Thando Thabethe bags #Ciroc vodka endorsement

TV and radio personality Thando Thabethe is having a bubbly 2017. Things are indeed looking up for her and she has secured yet another lucrative endorsement. With Ciroc Vodka this time around.

Thando's story with Ciroc will go like this - her fabulous fashion journey and A-List lifestyle will be featured across Ciroc social media platforms throughout the next 12 months, creating iconic pieces of content forging the partnership between all that is hot in luxury and Ciroc.

Thando Thabethe says: “I’m thrilled about this partnership, Ciroc is all about unapologetically living your dreams and celebrating success, and this is exactly where my life is. I thoroughly look forward to sharing these moments with the number 1 luxury vodka in SA. It is going to be a memorable year!”

Its time to get ready for the weekend. Ciroc anyone?

Protect your home the cheap and effective way with #Panasonic

Panasonic’s Home Network System provides a broad range of security measures for your home, and that’s just one aspect of what it offers.

Home security is a priority for the majority, in order to protect the memories, mementoes and priceless items in the home. At the same time, cost is always a concern, with many people unable to afford private home security services. It is for these reasons that there is a growing trend towards home security systems, which can be installed by the user and are much easier on the pocket.

Panasonic’s Home Network System, for example, allows you to create a powerful wireless network of cameras, sensors and controllers, both in and outside the home. These can be controlled with a smartphone, via a single app, and offer many additional benefits over standard security systems.

For example, the system doubles as a complete and comprehensive baby monitoring device, enabling parents to check in on the child using live video footage, streamed directly to their mobile device. It is able to detect motion, sound and temperature and can immediately notify you of any unusual conditions. In addition, the camera offers a built-in mic and speaker, enabling parents to talk to the baby, or play up to five different lullabies to help it fall asleep.

In a similar fashion, external cameras will allow users to monitor their pets at any time and from anywhere – perfect for those occasions where you have to go away for a day or two. The same outdoor cameras are also perfect for assisting you to check who it is that is knocking on your front door.

These cameras not only deliver real-time streaming, but also offer a quad view, enabling the user to view up to four cameras simultaneously, as well as providing motion detection for specific areas of the garden where recording and notification are considered critical.

Moreover, because the solution is run by an app on your smart phone, you can control lighting and appliances remotely too, turning devices in a room on and off at anytime and anywhere. This means you can make it appear as though someone is in the house, even when you are away, to frighten off potential burglars.

The beauty of Panasonic’s Home Network System is that you can decide what solutions you want and add these to the network as and when they are required. It includes external and internal cameras, smart plugs for controlling your lights and door, window and motion sensors that will alert you if anyone suspicious enters your property.

Not only is this an extremely cost-effective solution, it is also simple and easy to install.

Panasonic’s Home Networking System can be set-up in just three easy steps, without any complicated installation. Simply plug in the hub, download the Home Networking System app – which is available on both iOS and Android - and ensure your mobile device is connected to your WiFi network. The system is seamlessly integrated with WiFi and has a range of over 300 metres.

If you are seeking the peace of mind to be found in an inexpensive, yet effective security system, you need look no further than the Panasonic Home Networking System. With its ability to secure your property, enable you to see visitors at your front door and keep an eye on your baby in the other room, it’s a security guard, butler and babysitter, all rolled into one.

#Amazulu hit maker Amanda Black ready for jazz festival

Forget the winter chill and get your dancing boots ready. It's July and you definitely need to dance your way out of this coldness.

Well, Durban is the place to be if you are a jazz lover and Amazulu hit maker Amanda Black is ready to serenade the coastal town.

For her Jazz in July performance, which will be held at the Juventus Field at the Durban Botanic Gardens, Black is sure it will be a great show.

"I'm so excited. I love performing and engaging with the audience, and it's so cool when they know the songs. They can look forward to a great show with me singing all the songs they love," she told IOL.

Jazz in July takes place this Sunday and will see Black perform alongside Swaziland-based muso Sands, whose song Tigi has gone viral across the country. Local Durban 14-year-old singer Lasandra is also in the line-up.

Google to stop mining Gmail for ad personalization

At some point later this year, Google said it will stop using information found in Gmail inboxes as input for ad personalization.

Until now, Google has scanned the emails of the users of its free Gmail service to better target ads to them.

"Consumer Gmail content will not be used or scanned for any ads personalization after this change," wrote Google Cloud senior vice president Diane Greene in a blog post. "This decision brings Gmail ads in line with how we personalize ads for other Google products. Ads shown are based on users' settings. Users can change those settings at any time, including disabling ads personalization."

But this doesn't mean Google will stop showing ads in Gmail. Reports say it instead means Google will rely on information gleaned from other sources like search and YouTube.

The blog post noted G Suite, the division of Google Cloud that includes apps like Gmail, Docs, Drive and Calendar for corporate users, will remain ad free.

And, according to Greene, G Suite's Gmail is not used as input for ad personalization and Google simply decided to follow suit with its free consumer Gmail service.

Reports indicate the move is also likely because Google wants to sign up more corporate customers and make itself more competitive against players like Microsoft Office.

TechCrunch even surmises that because Google already knows a lot about all of its users, it might not need the additional information from Gmail.

Greene said G Suite usage has more than doubled in the past year among large businesses and it now has more than 3m paying companies that use G Suite.

Gmail has more than 1.2 billion users. 

#Leeds United legend Lucas Radebe joins #Disney 11

Disney Africa today announced that former Bafana Bafana and Leeds United soccer star, Lucas Radebe, will front a series of local shorts and lend his skills as a mentor for Disney XD's brand-new soccer-themed series 11.

From today, Disney XD (DStv, Channel 304) viewers will be able to tune in and see Lucas re-enacting some of the breath-taking goals and unforgettable moments from the series, whilst offering tips, tricks of the trade and valuable nuggets from his successful career.

"I am honoured to be involved in this partnership with Disney XD," says Lucas Radebe on the Disney 11 campaign. "This campaign covers a number of issues that are close to my heart including football development and working with kids. I'm excited to be a mentor to show them that, like me, they can start from the bottom and reach great heights through hard work, determination and belief in themselves and their abilities."
 
In conjunction with DStv, Disney also today kicks off a once-in-a-lifetime competition* across South Africa for kids to stand a chance to win an exclusive mentoring session with Lucas. Kids (with permission from their parents or guardians) have until 10 July to log on to www.dstv.com/win and motivate why they should be selected for this incredible opportunity. If selected, the winner and up to 10 of their friends will spend a day with the soccer legend who will share insights, teach skills and take them through their paces.

Make sure you are a part of Disney 11 with Lucas Radebe this year by visiting www.dstv.com/win from 28 June - 10 July to stand a chance to win your dream mentorship with the South Africa icon. Also look out for more Disney 11 each weekday from 16:50, only on Disney XD (DStv, Channel 304). 

Facebook to live stream #Uefa Champions League matches

Facebook will live stream Uefa Champions League matches next season as part of a new deal with Fox Sports.

The partnership will see Fox Sports air more than a dozen Champions League fixtures in the US through the Fox Sports Facebook Page from the onset of the tournament in September.
The deal includes the right to stream double-headers during the group stage, four round-of-16 games and four quarterfinal games.

"Facebook is a social media powerhouse and a great partner to help us grow soccer in the United States," said David Nathanson, head of business operations, Fox Sports. "As people spend more and more time on mobile devices and social networks, offering matches on this platform is a natural extension."

Dan Reed, head of global Sports Partnerships, Facebook, added: "This collaboration unlocks new distribution for Fox, giving the network a national platform for matches that won't always be televised. And with different matches broadcast in English and Spanish on Facebook, our community of fans will have plenty of action to cheer on and chat about once the group stage kicks off in September."

Considering 34 million people had 98 million interactions on Facebook related to this year's Champions League final, the deal is by far the biggest live sports agreement Facebook has struck.
The social network has been steadily expanding its sports coverage and recently struck a similar content deal with MLB , plus an agreement with the MLS to live stream at least 22 regular-season fixtures.

Uefa has been keen to grow the international reach of its prized tournament in recent seasons and has allowed its broadcast partners to leverage social media in order to capture new audiences. For the past two seasons BT has shown the final for free on YouTube and has also inked a landmark deal with Snapchat.

Vusi Nova has big plans for 2018

There is no doubt that Vusi Nova has captivated the South African music scene by releasing hit after hit. His musical career can be likened to that of Cristiano Ronaldo's football career - outstanding.

Well, it seems Vusi Nova is now ready to become a dad. The SAMA award winning Afro pop sensation and songwriter says he is ready to have kids.

Vusi revealed in a recent interview with True Love Magazine that he plans to have a child exactly a year from now.

"I definitely want a child. I've been talking to my brother about it as well- I really do want a kid. I feel like its time; it'd cool to raise a son," Vusi told the magazine.

Vusi says he would want one child as he is an only child as well.

"Come June or July 2018, I'm going to have a kid," Vusi added.

All the best Vusi!

World Sports Betting confirmed as new #CapeCobras team sponsor

The Cape Cobras, one of South Africa's leading cricket franchises who has produced more than 20 senior international players since the dawn of the new millennium, has proudly announced World Sports Betting as the new title sponsors of the Cape Cobras over the next three years.

World Sports Betting (WSB), South Africa's premier Online Sportsbook, offers online, mobile, tele-bet and in-store betting on a wide range of sport including Cricket, Horse Racing, Soccer, Rugby, Golf, Motorsports and much more, with hundreds of thousands of markets to bet on every day. They are particularly well known as the top Cricket Sportsbook in SA, offering hundreds of pre-match and live-in-play markets on all major matches.

"We are extremely upbeat about the association with the Cape Cobras," said Warren Tannous, Chief Executive Officer of WSB. "Henceforth they will be known as the World Sports Betting Cape Cobras, and we are confident that more than three trophies over the next three seasons will be emblazoned with that exact name.

"That is not only because we at WSB are proud supporters of the franchise who have been the conveyor belt of some of the best players to ever play cricket, but also because of its track record of winning eight franchise titles since 2004 and being the second best in terms of trophies won during the past 13 years.

"Our immediate aim and focus is to offer extensive resources and support to the Cobras so that they can return to the summit of the game domestically," added Tannous.

Asked about the synergy between the two brands, Ryno Du Plessis, National Marketing Manager for World Sports Betting calls it a "Winning combination". "We look forward to changing the face of Cobras Cricket and fans of the franchise can expect some fantastic on field activations, cheerleaders and a whole lot more… We are especially excited to see our heroes take the field in their new WSB Orange away kits," said Du Plessis.

What documents one needs to open a South African bank account

Opening a bank account is a hassle free process, but before a bank can initiate the account opening process, there are some important documents that are required.

Lee-Anne van Zyl, CEO of FNB Points of Presence, says "While the account opening process is simple, most people are still not sure which documents are required. With the change of laws in South Africa, a South African identity document is no longer enough as the bank has to comply with laws such as the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA), which require banks to have the correct and up to date information for new and existing customers."

Here is a list of documents required before opening a bank account in South Africa:

·         Proof of Identity: This must be a valid bar coded green ID book or a Smart ID card that belongs to the prospective account opener.

·         Proof of address: A document which reflects a permanent residential address such as a municipal utility bill or clothing account statement that is not older than 3 months from the date of issue.

·         Minimum Opening Deposit: This is the minimum amount required to activate the account, it may vary on the type of account you are opening.

Foreign Nationals

Foreign Nationals who reside in South Africa can open bank accounts, but before the account opening process commences there's declaration they must sign. This is a list of the required documents:

·         Passport: a valid passport clearly stating the full names and country of origin of the applicant.

·         Proof of address: an official document such a utility bill which reflects the applicant's residential address, which is not dated older than 3 months.

·         Study permit/Work permit: This would apply to either foreign nationals who work or study in South Africa, the bank requires a valid study permit or a work permit issued by the Department of Home Affairs. It's important to note there are other permits that the bank accepts, these include: business permit, residence permit, retired persons permit, exchange permit, relative permit, medical treatment permit and visitors permit.

·         Minimum Opening Deposit: This is the minimum amount required to activate the account.

"Opening an account is relatively easy, but if there any outstanding documents it can add unnecessary delays. At FNB, you can open an Easy Account for as little as R5.25 on the pay as you use option or R53 for a bundle which offers a number of benefits" says van Zyl

Welkom woman lives the dream after youth entrepreneurship education

When 32 year old year old Pesalome Moilwa joined the Youth Enterprise Society (YES) back in 1999 at Thotagauta Secondary School in Welkom, she was taking it as just another extramural activity. She and her peers were told that the programme would help them gain an understanding of the business world. Pesalome had no idea that it would all lead to her becoming a successful entrepreneur, running her own guesthouse.

YES is an initiative run by the Education With Enterprise Trust (EWET) in partnership with the Eskom Development Foundation. The programme also runs in conjunction with the Foundation's annual Simama Ranta School Entrepreneurship competition, which aims to recognise South African secondary schools that are exemplars in entrepreneurship education.
 
YES and Simama Ranta seek to empower young people by teaching and encouraging them to consider entrepreneurship as a career choice. They inspire the youth to become job creators instead of job seekers by learning the skills to start and run successful businesses. As we celebrate Youth month and with youth unemployment at alarmingly high levels in South Africa, the importance of such initiatives cannot be overemphasised.
 
The YES programme has for many years, been equipping young people with the necessary skills to venture into the business world. Moilwa says it gave her the basic foundation and knowledge that sparked her interest in entrepreneurship. "The lessons and case studies help build a learner's confidence and self-esteem. Your mind-set changes, your language skills and behaviour improve as you travel around the country and meet other competitors. After all this I found it easier to unleash my potential and turn my passion into a business idea," says Moilwa.
 
Moilwa has been running Welkom-based Rochilla Guesthouse since 2014. She had gotten the idea of opening a guesthouse in 2013 when a political party hosted a provincial meeting in the town and people struggled with accommodation while those who found accommodation complained about the quality of service.
 
Rochilla has 11 rooms, a dining area, a conference facility, undercover parking and 24-hour security surveillance. The 3-star guesthouse also boasts a beautiful garden, a swimming pool, a spa room as well as a fully licenced bar. With eight employees, this facility has seen many visitors including celebrities, politicians and other high profile guests.
 

#Instagram Africa announces Minnie Dlamini as the most followed female celeb

Minnie Dlamini is obviously smelling that 'influencer' money after Instagram Africa revealed her as the most followed woman celeb on the platform with a whopping 1.7 million followers. Yes that's huge!

Entertainment blog, The Juice reports that:

"Instagram Africa confirmed the new ranking this week. For the past few years the number one spot has alternated in a tight race between Pearl Thusi , Matheba and Dlamini, but Dlamini – with 1.7 million followers – is now the clear leader. Matheba has 1.6 million followers, and Thusi is sitting in third place at 1.5 million."

Brands will obviously be jostling to land her signature in their 'influencer' campaigns as she has that killer following .

The most followed South African on Instagram however remains cricketer AB de Villiers who also has the most followers on Twitter.

#BWASA announces Businesswoman Of The Year finalists

The Businesswomen's Association of SA's 2017 Businesswoman of the Year Awards organisers announced the 13 finalists at a luncheon held at the new Sasol head office in Sandton on Wednesday afternoon.

The 2015 Businesswoman of the Year in the government category, Tembela Kulu, said: "We should not be modest. When we introduce each other as women, we must do it boldly."
This year's winning categories will recognise participants involved in social entrepreneurship, the corporate environment, education and entrepreneurship on September 6 at the Sandton Convention Centre.

The nonprofit's president, Farzanah Mall, said this year's theme – Women with No Filter – was chosen to help focus the spotlight on women's "internal and external light".

"It doesn't matter who we are or where we come from, we all have this light that shines through us, and this is what we need to focus on as women," she said.

Italian artist Fabiana Vizzani Reis donated a painting reflecting the femininity, power and light of women, which will be auctioned on the night of the awards.

Khaya Mthethwa billed to host Gospel Avenue on #SABC 1

SABC 1's newest gospel music show, Gospel Avenue, will start airing on the youth channel from this coming Sunday 25 June 2017, at 09h00

Khaya Mthethwa, one of Mzansi's most popular gospel artist and musician has been confirmed as the host.

"I'm absolutely honoured to be part of this amazing new show! I believe our viewers will experience church right in their living rooms while we have a lot of fun!
I know Sunday mornings will never be the same again because of Gospel Avenue," says Mthethwa.
 
Gospel Avenue is a Sunday morning dose of traditional gospel music with your favourite celebrities as they share their journeys in faith through gospel artists and the music they've selected.
 
It's going to be a spiritually uplifting, yet fun-filled premier episode with the kick-master Dr Malinga. He brings along his favourite gospel musicians, Nqubeko Mbatha, Ntokozo Mbambo and Mahalia Buchanan, who have contributed to his faith through their music.

Tune to SABC 1 Mzansi Fo Sho this Sunday 25 June 2017 at 09h00 for this special treat to gospel music lovers all over Mzansi.

Gospel Avenue's repeats will air on Mondays at 22h00.

 

#Huawei Joburg Day lineup revealed

If you're in Joburg today, keep a lookout for a stretch limo branded Huawei Joburg Day with 947 as it will be cruising around the city with 947 presenters and some of the country's top performers to celebrate the launch of Huawei Joburg Day!

This unmissable annual music festival will happen on Saturday 9 September at Crocodile Creek and fans will be treated to a line-up that crosses multiple genres and focuses on the hottest acts in South African music in 2017.

Not many other stages can boast 13 acts including current chart-toppers from pop, rock, RNB, hip hop and dance as well as a little nostalgia from the band that has performed at more Joburg Days than any other act.

Huawei Joburg Day will bring together Cassper, Micasa, Euohinik, Aka and Anati, Gangs of Ballet, Kwesta, GoodLuck, Matthew Mole, Sketchy Bongo and Kaein, Timo ODV, Shekhinah, DJ Kent and the legendary Prime Circle.

"We know that fans of Huawei Joburg Day look forward to larger than life performances on a world class stage and we believe that this line up will deliver that and more," said 947 station manager, Ravi Naidoo.

The event has become a major showcase of excellence in the music industry and gives fans a chance to support and to connect with their music icons, in a live environment.

"If you love South African music, then 947 loves you and we want you to join us in this celebration of excellent local talent," added Naidoo.

"Huawei is extremely proud be to associated with bringing the best music talent in the country together to perform for the Joburg fans. Each Joburg Day has gotten bigger and better and we are certain that the up and coming Joburg Day is going to be massive and will deliver an experience never to be forgotten," said Mr Zhao Likun, GM Huawei Consumer Business Group.

General access tickets can be purchased at R350 per person from www.ticketpros.co.za.

For more on Huawei Joburg Day visit www.947.co.za 

#Nandos strikes a flame with ZANEWS

Nando's have joined forces with South Africa's favourite satirists, ZANEWS, to bring you comic relief in the face of challenging South African current affairs. In line with the adage that laughter is the best medicine, get ready for an epic new season of "Game of Cronies", the long awaited satirical series starring SA's local "heroes".

"At Nando's we love that South Africans turn to humour for relief when faced with challenging local current affairs. Like Nando's, ZANEWS has found laughter to be the best medicine when faced with South Africa's unique ills. This is why a partnership with ZANEWS is a natural fit," says Nando's chief marketing officer for Africa, Middle East and India (IMEA), Doug Place.

"We're thrilled to be extending the voice of ordinary South Africans through our partnership with ZANEWS. From one firestarter to another, we say bem-vindo!"

#WinterIsHere but ZANEWS and Nando's won't leave South Africans out in the cold.

Maps Maponyane to host new R1m Cell C reality show #Hangman

Hangman – a unique fast-paced online reality show which aims to uncover South Africa's greatest innovator – has been announced by Cell C. The stakes are high in this revolutionary new programme with R1 million in prize money.
 
"Cell C's strategic focus is around bringing relevance to the South African market through service offerings," says Jose Dos Santos, Cell C Chief Executive Officer.  "A key focus is providing value added services and segmented content that is being consumed daily online. Customers are hungry for new, unique, fresh and entertaining content."
 
With this in mind, Cell C embarked on producing the 10-part Hangman series which represents a new genre in unscripted entertainment and follows on the success of Cell C's first online Break the Net reality talent show which streamed on the service provider's Cell C Reality App last year.
 
Hangman is a show unlike anything on any screen anywhere! A global first in interactive, immersive entertainment, it puts viewers in the driver's seat. By "investing" in a virtual Stock Exchange, they can help determine the outcome of the show, while standing in line to win great viewer prizes including a car.
 
This new reality show also gives wings to the aspirations of entrepreneurs who have identified a gap in the market and have come up with an innovation that fills that space and want to bring it to the market.
 
Hangman consists of two different content streams. The first is the actual reality online series which would traditionally be consumed on prime-time TV but is now being streamed live online.
 
Contestants will have to prove their mettle through a series of gruelling challenges but their fate is determined by more than performance alone. They will have to win the approval of 'Backers', captains of industry and investment with keen business acumen and ruthless standards. These include businesswoman Phuti Mahanyele, celebrity economist Iraj Abedian, self-made billionaire Quinton van der Burgh and Bonang Mohale, chairman of Shell South Africa Energy Limited.

How to save data while using your daily apps on your #Android device

Mobile data is expensive and it's also inconvenient to run out halfway through the month. Here are some ideas from Alcatel about how you can use your data more efficiently on your Android device, saving you money without compromising on your experience with your smartphone and your social networking apps:

Data saving tips for Facebook

Stop videos from playing automatically in your news feed: Go into app settings in the Facebook app and change the auto-play settings from On to Wi-Fi only or Off.

Use the Facebook Lite app: Find a WiFi zone, and download Facebook Lite, a streamlined version of the Facebook app that offers a more data-efficient Facebook experience.

Data saving tips for Snapchat

Travel mode: Enable the 'travel mode' option in the app's 'manage preferences' menu and Snapchat will use much less mobile data in the background.

Data saving tips for WhatsApp

Enable low data usage:  Activate the low data usage option in settings to use less data, but be mindful that the quality of your data calls might be lower.

Don't download heavy media automatically: In settings, you can configure WhatsApp to download multimedia files automatically only when you're connected to Wi-Fi.  So when you receive a large video or enhanced image, you can wait until you are within a WiFi zone to choose to download it.

Data saving tips for Instagram

Use less data setting: From the settings, open the cellular data use panel and enable the 'use less data' toggle switch – this allows you to still enjoy your Instagram experience but for less.

Download areas and navigate offline

You can select and save an area from Google Maps to your phone or tablet when in a WiFi zone and use it when you're offline. On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google Maps app, use the drop down menu to select Offline Maps, and select your area to download and select save.

Download one of these apps to track your data usage

It's always handy to be able to keep an eye on your data usage so you know how much data is being used on your smartphone and more specifically, by which app. These Data Usage Monitor Apps below assist you in knowing where your data goes to.

Data Usage Monitor: Helps you measure and manage your data usage, and alerts you when you're going above your limits. Get it here: Data Usage Monitor

My Data Manager: Track how much data you use and get alerts before you run out of data or get charged unnecessary out of bundle fees. Get it here: My Data Manager

Are you a rapper? Be part of the #IAmNext revolution

The vodka that celebrates the creativity in urban culture, Russian Bear, is taking its #IAMNEXT campaign to the next level, by calling all rappers with talent based in Gauteng to bring their flow to Russian Bear's custom designed mobile recording studio. Hitting the road from June 16th to July 23rd, live recording sessions will be staged in community venues across Gauteng.

"We'll be coming to a hood near you to unearth the freshest talent in the South African hip hop scene. Aspiring rappers will get an opportunity to record their own demo track with Psyko Beats. While on our journey, the freshest rapper with the winning demo will score a recording deal for a co-lab single with Kwesta, produced by Makwa Beats and released by Raplyf Records," explains Russian Bear brand manager, Simone Burns.

If you think you have what it takes to be discovered in the Russian Bear #IAMNEXT tour, be sure to purchase a 750ml or 1l bottle of Premium Russian Bear Vodka and visit www.russianbear.co.za to register for one of the mobile recording sessions listed below.

Be part of the #IAMNEXT revolution. We bring the studio, you bring the flow. T's & C's apply.

Jubees Place (Soweto), Friday 16 June, 12pm - 4pm
Mzala's Place (Soweto), Friday 16 June, 6pm - 10pm
Mochacho's Lost City (Katlehong), Saturday 17 June, 6pm - 10pm
707 Panyaza (Soweto), Sunday 18 June, 6pm - 10pm
Thibo's Cafe (Mamelodi), Thursday 22 June, 6pm - 10pm
Lavianto Lounge (Trevenna), Friday 23 June, 6pm - 10pm
eSocialink (Soweto), Saturday 24 June, 6pm - 10pm
Mboma's Place (Soweto), Sunday 25 June, 12pm - 4pm
Cherry On Top (Soweto), Sunday 25 June, 6pm - 10pm
The Blue Room (Hatfield), Wednesday 28 June, 6pm - 10pm
Liquid Zone (Soshanguve), Friday 30 June, 6pm - 10pm
Good Hope Tavern (Sasolburg), Saturday 1 July, 12pm - 4pm
Baloboza (Sharpville), Saturday 1 July, 6pm - 10pm
Palms Lounge and Grill (Soweto), Sunday 2 July, 6pm - 10pm
Thabiso@Mams (Mamelodi), Friday 7 July, 6pm - 10pm
Stoep 15 (Alexandra), Saturday 8 July, 6pm - 10pm
Dans Hope (Diepsloot), Saturday 8 July, 12pm - 4pm
Hope Tavern (Soshanguve), Friday 14 July, 6pm - 10pm
Roof on Top (Mapetla), Saturday 15 July, 6pm - 10pm
Black Ball Fever (Mamelodi East), Sunday 16 July, 6pm - 10pm
TRT2 (Mamelodi West), Sunday 16 July, 12pm - 4pm
Europa Lounge (Sunnyside), Friday 21 July, 6pm - 10pm
Jazz House (Katlehong), Saturday 22 July, 6pm - 10pm
Da Venue (KwaThema Springs), Saturday 22 July, 12pm - 4pm
Club TT (Orangefarm), Sunday 23 July, 12pm - 4pm
Mojapere Place (Sebokeng), Sunday 23 July, 6pm - 10pm

#BETAwards2017: More artists added

BET Networks announced today that R&B's brightest stars Mary J. Blige, Maxwell, Xscape and El Debarge along with some of hip hop's hottest talent including A$AP Rocky, French Montana, Gucci Mane, Swae Lee, Khalid and SZA, and musician Kamasi Washington will perform at the "BET Awards 17".

The iconic annual show will also have performances from previously announced hit makers including Bruno Mars, Chris Brown, Lil Wayne, DJ Khaled, Big Sean, Future, Migos, Trey Songz, Tamar Braxton, New Edition, Post Malone, Roman GianArthur and Jessie Reyez. The "BET Awards 17" has set the standard for one of the most intently unconventional, news-provoking broadcasts.

Hosted by stand-up comedian Leslie Jones, the 2017 "BET Awards" is sure to include unforgettable moments, appearances and performances you won't want to miss! The "BET Awards 17" will air on 27 June 2017 at  20:00 CAT on BET (DStv channel 129).
 
In addition, hit makers Remy Ma and Irv Gotti, actors and comedians Deon Cole, DeRay Davis and Kofi Siriboe, along with the cast of "Detroit" (Algee Smith, Jason Mitchell, Laz Alonso Jacob Latimore) join as presenters at the "BET Awards" 2017.

Previously announced presenters include Yara Shahidi, Cardi B, Issa Rae, Jamie Foxx, La La Anthony, the cast of Universal Pictures' "Girls Trip" (Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, with Jada Pinkett Smith and Queen Latifah), Trevor Noah, Robin Thede, Cari Champion and Demetrius Shipp Jr. These names represent some of the most accomplished talent and rising stars in the industry today.

Africa will be greatly represented at the prestigious event with singer and humanitarian Yvonne Chaka Chaka and social activist Ilwad Elman being awarded with International Global Good Star and Power Awards.

Eight leading African artists including AKA, Nasty C, Babes Wodumo, Wizkid, Tekno, Mr Eazi, Davido and Stonebwoy will all vie for the Best International Act: Africa category. "Amazulu" hitmaker Amanda Black and Tanzanian performer Ray Vanny are nominated for Viewer's Choice Award "Best International Act", in conjunction with performers from the UK, South Korea, Canada, Australia and Jamaica. 

Win a home is back on Afternoon Express

Win a Home, South Africa's favourite interior design reality TV competition is back for a fourth season brought to you by Private Property. Hosted by SABC3 talk show Afternoon Express viewers can watch Win a Home in its dedicated Friday timeslot between 4pm and 5pm starting in July 2017.

Danilo Acquisto has been named as the host of the show, alongside fellow hosts Jeannie D and Bonnie Mbuli. The Afternoon Express presenter and radio host is thrilled at the opportunity to host the iconic show. 

''The home is a sanctuary. It's a place you want to come back to after a long day and know that you can kick back and be welcomed. Putting effort and time into your living spaces can be the difference between being rested and being drained, being happy and being sad. Sometimes we're just unconscious  of the impact spaces can have on us and hence why I'm so excited to be embarking on another season of Win a Home as the host - I get to inspire people and their homes ensuring that everyone has a beautifully safe space to recharge. I am also excited to explore all the biggest trends and to uncover some young talented designers as we go through the highs and lows of the project. I am honoured to be giving away the biggest prize on SA TV. I get to change a life forever. That excites me beyond measure'' Said Danilo 

This year Win a Home will double the reality, double the fun and double the drama with the introduction of Design Duos! Contestants will be competing in pairs for the title of the country's best emerging interior designers. Three perfect pairings were chosen from amongst dozens of entries: couples, siblings, best friends and families – who entered for the chance to decorate three homes on the Eye of Africa luxury golf and residential estate south of Johannesburg.

How to trim down #SME running costs

.      Start with a wastage audit – Many businesses do not have a full view of their total expenditure. A basic wastage audit will assist in pointing out how much a business spends across the board. It is important for the entrepreneur to track the speed at which his costs will grow in relation to his business turnover and ensure that it stays within an acceptable margin.  Common areas where a business is bound to save money is with the likes of stationary, cost of water and lights, cost of conference calling and travelling to meetings and telephone costs. Decreasing these costs can result in significant savings for the SME.
  
·         Review business insurance – ensure sufficient cover at the right cost for the business by shopping round and ensuring that you review your insurance annually to make certain that you are sufficiently covered at an affordable levy.
 
·         Digitize – taking services online reduces costs as it reduces the amount of people required to complete the task. With the rise of the internet, businesses now have a plethora of options that are easily accessible at an affordable price to the business, thereby assisting in bringing down the businesses' running costs and gaining greater footprint by providing easier access to entrepreneurs across a wider geographical area. 
 
·         Employ professionals – employing professionals ensures that tasks are completed on time and are done efficiently. Quite often, business owners hire people that are good at many things with the flawed thinking that they are reducing costs, when in fact; the cost of adjusting mistakes and reviewing work from a staff complement that isn't skilled may be more expensive. If you cannot afford to pay the salary of highly skilled professionals, many businesses also offer company shares to the employees to incentivise them for the lower salaries paid.
 
·         Talk to your business banker – In most cases, businesses have a range of products that can assist a business save money or bank at preferential interest rates. Banks also understand that businesses are feeling the strain in the current economic environment.
 
·         Take advantage of tax benefits – Educate yourself on the tax landscape of South Africa since the government has made the empowerment of SME's core to their planning; there are many tax benefits for SME's at various levels of annual revenues scales. 

#PUMA creates PUMA One Football Shoe

PUMA has created the very first PUMA ONE, in answer to the need for a football boot that delivers for all players - from ruthless defenders to fleet footed strikers. 
I've included some information below and attached, if you would consider sharing to your website or social media?

The PUMA ONE was created in collaboration with international star Antoine Griezmann, youth academy players, football crazed teens and legend Thierry Henry. 

The design focuses on great FIT, FAST and FEEL, and makes use of engineered evoKNIT sock, ultra lightweight Pebax outsole and a super soft leather upper.

PUMA ONE boots will be available in PUMA Stores and selected retailers nationwide from 29 June 2017 for R3 499.
 

SA actor in full film franchise

South African-born actor and Black Sails alum Sean Cameron Michael has joined cast members Jesper Christensen  (Spectre, Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace), Luna Rioumina  (Spartacus), Robert Maillet (Sherlock Holmes, 300) and Jemma Dallender (I Spit on Your Grave 2) in director Joël Colburn ’s (Aspects of Evil, Danger Close, Lethal Exposure) new film franchise AST.

Written by Colburn, the action-adventure spy thriller follows femme fatale Alexandra Duval (Rioumina), a skilled and seductive heroine operative getting up close and personal with her targets. AST plans to be a fresh take on the female assassin storyline.

Michael will play Gideon, the powerful leader of a black bag operation for the CIA, made up of skilled operatives from around the world.  The franchise, in development with Kristrún Entertainment, is being produced by Colburn, Art Anthony, Rúna Fridriksson and Neil Ravan, with the first instalment expected to start shooting early next year in Toronto.

The local actor’s recent credits include recurring as Russian agent Grigory Krukov on USA’s hit conspiracy drama Shooter for which he is an Emmy Award contender this year in the category 'Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series'.  The series is screened locally on Netflix.  Michael also has a cameo in Tom Cruise's The Mummy which is currently on the South African film circuit.

Local TV audiences can catch Michael this coming weekend playing the lead role of Sam in the locally filmed indie Last Broken Darkness on SABC2 on Saturday, June 24 at 9pm.  He won Best Performance by an Actor for this role at the Boston SciFi Film Festival earlier this year. The feature also stars Brandon Auret and Suraya Santos and was written and directed by Christopher-lee dos Santos.

Lira talks about odd fans request

It must be exciting being a Mzansi celeb. Well, it turns out that some people believe in mending their relationships by asking celebs to help them apologise to their spouses. Lira experienced that bit.

The songstress shared with Trending SA that her fans sometimes have a few strange requests, like the one time a male fan asked her to intervene in his relationship with his wife after a tiff. Like the superstar she is, Lira gladly called his wife to apologise on his behalf.

"There was a guy that asked me to call and apologise to his wife because he had messed up so much. So there I was, in the middle of the day calling… I could hear that she was broken and she was hurt, but we had a woman to woman talk and she really appreciated it."

Money mistakes the youth must avoid

Young people should make wise financial decisions early in life to ensure they are not impacted by financial missteps committed in youth.

Eunice Sibiya, Head of Consumer Education at FNB, says "There's nothing as exciting as getting your first salary and realising that earning an income opens up many possibilities. However, this should also be the time to step back and start thinking carefully about your finances and what you want to achieve from earning an income. During this stage, every financial commitment should be carefully considered because how you start off will have a direct impact on your finances in the long term."

Here are some of the common financial mistakes that young people must avoid:

Not Budgeting

By creating a budget, you will be able to plan your expenses and keep an eye on what your money is spent on. A budget can help identify any wasteful spending because it's designed to help you track your expenses and ultimately commit money to areas that take priority. Discipline is important but there's no harm in making room for entertainment now and then to reward yourself for hard work later.

Taking too much debt

When you suddenly have access to credit, it may be difficult resisting the temptation to just spend, but remember that debt is a major financial commitment; therefore it's better to take on debt that you can manage and not feel overburdened. By taking on too much debt you may find yourself not being able to cope with repayments. It's better to focus on saving money and earning interest on it instead of unnecessary debt.

Not having an emergency fund

An emergency fund is designed to cover shortfalls when an unexpected expense occurs. A medical emergency or a car breaking down can have a huge impact on your finances and if you don't have funds for unplanned expenses you may end up relying on debt or having to tap into your other savings.

Delaying saving for retirement

The best time to start saving for retirement is when you are still young because any delay might cost you more in the long-term. While you might think there's enough time to save for retirement, it's always better to save as soon as you start earning an income. Starting early will most likely help you make building blocks towards a comfortable retirement, ensuring that you benefit from compound interest and keeping in line with the depreciating value of money.

The smallest thing can change your life

What do you need to change your life ?

Do you think it's big?

Picture this in your mind. Imagine a glass full of water. What do you need for the water to spill out of the glass? One tiny drop. That's it, that will start the process.

I don't know about you, but for me tiny, seemingly unimportant things, tiny drops of water have made the biggest difference in my life.

One of them was discovering Anthony Robbins. The story of how that happened is amazing to me and it proves to me that there are forces in this world that we have yet to understand.

Two years ago I had a chance to talk to one of the most amazing girls you could imagine. And guess what I did? I did nothing. I was so paralyzed by the possibility of failure that I did nothing. And that is the biggest failure of all.
I could not understand it. Why was it that at the same time I seemed to want and not want something? Of course I made sure to beat myself up mentally for being a chicken and a damn idiot!

But then something happened that gave me hope . I was watching a bodybuilding motivational video, that I'd accidentally come across on Facebook. And in this video there was a short clip of Tony Robbins who said "If you want to change your life, my friends, then you have to change your physiology and you have to change your focus".

That blew my mind! Change my life? Yes, I want that! Focus? OK, I know what it is. Physiology? What the hell is that?! (I learned it later).

And the way he said it, the calm power that was radiating, literally pulled me towards him. I sensed that this was someone who could help me. And he did.
Before discovering Tony, I'd had a dream . But it was a vague dream, which I had no faith or belief in.

But working with the resources that he's made available I've managed to literally transform my life. I know exactly what I want my life to be about. I have a vision. I have a dream . I'll make it happen. That's it. Period. And this is said by the same person who was too shy to talk to a girl 2 years ago.

But here's the key to it all. How did it all start? Did I win a million dollars and use it to change my life? No. I changed my life because I opened a video whose title grabbed my attention. The title was " Pain Is Temporary ". I was in pain. I wanted to believe that it really was temporary.

I changed my life because I was inspired by one sentence by a man whom I knew nothing about. But I had faith that he could help me bring my life to order and I acted on that faith.

The smallest thing can change your life. It can be a quote, a sentence, a word. Just have faith. Have faith that no matter how bad it is, this will make me stronger because if I'm in a deep hole, I'll be that much stronger when I climb out of it!

I know that if you're at a low point in your life, you may say "Yeah right, easy for you".

In response to that let me quote Steve Jobs: "Again, you can't connect the dots looking forward, you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that somehow the dots will connect in your future."

Have faith. Move forward. You'll be amazed at where you can get.

To your success,
Lukasz Lokiec

Arthur Ashe Tennis Complex to host two international wheelchair tennis tournaments

Wheelchair Tennis South Africa (WTSA) announced that Arthur Ashe Tennis Complex in Central Western Jabavu, Soweto will stage two International Tennis Federation (ITF) wheelchair tennis tournaments from July 2 to 10.

The two tournaments which forms part of the UNIQLO Wheelchair Tennis Tour has attracted a top entry locally and a few foreigners and will allow all the local players an opportunity of gaining all important world ranking points.

The first of the back-to-back tournaments, the Joburg Open, an ITF level 2 event will run from July 2-5. The Joburg Open marks the first time that an international wheelchair tennis tournament of this magnitude is hosted in a township.

Players will have another chance to impress and garner points in the Soweto Open, an ITF Futures event which will take place from July 7-10.

Some of the local top ranked aces scheduled to play include two-time Grand Slam champion Lucas Sithole, Kgothatso Montjane and reigning Israel Open champion Evans Maripa who will spearhead the quads, women and men draws respectively and are expected to carry the country's hopes in the Joburg Open.

Other notable local players who will be looking to put in a good showing in front of an enthusiastic home crowd include four-time Soweto Open champion Leon Els, four-time Soweto Open runner-up Mariska Venter and the two-time Soweto Open quads champion Danny Mohlamonyane. They will battle against international stars representing Switzerland and Israel.

Bryan Adams coming to SA in December

Big Concerts confirmed today that Bryan Adams will be returning to South Africa performing in four cities as part of his Get Up World Tour. Don't miss the chance to see Bryan Adams performing all his hits live starting in Johannesburg on 9th December at the Ticketpro Dome, 10th December at the Sun Arena, Time Square, Pretoria, 12th December at the Durban ICC and 14th December at the Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town. The tour is presented in partnership with South Africa's leading entertainment provider DStv and media sponsors 947, KFM, CapeTalk, East Coast Radio and Channel 24.

"Our partnership with Big Concerts provides a fantastic opportunity for DStv to showcase the power of great entertainment by bringing to life our customers' favourite music content in a multisensory experience.  We are also driven by our need to thank our customers for their loyal support through such events," commented Nomsa Chabeli Mazibuko, Group Head of Marketing: MultiChoice. 

Bryan Adams is hitting the road on a global tour following the release of his thirteenth studio album Get Up!. "We had a ball making this record," Bryan Adams says of his latest record. Reunited with his original songwriting collaborator, Jim Vallance and newly connected to producer Jeff Lynne. Vallance was Bryan's co-writer on some of the most important songs of his career: Cuts Like a Knife;" "Somebody"; "Summer of 69"; "Heaven" and "Run To You" among half hundred others.

Bryan Adams has spent the last three decades making music history. He has sold over 65 million records, toured six continents and achieved #1 status in over 40 countries around the world. With hits like, "Cuts Like A Knife", "Summer of '69", "Kids Wanna Rock", "Can't Stop This Thing We've Started", "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You", "Open Road" and "Thought I'd Seen Everything", Adams status as one of the great songwriter's of our time has been solidified with a Grammy Award, 18 Juno Awards and an American Music Award. He has also been nominated for three Academy Awards and five Golden Globes.

Adams' outstanding live concerts have established him as one of the world's great rock singers, performing over 120 concerts a year. Commenting on his latest album Get Up  Adams replied"I wanted to always make records that are completely true to me".

Innovative #Jagermeister campaign breaks boundaries

Jägermeister  is renowned the world over for its edgy campaigns and events. In order to maintain its presence as a brand leader, especially in an age of diminishing social engagement,  Jägermeister  South Africa enlisted the services of Thread and well known digital disrupter and strategist Jon Savage who developed a unique multi-media experience as the mechanism for ticket delivery for their exclusive invite only event, Enter the Woods.

In order to bring the mystique of the experience to users in a social platform, Jon and the team created a dual-narrative interactive video stream that managed to synch, beat-by-beat, two different songs from key Jagermeister sponsored artists Jack Parow and Reason.

The first video follows SA hop-hop artist Reason, as he "enters the woods" to deliver a case of Jägermeister  to the event. Through a slick interface of arrows, visible across all platforms including mobile, viewers could immediately switch into the second video narrative, that of Jack Parow, on his own mission to deliver a case of Jägermeister  to a different party.

The two stories run in perfect parallel synch, with viewers able to follow the case of  Jägermeister between the stories, with the music, imagery and narrative seamlessly aligned. 

The videos end with footage of each artist performing at the actual Enter the Woods events in their respective cities, enabling the live event experience to be amplified across digital platforms. 

Check the behind the scenes making-of-the-video here:

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGWINOt2AJg&feature=youtu.be

Celebrate #SupremeWomen on etv this June

This June, e.tv celebrates the Supreme Women across its family of channels, in award-winning local and international drama series.

The channel's powerful campaign celebrates women in every sphere of life and brings a strong social message to millions of viewers. The campaign will feature across the e.tv family of channels, which consists of e.tv, eExtra, eMovies+ and eMovies Extra, and is committed to the importance of social commentary that viewers can relate to and spark a new thought and conversation amongst themselves and peers.
 
"The #SupremeWomen campaign conveys a strong channel message, on the back of the world-class content that our viewers have come to enjoy on our channels," says e.tv Managing Director Marlon Davids. 
 
Iconic female lead cast bring powerful characters to life on shows across the e.tv family of channels. Award-winning and celebrated women including Masasa Mbangeni, Natasha Sutherland, Enhle Mbali Maphumulo, Viola Davis and Kerry Washington – to name a few – entertain and provide powerful and thought-provoking performances to millions of e.tv viewers, every day.