DJ denies using witchcraft to get rich

Music producer Chymamusique, real name Collen Ntala Mmotla, has vehemently denied allegations that he uses witchcraft to achieve his success. The Limpopo-born DJ, known for his deep house music, found himself at the center of controversy after announcing a free braai lunch on September 24th, a public holiday. 

The event, intended as a networking opportunity, was met with suspicion by some social media users, who accused Chymamusique of employing dark magic. One user commented, "Not saying he's using dark magic, but this is something the people who do that like to do. After eating that 'free' braai meat, you'll face trouble. Nothing in this world is truly free."

Chymamusique, however, expressed disappointment at the accusations. "Nowadays, any sign of success makes people think there's some secret behind it," he told TshisaLIVE. "But those same people are the first to buy tickets to my men's conference." He clarified that the braai is purely a chance for men to connect with one another, promoting open dialogue about their struggles. "It's like a men's conference. We'll be connecting with professionals from different fields… It's all for a good purpose," he explained.

Despite the accusations, Chymamusique, who will also host a networking session at Hartbeespoort Dam in September, remains resolute in his denial of any involvement in dark practices. "It's hurtful when people label us as part of certain things. I want to assure my fans and family that I am not involved in anything like that," he emphasized.

Levi’s Africa officially launches curvy campaign with Nomzamo Mbatha, Buqaqawuli Nobakada and Lady Du in the forefront

Levi's is back with a new ambassador for their Curvy range, this time featuring award-winning actress Nomzamo Mbatha. Joining her are amapiano DJ Lady Du and mixed media artist Buqaqawuli Nobakada, both existing partners of the brand.  

"Levi's Curvy is more than a campaign—it's about celebrating the journeys of powerful women who embody the spirit of Levi's," the brand explains on its website.

The launch party, held to celebrate the new ambassadors and the diverse range, was a vibrant affair. Blue tones adorned the venue, reflecting the brand's signature denim, while guests enjoyed activities like an art-filled session and a curvy table talk promoting body positivity. 

"We wanted to create an event that empowers women to celebrate their unique curves," shared a representative from Levi's. "This event was all about inclusion and celebrating the beauty of diversity."

With delicious food and drinks, the event provided a fun and inclusive space for attendees, leaving them feeling empowered and confident in their own bodies.

South Africans throw Chidimma Adetshina under the bus (again) as they root for Ufa Dania in Miss Universe Nigeria

While the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant adheres to traditional beauty standards, one contestant, Ufa Dania, is shaking things up. 

As a dark-skinned, plus-size model, Ufa challenges the norm, aiming to reshape the perception of beauty in pageantry.

Ufa, a fashion content creator, has documented her journey in a series titled "Road to Miss Nigeria," giving her followers an inside look. 

Interestingly, South Africans have become invested in the pageant since former Miss SA finalist, Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina, joined the competition.  However, attention has shifted towards Ufa, who many believe would be an ideal ambassador.

The 24-year-old, a confident communications graduate and founder of the Minds and Hearts Foundation, has won hearts with her eloquence and dedication to educating young girls. What began as a playful attempt to "agony" Nigerians has transformed into a full-fledged campaign for Ufa. 

Minnie Dlamini's daring lingerie photo sparks social media debate

South African media personality Minnie Dlamini has sparked a heated debate online after posting a bold photograph of herself in lingerie. 

The TV presenter and actress, known for her glamorous style, shared the sultry snapshot on Instagram, showcasing her toned physique.

While many fans praised her for embracing her body and promoting confidence, others were less supportive. 

Critics accused Dlamini of seeking attention and questioned the appropriateness of the post, particularly given her public profile. Some social media users even made insensitive remarks about her status as a single mother.

The post has sparked a conversation about body positivity, celebrity image, and the double standards women face in the public eye.  

While some see Dlamini's photo as a powerful expression of self-love, others view it as a transgression against social norms or an attempt to gain attention.

Thando Ntuli-Sommie is a rising star is redefining South African fashion

At just 26, Thando Ntuli-Sommie is a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world. After sweeping up awards in 2022, including the Mr Price New Talent Search and the Design Indaba Emerging Creative of the Year, her star has only continued to rise.

Her label, Munkus, named after a childhood nickname, has graced runways in South Africa and Lagos to critical acclaim. Her latest venture, a collaboration with Pick 'n Pay Clothing and graphic designer Kiav Mitoo, brings her signature vibrant style to a wider audience.

"I definitely think this is one of [my biggest achievements]," Ntuli-Sommie shares. "I hope you have a piece of me in that sense, rather than the more crazy things that go down a runway and you can't – not necessarily wear it every day, but it's not for everyone every day."

Despite her success, Ntuli-Sommie remains grounded: "I think I'm still a young designer...I don't think I'm any better than any of the designers." Her advice to aspiring designers? "It's not only talent but it's also just consistency and doing what you actually want without listening to the noise." With her talent, vision, and dedication, Thando Ntuli-Sommie is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of fashion.

With major accomplishments pushed under both her clothing brand MUNKUS and her given name, Thando opts for a calm existence in her everyday life.

"I work from home. I have two dogs, I'm recently married and he also works from home … So my day-to-day is at home with meetings, it's eating, I'm a napper when I'm stressed or depressed or whatever it may be.

"So, sleep and work, but it's my comfort zone. I think that's something that's also been seen in my brand that home is somewhere where I can be my best self, my worst self, my most creative self."

Lerato Kganyago and Nompumelelo Nkosi sizzle at sunset rooftop soiree

S Mag kicked off spring with a vibrant rooftop soiree in Parktown, Johannesburg, honoring their Women of the Year, Lerato Kganyago and Nompumelelo Nkosi. The event saw guests like rapper Gigi Lamayne and Vogue Nights founder Ntsikelelo "Lelo" Meslani enjoying sparkling champagne under the setting sun.

Kganyago, named Woman in Entertainment, expressed her excitement for the warmer weather, stating, "I'm looking forward to being jolly, being on the rooftop and getting rid of the electric blankets, heaters and oversized jackets." For her, the recognition from S Mag brought back fond memories: "I haven't done a cover in years. Sowetan launched my career, they were the first people to write about me in my days of Miss Soweto."

Nkosi, the Woman in Digital, also shared her enthusiasm for spring, focusing on the fashion and outdoor activities: "What I'm looking forward to about spring are the outfits. I can't wait to wear shorts again. I can't wait to be outside again, sha 'upetrol kube colourful."

Gigi Lamayne, channeling her inner goddess, expressed excitement for the creative energy of the season: "Spring has sprung, and I'm excited for the fashion and new music [hint hint] that is going to be coming through and everything that speaks to Africa right now." 

The rooftop soiree was a celebration of both the arrival of spring and the achievements of these remarkable women, highlighting their contributions to entertainment and digital media.

Yamkela Mahlelelehle joins Pick n Pay Clothing Futurewear as first 2024 designer

Emerging designer Yamkela Mahlelelehle has made history as the inaugural 2024 designer for Pick n Pay Clothing's Futurewear program. 

Raised in the Eastern Cape, Mahlelelehlehle's passion for design manifested early on, repurposing household items and transforming her mother's bra into a bag.

Now based in Cape Town, Mahlelelehlehle has created a limited-edition collection for Pick n Pay Clothing under her label, Maison Kotr. The "Kolours of the Reignbow" range showcases her unique blend of modern utility and artistic flair, designed for women who value both function and fashion.

The collection features tailored waistcoats, skorts, relaxed pants with athleisure accents, and a whimsical floaty dress. Mahlelelehlehle's passion for design stems from her childhood observations of fashion and her innate instinct to create.

The Futurewear program aims to cultivate emerging fashion talent by providing them with mentorship, resources, and a platform to showcase their creations. Customers will have access to affordable, locally-designed, and on-trend pieces.

Mahlelelehlehle's appointment as the first Futurewear designer marks a significant milestone in her career and a testament to her creativity and dedication. Her collection is a celebration of heritage, individuality, and the transformative power of design.

ㅤㅤ

Bathu takes flight: Theo Baloyi's sneaker brand celebrates 34th store opening

South African sneaker sensation Bathu continues its remarkable journey, celebrating the grand opening of its 34th store at the iconic Mall of Africa.  

Founder Theo Baloyi marked the occasion with an inspiring message on Instagram, showcasing the vibrant new space: "Every step forward is a victory. With passion as our compass, we continue to pave the way for hope and progress."

The new store, awash in the brand's signature red, black, and white, reflects Bathu's commitment to both style and substance.  Baloyi's dedication to creating opportunities and inspiring hearts clearly resonated with fans. The comments section overflowed with congratulations and praise.  One user exclaimed, "Absolutely amazing Theo!! Well done," while another added, "This is beautiful! Congratulations on this new milestone!"

Bathu's latest milestone is a testament to the power of entrepreneurial spirit and a celebration of homegrown South African success.  With 34 stores and counting, Bathu continues to make its mark on the world, one stylish step at a time.

Malibongwe Arts Festival to honour women with spectacular concert featuring Nomfundo Moh

This Women's Month, the Malibongwe Arts Festival presents its sixth annual "Tribute to Women" concert, a vibrant celebration of the strength, resilience, and creativity of South African women. Taking place on August 27th at Mark's Park in Emmerentia, the event boasts an impressive lineup of artists.

Attendees can look forward to electrifying performances by amapiano sensation Kelvin Momo, legendary musician Ringo Madlingozi, and a powerful roster of female artists, including the iconic Zonke, Nomfundo Moh, and Lwah Ndlunkulu.

"This year, as we celebrate 30 years of democracy, we also commemorate the victories and strides made by women," states the festival's website, emphasizing the event's role in amplifying women's voices and honoring their contributions.

Beyond the music, the family-friendly festival promises an immersive experience with engaging art and lifestyle activations. More than just entertainment, the "Tribute to Women" concert serves as a powerful reminder of women's enduring spirit and their invaluable role in shaping South Africa.

Trends Mzansi: August 2024 - Your dose of inspiration

Feeling stuck?  Uninspired?  Trends Mzansi is here to remind you that your dreams are valid and you are made for success!

This month's edition is packed with stories that will ignite your fire and fuel your ambition.  Get ready to be inspired by:

South Africa's First Deaf Miss SA:  Meet the incredible woman who is breaking barriers and proving that anything is possible, with the world at her feet.

From R60 to Success:  Discover how one entrepreneur turned a small investment into a thriving business venture, proving that  big dreams can start with small steps.

Gaslighting? Not Today!  Learn how to protect yourself from this manipulative tactic and build unshakeable self-confidence.

House of Zwide Star on the Rise:  Nefisa Mkhabela shares her journey of pursuing her dreams, one day at a time, reminding us that perseverance pays off.

Don't let your dreams fade!  Grab your copy of Trends Mzansi, available digitally on PressReader, and let these incredible stories inspire you to reach for your full potential.

Get your digital copy here: https://www.pressreader.com/australia/trends-mzansi-south-africa/20240801/

Mihlali Ndamase takes a break with DJ Bobby Blanco after abuse allegations

Following a tumultuous period marked by abuse allegations against her ex-lover Leeroy Sidambe, influencer Mihlali Ndamase appears to be focusing on healing and moving forward.

Weeks ago, Ndamase publicly revealed that she had been abused by Sidambe, leading to a public outcry and divided opinions. While Sidambe denied the allegations, claiming self-defense, the incident sparked debate about the complexities of domestic violence and the challenges of navigating public scrutiny.

Ndamase has since taken a break from the drama, jetting off on vacation with one of her closest friends, DJ Bobby Blanco. The pair shared a cozy photo of themselves by the poolside, showcasing a sense of relaxation and camaraderie.

The trip signifies a period of self-care and healing for Ndamase as she embarks on a new chapter.  The public outpouring of support and concern for her well-being is a testament to the importance of addressing domestic violence and advocating for victims.  As Ndamase moves forward, it remains to be seen how she will navigate the challenges of healing and finding peace amidst the public scrutiny and complex emotions surrounding the ordeal. 

TV personality Kamohelo Bombe empowers aspiring female farmers with "Farming in Heels"

TV personality and poultry farmer Kamohelo Bombe is breaking down barriers for women in agriculture with her initiative, "Farming in Heels." The program provides training and support to young women looking to enter the industry.

"I believe that if there's one thing that can help boost the economy, it is agriculture. And there are so many opportunities for women in agriculture," Bombe told The Citizen, emphasizing the initiative's focus on economic empowerment.

"Farming in Heels" goes beyond traditional farming, encouraging women to explore diverse opportunities within the agricultural sector. Bombe explained, "You don't have to be a farmer to succeed in agriculture... Many women are passionate about farming businesses but don't know where to start. My goal is to share information and help them navigate this journey."

The initiative recently hosted a seminar and workshop in Hartbeespoort, drawing attention to the importance of women in agriculture. Comfort Tshisikule, from Nestlé, praised the program:  "Agriculture has traditionally been male-dominated, but initiatives like... Farming in Heels provide platforms for young people to access resources and develop their entrepreneurial skills."

Meet Patience Kunene and Bonolo Matjila, founders of Golden Hour Skincare #MotivationMonday

Golden Hour Skincare, a luxurious skincare brand that's quickly making waves, has a unique story that began not in a lab, but in a law school classroom. Founders Patience Kunene and Bonolo Matjila met while studying for their LLB degrees in Cape Town in 2017, and their friendship blossomed into a shared passion for entrepreneurship and skincare. 

Bonolo's personal struggles with skincare anxieties, combined with Patience's entrepreneurial spirit inspired by her father, led to the birth of Golden Hour Skincare. Their official launch in December 2022 marked the culmination of years of research, development, and a commitment to creating a brand that not only delivers high-quality products but also champions sustainability and female empowerment.

Patience highlights the value of their legal background: "Completing our law degrees gave us the foundation to thoroughly research the industry, identify partners for manufacturing and funding, and navigate the business world."

Bonolo emphasizes the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility: "We're deeply committed to minimizing our impact on the environment. From sourcing sustainable materials to minimizing packaging waste, we're constantly looking for ways to make our brand more eco-conscious."

Golden Hour Skincare is more than just a beauty brand; it's a testament to the power of female friendship, shared passion, and the pursuit of creating a positive impact. Their journey from law school to the world of luxury skincare is inspiring, demonstrating that with a shared vision and dedication, anything is possible. 

South Africans rally behind Chidimma Adetshina in Miss Universe Nigeria

In a heartwarming turn of events, South Africans are showing their unwavering support for Chidimma Adetshina as she competes for the Miss Universe Nigeria crown. This follows a recent controversy that led to Adetshina withdrawing from the Miss SA 2024 competition due to her father's Nigerian nationality. 

Undeterred, Adetshina seized a new opportunity, accepting an offer from Miss Universe Nigeria organizers to represent her father's homeland as Miss Taraba. Now, South Africans are rallying behind her, eager to see her shine on the international stage. 

"Seeing South Africans support Chidimma after the unfair treatment she received is truly heartwarming," commented one social media user. "She deserves all the love and recognition."

With the public vote playing a crucial role in determining who advances to the next stage, South Africans are actively casting their votes, determined to see Adetshina clinch the crown.

This outpouring of support demonstrates the power of unity and the rejection of discriminatory practices. South Africans are proving that true beauty lies in embracing diversity and celebrating talent, regardless of national origin.

Cell C unveils new logo

Cell C unveiled a fresh brand identity at its headquarters on Thursday, aiming to address a key challenge: customer consideration. While the company enjoys high recognition in South Africa, CEO Jorge Mendes highlighted the need to shift the narrative around network quality and service.

"We don't have an awareness problem, but rather a consideration problem," explained Chief Marketing Officer Melanie Forbes. "We're focusing on changing the perception of our network and ensuring our service truly delivers."

This rebranding effort follows a broader company revamp including a second recapitalization in September 2022, which saw Vodacom veteran Jorge Mendes take the helm. Mendes emphasized the importance of a strong team culture and addressing fundamental issues within the business.

"We've focused on stabilizing leadership, hiring top talent, and addressing our core business operations," Mendes said. "This has allowed us to drive performance and focus on profitable growth."

Despite budget constraints, Mendes highlighted the vital role of marketing in a company's success. "Marketing is often the first budget to be cut, but that's a mistake," he stated. "It's essential for driving growth and establishing a strong brand." 

"She deserved her spot in the final" Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux speaks out on Chidinma Adetshina’s experience

In the wake of Chidinma Adetshina's withdrawal from the Miss South Africa pageant amid bullying and a fraud investigation involving her mother, reigning queen Mia Le Roux has voiced her support for her fellow contestant. Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, Mia emphasized Chidinma's deserving place in the competition.

"It was extremely hard for us because each one of us personally knows and loves Chichi. We truly believe that she did not deserve it, as we know she's phenomenal, powerful, and beautiful in her own right. She deserved her spot on Miss South Africa," Mia stated.

Mia also highlighted the importance of unity among contestants. As part of her mission as Miss South Africa, she aims to foster inclusivity within the pageant community. "I stand for unity. I do not stand for people being divided. So, I do think we can do better in that aspect to support and include one another. Because she was excluded, and that is not okay," she added.

Mia's remarks resonate deeply in a time when mental health and support systems are critical, reminding everyone of the need for compassion and solidarity in challenging circumstances.

Levi's Launches Curvy Campaign with Nomzamo Mbatha and More. #CelebrateYourCurves.

Global clothing brand Levi's has announced the launch of its 2024 Curvy campaign featuring actress, producer, and activist Nomzamo Mbatha. Joining Nomzamo are musician Lady Du and visual artist Buqaqawuli Thamani Nobakada, also known as Ndalo. The campaign celebrates women with curves and promotes self-acceptance and body positivity.

Nomzamo has had a long-standing relationship with Levi's since 2019, when she played a significant role in the "It's Your Voice, It's Your Vote" movement. Her values of integrity, empathy, and courage align perfectly with the brand's, making her the perfect fit for the campaign.

"We wanted to partner with a woman whose values align with ours, and Nomzamo has been a great fit," said Sandeep Sokhanda, GM at Levi's. "We've watched her grow into a successful woman, inspiring and empowering young women through her hard work and resilience."

The campaign features a collection of jeans designed to flatter and celebrate women's curves. Levi's announced the launch on Instagram, captioning a photo of Nomzamo: "The wait is over – our 2024 Curvy campaign has officially launched! Discover jeans thoughtfully crafted to enhance, flatter, and celebrate your beautiful curves like never before."

Tyla's 'Water' wins two awards at Basadi In Music Award

South African singing sensation Tyla has added two more accolades to her growing list of achievements, taking home the Highest Airplay and Song of the Year awards at the Basadi In Music Awards 2024. The wins were for her debut single "Water", which has been making waves in the music industry.

Although Tyla didn't make a grand announcement about her wins, her fan page on Twitter broke the news, tweeting: "Congratulations to @Tyllaaaaaaa, who has won 2 Basadi In Music Awards." The humble star responded with a simple but heartfelt "Thank you".