been bandied about regarding the uptake, or lack thereof, by the Gauteng motoring public. By providing clear, and indisputable answers to the above questions, SANRAL has the opportunity to prove its assertion that Gauteng motorists have begun paying their debt and are, by extension, beginning to accept the system,” the AA noted.
The AA said should the numbers however prove to remain low at the end of this discount campaign, it will be a clear indication that motorists have voted with their wallets.
“If this is the case, then it will prove, that Gauteng motorists have rejected e-tolling and the costs associated with the collection of debts. Regardless of the result, there is an urgent need for a solution, one way or another, to bring closure to this messy saga which appears to have no end in sight,” the AA concluded.
DJ Zinhle speaks on how she got over losing AKA
DJ and business woman, DJ Zinhle speaks on how she got rid of the pain of losing his baby daddy AKA, by making it a point to face any negative feelings head on and refuses to nurture pain.
DJ Zinhle revealed that she is now in a better emotional space after dealing with the pain of losing AKA, during an interview with Arye Kellman on Cliff Central.
According to the DJ, the period of the whole allegations drama and cheating scandals was the worst time of her life, DJ Zinhle reveals in the interview. She says she was in a dark space emotionally, which led her to get her first tattoo to numb the emotional pain she was feeling at the time with physical pain.
“So now, the first tattoo that I have is a rose. Actually, both are roses. This big one on my arm, I got it when I was going through the shittiest time of my life.”
“And when I got this tattoo it was so therapeutic, cause it was just like pain, but it just made sense. You know when you can make sense of pain? Because I couldn’t make sense of a lot of pain at the time, but when I had the tattoo… you know why you’re hurting.”
DJ Zinhle was asked why she got a rose tatto, she expained: “…But also for what I had gone through in my life, with the father of my child, it was just like, with everything that happened, a rose is still a rose. So it made sense.”
To get over the breakup, DJ Zinhle says she had to make conscious choice to move on and focus on her own happiness. “I always get DMs [direct message on Twitter] from people asking how I managed to forgive him, something they have been struggling to do, and I always ask what have you done to deal with your emotional pain?
“People always want to nurse and nurture pain. Pain is not a baby.”
DJ Zinhle says she made a decision to actively deal with her emotional pain by not reading or watching anything negative.
She got over losing AKA through reading Oprah Winfrey and TD Jakes’ books, which gave her affirmation that she was good enough.
The interview was based on a post that DJ Zinhle shared on Twitter, saying no one should fall into the “trap” of being vengeful. DJ Zinhle believes the “revenge mentality” turns one into a “puppet” because they stop doing things to make themselves happy and focus on what would make the next person jealous.
“I think we have lost it. We need to start doing things because they make us happy, not for revenge. I’m at that space where I am happy and aware of my surroundings, I just don’t care anymore what anyone thinks. The ultimate goal is happiness.”
DJ Zinhle revealed that she is now in a better emotional space after dealing with the pain of losing AKA, during an interview with Arye Kellman on Cliff Central.
According to the DJ, the period of the whole allegations drama and cheating scandals was the worst time of her life, DJ Zinhle reveals in the interview. She says she was in a dark space emotionally, which led her to get her first tattoo to numb the emotional pain she was feeling at the time with physical pain.
“So now, the first tattoo that I have is a rose. Actually, both are roses. This big one on my arm, I got it when I was going through the shittiest time of my life.”
“And when I got this tattoo it was so therapeutic, cause it was just like pain, but it just made sense. You know when you can make sense of pain? Because I couldn’t make sense of a lot of pain at the time, but when I had the tattoo… you know why you’re hurting.”
DJ Zinhle was asked why she got a rose tatto, she expained: “…But also for what I had gone through in my life, with the father of my child, it was just like, with everything that happened, a rose is still a rose. So it made sense.”
To get over the breakup, DJ Zinhle says she had to make conscious choice to move on and focus on her own happiness. “I always get DMs [direct message on Twitter] from people asking how I managed to forgive him, something they have been struggling to do, and I always ask what have you done to deal with your emotional pain?
“People always want to nurse and nurture pain. Pain is not a baby.”
DJ Zinhle says she made a decision to actively deal with her emotional pain by not reading or watching anything negative.
She got over losing AKA through reading Oprah Winfrey and TD Jakes’ books, which gave her affirmation that she was good enough.
The interview was based on a post that DJ Zinhle shared on Twitter, saying no one should fall into the “trap” of being vengeful. DJ Zinhle believes the “revenge mentality” turns one into a “puppet” because they stop doing things to make themselves happy and focus on what would make the next person jealous.
“I think we have lost it. We need to start doing things because they make us happy, not for revenge. I’m at that space where I am happy and aware of my surroundings, I just don’t care anymore what anyone thinks. The ultimate goal is happiness.”
Monday 16 May 2016
Kaizer Chiefs linked with Ntshangase
Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly looking to lure Siphelele Ntshangase from Black Leopards as a replacement for departing midfielder Reneilwe Letsholonyane.
After eight years at Chiefs, Letsolonyane is leaving at the end of the season to join SuperSport United.
‘Yeye’ as Letsolonyane is affectionately known, has penned a two-year deal with Matsatsantsa.
A source close to the situation has confirmed that Ntshangase has emerged as a transfer target for Chiefs ahead of the off-season.
“The club has identified a few players, including a right-back from one of the top teams in Gauteng. Ntshangase has also made it to the top of the list of the players that the club want to sign for next season,” an anonymous source told KickOff.
After eight years at Chiefs, Letsolonyane is leaving at the end of the season to join SuperSport United.
‘Yeye’ as Letsolonyane is affectionately known, has penned a two-year deal with Matsatsantsa.
A source close to the situation has confirmed that Ntshangase has emerged as a transfer target for Chiefs ahead of the off-season.
“The club has identified a few players, including a right-back from one of the top teams in Gauteng. Ntshangase has also made it to the top of the list of the players that the club want to sign for next season,” an anonymous source told KickOff.
Banyana Banyana beat Zimbabwe
Banyana Banyana's preparations for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games are on track.
South Africa beat Zimbabwe one-nil in an international friendly played at the Makhulong Stadium in East Rand. However, the match showed that there is still a lot of spade work to be done prior to the big tournament.
South Africa are 54 in the World Fifa Rankings while Zimbabwe are 94. These are not ideal positions for the Southern African countries who have both qualified for the upcoming Olympics.
Zimbabwe will compete for the first time in the Olympics; however, they have been facing serious financial problems.
Banyana are in Group A alongside hosts Brazil, Denmark and Iraq. Zimbabwe on the other hand will take on Germany, Canada and Australia in Group F.
South Africa beat Zimbabwe one-nil in an international friendly played at the Makhulong Stadium in East Rand. However, the match showed that there is still a lot of spade work to be done prior to the big tournament.
South Africa are 54 in the World Fifa Rankings while Zimbabwe are 94. These are not ideal positions for the Southern African countries who have both qualified for the upcoming Olympics.
Zimbabwe will compete for the first time in the Olympics; however, they have been facing serious financial problems.
Banyana are in Group A alongside hosts Brazil, Denmark and Iraq. Zimbabwe on the other hand will take on Germany, Canada and Australia in Group F.
Blesserfinder: We are not pimps
THE founder of the new Blesserfinder dating site has refuted claims that they are promoting prostitution saying they do not charge for their services and therefore, cannot be labelled as pimps. “A pimp (man who controls prostitutes and arranges clients for them, taking part of their earnings in return) gets paid for organising a hooker, but if you’re not charging, you won’t find a law that’ll say what we’re doing is illegal,” said the founder who preferred anonymity.
Speaking on CheckPoint, eNCA’s vibrant investigative current affairs show last week – the founder said men on their site, which attracts thousands of people, were not looking for sex but companionship as they are forever on the go, sealing business deals.
“If these men were looking for sex, they could simply go to escort agencies. But, if they’ve sex with a blessee on the fourth day, it’s not prostitution because there was no payment upfront for sex,” he said.
With close to 50,000 followers on Facebook alone, Blesserfinder – home of the Blessers (rich men who spoil vulnerable young women) has taken South Africa by storm as it is making it possible for those wishing to be ‘blessed’ to find rich partners. The dating site has since been criticised by many with some saying it simply reflects on South Africa’s socio-economy status.
Popular SA businessman, Kenny Kunene, who was actually a blesser as he used to sleep with young women in exchange for money, said Blesserfinder was a site promoting prostitution and needed to be shut down to protect vulnerable women.
“You (Blesserfinder) are bringing people together on the basis of a transaction thereby creating transactional relationships. That site must be closed,” suggested Kunene. “No black man pays a woman for companionship, they pay for sex.”
Self proclaimed Congo blesser, Serge Carbonage, who also spoke to eNCA, said the transaction with blessees was a mutual understanding as he pays women for sex while they get money for rent from him. “God chose me and blessed me so that I can bless others. The women say it for themselves, nothing for mahala. When they come to me also, there’s nothing for free.
“When I look after you and pay your rent I expect to get a benefit, I look for sex, nothing else,” Carbonage said.
The Blesserfinder founder, however, said they were overwhelmed with requests from women who want to be hooked up with rich men.
“The problem is that we’ve more females than males flocking to our site,” adding that some of their expectations are a bit too high.
“We’ve had one or two occasions where the ladies have said this guy is a chancer, he’s not a blesser. We’ve looked at the situation and realised that sometimes, the ladies are really unreasonable because they expect a blesser to give them R15,000.”
The founder – whose wife does not know of her husband’s latest business venture, said affairs on the site were kept secret. “All people have to do to be hooked up is to go on our website or Facebook and inbox their expectations, be they male or female. Only the administrators have access to the profiles which we go through to see if there’s a match.
“Once we get a match, we alert the blesser and get his number to give to the potential blessees. At any given point, the blesser will be contacted by at least six to 10 women.” Questioned about his views on monogamy since they were facilitating more than one woman for one blesser, the founder said: “We’re an ambassador for people to be allowed to live their lives in the best way without anyone trying to police their morality.
“I’m a businessperson, I chase profit not morality. If I wanted to chase morality, I’d be a priest.” On safety concerns especially regarding the vulnerable blessees, the founder said: “Remember, all we’ve done is provide a portal, it’s an online mall so the safety of anyone isn’t guaranteed. Just like Sandton City Mall, you can get there and meet a psycho.
“If a church can’t guarantee safety, you can’t expect a portal to do so, it’s an unreasonable expectation.” He said anyone was free to join their dating site which does not discriminate people with a ‘morals must fall’ policy.
© Chronicle
Speaking on CheckPoint, eNCA’s vibrant investigative current affairs show last week – the founder said men on their site, which attracts thousands of people, were not looking for sex but companionship as they are forever on the go, sealing business deals.
“If these men were looking for sex, they could simply go to escort agencies. But, if they’ve sex with a blessee on the fourth day, it’s not prostitution because there was no payment upfront for sex,” he said.
With close to 50,000 followers on Facebook alone, Blesserfinder – home of the Blessers (rich men who spoil vulnerable young women) has taken South Africa by storm as it is making it possible for those wishing to be ‘blessed’ to find rich partners. The dating site has since been criticised by many with some saying it simply reflects on South Africa’s socio-economy status.
Popular SA businessman, Kenny Kunene, who was actually a blesser as he used to sleep with young women in exchange for money, said Blesserfinder was a site promoting prostitution and needed to be shut down to protect vulnerable women.
“You (Blesserfinder) are bringing people together on the basis of a transaction thereby creating transactional relationships. That site must be closed,” suggested Kunene. “No black man pays a woman for companionship, they pay for sex.”
Self proclaimed Congo blesser, Serge Carbonage, who also spoke to eNCA, said the transaction with blessees was a mutual understanding as he pays women for sex while they get money for rent from him. “God chose me and blessed me so that I can bless others. The women say it for themselves, nothing for mahala. When they come to me also, there’s nothing for free.
“When I look after you and pay your rent I expect to get a benefit, I look for sex, nothing else,” Carbonage said.
The Blesserfinder founder, however, said they were overwhelmed with requests from women who want to be hooked up with rich men.
“The problem is that we’ve more females than males flocking to our site,” adding that some of their expectations are a bit too high.
“We’ve had one or two occasions where the ladies have said this guy is a chancer, he’s not a blesser. We’ve looked at the situation and realised that sometimes, the ladies are really unreasonable because they expect a blesser to give them R15,000.”
The founder – whose wife does not know of her husband’s latest business venture, said affairs on the site were kept secret. “All people have to do to be hooked up is to go on our website or Facebook and inbox their expectations, be they male or female. Only the administrators have access to the profiles which we go through to see if there’s a match.
“Once we get a match, we alert the blesser and get his number to give to the potential blessees. At any given point, the blesser will be contacted by at least six to 10 women.” Questioned about his views on monogamy since they were facilitating more than one woman for one blesser, the founder said: “We’re an ambassador for people to be allowed to live their lives in the best way without anyone trying to police their morality.
“I’m a businessperson, I chase profit not morality. If I wanted to chase morality, I’d be a priest.” On safety concerns especially regarding the vulnerable blessees, the founder said: “Remember, all we’ve done is provide a portal, it’s an online mall so the safety of anyone isn’t guaranteed. Just like Sandton City Mall, you can get there and meet a psycho.
“If a church can’t guarantee safety, you can’t expect a portal to do so, it’s an unreasonable expectation.” He said anyone was free to join their dating site which does not discriminate people with a ‘morals must fall’ policy.
© Chronicle
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)