A Grade 9 Kingswood College pupil snapped a photo in Port Alfred that’s left South Africans in awe. The heartwarming part? People loved it so much they are encouraging her to enter it into competitions!

Port Alfred, South Africa (06 March 2024) — A Grade 9 Kingswood College pupil has left South Africans in awe after she captured Mother Nature at her finest in the Eastern Cape’s Port Alfred.

Shared by her school, Siré Schoncken’s photo captures a bolt of lightning, rolling waves and a looming grey cloud on a deserted part of the beach.

Beyond the breathtaking photo, there’s heart to this story in just how encouraging South Africans were in their responses to the budding photographer’s moment in the lightning light. On social media, comments ranged from backing Siré to enter her work into a competition all the way to nods of agreement that this student has a future in photography.

Siré’s mom Desica shared that her daughter is “beyond excited about the reaction of her photo.”

Captured on a Samsung phone camera, locals can’t wait to see what this budding photographer might be capable of with professional gear.

In any creative field (especially for young creatives), encouragement can be the difference between giving your talents a go or pushing them to the side. And seeing how many strangers were so kind to a young talent made our hearts very warm today.

Sources: Kingswood College

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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500 people, including 200 children, got the chance to have their hearing tested recently for World Hearing Day.

Atteridgeville, South Africa (06 March 2024) – The collaborative efforts of the University of Pretoria, hearX Foundation, Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and hearX Group brought about a highly successful World Hearing Day event in Atteridgeville, marking a significant milestone in community health involvement.

Drawing over 500 community members, including over 200 young children who received hearing screenings, the event underscored the critical necessity for accessible ear and hearing care. It also showcased the power of collaborative effort in addressing global health challenges.

Prof De Wet Swanepoel from the University of Pretoria, alongside Tersia de Kock from the hearX Foundation, set the stage with insightful addresses that emphasized the importance of healthy hearing and its foundational role in fostering communication, relationships, and overall quality of life. The high participation rate mirrored WHO’s concerning estimates that one in five people are currently affected by hearing loss, a figure expected to rise to one in four by 2050. This stark reality underscores the urgency of scaling up ear and hearing care services globally, especially in underserved communities like Atteridgeville.

The University of Pretoria students, supported by volunteers from the hearX Group, were instrumental in the day’s success, providing screenings that not only identified those with potential hearing loss but also offered a gateway to further care and support. This initiative not only served as an educational platform for the students involved but also as a testament to the impactful outcomes that can be achieved through the synergy of academic knowledge and practical application.

Tucker Bbosa from CHAI illuminated the significance of the new partnership project aimed at integrating hearing screenings in early childhood development centres, highlighting the critical role of early detection in mitigating the long-term effects of hearing loss. This initiative, among others presented during the day, illustrates a forward-thinking approach to healthcare, where prevention and early intervention are prioritised.

The event centred on the theme “Changing Mindsets” with the aimed to dismantle the stigma around hearing aids and promote a more inclusive understanding of hearing care. In highlighting the reluctance commonly linked with hearing aids and comparing it to the more readily accepted use of glasses, the speakers advocated for a shift in perception that recognises hearing aids as essential tools for enhancing life quality.

The involvement of key stakeholders, including representatives from the Department of Education, the Department of Health, and the Kalafong Hospital Audiology Department, further emphasized the collaborative approach to healthcare advocacy and service provision. Their presence was not just ceremonial but a pledge of ongoing support and commitment to hearing health initiatives.

Reflecting on the event’s success, it was evident that the concerted efforts of the University of Pretoria, hearX Foundation, CHAI, and the hearX Group have not only raised awareness about the importance of ear and hearing care but also laid the groundwork for sustainable health interventions in the community. The overwhelming turnout and the proactive engagement of the community members served as a powerful reminder of the latent demand for such essential health services.

Looking to the future, the Atteridgeville event on World Hearing Day has set a benchmark for community-driven health initiatives, proving that with the right partnerships and community involvement, it’s possible to overcome the barriers to accessible healthcare. This model of collaboration, education, and action provides a blueprint for addressing not only hearing health but also other pressing global health challenges, demonstrating that change is possible when communities, professionals, and organisations unite towards a common goal.

Sources: UP – Supplied

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The Elsen Academy started a Kindness Rocks project and students are loving the chance to share messages of kindness.

Gqeberha, South Africa (06 March 2024) – Ms Leigh Septoo and Mr Klaas Kingma at Elsen Academy started the Kindness Rocks project to give students a heartwarming project to work on that spreads kindness to others.

The school helps children with learning disabilities such as ADHD, dyslexia and other social barriers. The school provides a safe learning space for grades 1 to 12.

The Kindness Rocks project is based on the painted rock trend that is seen throughout the world. Finding a painted rock is supposed to inspire kindness and hope. The idea is to spread a little piece of joy to an unknown stranger. Finding a rock is often a little gift you never knew you wanted.

The hope is that having these rocks spread around the school, will inspire kindness!

“Imagine finding a beautifully painted rock hidden around the school, carrying a message of kindness inspired by our core values: Honesty, Empathy, Acceptance, and Respect (H.E.A.R.).

That’s the magic Ms. Septoo and Mr. Kingma have unleashed! They’ve collaborated with learners across all grades, igniting their creativity and spreading kindness through painted rocks scattered throughout Elsen Academy.

These unique gems hold the power to brighten someone’s day, whether it’s a student, staff member, or even a parent in need of a pick-me-up. So, keep your eyes peeled! You might just stumble upon a hidden masterpiece, reminding you of the simple yet powerful impact of kindness.

Consider doing something similar where you work. Don’t underestimate the power of surprises and messages of kindness.” – Elsen Academy

Rock finders are encouraged to either place the rock back, take it along their travels or keep it and share a rock of their own. We recently saw a rock and noticed several people stopping to peek at it and quickly moving along, not knowing what the rock meant.

There are many groups in South Africa that share this art form, so if you would enjoy it, you can find a list of groups to join here.

Sources: Elsen Academy – Supplied

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New Kids on the Block, the iconic boy band, returns with their latest single “Kids” after an 11-year hiatus, promising fans a nostalgic yet fresh musical experience.

Global (06 March 2024) – New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) fans, rejoice! After an 11-year wait, the iconic boy band from Dorchester, Massachusetts, has announced their return with a brand new album titled “Still Kids,” set to hit the shelves on May 17th.

If you’ve been missing NKOTB’s infectious beats and harmonious tunes, get ready to be thrilled because the wait is finally over!

With a career spanning decades, New Kids on the Block has solidified their place in music history as one of the most influential boy bands of all time. Comprising Jonathan and Jordan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, and Danny Wood, NKOTB captured the hearts of millions with their chart-topping hits and electrifying performances.

The excitement surrounding the upcoming album has skyrocketed since the group dropped their lead single, “Kids” 10 hours ago, offering fans a taste of what’s to come.

In a recent statement, Donnie Wahlberg, who co-wrote seven tracks on the album, expressed the group’s enthusiasm for their latest musical endeavour. “It’s the most mature album we’ve ever made,” Wahlberg shared. “Yet it’s the most fun and most comfortable album we’ve ever made.”

The announcement of the new album has sparked a wave of excitement among fans, with social media platforms buzzing with anticipation and heartfelt messages. From reminiscing about cherished memories to expressing gratitude for the band’s enduring presence, the outpouring of love and support for NKOTB is nothing short of inspiring.

One fan shared, “I’ll be 57 this year and can’t believe I got to hear a new NKOTB song and see the video. You guys are still one of the best boy bands ever!”

Another fan reflected on the band’s timeless appeal, writing, “They still got the right stuff even more than 30 years later.” 

While another was excited to still be following them saying, “Man if I could go back and tell my 16 yr old self what an amazing ride this is gonna be! I picked the right band all those years ago. Thank you NK!”

So mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready to embark on a musical journey with New Kids on the Block.

Watch the music video for their new single below:

Sources: New Kids on the Block

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The Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s annual charity dog walk is finally back after a three-year break; it’s time to dress up with your pooches and have a fun day out!

Sea Point, South Africa (05 March 2024) – Humans and four-legged friends are invited to strut their stuff at the sixth Paws on the Promenade – a dog walk fundraiser by the Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha. After a three-year break due to Covid-19 and venue issues, the event is back by pawpular demand.

The event was due to take place in October 2023 but was postponed to this year. What was meant to be a Halloween walk, is still going to be a fun event where pets and owners can dress up and have fun.

The dog walk will take place on Sunday the 17th of March at 9 am. Starting at the Mouille Point lighthouse, the five-kilometre route will extend to the Sea Point swimming pool and back. Shorter turnaround points for old, tired and injured pets (or humans) will also be available.

“Our 2020 Paws on the Promenade was a great success with an attendance of 352 dogs. On a budget of just R3,500 we raised R48,400. We hope to raise even more funds with this year’s event. This, however, all depends on how many wonderful dogs and humans join us for the walk,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive and event organiser.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic is an NPO animal clinic in Khayelitsha township serving up to 1500 animals per month through consultations, hospitalisation, general and orthopaedic surgeries, continuous sterilisations, mobile clinics, an animal ambulance and homeless pet shelter. They also set a priority on community empowerment and education to ensure people become responsible pet ownership into the future.

“Our budget keeps growing year on year due to the demand for our services. It is essential for us to diversify our fundraising. Paws on the Promenade is a great fundraiser but also a magnificent fun filled event for the whole family,” says du Plessis.

Expect to see dogs of all shapes and sizes. “People get very creative, dressing themselves and their dogs up in costumes,” says du Plessis. There will be Dalmatians in tutus, Dachshunds in hot dog outfits and Pomeranians with bow ties.

“For the past six years Vondi’s has partnered with Mdzananda in making this event possible. It is one of our highlights of the year,” says Cindy Jacobson, manager of Vondi’s Holistic Pet Nutrition. “The route is one of the most scenic routes in Cape Town making it a wonderful walk for dogs and owners alike. We support Mdzananda because of their excellent professionalism and the impact they make in the Khayelitsha community, educating pet owners and treating sick pets that would otherwise have little to no help.”

Everyone is invited – humans without four-legged friends are welcome too.

Tickets cost R50 per person, R50 per dog and R25 for kids under 12. These are available from Quicket www.qkt.io/pawsonprom2024 or on the day from 08:00.

Raffle prizes, product sales, delicious coffee, food and crafts will entertain you on the day. The first 100 dogs to arrive will also receive a free goodie bag.

All pet owners are encouraged to dress up in a dog outfit or to wear something orange, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic brand.

For more information visit www.mdzananda.co.za or join our Facebook event at https://www.facebook.com/events/983664270137129

Sources: Mdzananda – Supplied

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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The nation was enthralled when news broke of the Thabo Bester prison break scandal; GroundUp shared that the convicted criminal had not died in a fire as originally reported and had, in fact, escaped!

South Africa (05 March 2024) – One of the most anticipated docuseries has officially been confirmed and the trailer is here to entice us all! “Tracking Thabo Bester” is the true-crime documentary South Africa has been asking for ever since GroundUp first broke the news that the convicted murderer and rapist did not burn to death in Cell 35 after all and was instead shopping at Woolworths in Sandton City.

Thabo Bester was the most searched person in South Africa on Google in 2023, with his co-accused, Dr Nandipha Magudumana, just behind in fourth place, as the whole country obsessed over Bestermania and the stormy tale of love, murder, deception and corruption. Daily Maverick named them both ‘SA Villain of the Year.’

The larger-than-life story of South Africa’s most famous prison break is in safe hands: Tracking Thabo Bester is being produced by local true-crime pioneers IdeaCandy, the production company behind the SAFTA-winning Devilsdorp, the Sanlam Group Financial Journalist of the Year-winning Steinheist, and the Showmax true-crime record breaker Rosemary’s Hitlist.

The four-part investigation will be screened in two halves on Showmax on the 15th and 22nd of March 2024.

The first episode follows GroundUp journalists Marecia Damons and Daniel Steyn as they investigate an anonymous tip-off that the burnt body at Mangaung Correctional Centre may not have been Bester. Damons and Steyn went on to win the prestigious Nat Nakasa Award and share the Vodacom Journalist of the Year award for breaking the jaw-dropping story and its biggest plot twists. They also co-wrote the bestselling book The Thabo Bester Story: The Facebook Rapist, the Celebrity Doctor and the Escape from Cell 35.

Subsequent episodes look at why Bester was called the Facebook rapist and in jail originally; how a celebrity doctor fell for a convicted criminal and left her children behind to go on the run with him to Tanzania; and who really died in Cell 35.

Interviews include prisoners and prison warders at Mangaung Correctional Centre; the family of Katlego Bereng Mpholo, whose body was found in Cell 35; Nkosinathi Sekeleni, Nandipha’s older brother; and former South African Police Service head profiler Dr Gérard Labuschagne, who interviewed Bester after his 2012 arrest for rape and murder. The documentary also shows the media and social media reactions to the story.

Having earned three SAFTA nominations in the past two years for her work editing Steinheist, Devilsdorp and Murder in Paris, Nikki Comninos made her Showmax Original debut as a director on December’s Convict Conman, which looked at Dawie de Villiers – another South African running a media business from inside jail, where he was also serving time for rape. She’s again at the helm of Tracking Thabo Bester.

“We tend to discuss Thabo Bester like it’s an isolated case but it’s clearly not,” says Comninos. “Bester has been depicted as some kind of anomaly for being able to run a business while incarcerated, but so did Dawie de Villiers – also a convicted rapist who lured his victims online – at a completely different prison. This raises questions about what is happening with the South African prison system.”

The trial of Bester, Magudumana and their co-accused was supposed to begin in the Free State High Court at the end of February but has been postponed to 5 June 2024.

Watch the teaser trailer below:

Sources: Showmax – Supplied

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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The Pothole Patrol team have filled over 200,000 potholes since 2021 all thanks to the collaboration of big business and residents of Johannesburg.

South Africa (04 March 2024) – Living in South Africa means one becomes more than acquainted with the numerous potholes that are found along the daily commute. There are many communities that take matters into their own hands, to combat the worst of the worst. Now there is a new team on the road called the “Pothole Patrol”.

Starting in 2023, 18 people were enrolled in a pilot training programme and it was a huge success. Launching in February this year, students will now be earning an NQF Level 3 qualification after 12 months of practical training and studies. The pilot programme has since seen a further 24 learners enrolled in 2024.

“In its first official year, which kicked off on 1 February 2024, the Academy is providing classroom and on-the job-training to 24 learners through EduWize, an accredited learnership and skills development provider.

Participants are men and women aged 22 to 34 from previously disadvantaged communities and will obtain a National Certificate in Roadworks Construction upon completion. The aim of the programme is to equip participants with road construction skills and the confidence to start their own business one day.”

The programme is being run by Discovery in partnership with various stakeholders. With support from the City of Johannesburg, over 200,000 potholes have been repaired on major Johannesburg roads. The initiative’s initial target was to repair 1,000 potholes a week – which has been exceeded by 25%.

The best part is if you have a pothole in your area (specifically in Johannesburg areas), you can report it for free using the Discovery Pothole Patrol mobile app (available for iOS and Android). You just have to register, and then upload a picture or capture the pothole’s location.

There are parameters to what can be repaired by the Pothole Patrol. The team can only work on potholes measuring a maximum size of 1m by 1m. Anything bigger or deeper than 3cm, has to be handled by the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA). However, the Pothole Patrol will escalate the “reinstatements” to the authorities.

“Reinstatements, road excavations, deep trenches or cracks are caused by entities and other service providers, either repairing or installing their services and are not classified as potholes.” – Discovery Pothole Patrol

The efforts of the Pothole Patrol are helping work through the backlog of repairs needed in Johannesburg. Thanks to the collaboration of big business, the city and residents who report potholes, a change is happening!

Sources: Discovery

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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A beautiful new documentary is coming to screens in March and highlighting the lives of the special needs employees at Joyce Chevalier Centre.

Fish Hoek, South Africa (03 March 2024) – A beautiful South African documentary looks at the lives of the men and women who are part of the Joyce Chevalier Centre in Fish Hoek, Western Cape. The documentary “Normal to Me” highlights the unique viewpoints of people living with special needs.

Mandala Films created the documentary in association with the National Film and Video Foundation. We got to view the trailer for the documentary, which airs in March 2024, and are excited to see more! The hope is this will also be featured at film festivals around the world.

The team at Mandala Films beautifully captured the light of each participant. Directed and produced by Luke Sharland; he is joined by Gray Kotze (director of photography), Stephanie Kyriakou-Bouwer (editor), Mark Haines (colour grading and editing) and Jaco van Bosch (editor and sound designer).

“Normal To Me” is an engaging feature documentary that intimately explores the lives of individuals with special needs, all employed at a protective workshop in the charming seaside town of Fish Hoek, South Africa. The film delves into the unique stories of selected individuals, showcasing their resilience and triumphs as they challenge societal expectations and redefine the notion of ‘normal.’

Through heartfelt interviews and compelling visuals, the documentary takes viewers on a journey through the daily lives of these individuals, shedding light on the diverse talents and perspectives that make each person extraordinary. The film not only captures the challenges faced by these individuals but also emphasizes the strength found in embracing their true selves.

We at Mandala Films would like to thank everyone who made this documentary a possibility. As the documentary makes its debut at film festivals around the world, we hope you have an opportunity to listen to and watch the incredible stories of the people at the Joyce Chevalier Centre.” – Mandala Films

Take a look at the trailer below. You can check out the website here to see when and where it will be aired.

Sources: Normal to Me

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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After losing her beloved cat, Di Kendall founded a Pet Grief Support Group to help other pet owners cope with the loss of their own pets.

South Africa (01 March 2024) – Losing a pet is as devastating as losing a family member because they really are part of the family! The loss is often overlooked but thanks to Di Kendall, there is now a Pet Grief Support Group aimed at helping people cope with the loss of a beloved pet.

Di was inspired to start the group after her own cat had passed away. She said that the moment left her absolutely shattered. She launched the STIG Foundation with the support of the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) and runs two Pet Grief Support Groups.

“In realising that there is really not much support out there specifically designed for pet parents, I reached out to SADAG about my idea of a foundation, having resources, and listing support groups for pet parents. As a support group leader for SADAG, I have received so much support from them, and my journey as a support group leader has been amazing. I now have three groups of my own, an anxiety and depression support group and two pet parent support groups. The newest group launches on the 1st of March 2024.

Any pet bereavement groups we list will be SADAG based, and any trainee support group leaders will be supported and trained by SADAG.”

STIG stands for Support Through Immense Grief and is being embraced by the community with open arms. It is a much-needed support group that is helping change how we look at pet bereavement.

“The name was coined by one of my support group members who recently lost a very special boy too. I created the space to share resources specifically for pet bereavement so anyone who has lost a pet can feel seen and heard.”

While it is still early days for the support group, Di hopes to expand and offer support to people who are losing their pets over long periods due to illness.

“Once our organisation is established we will assist with end of life veterinary care and creations to help pet parents through an immensely difficult time with their fur baby, especially those who are not financially able to care for their fur baby at the end of their life.”

If you or someone you know needs a Pet Grief Support Group, they can find all the information via the website or Facebook page. There are also posters below detailing information regarding monthly meetings and WhatsApp groups.

Sources:  Di Kendell

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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A sold-out Baxter theatre signalled a year of exciting events for Opera UCT—including the opportunity to stage a world premiere, celebrating a student who was selected for an international scholarship, and brighter bursary opportunities!

Cape Town, South Africa (29 February 2024) – Opera UCT’s 2024 season launch presented a varied programme that signalled a year ahead full of good news, including world firsts, international collaborations, and student achievements.

To a packed Baxter theatre, South Africa’s oldest opera performing and training institution beautifully defended its reputation as a source for some of the most respected and successful operatic performers in the world today, and set the stage for what is to come!

Opera UCT’s director, pianist and conductor, Professor Jeremy Silver, led a line-up of performances that clearly demonstrated the breadth and depth of talent the school has on tap.

Professor Silver remarked:

“Our activities also provide Cape Town’s arts scene with world-class operatic performances of which we can all be proud, and I am delighted that Opera UCT’s international status has ensured that this year, we have been chosen as the production partner for some important and seminal works, which we look forward to sharing with audiences of all ages.”

A Symphony of Good News!

Performances To Make South Africa Proud

Opera UCT has been selected to stage the world premiere of an important and hitherto lost opera, Donizetti’s Dalinda, a production that will be led by Italian director William Costabile Cisco and costume design by Letiticia Parvoleta Ivanova set to take place in early September.

Silver says: “This is a great honour for Opera UCT and South Africa and is also an exceptional opportunity for our young singers, as the eyes of the arts world will be upon us when we stage this production in September, which is the cornerstone of our 2024 season.”

On the cards for later in the year as part of Opera UCT’s packed schedule, Silver teased the audience with hints of a fully staged production under the inspiring creative direction of a conductor and director from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, as to a new Distinguished Alumni Recital Series that will take place during the season ahead.

The 2024 diary also includes the third annual Aviva Pelham Operetta Competition and the FMR Bursary Award Classical Instrumental and Vocal Finals, a competition that celebrates the very best of classical, jazz, and African music thanks to the Rolf-Stephan Nussbaum Foundation.

Exciting News for Students

In addition to the core academic programme that has ensured graduates are welcomed the world over, Opera UCT will host a series of masterclasses, competitions, and international residencies, which contribute to the school and production house’s international standing and success.

The K T Wong Foundation has also established a new bursary programme for 2024, which assists aspiring graduate artists as they establish their professional careers.  The first recipient of this generous bursary is Opera UCT tenor, Luvo Maranti, who was also a finalist in Plácido Domingo’s Operalia competition held in Cape Town in 2023.

Molly Dzangare’s Achievement

Also, and yet more exciting news, is the announcement that UCT student soprano Molly Dzangare, has been awarded an Eva Kleinitz Opera Europa Scholarship, having been selected from more than 500 global applicants.

Encore!

Three book launches and a further new addition to the line-up are also planned for 2024, and in April, following a packed March programme that includes several free concerts, Opera UCT will stage a large-scale performance complete with the UCT Symphony Orchestra of a concert entitled, ‘The Sound of Freedom’.

 Opera UCT’s staging of productions is not only an opportunity for audiences to lose themselves in the musical mastery of storytelling but also a mechanism to generate funds. These monies go towards ensuring students get valuable performance experience and help to bring international masters in opera and stage to South Africa to share their expertise with the school.

Donations and support can be channelled through the Opera Endowment Fund!

Sources: UCT Opera; Supplied 

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