Trends Mzansi August 2025 Newsletter Is Out!

Get ready to dive into the pulse of South African culture and success with the Trends Mzansi August 2025 newsletter, hot off the digital press! This month, we bring you an exclusive deep dive into the truly meteoric rise of entertainment icon Khanyi Mbau in 2025, exploring the pivotal moments that have cemented her status as a Mzansi powerhouse and a force to be reckoned with.

But that's not all! Trends Mzansi is your premier source for innovation and empowerment. Discover how social entrepreneurship is transforming communities, serving as a powerful vehicle for change and sustainable development across the nation. Read the inspiring journey of Ntombomzi Lekgoro, who took her passion for hair and built a thriving business empire, proving that dedication and vision can lead to monumental success.

We also introduce you to the young TikTok sensation who has captured hearts and attention across Mzansi, now officially signed by a major talent agency – a true testament to the power of digital platforms in launching new careers. Each story within this edition is carefully curated to not only inform but also to inspire you to live your absolute best life, empowering you with insights and motivation from those making significant waves in South Africa.

Don't miss out on these captivating narratives and essential trends shaping Mzansi. Get your digital copy of the Trends Mzansi August 2025 newsletter today from the leading digital press distributor, PressReader, via this link: https://www.pressreader.com/australia/trends-mzansi-south-africa/20250801. 

Stay informed, stay inspired, and stay ahead with Trends Mzansi!

Trends Mzansi July issue has explosive stories that will inspire you

Mzansi, get ready to be inspired! The July edition of Trends Mzansi is now available, packed with insightful articles designed to empower and motivate you. This month's issue is all about turning dreams into reality and embracing the power of resilience.

Discover practical strategies to transform your skills into a reliable income stream, turning your passion into profit. We delve into the incredible story of Lira's journey to recovery, highlighting the unexpected healing power of her own music. Explore the fascinating phenomenon of necro-branding, examining how iconic figures like Marilyn Monroe continue to resonate and generate revenue even after their passing.

Prepare to be amazed by the triumphant return of Motshidisi Mohono and be inspired by a collection of stories showcasing Mzansi's most resilient and innovative individuals. From entrepreneurship to personal growth, this edition is brimming with advice and motivation to help you navigate your own journey to success.

Don't miss out! Get your digital copy of Trends Mzansi's July edition now through Pressreader:

https://www.pressreader.com/australia/trends-mzansi-south-africa/20250701

The May 2025 Trends Mzansi Newsletter is Your Ultimate Dose of Inspiration!

Get ready to be inspired, informed, and utterly captivated by the latest edition of the Trends Mzansi newsletter for May 2025! We've meticulously curated a collection of stories designed to ignite your passion, broaden your horizons, and celebrate the incredible spirit of innovation and success in South Africa.

This month, prepare to be amazed by features that delve into the journeys of individuals who turned dreams into remarkable realities:

⦁   From TikTok Sensation to Amapiano Superstar: The Rise of Zee Nxumalo: Discover the incredible trajectory of Zee Nxumalo, tracing her ascent from a viral online presence to becoming a dominant force in the Amapiano music scene. Learn about the strategic steps, dedication, and raw talent that propelled her to stardom.
⦁   Branding vs. Marketing: Unpacking the Power Duo: Get clarity on two of the most critical concepts in business. This insightful piece breaks down the differences and crucial interplay between branding and marketing, offering actionable advice for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to make a lasting impact.
⦁   Ami Faku's Journey to Music Stardom: Delve into the inspiring path of Ami Faku, one of South Africa's most beloved vocalists. Uncover the challenges, triumphs, and defining moments that shaped her distinctive sound and cemented her status as a music icon.
⦁   The Auditor Who Became a Spa Owner: A Leap of Faith into Entrepreneurship: Read the fascinating story of an individual who transitioned from the structured world of auditing to embracing the serene, yet challenging, realm of spa ownership. This feature is a testament to courage, reinvention, and pursuing one's true calling.

The May 2025 Trends Mzansi newsletter is more than just a read; it's an experience filled with lessons, triumphs, and the vibrant pulse of our nation's innovators. Don't miss out on these motivating narratives!

Get your digital copy now from our official press distributor, PressReader:
https://www.pressreader.com/australia/trends-mzansi-south-africa/20250501

Unlock Your Inspiration: Read the Latest Trends Mzansi Newsletter!

Ready for a dose of compelling stories and vital insights? The brand new issue of the Trends Mzansi newsletter is here, packed with content that will inform, inspire, and entertain!

In this must-read edition, you'll discover:

⦁ Former Miss SA Shudu Musida baring it all: A candid and inspiring look into the life and journey of one of South Africa's most admired figures.

⦁ How Sex worker drama 'Anora' sweeps Oscars with five awards: Dive into the buzz around the film that captivated critics and audiences, making waves at the Academy Awards.

⦁ HOW AVIATION ACE FLEW TO SOCIAL MEDIA TO HELP FUND AVIATION DREAM: A powerful story of resilience and ingenuity as a young aviator leverages the digital world to achieve their ambitious goals.

⦁ All you need to know about financial family planning: Essential guidance and practical tips for securing your family's financial future.

Don't miss out on these captivating features and more!

Get your digital copy now from Pressreader:

https://www.pressreader.com/australia/trends-mzansi-south-africa/20250301

Big Brother Mzansi winner Sweet Guluva warns fans of impersonators soliciting money

✏ Big Brother Mzansi season 5 winner, Sweet Guluva, has issued a warning to his fans about fake social media accounts impersonating him and soliciting money. The fan-favorite took to his official channels to clarify the situation and protect his supporters from potential scams.

"Bolokhuzan' – it has come to our attention that some individuals have been falsely using my name to solicit donations, misleading fans and supporters," Sweet Guluva explained. He firmly stated, "To clarify, asiwaceli amaDonations (we are not asking for donations)." However, acknowledging the genuine generosity of his fanbase, he added, "but we do understand that many of you have expressed a genuine desire to contribute out of your own will."

To ensure transparency and security for those wishing to support him, Sweet Guluva shared his verified banking details, emphasizing that there's "absolutely no obligation to do so. Uyang'bamba kanjani?" This measure aims to prevent fans from falling prey to fraudulent requests.

Expressing gratitude for the unwavering support, he urged caution: "We appreciate the love and want to protect our community from scams. Should you choose to contribute, please use the details above to ensure your support reaches us directly."

In his characteristically charming way, he concluded his message: "Thank you for your continued support. uSweet Guluva is'gebengu esingayibambi inkunzi sin'thanda kakhulu (Sweet Guluva isn't a criminal, we love you very much)." This warning serves as a reminder for fans to be vigilant and verify the authenticity of accounts before making any financial contributions.

Trends Mzansi February newsletter is pulling all the right strings

Trends Mzansi newsletter has dropped yet another dosage of inspiration. 

The February edition is set to amp you to chase your dreams. That is because dreams are valid and it is never too late to go for what you believe in.

This edition features: 

* How to make money while seated at home 

* Entertainer Oti Mabuse's biggest career swap 

* See how award winning musician Makhadzi is spreading the love

* Being February, find out how the power of love has the pedigree to entirely change your life 

* The petrol attendant who chose to follow her dreams and scored a university degree in the process

Get your digital copy from Pressreader using the link below and plant that seed of inspiration in your life. Once it starts germinating, you won't regret it.

https://www.pressreader.com/australia/trends-mzansi-south-africa/20250201

Anele Mdoda allegedly threatened with rape

Anele Mdoda, a well-known radio personality, recently shared a harrowing experience on social media where she was threatened with rape by an alleged Uber driver. The incident has sparked outrage and concern for the safety of women using e-hailing services.

According to Mdoda, she had ordered an Uber and selected the "don't talk to me" option, but the driver became upset and threatened her with rape. She managed to record the incident and shared it on social media, sparking a wave of support and outrage from her followers.

"I'm sorry you had to go through this, Anele," said journalist and presenter Heidi Giokos. "I've always said Uber drivers in Cape Town are the worst. My stomach is always tied when I take an Uber. And here's a clear example of what happens!"

Uber South Africa has since launched an investigation into the incident and has apologized for the driver's behavior. "What has been described is unacceptable and we have zero tolerance for this behavior," said an Uber spokesperson. "We are immediately and urgently looking into this matter. Where a driver is found to be in breach of our community guidelines, their access to the platform is immediately removed as the safety of everyone using the platform is a top priority."

Mdoda has since thanked her followers for their support and has announced that she will be pressing charges against the driver. "Uber has reached out and is taking it seriously. I won't comment further on the matter. Police are involved as well. Thank you for all the comments on this Uber saga, including the ones that say I am the one who is wrong. I am going to press charges today. Twitter won't make sure that man does not threaten another woman again. The law will. Have a great day further, because I will," she said.

The incident has highlighted the need for increased safety measures for women using e-hailing services and the importance of holding perpetrators of gender-based violence accountable.

Romance scammers just love the old, lonely ladies...

If you think Valentine's day is only for the young you are wrong!

 

Everyone, young and old, seem to be smitten by the goddess of love (Venus), in the month of February.

  

Sunny Sookoo is 79-years-old but is still in love with his 78-year-old wife, Maya with whom he tied the knot on February 14, 60 years ago.

  

Although it was an arranged marriage and Valentine's Day was unheard of those days, their love grew and they celebrated their diamond wedding jubilee on Valentine's Day surrounded by family.

  

Not so lucky was 64-year-old Isipingo grandmother who was seeking love on the online dating app, Badoo. She had been chatting to a 54-year-old Chatsworth man for three months when they decided it was time to meet up in the month of love.

  

The online lover picked up the granny from her Isipingo home and drove her to the Galleria Mall where she withdrew R2 000 of her Sassa grant money.

  

The man then drove her to Hazelemere Dam near Verulam where they spent a couple of hours, locked in each other's embrace.

  

After this passionate encounter the man then drove his date to a garage for her to freshen up, but when she returned, her lover was gone.

  

He had sped off with her bag, the R2000 and her cell phone. Apparently, he went to the Sibayo Casino where he lost R1 600 on the slot machines.

The desperate woman and her family contacted Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) and the alleged thief was caught at his mother's home in Montford.

  

Surprisingly, the suspect's 74 yearold mother did not shield her deviant son and let the officers from Reaction Unit South Africa whisk him away.

  

Apparently, he is a serial rapist previously been remanded in Westville Prison for the rape of a woman in the Maydon Wharf area.

  

Importantly, this case teaches us to be wary of social media where crooks and predators lurk to snare "easy" prey.

  

The Isipingo granny was none the wiser and was duped.

DiepCity star Sne buys new ride as she bags new acting gig

Actress Nompumelelo Vilakazi is beaming with joy after purchasing a brand-new car, and her friends and fans are celebrating her achievement. The rising star, known for her captivating performances on screen, took to social media to share her excitement, and her post was met with congratulations from fellow celebrities, including Vele Manenje, Velile Makhoba, and Siphesihle Ndaba.

Vilakazi's success in the entertainment industry is no surprise, given her talent and dedication to her craft. She gained recognition for her role as Snenhlanhla in the popular Mzansi Magic telenovela DiepCity, where she brought authenticity to her character. Her portrayal of the group's gossip and confidant earned her a spot in the hearts of audiences.

Although DiepCity was discontinued in 2023 after two seasons, Vilakazi's career continues to thrive. She recently secured a role in the three-part comedy series Isthembu Sika Msongelwa, where she plays a key role in the story of a polygamous taxi boss who reconnects with his high school sweetheart.

Vilakazi's new car is a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft. Her achievement is an inspiration to many, and her fans are thrilled to see her succeed. As she continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, we can't wait to see what's next for this talented actress.

Congratulations to Nompumelelo Vilakazi on her new ride! May it be a symbol of her continued success and a reminder of her hard work and dedication to her craft.

Facebook shocker - grieving man receives inbox from mysterious man claiming to be the dad of his late wife's child

A listener on a phone in show on Kaya FM recently shared a deeply troubling experience following the death of his wife. After her passing, he received a message on Facebook from a stranger who claimed that his second-born child was not biologically his. The man alleged that he had an affair with the listener's late wife, which resulted in her pregnancy. According to this stranger, they had kept their relationship hidden out of respect for the listener's marriage.

After some time, the listener confronted the man, who provided evidence of the affair. Feeling profoundly betrayed, he is now seeking guidance on how to navigate this complex situation, especially since he has raised the child as his own.

The listener recounted, "My wife sadly passed away last year after a brief illness. Three months later, I received a message from a man on Facebook claiming my second child wasn't mine and that he was the biological father. I was in shock and chose not to respond initially. As time went on, I found myself looking at my son and questioning whether he truly was mine."

Eventually, he decided to engage with the man. He learned that this individual had previously worked with his wife and that they had been involved romantically. The listener discovered that while his wife confided in this man about her pregnancy, they agreed to keep it secret to protect their marriage. After leaving the company, they lost contact until he reached out upon hearing about her death.

In December, they met face-to-face where the stranger presented proof of their relationship. "This shattered my heart," said the listener. "I will never have answers from my late wife." He has kept this revelation from family and friends while trying to figure out his next steps.

The situation escalated when the man began pressuring him for a relationship with his son, giving him three months to discuss it with family or face legal action.

"I feel disrespected and confused about what to do next," he expressed. "Should I insist on a DNA test first? How do I approach my family? If it turns out he is indeed the father, can co-parenting even work? Should I consult a lawyer for guidance? Am I missing any crucial steps?"

Gugu's eviction from Big Brother Mzansi: A dream come true (sort of)

Gugu Ndabezitha, the 34-year-old traditional healer from Big Brother Mzansi Umlilo, had a premonition. Not of winning, mind you, but of her eviction. Apparently, Smash Afrika, in a bizarre prophetic dream, personally escorted her out of the Big Brother house. Who needs a crystal ball when you've got Smash Afrika's astral projection services?

Gugu, bless her heart, shared this dream with her housemates, who, naturally, interpreted it as a sign of impending victory. The irony is thicker than a Zulu warrior's shield. Her dream was a surprisingly accurate prediction.

Now, four auditions, three rejections, and one month in the house later, Gugu is taking her eviction with the grace of a seasoned yoga instructor. After all, this was only rock bottom – a particularly bouncy rock bottom, apparently equipped with a conveniently placed trampoline. She's soaring now, folks! Soaring! Though perhaps next time, she'll consult a slightly more reliable soothsayer than Smash Afrika in the spirit realm. Perhaps a psychic parrot? The possibilities are endless.

When love lingers, does revealing too much in a relationship destroy it? Celebs weighs in

Love is blind - so they say! 

But love is a beautiful thing and it does make the world go round. Those who've been fortunate to find love, ehhhhhm I mean glow in love🥰, can attest to that. 

While love can be beautiful, does revealing too much about your life destroy it? Many people are afraid of revealing their true selves to their partners as they fear losing them. 

Click, click bang! 

"Sometimes it's not even about your current partner but stems from past relationship experiences," noted Kgomotso Meso. "You might have been told your light was too bright, and now you're uncomfortable expressing yourself the way you'd like."

Yes we listening...

She added, "What I've observed with men is this feeling of not being enough. No matter how much you do, there's always another man who can bring more money or provide more than you."

That definitely is handful. But what do the men have to say about it? 

Renowned comedian Skhumba shared his sentiments on the hot issue. 

"As a man, you sometimes go out of your way to make a woman happy, only to realise it's still not enough. In the process, you neglect yourself trying to meet their expectations."

Ijob yijob but what are the misconceptions that people have about your job? SABC News anchor Mfundo Mabalane reveals hers

There is a popular street lingo which people use to describe their working lifestyles - "ijob yijob", which literally translates to "a job is a job".

You might find this a bit odd or must I say offish..., But society has an array of misconceptions when it comes to a person's job. 

Hold your horses. Many people are of the notion that those who work at distilleries or breweries are always drunk as they are supposedly permitted to drink zingakashayi (before knocking off).

Some people believe that when one works for for an airline, they get a free pass to travel the world. Ziyakhala ke manje. 

Popular SABC News anchor Mfundo Mabalane pointed out that, as a news anchor, people believe she is closer to politicians than she really is. 

"They think you can just dial up any politician and have a chat about anything, but this is not always the case. I think, in most instances, those who build relationships with politicians are reporters, not necessarily news anchors."

What sort of job do you do and what are some of the misconceptions that people have about your job? 

Umjolo wanyisa shame! “I love my girlfriend but I don’t see myself marrying her”

What usually starts off as a simple conversation usually leads to 'feelings that grow'. I'm talking about love here. 

So, a certain brother recently called into a radio show to seek advice. 

Brother man here has been in a relationship with his sweetheart and they have been dating for two years. 

But the problem is that he does not see her as a prospective wife. Umjolo wanyisa shame. He is afraid that time is flying and he is seemingly leading her on. 

Here is his story.... As per his words on radio... Thatha...

"I have been with my girlfriend for over two years now. Things are good, but I don't see myself marrying her. I love her personality, and we enjoy travelling and attending music events. We are in the same career, but despite all these common interests, I don't see myself getting married to her.

"This really bothers me because how can someone make me laugh and be so happy, yet I can't bring myself to see her as my wife? I have been having this internal conflict for some time, trying to understand, but i get no answers.

"I am afraid I am stringing her along, but how do I let her go when I don't know the real issue? Or could the issue be me? I have tried dating two other women while with her to see if my perception would change, but it didn't. But she is my peace and solace. What could be my blind spot here?"

Yeah Neh! Life or love? Umjolo wanyisa strue..

Kairo Forbes continues to shine

Young star Kairo Forbes recently took her first steps on the runway, marking a memorable debut.

In a video shared on social media, Kairo radiates confidence and joy as she struts down the runway for the first time, bringing a fresh energy to Ackermans' Spring/Summer collection launch.

The experience was even more special because Kairo was joined by her mother, DJ Zinhle, creating a beautiful mother-daughter moment on the runway.

Captioning the video, Kairo wrote, "This is summer! My first time walking in an actual fashion show! What made it even more special was that I did it with my Mama at @ackermans_za Spring Summer launch!!!"

Fans were quick to flood the comments, celebrating the young influencer's milestone.

"So proud of my girl," DJ Zinhle wrote in the comment.

Amidst the beautiful comments, another follower slammed the brand for using Kairo and her mom as a model.

"Not Ackermans giving money to people who a monied, i mean they a many people who could have been chosen for," reads the comment.

Fikile Mlomo takes it one step at a time

After finding herself in a state of trouble due to health-related issues, it was her devoted fans who came to her rescue – and now gospel singer Fikile Mlomo aims to show appreciation by dedicating her latest upcoming EP in honour of her supporters.
News and entertainment publication Daily Sun reports that the singer found herself hospitalised for three months earlier this year. It was later revealed that she needed financial assistance to help cover the costs of a spinal surgery.
At the time, she took to her social media providing fans with an update on her life.
"With whatever is happening, please know that I am very strong. When you see me looking good it' because I do not want to accept the situation."
With the assistance of her colleague and fellow gospel artist Thinah Zulu, fans helped the singer by donating large sums of money to cover the medical costs.
Speaking to Daily Sun the singer revealed that the donations came in overflow, which was more than enough to cover the costs of the surgery and help her go back to the studio to record the EP.
"This EP is dedicated to thanking my fans. They must brace themselves because the EP is too emotional and I'm bringing back the Fikile they know. I want to thank everyone who contributed to bringing back my life after I was hospitalised. Big thanks to my brother in God, Thinah Zungu."
Furthermore, she highlighted that her latest EP was to be released independently to avoid being exploited by record labels.

Trends Mzansi November issue unleashes great stories which are simply meant to be told

Some great stories are simply meant to be told. 

Trends Mzansi November newsletter has just the perfect dosage of stories to inspire your life.

Whether you are going through life's hardships or you simply want a little push to help you pursue your dreams, simply dig into this great read and watch your dreams flourish.

This issue features how Anele Mdoda is still making waves at 40.

* Simply ways of making money this festive season

* How a R600 food trailer became a booming business and is now one of the biggest franchises in South Africa. 

* A dream has come through for a student who is set to travel to New York. See how she did it. 

The dosage of inspiration doesn't get bigger than this. 

Get your digital copy from anywhere in the world from the number one online press distributor Pressreader. Follow the link

https://www.pressreader.com/australia/trends-mzansi-south-africa/20241101

Pearl Thusi set to be roasted!

South African comedy lovers will soon have something to look forward to Pearl Thusi prepares herself for the roast.
While she has been in the public eye for several years as an actress, model and TV presenter, Pearl Thusi will soon step into the shoes of several others that have gone before her and become the person in the hot seat of Comedy Central's The Roast of Pearl Thusi.
The show sees celebrities and comedians dish out good-natured insult comedy jokes at the expense of the guest of honour in front of a live audience.
Meanwhile, Pearl is no stranger to the platform. In 2019 she was one of several panelists including former professional footballer Mark Fish who took a jab at close friend, Kiernan "AKA" Forbes.
 
Speaking about her expectation at this year's roast she shared that she is fully prepared to handle what comes her way.
"After many years in the entertainment industry, I'm no stranger to pressure, and I'm fully prepared to handle whatever the roasters throw at me. Believe me when I say I'll bring my A-game for this one."
"Returning to the Roast, this time as a roastee, I'm looking forward to having fun in the hot seat and giving as good as I get. If roasters think they will get me to squirm, they have another thing coming," she said.
Monde Twala, the senior vice-president and general manager of Paramount Africa describes the actress as one of South Africa's rare gems and said they are excited to see her get roasted.
"We are looking forward to seeing the Black Pearl show off the mettle that has propelled her to where she is today. We have no doubts she will be sldphowing her Roasters the spiciest of flames on the night."
The roast is expected to place on the 21 November at Gold Reef City's Lyric Theatre and will be broadcast on 8 December on Comedy Central.
Meanwhile, tickets will soon go on sale at Webtickets.

Real Housewives star spills tea on popular show

The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip – South Africa has come to an iconic end and in true Housewives style, it was dramatic, shady, funny and all-out outrageous.

The larger-than-life cast included Beverley Steyn (The Real Housewives of Cape Town S1); Christall Kay (The Real Housewives of Johannesburg S1-2); LaConco (The Real Housewives of Durban S1-2); Lethabo Lejoy Mathatho (The Real Housewives of Johannesburg S2-3); Liz Prins (The Real Housewives of Gqeberha S1); Londie London (The Real Housewives of Durban S2); Melany Viljoen (The Real Housewives of Pretoria S1); and Nonku Williams (The Real Housewives of Durban S1-4).

In the dramatic season finale, we saw the aftermath of the explosive fight between the longest-serving housewife, Williams, and her fellow Durban cast member London.

The ladies, who have been frenemies for a long time, got into a heated argument after Williams questioned London about why she came to Jamaica two days before the trip ended.

To give us all the tea and shade, we caught up with Prins.

She became one of the fan favourites throughout the season because of her wickedly funny sense of humour.

True to form, she did not hold back: she spilt the tea on the show, her friendships and the off-screen drama that has been trending.

1.How was your experience on Ultimate Girls Trip?

I had a wonderful time. Jamaica is a beautiful country with beautiful people. I enjoyed the villa and getting to know the ladies. My highlight was meeting Alton and his team; they were so lovely and took care of us.

2. How was it different from The Real Housewives of Gqeberha?

Unlike The Real Housewives of Gqeberha, I actually got along with all of the ladies and formed friendships with them. They are fashionable and have a sense of humour, very different from the ladies of The Real Housewives of
Gqeberha.

Lindiwe Sangweni-Siddo reveals what it means to be a woman writer in South Africa

What does it mean to be a woman in contemporary South Africa?

Lindiwe Sangweni-Siddo: [It] means I have had to sharpen my skills when it comes to claiming my space. I know the importance of my opinion in my personal and professional space.

As a writer, you are gifted with the ability to express yourself clearly and powerfully, and writing has become important for me on both formal and informal platforms.

Before I published my debut book, The Syndicate of Twenty-two
Natives, I was known as a writer of short stories or reflections on life published on social media.

These are contemporary platforms that can be used to express one's thoughts and tell stories.

From time immemorial, women have been strong and influential, even in traditional settings.

I like to think of myself as an extension of my greatgrandmother, Khokho Mandlesilo (my father's maternal grandmother), who was a very strong and influential woman in her family and community. She was outspoken and feisty, and she did not feel threatened by being the fourth wife in a patriarchal traditional Zulu setting.

She claimed her space and was well-respected well into her 90s. I am a modern extension of Khokho Mandlesilo, but in contemporary times.

I still have to make sure patriarchy and misogyny do not drown out my voice and those of other women.