Naledi Aphiwe Finally Meets Chris Brown: A Dream Fulfilled for Young South African Star

Naledi Aphiwe got a special surprise gift for her 18th birthday — meeting American superstar Chris Brown.

This meeting was a dream come true for Naledi, who is featured on his album 11:11, on a song titled Shooter.

The meeting between the two singers was a heartwarming moment captured backstage of Chris’ concert at the FNB Stadium at the weekend.

“He just said he appreciates me. Thank you so much Breezy for everything, [I] appreciate you too, I had the best birthday ever,” Naledi wrote when reflecting on the encounter.


 

 

 

 

In October 2022, Chris gushed over how “incredible” Naledi’s voice was, sharing a video of her singing.

Previously speaking to TshisaLIVE, Naledi revealed she was paid $3,000 (R56,207) for the feature.

“Chris did what I would have never done. There are many people who are talented outside and he chose a child from a small city like mine. I appreciate him so much. People who didn’t know anything about Naledi Aphiwe today know her. It has changed my home situation. Everything is good now,” she said.

“First I want to buy a new phone so I can carry on making content and push my music. I also want to go to my mom’s grave to fix it for thanksgiving since we weren’t able to do things the way we wanted when we buried her last year.”

Get to know Beauty from Gomora

Get to know Beauty from Gomora

Siyasanga Papu is a South African actress best known for her role as Beauty in Mzansi Magic’s Gomora drama series. She rose to prominence after portraying Nomathemba in the supernatural drama series The Herd. What is your level of familiarity with her?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
She has captured the hearts of many people in her country and throughout the world over the years. She has made a lot of waves in her career as an actor.
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Siyasanga was born on July 14, 1986, in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. This is also her hometown. She has not offered any information about her parents or siblings.

She attended Hoerskoole Elandspoort between 2000 and 2004 for her high school education. Later on, she enrolled in a course in filmmaking at Damelin between 2005 and 2006.

Siyasanga has had a broad spectrum in the entertainment industry. She is one of the most talented South African vocalists and actresses.

She gained popularity after starring as Nomathemba in Mzansi Magic’s supernatural drama series The Herd. Following her recurring role in season one, she was elevated to leading cast in season two in 2019.

She appeared in an NPA production called Speakout Against Abuse between 2007 and 2008. The concert was geared for young school children and took place at the Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria, South Africa.

Papu appeared in the corporate theatrical performance Ag Man Nee Man near the end of 2008. On World Aids Day, the performance was for a small and private workplace gathering. Siyasanga portrayed an HIV-positive cleaner.

In 2010, she played the mothering hippo in the stage musical, Jock of the Bushveld, which took place at Joburg Theatre. This performance was followed by various production roles that were staged at the National Children’s Theatre.

Apart from acting in films and theater, Papu also doubles up as a vocalist. Here are her remarks on this path of her career.

I am acting and also singing on this beautiful heart-wrenching theatre musical that is staged at the South African State Theatre; telling the hard story of the mine workers massacre that happened in 2012 as well as events leading up to the day with an overview of the aftermath of the massacre, remarked Siyasanga.

BRIEFLY
A majority of mothers take great pride in their kids and do anything to be around them and make them feel loved. Siyasanga is no exception. She takes as much time as possible to show love to her daughter.

Coming Up Next On #SkeemSaam 30 December 3 January 2024

Coming Up Next On #SkeemSaam
Monday 30 December 2024
Episode 131
Moss comes in to rescue Pretty from Phomolo. Mapitsi has an opportunity to go to Cape Town but will her husband agree?


 

Tuesday 31 December 2024
Episode 132
Pretty is a marked target, and might not see 2025 after all. Tbose and Mapitsi act to spite each other. As the boys prepare to ring in the new year, Charles gives them a stern reminder about the importance of consent.
Wednesday 1 January 2025
Episode 133
The Maputlas are stunned by Mapitsi’s sudden change in behaviour. Charles is deeply unsettled by a prophecy that was revealed to him. Nkosi realizes that he’s been playing the hero for the wrong person.
Thursday 2 January 2025
Episode 134
Petersen beats Phomolo at his own game. Mapitsi contemplates a trip to Cape Town, despite her husband’s possible disapproval. Letetswe offers reassurance to Charles about his parenting abilities.
Friday 3 January 2025
Episode 135
Phomolo threatens to derail Pretty’s law career unless she submits to his demands. Tbose is challenged to let go of his old-fashioned ways.

Houseofzwide Pearl & Msizi playing a game .Who thinks these two are meant to be ?

Houseofzwide Pearl & Msizi playing a game .Who thinks these two are meant to be ?Coming up on #HouseofZwide this January 2025:

Wednesday 1 January 2025
Episode 123

Mampho panics after Thato reveals that Laz now suspects that she has been passing off his designs as her own. Ona tells the Molapos that Mampho is on the verge of being exposed for cheating.

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday 2January 2025
Episode 124

Ayanda changes her mind and decides to give Msizi another chance after hearing from Harriet how the abuse Msizi suffered in his childhood impacted on his decision to remove himself from Ayanda’s life.

Friday 3 January 2025
Episode 125

An anxious Msizi’s lunch date with Harriet and Ayanda gets off to a shaky start but improves after Msizi manages to make Ayanda smile. Father and daughter then both agree to start their relationship on a blank slate.

Monday 6 January 2025
Episode 126

Msizi is overjoyed when Ayanda accepts his invitation to visit the collective with him. However, Harriet worries that the growing relationship between the two could end in pain and disappointment for Ayanda.

Tuesday 7 January 2025
Episode 127

An excited Mampho tells Maria that she is looking forward to her trip to France now that the scandal is behind her. She asks Sandile not to tell Soka about the scandal as it could jeopardise their relationship.

Wednesday 8 January 2025
Episode 128

Harriet is annoyed when Ayanda announces she is going to Msizi so she can spend her day at Zwide mansion doing her assignment since she doesn’t have access to the internet at home.

Thursday 9 January 2025
Episode 129

After being confronted by Soka about the cheating scandal, Mampho pleads that it was the only way she could have made it into the collective. She vows to never do something like that again.

Friday 10 January 2025
Episode 130

After a frosty encounter with Laz, Palesa changes her mind about staying at the collective, and tells Nkosi that she will leave the collective on condition that they give her R300,000.

Monday 13 January 2025
Episode 131

Msizi reveals to Pearl that he managed to make peace with Harriet and now has access to his daughter thanks to Pearl’s advice. He offers Pearl a romantic get-away for just the two of them.

Tuesday 14 January 2025
Episode 132

Palesa finally leaves the collective but not before telling the other staff members about the unfair treatment she got from Nkosi. She later runs into Shoki and tries to get under her skin.

Wednesday 15 January 2025
Episode 133

Pearl is put off when Msizi turns down her offer to have lunch with him because he wants to paint Harriet’s house. Meanwhile, Harriet has doubts about Ayanda’s suggestion that they invite Msizi to the Dean’s list dinner.

Thursday 16 January 2025
Episode 134

Keletso is upset that Rea visited Ona in a dream instead of her, as she was Rea’s biological daughter. Ona ends up comforting Keletso as she sobs.

Friday 17 January 2025
Episode 135

Msizi is reminded by Faith that he missed breakfast with Pearl and that it appears he didn’t tell Pearl about Ayanda’s ‘varsity dinner. Msizi then frantically tries to get in touch with Pearl and she ignores his call.

Monday 20 January 2025
Episode 136

Isaac announces to the family that they need to choose a tombstone for Rea’s unveiling. Ona offers to design one while Molefe turns to Dorothy for emotional support as he grieves for Rea.

Tuesday 21 January 2025
Episode 137

Coming Up Next On #etvSmokeAndMirrors 30: 3December 2024

Coming Up Next On #etvSmokeAndMirrors
Monday 30 December 2024
Episode 186
Caesar’s angry that Thandiswa is making no progress, and looks for a second opinion. Jaxon plans to propose at the New Year’s Eve party, and Mlamuli drowns his sorrows.
Tuesday 31 December 2024
Episode 187


 

As the New Year’s Eve Party kicks off, Jaxon panics when he loses the engagement ring and is thrilled when Magolide finds it. Jaxon proposes to Martha and is utterly humiliated when she turns him down.
Wednesday 1 January 2025
Episode 188
Jaxon is the town’s laughing stock. He is distraught when Martha cannot be found. She returns to reset their romance. Ndosh teaches Fanyana to clone credit cards. He goes on a shopping spree.
Thursday 2 January 2025
Episode 189
When Mpendulo and Nomeva pay Thandiswa a visit, Nomeva picks up on Thandiswa’s reluctance to go home, but Thandiswa won’t confide in her about her fears.
Friday 3 January 2025
Episode 190
Ndosh proposes targeting Jaxon and Martha’s credit cards, but Fanyana hesitates. His perspective shifts dramatically after witnessing Jaxon’s mistreatment of Mandla.

Chaos and Celebration: The Rollercoaster of Maputla and Seakamela’s Lives

The past few months have been nothing short of a whirlwind for Skeem Saam fans, with drama, chaos, and surprising celebrations captivating our screens. From financial turmoil in the Maputla household to joyous news in the Seakamela family, the rollercoaster continues to keep us hooked.

### The Maputla Household in Crisis

 

 

 
It all began when Tbose made an ambitious decision to elevate his family’s lifestyle. Upgrading to a larger house and purchasing flashy new cars seemed like a dream come true. However, this dream quickly turned into a nightmare when the couple found themselves struggling to keep up with their newfound expenses. With mounting bills and rising tension, the Maputla household was plunged into financial chaos.

In the face of this turmoil, Mapitsi stepped up as the breadwinner. While taking on this responsibility showcased her strength, it also created new challenges. Seeking solace, Mapitsi confided in her sister, Sonti, about their struggles. Unfortunately, this private conversation soon became public knowledge within the family, thanks to Sonti’s inability to keep the matter confidential.

The situation reached its boiling point during the Maputlas’ Christmas lunch. Instead of festive cheer, the gathering was overshadowed by family tensions. Tbose was met with harsh criticism from Mapitsi’s family, who shamed him for failing to be the primary provider. To make matters worse, Mapitsi’s brother, emboldened by the holiday spirits, declared that Mapitsi owned the house and had provided the meal on the table. The awkward confrontation only deepened the rift between the families, leaving the household in disarray.

### A Ray of Hope in the Seakamela Family

While chaos reigned in the Maputla household, the Seakamela family had reasons to celebrate. Lizzy, a beloved member of the family, announced her pregnancy—not with one baby, but twins! This joyous news brought immense happiness to MaNtuli, who had long yearned for grandchildren.

However, in true Skeem Saam fashion, happiness is often accompanied by looming uncertainty. Fans are left wondering whether Lizzy’s pregnancy journey will be smooth or fraught with complications. Will she deliver healthy twins, or will tragedy strike? The anticipation keeps viewers on edge, eagerly awaiting the next twist in her story.https://

### The Unfolding Drama

As the Maputlas grapple with financial struggles and strained family dynamics, the Seakamela household remains a beacon of hope. The juxtaposition of these two storylines showcases the unpredictability that keeps audiences coming back for more. From moments of heartbreak to glimmers of joy, Skeem Saam continues to reflect the highs and lows of life with gripping storytelling.

### What’s Next?

As we wait to see how these storylines unfold, one thing is certain: the drama is far from over. What’s in store for Tbose, Mapitsi, and Lizzy? Will the Maputlas overcome their challenges, and will the Seakamelas experience uninterrupted joy?

Lethabo Mekoa, Who Plays Ntswaki, Fired from Skeem Saam Following Pitsi’s Exit

In a surprising turn of events, Skeem Saam has let go of yet another beloved character. Lethabo Mekoa, who played the role of Ntswaki, has been fired from the popular South African soapie. This comes shortly after the departure of Pitsi, a character portrayed by Katlego Danke’s son, sparking rumors and discussions among fans. The exits of both actors are said to be linked to unresolved payment disputes with the show’s producers.

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**Departure Sparks Shock Among Fans**

Lethabo Mekoa’s sudden departure has left fans shocked and disappointed. Known for her engaging portrayal of Ntswaki, Mekoa had built a loyal following on the show. The firing of two actors in such a short time has not only upset viewers but also ignited discussions on social media about the behind-the-scenes challenges actors face, particularly concerning remuneration and contractual negotiations.

The back-to-back firings have left fans wondering how these characters’ exits will be handled in the storyline and whether more changes are on the way. Social media has been buzzing with fans voicing their discontent, with many demanding greater transparency about how actors are treated in the industry. The firings have also fueled speculation about broader issues within the show’s production team.https://www.instagram.com/p/C_k69yDtXvT/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

**Payment Disputes at the Heart of Exits**

Although the exact details surrounding the payment disputes remain undisclosed, industry insiders suggest that salary negotiations played a significant role in the decision to let both actors go. Payment disagreements are not uncommon in the

television industry, and it seems that both Lethabo Mekoa and the actor playing Pitsi were unable to reach a satisfactory agreement with the show’s producers.

These disputes highlight the ongoing challenges faced by actors in South Africa’s entertainment industry, where compensation issues often go unresolved. The firings have sparked a wider conversation about the need for fair treatment and negotiation rights for actors, as well as better communication between production companies and their cast members.
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**Fans Call for Transparency and Fair Treatment**

As the story unfolds, Skeem Saam’s producers have yet to make an official statement addressing the firings of Lethabo Mekoa and Pitsi. This silence has only intensified the speculation, with fans eagerly waiting to see how the show will address the sudden departures of these characters. Many viewers have taken to social media to express their concerns, calling for more transparency regarding how actors are compensated and the need for improved working conditions within the industry.

The firings of Mekoa and Pitsi have left a gap in the storyline, raising questions about what direction Skeem Saam will take moving forward. The absence of these characters will undoubtedly impact the dynamics of the show, and viewers are keen to see how the writers will handle these sudden changes.

As Skeem Saam continues to entertain its dedicated audience, the unexpected exits of key characters like Ntswaki and Pitsi serve as a reminder of the complexities faced by actors behind the scenes. With fans calling for change, it remains to be seen whether the show’s producers will address these concerns and provide the transparency that the audience is demanding.

For now, viewers will have to stay tuned to see how Skeem Saam navigates this challenging period and what lies ahead for the beloved soapie.

Inside Wendy Mbatha’s Beautiful Baby Shower

Nomzamo Mbatha, a South African actress, provided her sister Wendy Mbatha, with a memorable pregnancy experience by arranging a surprise gender reveal party for her.
Inside Nomzamo Mbatha’s sister Wendy Mbatha’s gender reveal party
Wendy Mbatha is a social media influencer and entrepreneur. Wendy took to social media to share the experience and wrote a message expressing gratitude to the award-winning actress.

 

 

 

 

 

 
“Thank you so much for pushing me from doing my photoshoot to you throwing this beautiful Gender Reveal for me♥️ This whole Journey has been blissful all because you’ve been there ngokomoya if you are not the country but your presence and support has been amazing. Thank you so much for uthando oluyisimangaliso ongipha lona. Ngikuthanda ngenhliziyo yami yonke sthandwa somphefumulo wami,” wrote Wendy

Pearl Modiadie and her partner celebrate Christmas in the US

Pearl Modiadie and her partner celebrate Christmas in the USSouth African actress and television presenter Pearl Modiadie celebrated Christmas in Georgia, USA, with her partner, sharing heartfelt moments with her followers on social media.

“I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. Here’s a little glimpse into mine with my second family,” she wrote, offering fans a peek into her festive celebrations.

 

 

 

 

Pearl also revealed her growing affection for cats, hinting at a possible new role as a pet owner. “2025 might just be the year I become a cat mom 🐾🤭. From fear to seriously considering adoption—my boy would love it! Okay, I’m still giving it a lot of thought, but these little furballs have completely stolen my heart,” she admitted.

To conclude her post, Pearl shared a Bible verse, Matthew 5:14-16: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Kairo Forbes Faces Backlash Over Ackermans Ad Campaign

Kairo Forbes, the young daughter of DJ Zinhle and the late rapper AKA, has found herself at the center of controversy following her appearance in Ackermans’ latest advertising campaign. As a rising influencer and the face of the brand for several months, Kairo’s inclusion has sparked significant debate about privilege, representation, and fairness in South Africa’s advertising landscape.

## Praise and Criticism for Kairo’s Campaign

 

 

 

 
While some praised Kairo for her growing success and applauded Ackermans for partnering with a recognizable figure, others were less supportive. Critics argued that Kairo, as a child of privilege, does not represent the lived experiences of Ackermans’ typical customer base.

Social media platforms were abuzz with divided opinions. One user wrote, “Kairo is undeniably adorable and talented, but we must question why brands continue to overlook underprivileged children who better represent the majority of Ackermans’ customers.”

Others echoed this sentiment, pointing out that Kairo’s affluent background contrasts sharply with the struggles faced by many South African families who shop at Ackermans.

## Representation and Relatability in Advertising

The debate goes beyond Kairo’s role in the campaign and delves into broader issues of representation. Critics believe that brands like Ackermans, which cater primarily to working-class families, should focus on showcasing relatable faces that resonate with their primary audience.

One vocal critic stated, “This campaign feels disconnected. Most of Ackermans’ customers are rural grandmothers buying uniforms for their grandchildren with SASSA cards. Featuring privileged kids like Kairo feels tone-deaf.”https://twitter.com/MDNnewss/status/1873235769596195137?s=19

The inclusion of Kairo also raised concerns about whether brands are prioritizing star power over genuine representation. Some argued that using relatable figures could foster stronger emotional connections with customers and better reflect the realities of their lives.

## Broader Implications

This controversy has highlighted a recurring tension in South Africa’s advertising industry—whether to feature aspirational figures who attract attention or relatable individuals who mirror the audience’s experiences. For some, Kairo’s presence symbolizes a missed opportunity to empower underrepresented children.

Others, however, defended Ackermans’ choice, arguing that Kairo’s popularity can draw more visibility to the brand, ultimately benefiting its campaigns. Supporters also pointed out that Kairo’s family legacy and talent justify her selection, regardless of her background.

## Ackermans Yet to Respond

As the debate continues to trend online, Ackermans has yet to address the controversy. Whether the brand will issue a statement or adjust its future campaigns remains unclear.

This incident has undoubtedly sparked important conversations about privilege, representation, and inclusivity in marketing. For now, it remains a reminder of the delicate balance brands must strike to resonate with their audiences while staying true to their values.