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BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

The University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Netball Team was crowned champions of the Gauteng Netball Super League on Sunday, 10 September 2023 with Monica Gomases and Minentle Mayekisa winning Overall Player of the Tournament and Best Mid-Court Player, respectively.

While the UJ Senior Team is playing in the 2023 FNB Varsity Netball tournament, the team that won the Gauteng Netball Super League comprises players who are not in the Varsity Netball squad. The team consisted of players such as Nomfundo Mngomezulu, Gomases, Mayekisa, Keneilwe Seopa, Nosihle Mkhwanazi, Maritske Rautenbach, Alex Meimoris, Nonsikelelo Mazibuko, and Nkanyiso Yeni. The UJ technical team that steered the Orange Army to victory included Head Coach Bongiwe Msomi, Assistant Coaches Nandipha Jack and Nomsa Zungu as well as Physiotherapist Paula Ivana Rebelo.

Speaking on the UJ Netball Club’s victory, Assistant Coach Nomsa Zungu said, “I am super proud of the club for winning the Gauteng Netball Super League. This proves the depth of our squad within the club having two teams competing and winning at the highest level in the Varsity Netball tournament and the Super League. The ladies showed character on the two netball entities this weekend and on Monday.”

The Gauteng Netball Super League title came just a few days ahead of the second consecutive semifinal of the UJ Netball Club in the FNB Varsity Netball tournament.

Image and source: UJ

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Meet Keneilwe Ledwaba is an accounting graduate from Brits in North West, but after she couldn’t find a work in her field of study, she started NeiTouch, a construction and renovation company, thanks to her dad who taught her all the tricks of the trade.

“I learned a lot of what I know today about construction from our family business which has been operational for the past 14 years. Additionally, it is not easy in the construction industry for a woman since this industry is male dominated.

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People are often intrigued as to why am I an accounting graduate who works in construction, I always have to validate my reasons as to why did I settle for ‘such a job’ as the public labels it. Although it was a bumpy ride at first, I have developed interest over the years for the work I do and the nature of the business environment I operate in,” the entrepreneur said.

Ledwaba is available for all your construction and renovation needs on 072 429 6580/ email: ledwabakeneilwe@gmail.com

Image: LinkedIn

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Renowned actress and SAFTA 2023 Nominee Refilwe Madumo is proud to present the first ever #CHOOSINGLOVE: A Self-Love Experience. Due to take place on the 28^th of October 2023 at the Naledi Farm (Centurion), #CHOOSINGLOVE is the online movement “going live” due to popular demand.

Refilwe is a 2023 SAFTA nominated actress for her role as Fikile Maponya on the SABC 1 flagship program, Generations The Legacy. Refilwe has been working as an actor for almost 20 years, with lead roles on Scandal!, Inconceivable, Side Dish, Omen, Rhythm City, Mazinyo dot Q, to name a few. 

She is a writer and was head writer on the award winning talk show Rise TV. She was also the Editor At Large for Rise Magazine, commissioned by Soul City Institute For Social Justice. Her writing works have also been published in international academic journals. 

Refilwe is the series and content producer of the #ChoosingLove series, which has had over 2 million views on TikTok and Instagram. She was the producer of the Mama Mantics series, in association with Ask A Parent SA. She directed the Physical Theatre experience Through The Cord and is an MC and facilitator. However, her most important role is being a mother to her two wonderful boys, Makhosini and Malibuye.

“#ChoosingLove was born from my very personal struggle with self-worth. I talk to myself about self-love all the time but have had trouble with what it truly means. I went through a phase where, try as I might, I didn’t know how to action self-love effectively. What does that look like? To actively wrap myself up in self-love.. They say love is a verb, right? A doing word. You have to actively DO something to see the benefit. Compounded deeds turn into habits. Habits become a way of life. This is the journey into making self-love a habit. #ChoosingLove has become a place of glory for me and many others,” the actress said.

“I cannot even begin to describe the amount of positive feedback we receive. My favourite thing about it is that it has encouraged people to change the things that don’t serve them in the lives and to lean into the things that do. People are leaning into their special, it’s beautiful. In the quest for bigger lives, more fulfilment and growing creativity, expanding our thought patterns, embracing sound work ethics that lead to new opportunities, we also have to make room for nurturing who we are at the core of our humanity. As a person, you can and must go any and everywhere but where you must arrive is to yourself. Although this is an ongoing journey with unexpected pitfalls, #ChoosingLove has become the way to choose a happy that holds and nurtures the individual. A holistic journey into self-acceptance,” she added.

#CHOOSINGLOVE: A Self-Love Experience is based on a holistic approach to self-care – sonic, visual, conversational and of course gastronomic – engaging all the senses and touching the soul. Drawing on the growing community that engage with #CHOOSINGLOVE, Refilwe welcomes you with love. 

Image: Supplied

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Charné Eileen Swart, a dedicated student at the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Faculty of Health Sciences and a formidable athlete, was honoured with the esteemed international Fair Play award during the Chengdu FISU Games in Chengdu, China. This recognition stems from her selfless actions in addition to her impressive bronze medal win. Currently pursuing a medical degree at UP’s Faculty of Health Sciences, Swart’s heart-warming display of sportsmanship has captured global attention.

The unforgettable moment unfolded during the Athletics Women’s 800 metres race when Comorian athlete Soudi-Thasmy Moussa, despite her best efforts, collapsed from sheer exhaustion near the finish line. Swart and Veronica Vancardo of Switzerland, both competing in the same race, immediately rushed to Moussa’s aid, offering assistance to their fellow athlete. This inspiring act of humanity was captured by live cameras and quickly became a viral sensation, capturing the hearts of people around the world.

Swart’s remarkable journey in the Athletics Women’s 800 metres race not only earned her a bronze medal but also etched her name in the annals of sportsmanship. Reflecting on her achievement, Swart shared, “It was a surreal feeling. It’s quite difficult to put into words. Standing on that podium, I had tears in my eyes. I am thankful and grateful for what I have accomplished.”

Swart’s success is not just a personal triumph but also a significant milestone in her athletic journey. She views this achievement as a stepping stone to greater accomplishments on the global athletics stage, fuelling her determination to work even harder in preparation for the upcoming seasons.

The moment Swart and Vancardo came to Moussa’s aid during the race was a testament to their compassion and sportsmanship. Swart described the scene, saying, “In that race, one could see Soudi-Thasmy gave it all she had. She collapsed out of pure exhaustion. Once we picked her up, I told her to just look around, to look at the crowd and see the amazing opportunity she just had.”

Swart’s response exemplifies the values of empathy and camaraderie that are deeply embedded in the world of sports. She and her fellow athletes demonstrated that competition is not just about winning; it’s also about supporting one another, especially in high-pressure situations like international competitions.

Swart’s journey as a student-athlete at the University of Pretoria is marked by dedication and perseverance. She began her athletic career at the age of sixteen, and in 2021, she embarked on her academic pursuits at UP while competing on a national level. In 2023, Swart made her breakthrough on the international stage.

She attributes her success as a student-athlete to the unwavering support of her coach, Ilze Wicksell, and the flexibility offered by the University. UP has accommodated her schedule, allowing her to balance her medical studies with her athletic endeavours.

Swart’s commitment to fair play and sportsmanship is deeply rooted in her experience as a middle-distance runner. She recognises the hard work and dedication that every athlete puts into their training and respects the effort it takes to compete at prestigious events like the World University Games.

“Fair Play” for Swart is not just a concept; it’s a way of embodying respect, kindness, and integrity in sports. She believes that without fair play, sports would lose its essence and become a mere spectacle for spectators.

As a role model in the world of sports, Swart carries a sense of responsibility to inspire aspiring athletes and students at the University of Pretoria. She believes that sportsmanship is the cornerstone of competitive sports, promoting fairness, respect, empathy, and integrity.

Swart’s message to young athletes is clear: “We can inspire other students to have healthier lifestyles, to be more compassionate, and to show respect and empathy towards our peers from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.”

Swart’s future holds ambitious goals, both in her studies and her athletic pursuits. She aspires to excel in her medical studies while continuously improving her athletic performance. Her vision for promoting fair play and sportsmanship includes fostering friendships worldwide and extending a helping hand to fellow athletes in need, she says.

Her remarkable journey from the track to the medical field exemplifies the power of compassion, sportsmanship, and dedication and her story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that excellence in sport goes hand in hand with integrity and humanity.

Images and source: UP

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Law student Ms Khululekile Cele started boxing for fun but having done so well in earning a Prestige Sports Scholarship she’s taking her time in the ring far more seriously these days.

‘I was in Grade 10 when I decided to take up boxing,’ said Cele. ‘I was simply doing it for fun until I took part in a competition in Pietermaritzburg. It was my first fight and I was chosen as the best boxer in my division at that tournament. I was honestly astonished,’ said Cele.

Building on that success, Cele of Port Shepstone continued competing and winning fights provincially and nationally right through high school. Fast-forward to today and Cele is the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Women’s 60kg Boxing Champion.

‘I competed in the USSA games in 2021 and not only won all my fights but also got the award for the best bout in my division – lightweight (60kg) – and was subsequently selected to represent South Africa overseas at Samsun in Turkiye at the International University Sports Federation at Ondokuz Mayis University last year. It was because of this achievement that UKZN recognised me and granted me a scholarship,’ said Cele.

Excelling in boxing is Cele’s passion but so is graduating with a Law degree and opening her own law firm. Securing a scholarship is validation that her hard work in and out of the ring is paying off.

‘I want to be an African legal practitioner, a boxer and a businesswoman – with this scholarship, anything is possible for me,’ said Cele. ‘It will change my life by reducing the financial burden of university education, allowing me to focus on my studies rather than having to do part-time work.

For me it’s not just about receiving money, rather it tells me that I am seen – especially by my family who have supported me from the beginning – as having potential and that my hard work has really paid off.’

Image and source: UKZN

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

South African singer Nobuhle releases single, Imali, with globally acclaimed Master KG.

Nobuhle was born and raised in Nkandla, in KwaZulu-Natal South Africa. Her powerful vocal talent and poetic lyrics have found themselves in the hearts of South Africans through her many genre expressions be it, Afro-pop, Afro-house, Afro-tech or Amapiano. Nobuhle has collaborated with some of the nation’s top producers such as Sun-El Musician, Caiiro & Kenza, Lemon & Herb, Shimza, De Mthuda, Josiah De Disciple, and Kabza De Small, and more, and now returns with her latest single featuring globally renowned producer royalty Master KG and introducing Caswell P.

She has also performed at some of South Africa’s biggest venues and festivals, including Kirstenbosch Gardens, and recently performed at GQ’s Best Dressed event as well as its Africa Month celebration.

This song tells the story of someone who has experienced a period of darkness and struggle in their life. It captures the emotions and challenges of going through difficult times. However, as the song progresses, it offers a glimmer of hope and a chance for redemption.

The lyrics convey the message that despite the darkness, there is an opportunity for the protagonist to rise above their circumstances and find themselves in a better position. The song’s powerful and emotive melodies, coupled with its inspiring lyrics, create a moving and uplifting anthem for anyone who has faced adversity and is seeking a brighter future.

“Working with Master KG and Casswrell P was definitely another beautiful artistic experience, both of the guys were absolutely a vibe to work with on my new single,” the singer added.

Aside from gaining fast traction on Radio Imali was also selected as Apple Music’s big 5 on Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida.

Image: Supplied

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Renowned Amapiano DJ and Producer Ntokzin announces new single Manyonyoba of his highly anticipated EP “Makubenjalo”.

The talented 24-year-old Amapiano DJ and Producer hailing from Vosloorus, Johannesburg East, has established himself as a prominent figure in the industry. Having gained recognition through collaborations with renowned super producer De Mthuda at the young age of 17, Ntokzin, alongside De Mthuda, produced the acclaimed track “Blissful-day” shortly after completing his matriculation. 

After his collaboration with De Mthuda went viral, he has been performing on some big stages in Botswana, Zimbabwe and Locally at the biggest Taung event.
At 24, Ntokzin is preparing to unveil his highly anticipated second album. “Makubenjalo”.  This 7-track EP embodies a soulful, house, and Amapiano fusion that reflects his personal growth and introspection over the years. This album is a profound meditation on the pursuit of personal freedom, inviting listeners into a sonic journey like no other.

The EP  slated for release on the 06th of October 2023,  will feature Amapiano heavyweights namely Malumnator, Russel Zuma, Macfowlen, Mashudu, Basetsana, Bontlersa, 2woshot, Mkeyz and SoulfulG.
The new single “Manyonyoba”  in collaboration with Malumnator, 2woshot, Stompiiey and Dr Thulz.

On “Manyonyoba”  Ntokzin reveals deep into different textures of dance music, riding on his new sound. The rippling electric underscoring bass guitar on Ntokzin’s production is treated to shimmering kwaito vocals on “Manyonyoba”. The amapiano sensation takes his time with drawn out melodies on the kwaito tune with the help of Malumnator, 2woshot, Stompiiey and Dr Thulz.

Pre-Add Makubenkajo on Apple Music Now and listen to Manyonyoba ft Malumnator, 2woshot, Stompiiey and Dr Thulz on all major DSPs.

Image: Supplied

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Happiness, honour, privilege and excitement were feelings that swelled up inside student Ms Zahra Jhazbhay on receiving the LC Robinson Scholarship and the T Williams Scholarship.

Currently studying for a degree in Health Sciences, Jhazbhay says the financial assistance that comes with the awards would take a lot of pressure off her. The T Williams Scholarship is awarded to the top student entering the final year of a first-degree programme, while the LC Robinson Scholarship – named after Lawrence Robinson, a former Chairman of Council – goes to the most outstanding undergraduate at UKZN.

Jhazbhay is the second daughter in the family to win the LC Robinson Scholarship. ‘My family is overjoyed – they have consistently guided and supported me on my educational journey.’

Jhazbhay thanked her benefactors for the assistance and said she planned to continue studying at UKZN, using knowledge and skills gained from her Health Sciences degree to make meaningful contributions to underserved local communities.

While the unwavering backing, motivation and affection from her family serve as her driving forces, especially during challenging academic moments, she emphasised the role of prayer and divine will in her achievements.

She said diligence and consistency were vital in achieving success with key factors being effective time management, maintaining a positive outlook and determination.

Jhazbhay, the youngest of three siblings, comes from a close-knit family. Her elder brother holds a BSc in Electrical Engineering and her sister a BPharmacy degree – both from UKZN.

Outside of academics, she enjoys reading, writing, and exploring new languages.

Image and source: UKZN

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Meet Dr Lettah Sikhosana, who at just 27, obtained a PhD in Education from the University of South Africa which she completed in record time of two years.

Due to financial difficulties, she used to work as a domestic worker part-time to help fund her tertiary education.

Dr Sikhosana was born and raised in Kwaggafontein C, in the Mpumalanga province. She attended school at Thubelihle Primary School, Sozilani Combined School and Mkhephuli Secondary School where she matriculated in 2012.

In 2013, when the matric results were released, she received admission to numerous universities in South Africa and decided to enroll at the University of South Africa.

With her mother being a domestic worker and her father a truck driver at the time, they had to request advances of their wages where they worked to pay the minimum registration fee, which was about R3 000 as she had no funding as a first-year student.

Against all odds, she obtained a Bachelor of Education SFET Phase with 27 distinctions, a Bachelor of Education (BEd) Honours in Environmental Education and a Master of Education in Environmental Education from the University of South Africa (Unisa).

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In 2022, at age 27, she completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education in a record time of two years from the University of South Africa.

Dr Lettah Sikhosana is currently a Lecturer and the Chair for Research and Innovation in the Department of Science and Technology Education, College of Education at the University of South Africa.

“My parents sacrificed a lot in order to provide financial assistance and support towards my studies. I moved away from home and stayed with my mother in a backroom in Centurion, where she used to work as a domestic worker. I appreciate my mother’s employers for welcoming me with open arms in their home.”

“To ensure that I could attend the Sunnyside or Muckleneuk Unisa campus daily, I would work as a domestic worker on weekends where my mother was employed and get paid an amount of R200, which I used for transportation,” said Dr Lettah Sikhosana.

Image: Instagram

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Fort Hare University’s football right-back Ngenelwa Zikhona will always remember the months leading up to her 21st.

She has been a constant force in UFH’s historic season that has seen them win the coastal stream of the Sasol Women’s League, triumph in the competition’s provincial playoff and make their long-anticipated Varsity Football debut.

Just a few days after her landmark birthday, she has arguably done more in tertiary football than most players would in an entire career.

The team’s 4-1 demolition of Executive Ladies in the Eastern Cape playoff in Komani recently has been the icing on the cake for the human movement sciences honours student, who came of age on September 10.

“It’s all down to our hard work, dedication and teamwork. I’m thrilled and proud of myself and my teammates,” she enthused.

Zikhona, who joined the Fort Hare setup last February, is a product of Engcobo Village Senior Secondary School. Back then, she would hardly have believed that she would one day play televised games and win tournaments.

The Alice university had a solid, if not brilliant, introduction to Varsity Football in Pretoria recently. They drew with UKZN and Wits before being downed by UP-Tuks and TUT in their final two matches.

Zikhona said valuable lessons had been learnt in the process. These include developing different strategies, playing in front of TV audiences and handling pressure on the big stage.

The experience forced them to identify their strengths and weaknesses in order to fine-tune their approach, she explained, while having to mark top players like World Cup star Wendy Shongwe had been invaluable.

The defender found there were differences between Varsity Football and the Sasol league. The tertiary competition was generally a faster game, while having more experienced footballers in the Sasol competition meant a range of styles and strategies was on display.

As to her own form, she felt that she had developed a lot in terms of skills like passing and tackling. “I have become more refined and consistent. I also have a better understanding of positioning and of my role within different formations.”

Zikhona also believed that her on-field decision-making – such as choosing the right pass, when to press and when to hold back – had improved. A good right-back should be able to make strong tackles, mark well and have the ability to read the game defensively, she said.

“They need to know when to push forward and when to hold their position.” The squad are now on a two-week hiatus before their focus turns to the all-important Sasol league national playoffs, where spots in the prestigious Hollywoodbets Super League are up for grabs.

“This is our best moment. We need to enjoy every bit of it and to do that we need to play with focus and determination,” Zikhona said. “This is what we have been dreaming about since the beginning of the season. Teams will be ready. We too will fight to the end.”

Image and source: UFH