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BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Generations: The Legacy is proud to welcome Aubrey Poo to the growing list of stars on Mzansi’s longest running soapie. Aubrey brings a wealth of performance experience to our show, having starred in numerous productions on-screen and on-stage.

The multi-talented Aubrey is sure to bring the natural charm and elegance he exudes to the role of Khumo Moroka. He is a perfect fit for the role, as Khumo is a high-powered scion of the Moroka family, responsible for running their mining operations. Aubrey’s ability to play the scheming villain, with a disarming smile and cunning guile, will no doubt shine through as Khumo reaches for his vaulting ambition.

Generations: The Legacy also announced that the legendary Rapulana Seiphemo will reprise his role as Tau Mogale alongside Connie Ferguson – who will play the nations’ forever crush, Karabo Moroka. These two need no introduction and we are sure the chemistry, class and panache that we have become accustomed to will shine through once again.

Viewers can look forward to a blooming spring and hot summer as the drama, scheming and betrayal intensifies when these three powerhouses light up our screens from Mid-September. Viewers are in for a major shake-up as family beefs, love triangles and boardroom battles explode.

Image: Supplied

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Dr. Tatenda Mapeto is an esteemed educator, scientist, and subject expert with a profound understanding of global forest processes in connection to sustainable forest management and planning. Teaching university courses in forest planning and forest resource accounting, Dr. Mapeto specializes in tree production systems within the context of Sub-Saharan Africa.

Dr. Mapeto’s research areas encompass the investigation of land use impacts on catchment hydrology, as well as the quantitative and evaluative aspects of biophysical, social, and economic resources within tree systems. With a wealth of experience in tree growth and yield modeling, as well as forest stand enumeration procedures, Dr. Mapeto possesses comprehensive knowledge in these fields.

Moreover, Dr. Mapeto is well-versed in employing various technologies to quantify and qualify processes in the hydrologic cycle, such as transpiration, evapotranspiration, and groundwater recharge. Her proficiency extends to the application of process-based models to inform sustainable water resource management.

Adapting to modern teaching methodologies, Dr. Mapeto has designed and delivered forest courses tailored for blended and online learning approaches. Her expertise extends beyond academia, as she has collaborated with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and honed her lobbying skills as an advocate for children and youth, working under the United Nations’ auspices.

Dr. Mapeto is known for her exceptional science communication skills, effectively communicating complex scientific concepts through various channels, both in the scientific community and popular media. This versatile individual is passionate, task-oriented, and innovative, consistently seeking opportunities to address new challenges and contribute to projects that foster sustainable development.

Specializing in several key areas, including forest growth and yield regulation, forest stand enumeration, and valuation, as well as forest hydrology research focusing on land use-catchment impacts, Dr. Mapeto also excels in workshop facilitation, youth engagement, teaching, and qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis, particularly with a specialization in software such as R, STATISTICA, and ATLAS.

Additionally, her experience includes the mentorship and development of graduate students in related fields.

Image: LinkedIn

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

South African Pop singer/songwriter and producer, CHXRL, releases his single and lyric video for his new track Good Enough in the build-up to his EP hopeless&romantic.

Good Enough is instantly memorable in its Pop catchiness with really skillful production from CHXRL.

He reveals: “Good Enough revolves around the constant battle with mental turmoil that holds you back in life. It’s about my struggle with dissociation and anxiety and how it sometimes can feel like, no matter what you do or try to solve it – it’s never good enough. It’s about coming to terms with the fact, that even with constant external support and reassurance from family and friends, it is a battle that you have to fight, and ultimately win, on your own.”

Good Enough is taken off his upcoming EP hopeless&romantic set for release on 8 September 2023 on all digital platforms.

“It’s a coming-of-age EP, a journal of the growing pains of being a careless 17-year-old to being transported to navigating your early 20s, in what feels like a blink of an eye. From losing a soulmate, bone-chilling heartbreak, internal battles with yourself, and learning to love every part of who you are,” shares CHXRL.

Image: Supplied

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

A blissfully unaware Chuma will have his world turned upside down when he learns the truth about his “son’s” paternity. A child is usually a cause for celebration. But this particular bundle of joy brought just the opposite to the Sokhulu family. 

A disgruntled Nomcebo couldn’t wait to burst Chuma’s bubble and spill the beans about Ifalethu’s paternity. With the Sokhulus now aware of the secret, Nolitha has no choice but to confess and confirm that Khaya is indeed the biological father of the child. This leaves Chuma ablaze with fury and he wastes no time in attacking his brother. Nomsa is quick on her feet and acts as a human shield to protect Khaya. 

In the midst of his emotional turmoil, Chuma hatches a plot to abduct Ifalethu. The family is shattered, terrified that he will harm the child. Tension rises as the Sokhulus find Chuma and the child at Nomcebo’s house. Chuma has his gun out ready to kill, will it be the child, or the brother who betrayed him? 

Catch Isitha -The Enemy weeknights at 9.30 PM on e.tv

Image: Supplied

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Tuks Lifesaving star Ockert van Schalkwyk has enjoyed great success since he started lifesaving seven years ago. Yet, his exploits in the swimming pool and international experience as a competitor show his true worth as a seasoned campaigner for South Africa.

This has seen the 23-year-old become a regular fixture in the green and gold while also competing fiercely in the pool for his club,Tuks at the annual DHL LSA National Champs in Gqeberha.

Ockert specialises in the super lifesaver pool event, and one of his biggest highlights was when he finished as a finalist in three events at the 2019 Commonwealth Games in Leeds. He competed for the President’s team on two occasions – in Spain, where he was a two-time finalist.

Ockert and the South African Team are in preparations for the 2023 RLSS Commonwealth Lifesaving Championships taking place from 13-17 September in Windsor, Canada.

Image: LinkedIn

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Simone Cooper, a seasoned professional in the financial services sector, has carved a remarkable career path at one of the country’s biggest banks by rising above the noise and breaking barriers along the way. With her strong leadership, resilience, and commitment to empowering women, Simone has not only achieved personal success but has also had a significant impact on the company’s success and the advancement of women in the workplace.

Simone’s introduction to the financial services sector was not by design but rather a fortuitous discovery. While studying Commerce at university, she was drawn to Standard Bank’s renowned graduate programme. This decision set the stage for a diverse and fulfilling career within the institution with roles spanning the consumer and business banking segments and risk management.

These experiences have exposed her to the complex problems faced by African businesses and the challenging environments they operate within. Through fresh thinking and innovative solutions, Simone has honed her skills as a problem solver, critical thinker, and integrator, while developing resilience in the face of adversity.

“To rise above the noise and get to where I am today in my career, took resilience. I understood early on that working for a financial institution is no easy feat, we operate in a very challenging environment that could become overwhelming; however, with the right mindset and attitude, you learn to build resilience and keep going. No matter the challenge, you rise to the occasion to try and find a solution”.

Rising above the noise

For Simone, rising above the noise means overcoming negativity and transforming the seemingly impossible into reality. She has applied this mindset throughout her career, understanding that the financial services industry, with its strict regulatory environment and myriad of challenges, requires unwavering resilience. Simone believes that it is particularly important for women in leadership positions to rise above the noise because they are often underestimated due to gender biases.

By refusing to let negativity and assumptions hold them back, women can unlock their true potential and contribute their incredible creativity and innovation to the world.

In Simone’s view, rising above the noise in the context of empowering women in the workplace involves dispelling biased beliefs about women’s capabilities as leaders. By providing support and creating opportunities for women, organisations can empower them to achieve outstanding results, thereby challenging the narrative and promoting equality.  Simone has personally witnessed the benefits of having empowered women in her organisation. The most successful organisations embrace diversity, and empowering women brings unique perspectives, fresh thinking, and innovative solutions to the table. With women in leadership roles, Standard Bank has built a competitive advantage, attracting and retaining significant market share.

“I think it’s most important for women in leadership to “rise above the noise” since women are often underestimated due to our inherent “softness and compassion” that is wrongfully assumed to be a weakness. It’s actually one of our greatest strengths, but if women let the negativity and those kinds of assumptions get to them, then they will never realise their true potential and what they are capable of.”

Vulnerability and empathy in leadership

Vulnerability and empathy, according to Simone, play crucial roles in effective leadership. To create a successful team that is collectively focused on a common purpose, trust among team members is essential. Simone fosters this trust by demonstrating vulnerability and empathy in her own leadership style. By being transparent, and seeking different perspectives, she cultivates an environment where every team member feels comfortable and valued. This approach allows for the effective leveraging of each team member’s strengths, leading to optimal performance and the achievement of Standard Bank’s purpose of driving Africa’s growth.

“Excellent leadership is all about getting the best out of people and enabling individuals to come together and work as a team, collectively focused and  driven to achieve a common purpose. To me, vulnerability and empathy are traits that build the foundation of  trust which results in effective teamwork. If individuals do not feel safe to be vulnerable and trust their colleagues, then they will not contribute wholeheartedly and work as a unit.”

Advice to younger women

Reflecting on her own journey, Simone would advise her younger self to be kinder and less self-critical. While competitiveness and striving for excellence are important, it is equally important to learn from others and recognise that not being the best at everything is acceptable.

To young women embarking on their careers, Simone advises them not to be afraid to carve their own paths and break the mould. Bravery and embracing unique perspectives are key to achieving great things in life.

For women aspiring to leadership roles in male-dominated industries, Simone encourages them to believe in themselves, invest in their own development, and not  be  swayed by prejudiced opinions. By focusing on their ambitions, drowning out negativity, and proving their capabilities, women can earn their place as leaders and gain the respect of their male counterparts. In doing so, they pave the way for future generations of women leaders.

“There are many women who have come before us and helped change the way women are viewed and treated over time. We have earned our seat at the table, and young women should never be afraid to break the mould, speak up and do things differently.”

Simone Cooper’s journey serves as a powerful testament to rising above the noise, embracing diversity, and empowering women in leadership. Through her resilience, compassion, and determination, Simone has become a role model and catalyst for positive change within Standard Bank and the financial services industry.

“Women have so much to offer, and if we let the nay-sayers win then we do a huge disservice to the teams we lead, to our country and to our continent. Let us ‘rise above the noise’ and shape the world for our future daughters.”

Image: LinkedIn

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Glencore Ferroalloys continues to maintain its social license to operate and change the lives of its communities for the better through its sanitary dignity campaign. The campaign which began two years ago, sought to ensure that the girl child does not miss a day of school during her reproductive cycle.

It is against this background that a partnership with the Imbumba Foundation was formed. This foundation is a renowned non-profit organisation dedicated to driving social change. Together, the two entities are committed to making a difference in the lives of underprivileged girls in rural communities across Limpopo and Rustenburg by addressing the critical issue of access to sanitary products.

From July 19 to August 7, 2023, the two partners commemorated their commitment to empowering and uplifting over 12 000 young girls by donating over 146 000 packets of sanitary towels to 64 schools in areas surrounding Glencore’s operations by the end of the year 2023 in Limpopo and North West.

The distributions were also joined by Clement Maosa, popularly known as ‘Kwaito’ from the SABC 1 Soap opera ‘Skeem Saam’. Maosa, who is also from a rural village in Limpopo, shared his story to empower both boy and girl learners on the importance of following their dreams, working hard, and never giving up.

Globally there are non-profit organizations, government support programs, local community organizations, schools and universities, online platforms and crowdfunding campaigns to ensure free access to sanitary towels. In South Africa in particular, young girls face numerous challenges with effectively managing their menstrual hygiene.

Lack of access to affordable and hygienic sanitary products often leads to prolonged absences from school, which ultimately hinders their educational progress and future opportunities. It is estimated that a girl child can miss up to 50 days of school each year due to this issue.
Since the start of the partnership in 2021, Glencore and Imbumba have reached over 20 000 girls in the Northwest and Limpopo provinces, ensuring that each girl is provided with sanitary pads that will last them for a full year.

The sanitary pads are sourced from Imbumba’s Caring4Girls flagship initiative, which aims to support disadvantaged girls with sanitary towels, puberty education, and menstrual hygiene resources to keep them in school. Ntombizodwa de Toit believes that by addressing the challenges faced by their communities, they can build a more inclusive and empowering future for all.

“We firmly believe that every child deserves equal access to education and opportunities. By addressing the issue of menstrual hygiene and reducing barriers to education for young girls in our host communities, we hope to create a positive and lasting impact on their lives. We are proud to have reached so many young girls through this partnership, and we are optimistic about their future. It starts with the little things to empower and create these remarkable women,” said Ntombizodwa.

Richard Mabaso, the Founder and CEO of the Imbumba Foundation, expressed the importance of having powerful and impactful partnerships that help build a future generation. “Together with Glencore, we can provide essential sanitary products to underprivileged girls, allowing them to continuously attend school and pursue their educational aspirations. Menstruation is the most natural thing to happen in human nature and should not have a stigma surrounding it; it should be a conversation freely had. With this partnership, we are empowering the next generation of female leaders,” said Mabaso.

By providing access to sanitary towels, young girls are empowered to pursue their dreams without the limitations caused by the lack of sanitary products. Glencore is committed to making a lasting impact on its communities to enable a brighter future for the country.

Images: Supplied

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Business speaker, journalist, and author, Bruce Whitfield was recently named as the ‘Best Financial Broadcaster in Africa’ at the 48th annual Sanlam Awards for Financial Journalism.

This is the continent’s longest running program recognising the best in financial reporting across multiple categories.

“It’s a critical industry which holds those in politics, business and society to account for the decisions they take which have long-term consequences for the people in whose interests they are supposed to work.
Thank you to the judges for recognising the quality of the work that I and my small team deliver daily.

As The Money Show, in its various iterations, approaches the 20th year of serving the incredible audiences of 702 and Cape Talk and thousands globally via the magic of podcasts, it is gratifying to do this work of informing, educating, and entertaining those who sacrifice some of their time and spend it with us,” Whitfield wrote.

Image: LinkedIn

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

Professor Tebogo Phetla Mashifana is an Associate Professor, Researcher, 4IR Brand Ambassador and Head of Department – Chemical Engineering at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.

She obtained a Doctor of Philosophy PhD in Civil Engineering, a Master of Science (MSc) Cum-laude in Chemical Engineering, a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) Cum-laude in Chemical Engineering, a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education, and a Certificate in Artificial Intelligence for Industry all from the University of Johannesburg. She also holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Regent Business School.

She has published more than 40 peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and book chapters. Additionally, she has received several awards including the Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Award for the promising young teacher of the year, the Dean’s Award for the top achieving staff member in the Faculty of Engineering, and the National Research Foundation (NRF) Award for Emerging Researchers.

Prof. Tebogo Mashifana is a Professional Engineering Technologist registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa.

She is a Golden Key International Honour Society Honorary member, a Goodwill Global Ambassador, an Advocate for Education and STEM, and a founding member of Dr Tebogo Mashifana and Partners Foundation, an organization focusing on community upliftment projects and youth empowerment.

Prof. Tebogo Mashifana is also a successful Entrepreneur and Innovator, she devotes her time to mentor and encourage young girls and women to pursue careers in STEM and empower them through skill transfer and human capacity development.

“I spent hours in the lab. I had to be dirty, I had to sweat. I had to do this while I was also employed full time. During the day I will be in the classroom lecturing and in the evening I will be in the lab carrying samples.”

“Being the first to arrive at the campus and the last to leave was my new normal. I worked in the lab, standing, until my feet got swollen.”

“You have to be willing to be at your lowest, to be able to rise to your higher level. Whatever your low may be, endure and embrace the process. You’re being refined and prepared to the best version of yourself,” said Prof. Tebogo Phetla Mashifana.

Image: LinkedIn

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

UJ Arts & Culture in collaboration with Vektor Productions proudly presents The New Covenant. The multi-generational UJ Choir and its alumni members equalling over 110 choristers, will raise their voices at Linder Auditorium on September 2 in celebration of Renette Bouwer’s 25-year tenure as conductor of the University of Johannesburg’s choir. The New Covenant, is a fitting send-off for Bouwer, highlighting her legacy as conductor, mentor, teacher, and friend to UJ Choir. It speaks to her hope for the future and her unwavering belief in her singers.

The New Covenant departs from Antjie Krog’s poetry which inscribes our relationship with nature, the planet and the Universe. Performed as a multi-movement mass, the work is both a prayer and a call to action that demands from man their responsibility as earth’s custodians, to care for everything that is sustainably maintained by the cosmos. 

“The strong message of this work deeply reverberates with me. With age I have become increasingly aware of our responsibility towards nature and our planet. So, for me it is the perfect work for UJ Choir and alumni to crown my career at UJ,” says Bouwer.

The New Covenant composed by Antoni Schonken is written for choir, instrumental ensemble, two pianos and a narrator. The work was translated from the original Afrikaans into English by the poet, Antjie Krog, and arranged by Pieter Bezuidenhout especially for this performance that will be narrated by artist, activist and world-renowned poet, Lebo Mashile. Also on stage are Steffie le Roux (solo), Mareli Stolp and Eugene Joubert (piano) and Magda de Vries and Wian Joubert (percussion).

“The sound palette of this work is very different from UJ Choir’s normal repertoire. Antoni Schonken did Antjie Krog’s text justice through imaginative use of both conventional and unconventional compositional techniques.

The music is constantly in service of the text. I am amazed at how the young students and alumni adapted to new and unusual textures. The juxtaposition of orthodox sacred music forms with secular texts is surely a thought-provoker.

As I contemplate my impending departure from the choir, I am content in the knowledge that I have instilled more than just artistic values in my singers; without living in harmony with each other our planet, nothing of value can be created.”

With only two performances, The New Covenant will be presented at the Linder Auditorium on 2 September at 15:00 and 19:30.

Image and source: UJ