DJ Cleo and Brickz to appear on Real Goboza this Saturday #RGB

Who still remembers how dangerous this duo was in their time? Every track they produced was bound to be a hit jam. Fasttrack to ten year later, Brickz and DJ Cleo have decided to bury the hatchet and make some crazy hit tracks.

After not working together for 10 years, the inseparable hit makers are back together. They had a fall-out in recent years, which caused a huge rift between the two artists. They completely stopped working together and cut all communication with each other for almost 10 years.

They have now put aside their differences, and got together to create a new track called AMAFLUIT. The duo makes their first joint appearance on RGB on 1 April.

#Savanna Loco goes 500ml bigger for the ultimate #LiveLifeLoco * @SavannaCider

Add a leeedle crazy and say olé to the new 500ml Savanna Loco! Following the successful launch of the first spirit-flavoured cider in South Africa, this bold beverage now boasts a bigger size.

"Savanna Loco has proven to attract new consumers to the portfolio and play in high-energy occasions. The growth trends in the current Savanna Dry 500ml has further indicated an opportunity for Savanna Loco 500ml to accelerate the momentum and excite consumers with new news in high energy occasions," says Lucindi Branfield, Savanna Marketing Manager.

Does that mean there's more of it to love? Sí, we're talking 51% bigger and muy bueno! You can expect the same refreshingly smooth, dry taste that leaves you wanting more.

The added tequila twist combined with Savanna Dry mixes so well, you won't be able to resist! Hold on to your sombrero … Savanna Loco is set to get you moving at a series of #LiveLifeLoco events happening this year.

Get ready to take in the refreshing taste inspired by the flavours of Mexico. The new 500ml Savanna Loco is now available nationwide in cases of twelve at R194.95, 6 packs at R105 and R18 per unit.

Here are South Africa's new cabinet ministers #CabinetReshuffle

After weeks of speculation, there have been 20 changes to cabinet.

Nine ministers have been axed along with six deputies, while others have moved to new portfolios.

Here are some of the changes.

Finance Minister: Malusi Gigaba

Gigaba served as Home Affairs Minister since May 2014. He previously held the post of Public Enterprises Minister in 2010.

Police Minister: Fikile Mbalula

Mbalula served as Sports Minister since May 2014.

Public Works: Nathi Nhleko

Nhleko served as the Minister of Police.

Sports and Recreation: Thulas Nxesi

Nxesi served as the Minister of Public Works and previously served as Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform.

Public Service and Administration: Faith Muthambi

Muthambi served as Communications Minister.

Tourism: Tokozile Xasa

Xasa served as Deputy Minister of Tourism.

Home Affairs: Hlengiwe Mkhize

Mkhize served as Deputy Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services from 2014.

Energy Minister: Mmamoloko Kubayi

Kubayi served as a Regional Executive Member of the ANCYL in the Greater Johannesburg region.

Transport Minister: Joe Maswanganyi

Maswanganyi is a member of Parliament and former MEC of Sports, Arts and Culture in Limpopo.

Communications: Ayanda Dlodlo

Dlodlo served as the Deputy Minister for the Public Service and Administration .

Introducing #Klipdrift's new ready to drink beverage - #KlipdriftNgqo

Award winning brandy distillery Klipdrift has introduced a new ready-to-drink beverage designed to satisfy South Africa's thirst for refreshment and flavour.

Klipdrift Ngqo has been created by the master brandy blenders at Klipdrift who used their expertise to balance the smooth boldness of brandy with enticing fruity notes of citrus, apple and a hint of ginger. Available in thirst quenching 440ml cans, Klipdrift Ngqo is gold in colour, with an invigorating fizz and a slightly creamy head when poured.

Ngqo is a Zulu word that means "hits the spot" or "an exact fit" explained Klipdrift Marketing Manager Genius Mnywabe.

"The inspiration for Klipdrift Ngqo comes from the spirit of friendship and conviviality that we find all over our country. While pronouncing the Ngqo click might be a tongue-twister for some, Klipdrift Ngqo is guaranteed to be a palate pleaser for those who do not want to be restricted to one set of flavour profiles. It's a delightful fusion of flavours and refreshment that will appeal to those who enjoy wine, beer or brandy."

Klipdrift Ngqo is best enjoyed served ice-cold in the company of good friends and great times. Klipdrift Ngqo will be on the shelves of all leading liquor stores from March.

#Capitec bank gains 1.3 million new customers

The rise and rise of the country's third largest bank continues with the bank posting an 18% increase in profits which rose from R3,2 billion to R3,8 billion for the year ending February, the bank announced on Tuesday.

Capitec CEO Gerrie Fourie attributed the growth to the bank's sustained strategy of keeping its banking model simple and providing services at an affordable price.

"This resonates with most South Africans and is what sets us apart, especially in the current tough economic climate, giving clients a sense of value and allowing them to feel in control of their money," he said.

"Through strong marketing communications, a focus on client service and positive word of mouth, the Capitec brand has grown in stature, with South Africans from all walks of life accepting Capitec as their first choice bank."

Fourie's sentiment was earlier this year backed up by data compiled by consumer research group Nielsen, that found that the bank was the preferred and most-used primary bank among South African consumers.

Building on this, data from the SA Customer Satisfaction Index released at the beginning of the month revealed that Capitec – for a fifth consecutive year – is the bank that South Africans are most satisfied with.

The bank declared a final gross dividend of R8 per ordinary share, bringing the total dividend for the year to R12,50 per share.

Two areas Capitec has always been criticised over is low accessibility to branches and ATMs in more affluent suburbs and accessibility to credit cards, but these are areas Fourie says the bank has worked at addressing, opening 76 new branches.

#Samsung launches Galaxy S8

Samsung Electronics unveiled its Galaxy S8 flagship smartphone as it battles to regain the market leadership it lost to Apple after the embarrassing withdrawal of the fire-prone Note 7s.

Boasting some of the largest wrap-around screens ever made, the long-awaited S8 is the South Korean technology company's first new premium phone since its September recall of all Galaxy Note 7 smartphones equipped with fire-prone batteries. Samsung halted their sales in 10 markets, and the phones were banned from aircraft in the United States, denting a revival of the firm's mobile business.

Two versions of the Galaxy S8, code-named Dream internally, were launched at a media event in New York on Wednesday, with 6.2-inch (15.75 cm) and 5.8-inch curved screens - the largest to date for Samsung's premium smartphones. They will go on sale on April 21.

The S8 features Samsung's new artificial intelligence service, Bixby, with functions including a voice-commanded assistant system similar to Apple's Siri. There is also a new facial recognition application that lets users unlock their phones by looking at them.

Samsung is hoping the design update and the new features, focused on making life easier for consumers, will be enough to revive sales in a year Apple is expected to introduce major changes to its iPhones, including the very curved screens that have become staples of the Galaxy brand.

The wines of #Tokara * @Tokara_

Tokara is one of the new and shining stars on the South African wine scene. It is owned by GT Ferreira who had initially purchased the farm for residential purposes.

The winery, on the R310 outside Stellenbosch, is nestled among vineyards and olive groves on the crest of the Helshoogte Pass with sweeping views across False Bay and all the way to Table Mountain.

Tokara prides itself on making wines that are site specific. Even though vineyards were initially planted on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain at the Stellenbosch property, two other farms, Highlands in the Elgin district and Siberia in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near Hermanus, were additionally acquired.

In doing so Tokara is able to produce wines which express the distinct characteristics of these three prime wine producing regions.

The cool air and low temperatures contribute to the excellent quality of Tokara wines. All viticulture procedures at Tokara strive to create a balance between the vegetative and reproductive qualities of the vine, which is beneficial to both the environment and the quality of the estate's final products

THE WINES

Tokara Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Western Cape, South Africa

This is a mixture of Stellenbosch, Elgin and Hemel en Aarde fruit. Fresh, focused and bright with good acidity and nice pure citrus fruit. 89/100

Tokara Walker Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2011 South Africa

Nice precision here with pure fruit and some nice mineral characters. Stylish with nice lemony fruit. 90/100

Tokara Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 South Africa

Green herbal nose with some whisky notes. The palate is intense and bold with green herbal fruit. Very lively and intense. 88/100

Tokara Director's Reserve White 2010 Stellenbosch, South Africa

Sauvignon and Semillon, barrel fermented. First vintage 2004, and first with Semillon in the blend was 2006. Powerful and intense with some tropical fruit, pear and citrus characters. Lovely grapefruit notes, too. Bold and delicious. 93/100

Tokara Chardonnay 2011 Western Cape, South Africa

From Stellenbosch, Elgin and Hemel en Aarde. Fresh, pure, crisp and fruit driven with good acidity and nice purity. Some white peach, too. Shows precision. 90/100

Tokara Reserve Collection Walker Bay Chardonnay 2009 Stellenbosch, South Africa

Toasty, taut and crisp with nice precision and intensity. The palate is fresh and fruity with some toasty richness and a smooth, creamy texture. Subtle fig and green pepper notes. 92/100

Tokara Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2010 South Africa

Fresh, precise and taut with nice lemony notes and a lively grapefruit character. Powerful, rich but with good acidity. 91/100

Tokara Shiraz 2009 Stellenbosch, South Africa

15.2% alcohol. Mostly from the Tokara property. Ripe, sweet and lush but still well defined with pure, vivid fruit: cherries and plums. Nice purity. 89/100

Tokara Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Stellenbosch, South Africa

Nice blackberry and blackcurrant fruit with some lushness. Pure, ripe and modern. 90/100

Tokara Reserve Collection Syrah 2010 Stellenbosch, South Africa

This is cofermented with 8% Viognier. Fresh, aromatic and pure with sweet perfume, showing a hint of apricot. The palate shows vivid black cherry fruit with nice density and some tannic structure. Pure, impressive and well defined. 94/100

Tokara Pinotage 2010 Stellenbosch, South Africa

Sweet, pure and vivid with nice definition and some spicy oak. Lovely juicy fruit. Ripe but structured with nice purity. 90/100

February take home salaries decline

South African salaries improved by 5.7% in nominal terms on a year-on-year basis, according to BankservAfrica's Disposable Salary Index (BDSI) for February.

However, salaries in real-terms declined by 0.8%, due to growth being lower than February's rate of inflation of 6.3%, according to Dr Caroline Belrose, Head of Information Services at BankservAfrica.

February registered the ninth consecutive month of salary declines in real-terms. On the positive side, this was the smallest decline in months.

The average real disposable salaries reached R13 980 in February. This is the highest since September 2016 when real seasonally adjusted salaries (see the full explanation in the editor's notes below) reached R14 102.

With 12 out of the last 15 months in the BDSI time series indicating constant take-home pay declines in real terms, this is now taking a toll on retail sales where the same level of declines are being experienced as car and home sales. 

"Consumer spending has been slow over the last year and is likely to remain so in the coming month or two," says Mike Schüssler, Chief Economist at Economists dotcoza.

#Danone Frozen Yoghurt World set for the #RandShow

Snow in Gauteng? Unlikely. In April? Only with Danone! An avalanche of frozen yoghurt fun awaits Rand Show visitors this year.

This year, the Rand Show presents the all-new Danone Frozen Yoghurt World.

A highlight of this wintery playground is the Danone snow-tubing slope, a six-metre-high snow ramp covered in 20 centimetres of real snow where you can grab a snow tube and hang on tight for 30 metres of sliding fun.

Another highlight is the Danone Frozen Yoghurt Bar. Buy a Danone Frozen Yoghurt Popsicle and see how easy it is to make your own popsicles, adding cool, delicious, nutritious fun to any home accasion.

Then head to the snow play area. It's the perfect place for building a snowman, making snow castles or just enjoying the crunch of snow beneath your feet.

Since snow is such a rare sight in Gauteng, where even the winter sky is blue, a few photos are definitely in order. The Danone Frozen Yoghurt World has created a fairytale castle that doubles as a giant doll's house: just right for a quick photo before it's playtime with the castle toys and dolls. You can also climb inside the giant Danone snow globe and be the star of your own winter wonderland.

Handy life insurance tips for single mums

A large majority of South African households are run by single mothers who not only have to handle all the day-to-day financial matters,but also make important decisions to ensure they safeguard themselves and their families in future.

When it comes to financial products such as insurance, single mothers do not necessarily need every type of cover on the market," says Derek Wilson, head of SA's leading insurance and financial comparison website, Hippo.co.za,  "Life Insurance is particularly important as it provides your dependents with financial security in the case of an eventuality, be it paying off your debt and/or bond, making allowance for tertiary education or simply ensuring that they will have an income to cover living expenses."

We look at some tips to potentially lessen the burden on our single moms.

Choose the right cover for you
You can opt for cover that lasts a lifetime and has a guaranteed payout benefit you can cash-in at any time, select a cover that runs for only a specified term (for example 10, 15 or 20 years to cover your bond), or cover only your debt such as credit cards, loans and vehicle finance.

Don't get more cover than you need
If you wish to cover your family for the loss of income, it is recommended to get coverage equal to 15 times your current salary. If you would like to cover your debt, add up all your financial obligations to ensure you have adequate debt coverage for the total amount.

The sooner the better
Getting Life Insurance at an earlier stage in life will be less costly than taking out cover when you are older. The sooner you start, the more you could save over time.

Get good health benefits
Some insurers would provide you with a better rate if you live a healthier lifestyle. Get your family to join in on living healthier and you could save on monthly Life Insurance costs.

Compare cover
Do not simply go with an insurer that shouts the loudest. Compare from a range of different providers to get the best deal. You could save time and hassle by doing an online quote.

Thembisa Mdoda joins #TouchHD Radio

Tbo-Touch Is leaving no stone unturned in his quest to secure some of Mzansi's most talented media personalities. Our Perfect Wedding host, Thembisa Mdoda has also followed the likes of Glen Lewis to join Tbo Touch's Touch HD online radio station.

"We are not done yet, we are just getting started" reads the caption of Tbo Touch's picture he shared on his social media pages. Although he really didn't state as to whether Thembisa is joining the station or not, people flooded the stunningly beautiful host's social media pages with congratulatory messages.

That in its self proved that indeed, Thembisa is joining Touch HD. Apparently the big news will be revealed on Tuesday night. However,  fans are very clever, they can read between the lines hence they couldn't even contain the excitement. We guess we'll just wait for Tuesday to hear what Touch has to announce to the public. Nonetheless, congratulations to Thembisa for bagging in this new gig.

#SuperSport is on the hunt for a new rugby commentator #LoveRugby

Yes, you heard right.

SuperSport is looking for new rugby commentators to headline the SuperSport Rugby Challenge and have earmarked you to fulfil this role.

Before being handed a contract and getting introduced to your new co-workers, who include the likes of legendary Hugh Bladen, 2016 SAB Sports Awards Commentator of the Year, Kaunda Ntunja, and the doyen of Afrikaans commentary Hennie Koortzen, you'll first have to prove yourself behind the microphone in a series of commentary stints starting with preliminary auditions in selected cities across the country.

The World of Champions is searching for six new rugby commentators, two each for English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa. The chosen six will be the voices behind the SuperSport Rugby Challenge, a new provincial competition which starts on 22/23 April.

Preliminary auditions will be held in Port Elizabeth on Monday, April 3 at St George's Park Cricket Stadium.  

Cape Town's aspirants will also have their turn on Monday, April 3 at the Newlands Rugby Stadium, and in Johannesburg auditions take place on Friday, April 7 at the SuperSport Lodge at SuperSport HQ in Randburg.

Auditions are open to both South African and non-South African citizens living legally in the country and are over the age of 18.

Selected entrants from the three preliminary auditions will then move on to the final round of auditions on the 8th of April at the Sandton City Mall where they'll be trimmed down to a top 12.

The top 12 will battle it out in a commentators' "boot camp" which includes training and various commentating assignments before the six winners are announced.    
 
HOW IT WORKS      
 
Prospective participants will travel to audition venues, register and commentate over a 30-second clip in the language of their choice. The three language options are English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa. Upon completion of the audition, a panel of judges made up of SuperSport commentators will provide immediate feedback to determine whether or not the participant moves on to the final round of auditions in Sandton.
 
DATES AND VENUES
 
Monday, April 3: St George's Park Cricket Stadium, Port Elizabeth
Monday, April 3: Newlands Rugby Stadium, Newlands, Cape Town
Friday, April 7: SuperSport Lodge, Randburg
 
Auditions will start at 09h00 and end at 18h00.

Beauty alternatives to try when you can't afford straining your budget

Make-up lovers know how devastating it can be to run out of your favourite beauty product in the middle of the month. Here are some DIY tips to try.

 Ice cube as a primer

Primers are one of those things you buy once in a while and forget about because you only use so little of it at a time. An ice cube is a great altenative, even though it's unpleasantly cold. Rubbing it on a clean face will tighten your pores and smoothen your skin just as a primer would. This step should follow after you've moisturised your face.

Aloe gel as setting spray

If you sweat a lot during the day then you know how setting your make-up is an important step in your routine. What you will need is aloe vera gel and two capsules of vitamin E oil. Put two tablespoons of aloe and two capsules of vitamin E oil into a 250ml jar then pour half a cup of warm filtered water into the jar. Mix well by stirring and transfer the solution into a spay bottle. It's a good idea to always have this handy.

Soap as eyebrow filler

If not all, most women are on the eyebrow-on-fleek trend. Never mind getting it right, first you need the right products for it and many of the brands are expensive. What you will need is a spoolie brush and a bar of soap. Run a clean spoolie over the soap and sweep your eyebrows using an upward motion folllowing the shape of your eyebrow. This will give you a natual looking brow, however if you want more definition add a brow line underneath and you're good to go.

Shadow as eyeliner

Mix a dark eyeshadow with water on a small container, blend well and use a liner brush to apply it on your lower eye line. If you want a bolder look dip your liner brush into your mascara, your lines will last longer.

How to 'recruit' brand ambassadors who can give your products the ooomph!

Using the term "recruit" may technically be inaccurate, as truly passionate brand ambassadors are not recruited, but rather they are created through exceptional service and/or first-rate product offerings.

If you are providing outstanding customer service, work hard to establish the highest level of employee satisfaction and offer a service or product line that is superior to the competition, you've already won the battle.

Now, you just have to hone in on those people who would be most effective in furthering your marketing efforts through their own social networks. Here's how:

Choose people that are tied in to your chosen demographic. For instance, if your product or service is geared toward health conscious adults between the ages of 25 and 40, then target brand ambassadors that match that demographic.

Target those who are passionate about and intimately familiar with your product or service. If you're marketing a line of exercise equipment, make sure you're recruiting people who regularly use your product and can provide specific feedback.

Reach out and interview those you feel would be the best fit to represent you. Focus on those candidates that are positive, upbeat and enthusiastic about life in general, but particularly about what your business has to offer. People are naturally attracted to positivity, so make sure your chosen ambassadors exude this trait.

Educate and arm your ambassadors with all of the knowledge and tools they need to effectively represent your brand. Develop and implement a training program that will provide an in-depth knowledge and understanding of your company, as well as the products and services you offer. Remember, your ambassadors will essentially serve as the public face of your brand, so make sure they know their stuff!

While the internet has certainly opened the doors to global possibilities, it has also created global competition. What's the best way to get a leg up, stand out and maintain success? Simple: by recruiting an army of consumers that is passionate and more than willing to help spread the word about your brand to the masses.

Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters crowned Miss South Africa * #MissSA2017

South Africa has a new beauty queen ambassador!

Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters has just been crowned as the new Miss South Africa with first and second princess' titles being awarded to Adè van Heerden and Boipelo Mabe respectively.

The title was previously held by Ntandoyenkosi Kunene who said her life had been changed by the competition .

Maps Maponyane, Unathi Msengana, Cameron van der Burgh, Bridget Masinga, Gisele Wertheim Aymes, Ezra Davids and former Miss South Africa Claudia Henkel judged the competition.

During Miss SA's reign, she will represent South Africa at both the Miss World and Miss Universe pageants.

She will also receive R1-million in cash from Sun International and Cell C as well as a bouquet of other prizes.

Masechaba Ndlovu to focus on empowering young people

On Friday, award-winning TV and radio broadcaster Masechaba Ndlovu took to Twitter to announce that she's cut ties with PowerFM.

"I have resigned from PowerFM with immediate effect. Thank you all for your unwavering love and support. Wishing the station all of the best," she wrote.

In an interview with Destiny magazine, Ndlovu said she'll continue with her lecturing and training workshops.

"I'll be continuing to run training sessions through Masechaba Media and taking my training all over the country. We've identified a corporate sponsor that wants to jump on board and that will subsidise the whole project," Ndlovu said.

"The training involves presentation skills and interview skills for people who don't have access to this kind of training. It's also for young people who find themselves in the wrong industry and don't know how to change the course of their career," she added.

She says that she's been doing this informally for a few years but that in the past couple of months it's become more formal.

For the rest of year, Ndlovu will focus much of her energy on empowering young people, not only with knowledge focused on presentation and interview skills but also giving them confidence coaching.

"A lot of young people lack confidence and that's the one thing I've found that people look up to me for. So far we've been doing it through other institutions, but now we're focusing on doing it full-time because clearly this is my calling," she says.

© Destiny

#SABC3 announce new shows at glamour event #TheStageIsYours

For invited guests, celebrities and media, Thursday evening might have all been about fashion, fun, food and action at the SABC3 #TheStageIsYours big reveal in Melrose Arch. But new shows and more local content is on the menu for viewers as SABC3 revealed their new line up and fresh faces at the launch on Thursday evening.

Fans should brace themselves for former publicist and socialite Uyanda Mbuli's reality show, which will air from 5 April.

Current Top Billing presenter Lorna Maseko nabbed herself a new show entitled Hostess with Lorna Maseko. Ayanda Thabethe will be joining the likes of Bonang Matheba, Chris Jaftha and Maps Maponyane on Top Billing.

A few shows, which include Expresso, have also been moved to new time slots, and shows with more local content are included in the new schedule.

Recent SAFTA winner Anele Mdoda's show moves to 5pm which will hopefully give her more audience.

200 000 South Africans embrace free e-learning with Alison

South African people are taking to the internet in greater numbers than ever before to gain workplace skills, according to new figures released by Alison.

The organization, which is one of South Africa's largest free e-learning providers, revealed that a small majority (57%) of its users in 2016 were female, and that the site is most popular in Gauteng, the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

Mike Feerick, Founder and CEO of Alison, said: "South Africa has been quick to take up online learning. The feedback we're getting from learners here suggests that they value the flexibility and breadth of subjects we can offer. It's not a surprise to us that the majority of our South African learners are women; this reflects a pattern we have seen in other parts of the world."

According to newly released figures for 2016, the most popular courses including Touch Typing Training, Diploma in Project Management, Human Resources and Business Management & Entrepreneurship.  Other top courses South African learners took included Web Design, Workplace Health and Safety, Psychology and Customer Service.

Eric Corbett, Course Publishing Manager at Alison, said: "Increasingly, we're seeing learners turn to us for skills that are vital to the workplace but don't tend to receive much focus in schools – South Africa is no different. The range of free courses we're offering is set to grow dramatically over the next 12 months, and we expect to grow our learner-base in South Africa in tandem with this.

"We would encourage students, jobseekers and workers who want to upskill to consider how a course might help them achieve their goals."

Alison will celebrate its 10th birthday next month. The site currently boasts almost 10 million individual learners studying hundreds of courses.

#MultichoiceLive invades Menlyn Park this whole weekend

This weekend the interactive, immersive MultiChoice experience, called #MultiChoiceLive, will make its last stop in Menlyn ko Pretoria. And a host of DStv stars are getting ready to light up your weekend!

#MultiChoiceLive is a travelling pop-up exhibition which leads visitors through an immersive journey, revealing behind-the-scenes info on the company's much-loved brands like DStv, M-Net and SuperSport. Learn more about the company's content, history, innovative products and contribution to the film and TV industry.

For this weekend, 24 – 26 March, visitors to Menlyn Park Shopping Centre can look forward to rubbing shoulders with some great TV stars, hosted by SK from The Queen and Siya from Saints and Sinners: 

On Friday, 24 March from 12pm to 4pm:

·       Celebrity chef Siba Mtongana from the Food Network cooks up a storm

·       Dance competition – win hampers

·       Proverb and Somizi SomGAGA, a flamboyant Idols SA Judge to run a mini Idols competition

·       Main performance by Thami from Idols

 

On Saturday, 25 March from 11:00am to 4pm:

·       SK and Siya to MC the event and mingle with fans

·       Somizi SomGAGA, a flamboyant Idols SA Judge to run a mini Idols competition

·       Celebrity Chef Siba to do the seconds and tease your palate with her finger food demonstration  

·       Mafikizolo – to take it to the stage with Emlanjeni to their new single Kucheza

·       Plus, plenty of fun activities for the kids

 

On Sunday, 26 March from 12pm to 4pm:

·       Last charm from SK and Siya

·       And the kids' entertainment is off the hook!

·       A Quiz and fun activities

·       Get the chance to Spin The Wheel and win!

#ProductReview: #Todka Toffee is a well flavoured toffee vodka

Have you ever imagined a mix of vodka and toffee? I bet you haven't but do you know that there is an awesome toffee vodka out there that won't cost you an arm and a leg?

Todka is well renowned the world over for its great tasting smooth vodka. The toffee vodka is my particular favourite although the new salted caramel is good too. This is higher in alcohol so be careful that the smooth taste doesn't get you hooked.

Todka Toffee

Todka is a deliciously smooth, toffee flavoured Vodka, first discovered in the ski resorts of the French Alps.

Fussy food fanatic and world popular chef Nigella Lawson included Todka in her Espresso Martini recipe in The Nigella Christmas book, saying: "I love the Toffee Vodka made in Newquay Cornwall called compellingly - Todka".

Enjoy Todka:

As a shooter, over ice or in cocktails. In a refreshing drink with the mixer of your choice. Over ice cream. To create magnificent deserts. With coffee.

ABV: 26%

Expect to pay: Between R123 - R175 for a 750ml bottle

Where you can get it in South Africa: Norman Goodfellows, bottlestore.co.za

Countdown to #Huawei Jo'burg Day

Don't miss out! You're running out of time to get your tickets for Huawei Joburg Day in the Park on 2 April at the Johannesburg Botanical Garden, Emmarentia.

Huawei Joburg Day in the Park will see Goldfish, Mafikizolo, Gangs of Ballet, Freshly Ground, Locnville, The Soil, Black Motion, and Jeremy Loops LIVE ON STAGE.

Gates open at 09h00, the first band will be on stage at 10h00 and the concert ends at 18h00. 

Tickets are priced from R150 to R350 and are available through ticketpros.co.za. If you're going in a group - purchase 4 tickets for the special price of R1 200.

On the day, concert goers are encouraged to use Park and Ride buses, Tuk Tuks, private cabs and Uber, as well as the Rea Vaya to minimise traffic issues. Thomas Bowler Street in particular will be affected by road closures from 08h00 to 18h00.

For more information, visit www.947.co.za or email events@947.co.za or call 011 506 3200

Drought has little effect on 2017 brandy grape season - #Distell

All indicators point to the 2017 brandy grape harvest yielding future international award-winning brandies despite the Western Cape's extreme drought conditions.

Distell, Africa's leading producer of spirits, and the International Wine and Spirit Competition's World's Best Brandy Producer of 2016 , took delivery of their first batch of base wine from independent grape farmers on February 6, and started the first distillation soon after.

According to Mare-Loe Prinsloo, Head of Brandy and Spirits Excellence at Distell, there has been a 25% increase in the amount of base wine distilled in 2017, compared to last year. 

"The increased volume is due to increased demand for these quality products as more South Africans realise that our home-grown brandies are of extremely high quality and can compete with French cognacs on taste and better still, are more affordable."

Brandy is made from high quality 'base wine' which differs from regular table wines in that it is made from grapes picked earlier in the season in order to have higher acid concentration and lower sugar levels.

These grapes – traditionally Chenin Blanc or Colombar in South Africa – come from the warmer regions of the Western and Northern Cape such as Goudini and Worcester. Distell Brandy Ambassador Nick Holdcroft said base wine for brandy contained less (up to 20 mg/l) sulphur than regular wine.

"No preservatives or flavourants are added during the brandy-making process, resulting in a smooth, delicious, warm spirit loved by many South Africans," he said.

Prinsloo said brandy grape growing areas had received winter rain which stopped earlier than usual but was to the advantage of the grape varieties picked early, as water was available at a critical stage of growth resulting in healthy grapes.

"It sounds strange, given the drought but the climate resulted in the grapes having a low pH and a high acidity which is ideal for brandy. Yields per hectare were also better than those from previous year."

The second distillation happens as soon as first distillation is completed and can run until September depending on volumes, and results in the spirit which will be put away for aging.

"By law, South African brandies must be aged in French oak barrels for a minimum of three years, and this is where the magic happens, giving colour and flavour to the grape spirit," Holdcroft said.

Prinsloo said it took "exceptional grapes to make exceptional brandy" and predicted more awards in the years to come resulting from this year's harvest.
"We focus on brandy being a natural product, crafting and maturing it in a natural way. Even the angels are said to get their share during the maturation period, with the evaporation each year said to be payment to the angels for working their magic in the barrels."

Radio guru Glen Lewis leaves Metro FM for TOUCH HD

After 22 years of prime-time radio, one of broadcasting's biggest names, Glen Lewis, has allegedly quit Metro FM.

The Avenue breakfast show DJ is rumoured to be joining digital online station TOUCH HD, owned by former Metro FM drive-time host Thabo "Tbo Touch" Molefe.

Lewis, who joined the station in 1995, has been hosting the show alongside Unathi Msengana and Melanie Bala.

The resignation letter was allegedly handed in yesterday.

When asked whether Lewis had resigned, SABC spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said he was not aware of it.

Meanwhile, Molefe has stated that he would be shaking up his digital station's line-up.

"I can't confirm or deny this, but I can tell you that we are going to change radio as you know it. We are bringing the country's top talent to TOUCH HD. The contracts are signed.

"We will shock everyone," he said when asked about Lewis's resignation from Metro FM.

According to a source, Lewis will be hosting the morning show while Molefe will be doing the afternoon slot.

Also rumoured to be joining the team is radio veteran Tim Modise, who will be doing a business analysis show on the station.

His show, Executive Talk, is said to feature former president Kgalema Motlanthe as the first guest.

The two veteran radio hosts will allegedly be revealed as part of the line-up at the TOUCH HD launch next week.

Lewis could not be reached for confirmation on whether he has resigned from Metro FM.

© The Star

How to encrypt files on your #Android smartphone

Your smartphone is crammed with sensitive information about your life, from confidential business emails and mobile banking passwords to private photos and social media logins. That means you should secure it as carefully as you would your credit cards or your personal computer.

Encryption is a great way to keep your information safe. Put simply, it scrambles your data so that no one can read it unless they have the PIN code or password. This can protect you from having your information and identity stolen if your smartphone falls into the wrong hands.

Encrypting your device could slow down the performance of your device, but not to a noticeable extent if you have downloaded the latest version of your operating system and have a fairly new smartphone. Here are some tips from Alcatel on how to encrypt data on your Android smartphone:

Step 1

Open settings, go to the security menu and select "encrypt phone". You will be prompted to plug your device into a charger.

Step 2

Your smartphone will ask you to set a lock screen PIN or password. Don't forget this code because you'll need it to decrypt your files.

Step 3

Pay careful attention to the notifications and warnings. It's especially important not to interrupt the encryption process once it starts.

Step 4

The phone will begin encrypting your data after a reboot.

Two important points to note:

·         On newer versions of Android, you cannot disable encryption—not even with a factory reset – if you decide you no longer want to encrypt your files.

·         Do not interfere with the encryption process once it starts as you may lose your data.

Five simple steps to motivate yourself #MotivationWednesday

The difference between winning and barely making is motivation. If you're inspired, you can do just about anything you put your mind to.

Follow these useful steps to be inspired:

Choose your goals
You can't change everything right now; you have to decide which goal you want to start with. Ask yourself these questions: What is it that I want to do? How long will it take? What do I specifically want in the end? Be precise. Don't say 'I want to be thin' but rather 'I want to be 70kg'.

Clear the clutter
Get organised. Clear out all the unnecessary things in your life. If you don't use or need it, get rid of it. Your space reflects your state of mind, so if you clear out the clutter so will your mind.

Build your dream team
Don't get motivate by yourself, get friends and colleagues to support you and be on board. You can work towards the same goal together. If you have a group that is working towards the same goal, trying to quit smoking or lose weight, you're more likely to keep at it.

Control your time
Set time aside to achieve your goal. If you want to learn a new language then set aside an hour to do it. If you have a schedule, stick to it.

Do it now!
As the saying goes, 'procrastination is the thief of time'. So don't put it off, just do it. If you don't get your consistency on track and keep saying 'tomorrow' you might never get to do it.

Mzansi personalities reflect on Human Rights Day

On 21 March, South Africans officially celebrate Human Rights Day, declared a public holiday in 1994 following the inauguration of former president Nelson Mandela.

South African radio producer and actress Motsoaledi Setumo

I'm one person who doesn't wait for a specific day to do something every day is like a public holiday to me in doing good for the community," she says "I'm involved in the NGO called Lead a young woman so I'll be busy preparing for the event that we are having in Kagiso, Westrand on the 2nd of April, to help young girls in growing their self confident and self esteem

Poet and actress Ntsiki Mazwai 

It's Important for people to that it is not Human Rights day, it is Sharpeville day. We should make sure that our history is not erased

Presenter and actor Sthembiso "SK" Khoza 

I'm shooting as usual but I haven't forgot the thing that people did for this day, people like Neslon Mandela, Walter Sisulu and Oliver Tambo. If it wasn't for them we wouldn't have been here where we are today

Actress and TV presenter Boitumelo Thulo

I'm spending my day with my family in Potchefstroom, since it has been a while since I last saw them

Actress Zikhona Sodlaka 

I'm shooting today but is it happens that I finish early, I'll go to museum for the very first time in my life though I'm not ready because I don't know what reaction I'll have. I have a friend who works at The South African Human Rights Commission, she told me that there are over Fifthly human rights and I got shocked that I can't even name three at least

© Drum

#McCafé Honours Best Actress and Best Actor in a Feature Film at #SAFTAs11

McCafé, the lifestyle coffee brand by McDonald's South Africa, is proud to have been a headline sponsor of the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) that took place on 18 March in Sun City.

McCafé would like to congratulate all the winners of this year's SAFTAs,
especially the following people who won in the categories we are sponsoring:

Best Actress in a Feature Film: Shoki Mokgapa as Rachel in the Feature Film Sink

Best Actor in a Feature Film: Dann-Jacques Mouton as Abraham "AB" in Noem my Skollie .

"Congratulations and all the best to all winners of the SAFTAs11. We truly believe that the film and television industry provides an ideal opportunity to challenge conventional thinking. We hope that through winning these awards, they will be able to advance their careers, talents, improve the industry and continue to fly the South African flag high locally and all over the world," says Daniel Padiachy, Chief Marketing Officer for McDonald's SA.

Win a fashion voucher worth R1000 #MrPrice

It's time to buy new clothes! Signup to the newsletter and stand a chance to win a fashion voucher worth R1000

Follow the link below and get ready to go shopping! Its that simple.

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Are you ready to share your passion and earn? #adMingle

Change how you think about communicating with your connections. You can now spread the word of the brands you love over your social platforms' timelines and turn your passion into real money. And don't just take our word for it. We are based in multiple locations internationally, and have thousands of adMingle brand ambassadors all over the world earning lucrative amounts per month, dependent on the number and quality of posts, and the resulting validated leads.

Whether you prefer communicating with your crew on Twitter or your family on Facebook, we have a social media earning opportunity for you. Engage with your family and friends on an ongoing basis, telling your connections why you love the brands you're reposting.

Sign up to the adMingle platform, link your social media pages, and accept the campaigns you want to participate in. It's as easy as that. Build your relationships and your bank balance at the same time. Create your own business within your network, and post consistently. It's all about word of mouth and earning additional income, while doing what you love.

Participate in as many campaigns as you want. And keep participating. Your additional income will grow with time and practice. Don't be afraid to invest your time. Sign up today.

And the winners are... Here is the full list of #SAFTA11 winners

South African film and TV stars were celebrated and honoured at the 11th annual Saftas ceremony held at Sun City.

The biggest weekend of the local awards season kicked off on Thursday when the first awards were handed.

On Saturday night during a live broadcast on SABC2 small screen and big screen stars received their Golden Horns.

The ceremony was hosted by Katlego Maboe and Thando Thabethe.

Here is the list of winners:

TELEVISION

Best TV Soap/Telenovela
The Road

Best Achievement in Directing – TV Soap/Telenovela
High Rollers

Best Actor – TV Soap/Telenovela
Anthony Coleman

Best Actress – TV Soap/Telenovela
Tina Jaxa

Best Supporting Actor – TV Soap/Telenovela
Mandla Gaduka

Best Supporting Actress – TV Soap/Telenovela
Linda Sebezo – Sharon Dlamini

Most Popular TV Soap
Isibaya

Best TV Drama
Heist

Best Achievement in Directing – TV Drama
Heist

Best Actor – TV Drama
Jerry Mofokeng – Heist

Best Actress – TV Drama
Tiffany Barbuzano

Best Supporting Actor – TV Drama
Warren Masemola

Best Supporting Actress – TV Drama
Jana Cilliers

Best TV Comedy
Puppet Nation ZANews

Best Actress – TV Comedy
Chantal Herman

Best Actor – TV Comedy
James Borthwick

Best Supporting Actress – TV Comedy
Sylvaine Strike

Best Supporting Actor – TV Comedy
Reabetswe Rangaka

Best Achievement in Directing – TV Comedy
Alex Fynn and Johan Vermaak, Puppet Nation ZANews

Best Talk Show
Real Talk with Anele

Best TV Presenter
Thembisa Mdoda

FILM

Best Actor – Feature Film
Dann-Jaques Mouton

Best Actress – Feature Film
Shoki Mokgape

Best Supporting Actor – Feature Film
Abdurahgmaan Adams

Best Supporting Actress – Feature Film
Hlubi Mboya

Best Achievement in Directing – Feature Film
Oliver Schmitz

Best Feature Film
Sink

Best Documentary Feature
Nobody's Died Laughing

Best Student Film 
Finding Freedom

Best Short Film
The Suit

Lifetime Achievement Awards
Junaid Ahmed
Lydia Mokgokoloshi

Youth Achiever Award recipient
Thapelo Mokoena

Thando Thabethe thrilled to be hosting the #SAFTAs11

The 11th annual Saftas will be held at Sun City on 18 March and will be hosted by the multi-talented Thando Thabethe and TV host Katlego Maboe.

Thabethe told DESTINY that she's honoured to have been given such a major platform to use her gift.

"It's the biggest night for film and TV in the country, and only a few people in a lifetime will be given the opportunity to host such a show; it's a great honour and I'm so excited," Thabethe says.

She reckons the nerves will only start kicking in soon before the show begins.

"I'm not anxious about anything. I'm pretty relaxed for now. That will probably change a couple of hours before the show, but for now I'm fine," she says.

While presenting involves reading off a teleprompter, Thabethe says it's always been important for her to have her uniqueness come through.

"Audiences can expect to see my personality … it takes a lot of effort to not be yourself. The thing about being authentic is the fact that there's only one you and no one else can do you better. So why try to be someone else when that's only going to leave you in second place?"

She says that while she can't reveal any of her upcoming projects for the year, she does believe 2017 will be another stellar year for her career.

"2017 has only just begun … and I've got a lot of great things coming up. I hope this year proves to be another great one," she says.

Exciting Hip Hop vs Pantsula dance competition #auditions lined up for #Joburg - #Club10HVP2017

The city of Johannesburg is the proud host of the most distinguished Hip Hop vs Pantsula dance clash that kicks off with the highly anticipated Auditions that will take place at the Johannesburg City Hall on the 8th April. HVP Dance Competition is aimed at contributing to the development and support of these 2 dance genres.

This competition is destined to be the largest in the city's history drawing dance crews from all over the country, coming to compete. The competition will culminates in an All-Stars Showcase at the Finals to be held in May that will give the opportunity for dancers, parents and the public to attend a concert lasting 2 hours featuring the best dance talent South Africa has to offer.

Two prize levels coming out of this event include: first place (R40, 000plus HVP CHAMPIONSHIP Trophy) and second place (R10, 000).

 "Hip Hop & Pantsula dance has been part of our lives for many years and have survived the various influences that have taken over its music. Both these dance styles have grown every year and are now influencing different spheres of our lives. It is in this light that Kan Communications have teamed up with Club 10 to launch one of the most exciting dance competitions – HVP Dance Competition! We hope it will contribute immensely to the development of these two dance forms. We look forward to seeing various great crews with fresh moves at the HVP," explains Kenna Mahlangu, founder and director of HVP Dance Competition.

Created by Kan Communications, a boutique corporate communications company owned by Kenna Mahlangu and Neo Marumo-Mphaphuli.

HVP Dance Competition kicks off in the city of Johannesburg this 8th April with a mission to contribute to the development of dance in South Africa, in Pantsula & Hip Hop styles. The event is powered by Club 10 Liquor.  For more information about auditions please call (010) 276 0241 and/or email ikan@kancomms.com 

#Lycamobile to launch in South Africa

Global MVNO Lycamobile will launch services in South Africa, Techcentral reports, citing Cell C CEO Jose Dos Santos. Though Dos Santos declined to reveal details about the launch, he confirmed the UK-based company will launch an MVNO on the back of Cell C's network infrastructure.

Cell C actively courts MVNO providers, and provides the network for virtual operators such as FNB Connect, MRP Mobile and Virgin Mobile.

Lycamobile describes itself as the world's largest international MVNO with over 16 million customers. The company operates in twenty-one countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Macedonia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, the UK and the US.

Some of the services that Lycamobile offers in various markets include calling cards, voice-over-IP telephony, financial products and content, including radio and television.

#SABC in search of talented media personalities

SABC 1 is embarking on a campaign to uncover new South African stars. The station is currently on the search of two females (Xhosa and Sotho) and one male (Zulu). They call for all interested candidates to send the direct message on the station's twitter account.

They are looking for those three authentic people for the new show that is set to air soon. So if you think that you have what it takes to be on the show, then send a DM to the SABC. They want people who have abundance of raw talent

The auditions will be held on the 17th of March 2017 in Johannesburg. So send that direct message and get all the information that you might need. Good Luck to all the applicants.

Being Bonang to premiere on #Vuzu Amp in July

After years of anticipation, this July the South African public is finally getting a glimpse into the life of Bonang Matheba – widely regarded as one of the most elusive superstars around.

For the longest time, fans have yearned for a deeper look into the life of the woman they so much adore, and now VUZU AMP is giving her admirers an exclusive look into her exciting life in the reality series Being Bonang. The show will feature Bonang in her day to day business interactions alongside manager Jay Badza, snippets of her romance with AKA, her very close bond with her mom, the interwoven and often exhilarating relationship with her cousin Tebogo "Pinky Girl" Mekgwe, and good times with her friend Lorna Maseko.

The production will also highlight how the now, more well-rounded, more successful Bonang has transcended beyond her 'it girl' status, with a successful radio show, massive public persona, and thriving MC career.

Sphumelele Sibeko, Head of Reality for M-Net's Local Entertainment Channels commented on the appeal behind the show, "It's the show everyone's been waiting for. Bonang is finally at a point in her life where she's comfortable to give her fans a glimpse of what they've been so eagerly anticipating. Viewers will see her outright versatility: juggling business success with family, romance, and all out stardom. For the first time we will get to see Bonang the daughter, the entrepreneur, the lover, and the confidant."

Being Bonang season one is produced by TheBarleader.TV alongside Bonang Matheba as Co-Executive Producer, and will broadcast on VUZU AMP this July.

Tbo Touch set to launch TV station

Radio broadcaster and business man Tbo Touch is a man of various talents, and his latest venture involves a television channel and a movie.

The thriving media personality was recently announced alongside media personality Bonang Matheba and Fashion designer David Tlale as the South African faces of French cognac brand Courvoisier.

In a wide ranging interview with Drum magazine, Touch announced that he is currently embarking on one of his most exciting and challenging ventures yet, getting into television and film production.

"I am launching a TV channel. I am working some people who we will travel to Los Angeles for the show and for some partnerships there. On the channel we will have three big local shows. I want to shoot a show that will give excellent actors and actresses that platform to show off their talent," Touch revealed.

On top of the TV channel Touch is currently busy working on a big movie. "I am an executive producer on the movie, its a new but exciting challenge. It's insane but the same energy to raise R200 000 is equal to what you need to raise R20 million for a movie," he added.

Even though he doesn't reveal what the movie is about, Touch says taking the risks he has taken in life have made him realise that it is all worth it.

Catch Tbo Touch daily on TouchCentral.fm for his afternoon show 3pm to 6pm Mondays to Friday.

© Drum

Bonang Matheba appointed as #Courvoisier brand ambassador

Bonang Matheba, better known as Queen B has partnered with cognac brand, Courvoisier. The announcement was made on Tuesday at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg.

The Metro FM  radio host who is also the South African ambassador for Revlon, said she has always identified with the brand as her father has always enjoyed a glass of the well-renowned cognac. Courvoisier also speaks to brand Bonang as it speaks to luxury and sophistication.

"My father drinks Courvoisier, he drank it from when I was a little girl. So it's a brand I've always known growing up, she says.

"It's a brand that is rich in history, well respected all over the world and well awarded. It's premium, it's luxury, it's decadence and sophistication – everything that speaks to brand Bonang," the Top Billing presenter said.

She went on to explain that unlike most brands which just want you to sell their products, her partnership with Courvoisier is like a marriage as they fully support her on all her projects.

"Courvoisier wants to intertwine their brand with my projects – my book, my new TV show, my bursary fund, lingerie collections. They just want to take it on and support," she says.

Matheba, who turns 30 this year, says she feels more mature and proud of the woman she has become. She goes on to explain that she intends on celebrating her life and all her achievements this year.

"I feel beautiful in the woman that I am and the woman I've become and the things I have achieved. Courvoisier is that – it's enjoyed by queens and kings and I feel like a queen who has done so much and is content with the woman she is," she says.

Matheba also let us in on her reality show, which is currently in the works. She explains that while the show will give viewers a glimpse into her life, it will be more about the Bonang brand, rather than her personal life.

She admits that the decision to do a reality show was not an easy one, as she toyed with the idea for at least five years.

"I'm a very private person. Even laying the intricacies of my life in my book was difficult. But I felt like I wanted people to see how the magic is created."

Matheba says she isn't bothered about the public scrutiny that often comes with doing a reality show because she's had to deal with criticism for the past 13 years she's been in the industry.

All set for #CAF elections... Does Ahmad have enough muscle to wrestle old horse Hayatou? #CafElections

Lets face it - Africa is rarely in the football news except when an African player hogs the limelight in top European leagues. But there is just something different this week.

Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa has seen a hive of activity since Monday as football leaders arrive ahead of the much anticipated Caf elections to be conducted today at the AU Headquarters.

Caf President Issa Hayatou arrived on Monday having flown directly from Lusaka where he attended the just concluded U20 Afcon won by Zambia.
Hayatou's challenger in the upcoming elections Ahmad Ahmad of Madagascar has also arrived and intimated that he was ready for the big day.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino is also expected to arrive for the elections accompanied by his Secretary General Fatma Samoura.

Hayatou has been president of Caf since 1988 except when he briefly allowed Sukelu Patel from Seychelles to act for him from 2015 to 2016. This could have been due to failing health and the 70 year ceiling placed on candidates for the position.

Caf has lined up a raft of activities that coincide with their 60th celebrations which will include a documentary and different issues.

But here is the question that's bubbling out of everyone's lips: "Does Ahmad have enough muscle to shove long standing Hayatou out of the biggest football job in Africa?"

I personally think that this will be the tightest race Caf has ever witnessed in a long time. Remember how Barcelona overcame a 0-4 deficit against PSG in the Uefa Champions League? Expect these elections to be close to that level of drama.

Given the fact that Ahmad has the backing of Cosafa, Nigeria, and other African nations, ever seriously faced Hayatou knows that his days at the helm are realistically numbered.

When those in the Caf Executive Committee were afraid to challenge Hayatou, Ahmad stood up to be counted saying "I took (my decision) after hearing some federation presidents (say they) want change."

Surely that change could be today. The clock is swiftly ticking and tomorrow mornings roaster could be churning out a different tune to welcome Caf's new president.

South African Rugby Annual 2017 goes on sale #SARU

The 2017 edition of the South African Rugby Annual, widely considered to be one of the best rugby publications in the world, has gone on sale nationwide.

At over 700 pages, this 46th edition of the Annual is crammed with more records, amazing facts, milestones and memorable moments than ever before. It also breaks new ground by including over 30 pages of previously unpublished pages of world records for Tier 1 countries.

"In our digital, 'paperless' age, when so much information is only accessible online, it's more vital than ever to ensure we keep producing a physical document of record for future generations," said SA Rugby CEO, Jurie Roux.

"The Annual is dedicated to serving the South African rugby community. On the one hand it's a commercial publication available worldwide through bookstores and online retailers, and on the other hand it's an indispensable and trusted reference tool for a wide variety of stakeholders in the rugby industry, from administrators, coaches and agents, to journalists, editors and broadcasters," he added.

In keeping with a long-standing tradition, the latest edition once again features South Africa's player of the year on the cover, Springbok and DHL Stormers lock Pieter-Steph du Toit, following in the footsteps of Lood de Jager, Duane Vermeulen, Jean de Villiers, Bryan Habana and Schalk Burger who have graced the cover in recent years.

The South African Rugby Annual 2017 (ISBN: 978-0-620-74427-0) is edited by Duane Heath & Eddie Grieb and published by SA Rugby. It is on sale at all leading retailers as well as online at www.exclusivebooks.co.za, www.takealot.com and www.loot.co.za. Recommended retail price is R205. Copies can also be ordered directly from publishers' representatives Blue Weaver, at www.blueweaver.co.za or (021) 701-4477.

Six ways any #entrepreneur can win over an #investor

How do you get your start up business to stand out in a world full of amazing entrepreneurial ideas? Finding the right people to invest in your start up business is not the easiest thing to do.  You might have a lot of competitors who have better ideas to present.  They might want to do something which aligns better with investors as well as clearer business plans.  Stay away from trying to go with what's in and popular.  Rather focus on matching your business idea with the best suited investor for your company. 

Khethi Ngwenya – Managing Director of SchoolMedia and self-made successful entrepreneur shares some tips which can help entrepreneurs sell their business ideas to investors.

Market Size

Market size is important to investors because they want to measure the potential of your business idea.  Investors typically invest in businesses that cater to a significantly large target market.  The more stable and larger target market your brand has, the stronger your competitive chances when pitching to investors.  Ideally, investors look for companies that have the potential to grow quickly.  This will show that your company has a strong impact on its target market.

Background Experience

Investors look for entrepreneurs that are experienced in their field.  It is also important for these entrepreneurs to have management teams that are known for leadership as well as good performance within the company's industry.  It's important for entrepreneurs to show commitment and expertise when pitching to investors.

Uniqueness

You need to show investors that your products/services are unique enough to make their investing services worthwhile.  The products/services that you provide should have features that give you an advantage by distinguishing you from potential competitors.

Confidence

Confidence is key when presenting a business idea to investors but you don't want to come off as too aggressive.  No one would want to invest in people that don't seem too sure about what they are presenting.  Confident entrepreneurs are most likely to walk away with funding from investors.  People with confidence can easily sell their vision.  The goal is to present a very positive business idea and appear confident while doing that.  However, confidence can ruin your chances of getting an investor interested in your business idea.  Besides evaluating your idea, investors are also looking at the kind of person you are.

Timing

Timing is very important!  The more concise you are, the more effective your pitch will be.  Investors value their time.  You need to focus on the core components of your pitch because time is of the essence.  Be careful not to waste time going on and on about your product/service, investors care more about the money that your product /service will make.  Give the investors a clear idea of what your business is all about and get straight to the point.

Readiness

Make sure that all your admin and books are in order and up to date.  Being on top of your book-keeping will show investors that you want to make sure that you spot any problem areas that need to be solved as well as maintain a healthy cash flow and clarity within the business. 

If you would like more information on SchoolMedia products and services, visit SchoolMedia at: http://www.schoolmedia.co.za or call them on +27 11 720-7174.

Carol Tshabalala to moderate and host #CAF's Evolution of African football

Award winning South African sports broadcaster and MC, Carol Tshabalala, continues to her expand her foot print in the world of sport. The First Lady of Sport is set to be one of four moderators of the panel discussions at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) forum on the Evolution of African football tomorrow, Wednesday, 15 March 2017, in Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia.

Simply Carol is no stranger in moderating panel discussions having previously hosted the FIFA Women's Football Symposium in 2011 and in 2016 as Program Director. The CAF forum on the Evolution of African football will see Tshabalala moderating panel discussions focusing on the social aspect of the beautiful game.

She will also moderate a discussion with a panel consisting of respected individuals in global football, from the international Olympic committee as well as humanitarians.

"I'm excited to be focusing on this aspect of football because part of the discussion includes gender equality and what a great time to continue many conversations we had on international women's day and following various events I have moderated that centre around this theme like the FIFA women's football seminar in Zurich last year," expresses Tshabalala.

Tshabalala will also be hosting the official opening function of the CAF forum on Wednesday with Robert Brazza. The topics that will be discussed at the forum include football and politics in Africa, 60 years of a marriage of passion and reason and future perspectives for CAF.

Follow the First Lady of Sports on social media to see her behind the scenes at the CAF Forum.

#MovieReview: #Kalushi - the true story of a hawker in the 1976 #Soweto uprising

Kalushi is the true story about 19-year-old hawker, Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu (Thabo Rametsi), from Mamelodi, a township outside Pretoria. He is brutally beaten by police. Kalushi goes into exile following the 1976 Soweto uprisings to join the liberation movement. He returns from military training in Angola but en route to their mission, his friend and comrade, Mondi(Thabo Malema), loses control and shoots two innocent people on Goch Street in Johannesburg. Mondi is severely beaten and tortured; Kalushi is forced to stand trial under the common purpose doctrine. The state seeks the highest punishment from the court, death by hanging. Kalushi has his back against the wall and uses the courtroom as a final battlefield. His sacrifice immortalises him into a hero of the struggle and an international icon of June 16, 1976.

Apartheid-based films have dominated the South African film industry especially with regards to black cinema. Many have focused on former president Nelson Mandela so Kalushi is a refreshing addition to the stories of South Africa's struggle for freedom. What hinders the film from really pulling the heartstrings is the screenplay, casting and inadequate direction.

The dialogue in Kalushi jumps between Nguni vernacular and English, which would usually make sense when you're trying to reach a broader audience. However, in the movie, the characters only change from vernacular to English when plot points are delivered. It would have been better if the whole film were either fully in Nguni vernacular or English. The constant back-and-forth breaks the flow.

The pacing is also all over the place. One minute we have these fast-paced scenes, which are then stopped abruptly by weird camera angles and static emotional scenes. The pacing then also bleeds into a lack real emotional connection to the characters and their tragic situations.

The casting of the movie is also a bit off, especially casting Quantico star Pearl Thusi as a schoolgirl. I know that actors often play characters that are much older or younger than their real age.
However, Pearl does not look that young. She still gives a stellar performance and makes a lasting impression but really - a schoolgirl? The cast as a whole also lacks chemistry.

One of my biggest pet peeves is when films use narration to move the story along. I understand why Dube uses it as a storytelling mechanism, but by doing this it treats the audience like idiots. Number one for good filmmaking - show don't tell.

Overall, Kalushi is an OK addition to the South African struggle film genre. However, if this important story had been in the hands of a more experienced filmmaker it could have been one of the best films of the year.

© IOL

Unusual items sold on #bidorbuy reveal some quirky trends

Several buyers on South Africa's marketplace www.bidorbuy.co.za recently became proud owners of that latest craze, the fidget cube. Also called the stress cube by some sellers on the site, this desktop gadget, designed to keep idle hands busy, purports to relieve nervous tension and enhance concentration.

"That is only one of the less-ordinary items lately sold on our online marketplace", says bidorbuy Marketing Manager Joni Calitz. "Over the past 18 years we've had some weird and wacky items traded on the site, for example belly button fluff brushes, Superman dog costume outfits, toilet seat warmers, shoelace fasteners, and false beer bellies. We even had people sell - and buy - such abstract merchandise as a guilty conscience reliever and an air guitar."

The supply and demand of gimmicky and quirky items reveal the constant ebb and flow of trends in this intriguing, albeit marginal market segment. Thus, fidget cubes with their six sides, each of them providing a unique way to fidget, have squeezed out the traditional stress ball – at least for now.

In a similar way, the eye catching under car glow lights are gaining popularity on bidorbuy as an inexpensive way to add a special something to one's car, while yesteryear's favourites such as car headlamp eyelash stickers have faded into oblivion.  And mermaid tail blankets are set to keep us warm this winter, instead of last winter's sleeve blankets, at least according to buying trends on bidorbuy. 

Still, some gimmicky products display surprising longevity, notably the mankini. As many as three mankinis were recently sold on bidorbuy, even though it's been more than ten years since this unusual beach garment for men was made famous by the film Borat. 

Other gimmicky items that are attracting the attention of buyers on bidorbuy these days include speakers with dancing water, gas pump liquor dispenser, rolling machine for stuffing grape vine leaves and the hugely popular boys' toilet training urinal.

"The bidorbuy marketplace is traditionally known for featuring out-of-the-ordinary items. While we certainly embrace and treasure this quirky and fun side, unusual items account for only a fraction of trading on the site", says Joni Calitz and adds: "The majority of the items sold and bought on bidorbuy are collectibles, such as rare coins and antiques, as well as products of mass consumption, from household appliances and toys to jewellery and computers, to mention just a few."