All posts by JOHN brown

President Cyril Ramaphosa pays tribute to the late maths teacher William Smith

Cyril Ramaphosa saddened by William Smith’s passing

President Cyril Ramaphosa pays tribute to the legendary mathematics and science education innovator, William Smith.

Smith, who was born in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape, died in Perth, Australia, from advanced cancer.


 

Many recalled their childhood memories, watching the mathematics and science lessons on television after school.

In a statement, President Ramaphosa offered his condolences to the family and friends of the popular educator who passed away at 85.

“The outpouring of affection the nation directed at him when he received his National Order demonstrated, years after his retirement, [demonstrated] the place he held in people’s hearts.

“He was synonymous with The Heads of Knysna which was the backdrop to his television presentation decades before we could think of him as the first teacher to teach “remotely,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa stated that Smith made maths and science accessible to a broad audience, reaching not only learners but also their parents and anyone interested in revisiting or further exploring these subjects long after their school years.

“William Smith’s passion for his curriculum and for the success of those he taught in classrooms, at matric camps and on TV benefited millions of young South Africans even before our transition to democracy and the dawn of a new dispensation of equal education.”

Shaka Ilembe takes home top honours!

MZANSI’S TV series Shaka Ilembe, which captivated audiences in 2023, continues to make waves on the global stage.

The Septimius Awards were held from 19 to 20 August at Tuschinski in Amsterdam.

The series earned multiple awards and nominations at the prestigious international awards ceremony, with a noticeable victory for its historically authentic costume design.

Sheli Masondo, the visionary costume designer behind the series, accepted the Septimius Award for Best Costume Design.


 

 

 

Reflecting on the honour, Sheli said: “It was an incredible feeling to be recognised on an international platform and in a category alongside other talented costume designers. I didn’t expect to win, but I’m deeply grateful that we can tell our stories in our own language, showcasing our authentic traditional attire.”

The Septimius Awards celebrate global talent and innovative ideas in film and television, with categories organised by the continent to ensure diverse representation.

Sheli dedicated over a year to researching the 1700s and 1800s to ensure historical accuracy in costume design. I visited museums in KZN, scoured archives, and consulted with historians to get the period’s look just right,” she explained.

Her research led her to artisans who still craft traditional Zulu costumes, such as the Mbata, a chest guard made from animal skin worn exclusively by the Zulu royal family.

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Shaka Ilembe consumes designer Sheli Masondo at the Septimius Awards.
ALSO READ: Ex-Ukhozi FM host to do magic for Mzansi stars!

One of Sheli’s most valuable discoveries was an elder who continued to make the King’s headdress using ancient techniques, taking up to three months to complete each piece.

“It was fascinating to see how these craftsmen shaped feathers to flow differently from when a bird is flying,” Masondo shared. “I passed this knowledge on to our team of crafters.”

As a fashion school graduate, Masondo was particularly impressed by the intricate techniques used to pleat goat hide leather into skirts worn by married women of the time.

“The skirts consist of up to 500 pieces, each carefully crafted with precision,” she noted. The stitching was traditionally done with animal fibre, using a sharpened bone as a needle.

Creating the costumes for Shaka Ilembe was a spiritual experience for Sheli.

“I drew inspiration from nature, walking through empty fields, observing birds, trees, and the textures of leaves. It felt like stepping into my ancestors’ shoes,” she said.

Matshepo Maleme, a talented actress from Kasi

Rea on House of Zwide, and other soap operas like Scandal and Skeem Saam. The actress herself is actually a very sweet person.

The 44-year-old once had an interview with the Daily Sun newspaper to talk about her acting career and how she got into the industry.Speaking about Cat, she said, “She gets pleasure from seeing the next person suffer. She is manipulative, and she can love you now and hate you tomorrow.”


 

 

 

Matshepo from Pimville, Soweto, said she had never played an evil role before, but had always wondered how actors brought bad characters to life.

She first fell in love with acting when she was in primary school. After completing matric, Matshepo started going to dance auditions.

“I decided to audition for acting classes with the Market Theatre Laboratory in Joburg. They were only taking 60 people and I ended up being number 59,” she said.

“After six months at the theatre, I got my first gig on the SABC1 drama series, Bubomi Sana, playing the role of Zandi.”

She said the producers were looking for a young model who could speak Xhosa.“Although I’m short and have curves, I told myself I needed the role. I dressed up like a model for the audition and I got the job,” she said.

In 2009, she played in a movie called A Million Colors, which won her a Safta Award. “The award was proof that if you know acting is your purpose, you will be awarded,” she said.

She has been one of the talented actresses also portrayed on etvScandal, Skeem Saam, and currently she is playing Rea on House of Zwide; unfortunately, at the end of February 2024, she is leaving the show.

The most awaited Philile and Mandla finally got married, wedding bells

Caesar’s confrontation with Jaxon reveals a web of unfinished business. Sipho and his comrades stumble upon a shocking betrayal, shattering their trust.


 

Tuesday 3 September 2024
Episode 102
Phakathi realises the disappearance of Gugu means she was merely a pawn in a larger game orchestrated by the town’s power brokers.

Wednesday 4 September 2024
Episode 103
Caesar’s meeting with Bhodla introduces an unexpected twist, leading Bhodla to defy Jaxon’s desperate request to eliminate Caesar. Mamiki faces an ultimatum from Martha.

Thursday 5 September 2024
Episode 104
Caesar and Jaxon prepare for the dual. Bhodla leaves the two men to their battle and a shot is fired. Magolide dodges his landlord as he’s too broke to pay his rent.

Friday 6 September 2024
Episode 105
The duel between Jaxon and Caesar turns into a gun fight after Jaxon cheats. Thandiswa intends on taking revenge on Martha and Jaxon, should Caesar not survive.

Monday 9 September 2024
Episode 106
Jaxon and Caesar admit that they need each other and forge a new allegiance. Mandla decides to tell Philile how he feels and tries to kiss her.

Tuesday 10 September 2024
Episode 107
Thandiswa is rattled when Mpendulo tells her that Xoliswa visited his dreams, looking for Nomeva. Philile rejects Mandla’s advances and threatens to call off their marriage.

Wednesday 11 September 2024
Episode 108
Mpendulo is haunted by Xoliswa’s chilling presence, which sends shivers down his spine. Philile embarks on a bold journey to escape a forced marriage to Mandla.

Thursday 12 September 2024
Episode 109
Jaxon and Caesar find out that Nomeva is missing. Mandla professes his love for Philile, despite the family’s disapproval. The hotel is hit by a bad smell and it’s coming from Magolide.

Friday 13 September 2024
Episode 110
Philile admits her true feelings for Mandla, giving him hope. Sightings of Nomeva sends ripples through E Emnyameni, promoting a desperate race to find her.

Monday 16 September 2024
Episode 111
Phakathi’s search party stops Caesar and Jaxon from kidnapping Nomeva. Magolide begs Petunia to let him come back to work, but she says he needs to be cleansed by a sangoma.

Tuesday 17 September 2024
Episode 112
Nomeva is still unresponsive and Mamiki is unsettled by her presence. Songanga can’t help Nomeva and voices his concern, that she is under the control of an evil sangoma.

Wednesday 18 September 2024
Episode 113
Caesar visits Nomeva and Mandla is called to deliver her from the evil that possesses her. Mandla decides to get married at Home Affairs.

Thursday 19 September 2024
Episode 114
Thandiswa and Leroy search frantically when Nomeva goes missing again. She ends up at Ngcuka’s indumba where he has devious plans in store. Her disappearance also rattles Jaxon and Caesar.

Friday 20 September 2024
Episode 115
Thandiswa and Leroy entrust Mpendulo with Nomeva’s protection, a move fraught with peril as Caesar’s deadly schemes near fruition, only to be thwarted by the mysterious arrival of Ngcuka.

Monday 23 September 2024
Episode 116
Martha refuses to give Mpendulo time off to look after Nomeva. Caesar is impressed by Mpendulo’s resourcefulness. Petunia asks Martha to help Philile prepare for the wedding ceremony.

Tuesday 24 September 2024
Episode 117
Philile and Mandla’s wedding is celebrated with a surprise reception, while Magolide returns to his roots, thriving as a barman. And a heartfelt confession by Philile reveals she can’t have children.

Wednesday 25 September 2024
Episode 118
Nomeva delivers the black cockerel to Ngcuka, who then demands that she bring him a black goat. Thandiswa and Leroy worry that she’s being used for some evil witchcraft.

Thursday 26 September 2024
Episode 119
Mpendulo puts a tracking device on Nomeva. The church women insist that Philile get Martha to shut down the brothel. Sipho tries to convince Tim to report the theft of the chicken to the police.

Friday 27 September 2024
Episode 120
Sipho convinces Tim to release a video of Nomeva stealing his goat. Once the video goes viral, the whole of Emnyameni is up in arms, demanding Nomeva’s arrest.

Monday 30 September 2024
Episode 121
Tim gives in and takes Thandiswa’s money, the community finds out and are outraged. Tim is torn between the money and his standing with the community.

Revelations Arise About Zanele Mbokazi Nkambule Family’s Relationship With Mzwakhe Mbuli

The family of the late Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule has revealed that there is no bad blood between them and Mzwakhe Mbuli, despite his controversial claims about the Crown Gospel Music Awards. Mbuli had sparked debate by stating that he was the founder of the awards, which were often credited to Zanele.

Mzwakhe Mbuli and Zanele Mbokazi Nkambule Family’s Relationship sour
However, according to Zanele’s husband, Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, Mbuli’s statement has not created any tension between them.

In fact, Mbuli had sent a message of condolence to the family after Zanele’s passing and even attended her funeral to pay his respects.

This revelation has laid to rest any speculation about a feud between the two parties. Instead, it highlights the respect and admiration that Mbuli had for Zanele, who was a renowned broadcaster and gospel music promoter.

In a separate development, Zanele’s legacy continues to inspire unity and reconciliation in the gospel music industry.

The reunion of gospel duo Sgwili En Babo, who had been on bad terms for over a decade, is a testament to Zanele’s impact. The duo dedicated their reunion to Zanele’s memory, performing together at her memorial service.

Fans and friends alike have celebrated this newfound unity, looking forward to more collaborations and performances from the stars. As the gospel music community continues to mourn Zanele’s passing, her legacy lives on through the power of music and forgiveness

Uzalo Brings the He@t with New Twists and Dramatic Turns

The beloved South African soap opera Uzalo continues to captivate audiences with its intense storylines, unexpected twists, and dynamic characters. As one of the country’s most-watched TV shows, Uzalo never fails to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, and the latest developments in the show are no exception.


 

 

1. Nkunzi’s Power Struggles Intensify

Nkunzi, the notorious gangster, and one of the show’s most complex characters, is facing an uphill battle as his grip on power weakens. In recent episodes, Nkunzi has been dealing with betrayal from those closest to him, leaving him vulnerable in a world where loyalty is scarce. His once-ironclad rule over KwaMashu is being challenged like never before, and viewers are eagerly watching to see if Nkunzi can outmaneuver his enemies or if his empire will crumble.

2. Sbu’s Redemption Arc

In a surprising twist, Sbu, the comedic yet troubled character, is on a path to redemption. After a series of bad decisions and run-ins with the law, Sbu seems determined to turn his life around. However, this road is anything but smooth. His past continues to haunt him, and while he strives to make amends, the question remains: will Sbu truly change, or will he fall back into old habits? His journey is a testament to the show’s ability to blend humor with serious themes, making it a storyline to watch.

3. MaNgcobo’s Return

Fans were thrilled by the unexpected return of MaNgcobo, a character who has been central to Uzalo’s success. Her comeback has shaken things up in KwaMashu, reigniting old feuds and bringing new conflicts to the forefront. MaNgcobo’s presence has always been a catalyst for drama, and her return is no different. As she reclaims her place in the chaotic world of Uzalo, viewers are left wondering what her true intentions are and how her actions will impact those around her.

4. The Young Generation Rising

The younger characters in Uzalo are stepping into the spotlight, bringing fresh energy and new challenges to the storyline. Characters like Nonka and Njeza are navigating the complexities of love, ambition, and survival in a tough environment. Their stories resonate with many young viewers who see themselves reflected in these characters’ struggles and triumphs. With each passing episode, the younger cast members are proving that they are more than capable of carrying the show forward, adding depth and relatability to Uzalo.

5. The Love Triangle Drama

Love triangles are a staple in soap operas, and Uzalo has mastered this element to perfection. The ongoing love triangle involving Gabisile, Qhabanga, and Nomcebo has reached new levels of tension. Secrets are being uncovered, hearts are being broken, and alliances are shifting. This particular storyline is packed with emotional intensity, making it a favorite among fans who thrive on the drama of complicated relationships.6. Social Issues in Focus

Uzalo continues to address critical social issues that resonate with its audience. From crime and poverty to domestic abuse and gender dynamics, the show tackles these topics with sensitivity and realism. The writers have done an excellent job of weaving these issues into the characters’ lives, sparking conversations among viewers and encouraging a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by many in South Africa.

As Uzalo moves forward, the drama is only set to intensify. With a cast of characters who are as unpredictable as they are compelling, viewers can expect more shocking revelations, heart-wrenching moments, and, of course, plenty of drama. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the show, there’s no better time to dive into the world of Uzalo as it continues to deliver some of the most gripping storytelling on South African television.

Scandal Actress Lerato Nxumalo’s Boyfriend Reportedly Exposed as a Married Man

In a surprising twist, South African actress Lerato Nxumalo, known for her role in the popular TV show “Scandal,” finds herself at the center of a controversy that has left Mzansi in shock.

Lerato Nxumalo married to a married man
Instagram Revelations: A Double Life?

Lerato Nxumalo’s relationship with her boyfriend has been under public scrutiny after an Instagram page surfaced, showcasing photos of him with his wife. This revelation has raised eyebrows, especially considering Lerato’s previous claims that her boyfriend is solely devoted to her.

 

 

 

Lerato’s Public Affection and the Instagram Drama
Lerato Nxumalo has never shied away from sharing her romantic moments with her boyfriend on social media. Her Instagram feed is filled with pictures of the couple, accompanied by captions expressing her love and admiration for him. She often boasts about how he spoils her and how deeply he loves her.

Lerato Nxumalo and her husband
However, the recent discovery of an Instagram account that features photos of her boyfriend with another woman, who is reportedly his wife, has sparked outrage among fans and followers. The account not only shows intimate moments between the two but also highlights their life together, leaving many to question the authenticity of Lerato’s relationship.

Mzansi Reacts: A Divided Opinion
The news has caused a stir on social media, with many people expressing their shock and disbelief. Some fans have come to Lerato’s defense, arguing that she might not have been aware of her boyfriend’s marital status. Others, however, have criticized her for flaunting her relationship without knowing the full story.

The incident has also led to discussions about the pressure celebrities face to maintain a perfect image on social media. Many have pointed out the dangers of putting one’s personal life on display for the world to see, especially when the truth can easily be uncovered.

What’s Next for Lerato Nxumalo?
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Lerato Nxumalo will respond to the allegations. Will she address the rumors head-on, or will she choose to keep her private life out of the spotlight moving forward? Only time will tell how this scandal will impact her career and public image.

For now, fans and followers can only speculate as they await further developments.

#LeratoNxumaloScandal and #CelebrityRelationships have become trending hashtags as the drama unfolds, with many eager to see how this story will play out.

Things You Didn’t Know About Melokuhle from Generations

In the vibrant world of South African television, few shows have captured the hearts of viewers quite like Generations. Among its talented cast is Sibusisiwe Kondleka, who portrays Melokuhle, a school-going teenager grappling with the complexities of family dynamics, friendship, and the myriad challenges that come with adolescence. This role marks a significant milestone in Kondleka’s career, showcasing her talent and dedication to the craft of acting.


 

 

 

 

 

 

The Character of Melokuhle
Melokuhle is a multifaceted character who embodies the struggles many teenagers face today. Living with her aunt, who is battling asbestosis due to nearby mining activities, Melokuhle’s life is a blend of hardship and resilience. Her character’s weaknesses—struggling under pressure and an inability to keep secrets—add depth to her narrative, making her relatable to young viewers. The friendship dynamics with Nontle Majola, played by Bantu Petse, further highlight the complexities of teenage relationships, illustrating how friendships can be both a source of support and a challenge.

Sibusisiwe Kondleka: The Actress Behind the Role
While Melokuhle is portrayed as an innocent schoolgirl, Sibusisiwe Kondleka, in reality, is quite the opposite. At 26 years old, she is a confident young woman who often showcases her fitness journey and body goals online, contrasting sharply with her on-screen persona. Kondleka’s journey to stardom was not without its challenges; she auditioned multiple times before finally landing the role of Melokuhle after three rounds of callbacks in September 2021. Her excitement to explore this character was palpable when she began shooting in October 2021.

Before Generations, Kondleka had already made her mark in the industry with a role in the Mzansi Magic series Isithembiso, where she played Tumi. Balancing her budding acting career with a full-time job in public relations at a medical company, she demonstrated remarkable determination and work ethic. Her commitment to building her acting resume included taking on roles in commercials, music videos, and short films, as well as joining the Star Quality Management agency in Johannesburg.

A Bright Future Ahead
Kondleka’s debut on Generations on December 5, 2019, was a dream come true for her, as she had long admired the show. Her portrayal of Melokuhle has resonated with many viewers, showcasing the struggles of youth and the importance of family and friendship. As she continues to evolve in her acting career, Kondleka serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors, proving that with perseverance and passion, dreams can indeed become a reality.

In conclusion, Sibusisiwe Kondleka’s journey as Melokuhle in Generations is a testament to her talent and dedication. As she navigates the complexities of her character on screen, she remains grounded in her real-life pursuits, balancing her career ambitions with her personal goals. With a bright future ahead, audiences can look forward to seeing more of her work in the entertainment industry.

House of Zwide Teasers – September 2024

Monday 2 September 2024
Episode 36
A suspicious Faith casts doubts on Msizi’s story about how he made millions from his restaurant in Mozambique. Msizi is hurt that she doesn’t seem to appreciate his help.


 

Tuesday 3 September 2024
Episode 37
Isaac feels uneasy after Ona tells him about Msizi’s surprise investment in HOZ. Mampho is forced to humble herself and apologise to Ona in order to resubmit her designs.

Wednesday 4 September 2024
Episode 38
Isaac holds off from telling Ona about his suspicions that Msizi’s money might not be legit. Meanwhile, Soka and Sandile are on the verge of moving in together.

Thursday 5 September 2024
Episode 39
Faith realises that Msizi’s millions are the proceeds of a money heist from years earlier and that he wanted to launder the money through HOZ. Isaac is impressed by Maria’s kindness.

Friday 6 September 2024
Episode 40
Faith and Msizi find a way to clean the money. While signing the contract, Ona is disturbed to discover the clause giving Faith Msizi’s share of the company.

Monday 9 September 2024
Episode 41
Faith tells Nkosi that it’s up to him to convince Ona to work with her for the good of the collective. He then urges an unhappy Ona to talk to Faith and find a way to make peace.

Tuesday 10 September 2024
Episode 42
Ona and Faith have a one-on-one chat and Ona is surprisingly moved when Faith reveals that her dark side stems from the trauma she suffered during her childhood.

Wednesday 11 September 2024
Episode 43
After Faith’s honest chat, Ona agrees to work with her under strict terms. Their chat exposes Faith’s emotional wounds which makes Ona question the lack of mutual affection between Faith and Nkosi.

Thursday 12 September 2024
Episode 44
Ona and Nkosi agree that he spends time with her and the Molapos in Tembisa. After Mampho accuses Sandile of leaching off Soka’s kindness, he decides to move out.

Friday 13 September 2024
Episode 45
Nkosi’s dinner with the Molapos turns out to be a success. Mampho apologises to Sandile. And Maria gets her first interest payment as a mashonisa, while keeping Molefe in the dark.

Monday 16 September 2024
Episode 46
Msizi convinces Faith to visit their mother’s grave, where she vents her anger at her mother for bringing into their family, the stepfather who was abusive to Faith.

Tuesday 17 September
Episode 47
After an emotional visit to their mother’s grave, Faith suggests that it might be time for Msizi to reach out to his daughter. Meanwhile, Molefe gives Maria an ultimatum.

Wednesday 18 September 2024
Episode 48
Faith goes behind Msizi’s back to track down his daughter. Maria is surprised when Molefe changes his mind and partners with her for a lucrative once-off mashonisa deal.

Thursday 19 September 2024
Episode 49
Msizi is touched to learn that his daughter is training to be a doctor. Molefe feels conflicted when he realises that Maria is still running the mashonisa business and has no intention of stopping.

Friday 20 September 2024
Episode 50
Msizi reaches out to Ayanda again, but she freaks out and says that her father is dead. Msizi is later stunned when Ayanda’s mom arrives at the Zwide mansion to confront him.

Monday 23 September 2024
Episode 51
Harriet threatens to tell Ayanda the truth, that Msizi rejected Ayanda when she was born. Faith is disappointed to learn it’s true. Molefe begs Maria to make him a fulltime partner.

Tuesday 24 September 2024
Episode 52
Faith offers to talk to Harriet on Msizi’s behalf. Molefe discovers an ice-cream box filled with cash, hidden in the freezer of the Zwide mansion and decides to make off with it.

Wednesday 25 September 2024
Episode 53
Tensions rise when Ayanda confronts Harriet and she admits that Msizi is her father. Soka is delighted that MaGumede has accepted his relationship with Mampho.

Thursday 26 September 2024
Episode 54
Despite Faith’s warning, Msizi meets with Ayanda in secret. Trouble brews as rumours continue to circulate that other ma’s aren’t happy with Maria and Molefe’s operation.

Where is Tebogo Khalo, the Beloved Puleng from ‘Rhythm City’?

Tebogo Khalo, a celebrated South African actress, rose to prominence with her captivating portrayal of Puleng Mafokeng on e.tv’s hit drama series Rhythm City. With a career that spans several years, she has become a household name, adored for her talent and versatility. However, in recent times, many fans have been left wondering: where is Tebogo Khalo now?


 

 

 

Since Rhythm City concluded its run, Khalo has been relatively quiet on the acting front. Unlike many of her co-stars, who quickly found new projects, Tebogo has not graced our screens in a substantial role since her brief return to television in The River. Although her appearance in the sixth season of The River generated excitement among fans, it was short-lived due to the series’ eventual cancellation. This has only added to the mystery surrounding her current status in the entertainment industry.

Further fueling concerns about her absence, Khalo has also been noticeably inactive on social media platforms. Her last post on X (formerly Twitter) dates back to June 2023, while her Instagram account has been dormant for over a year, with her last post made approximately 63 weeks ago. This disengagement from social media has led to increased speculation about her whereabouts and has left fans yearning for updates on the talented actress.

Tebogo Khalo’s decision to step away from the limelight is especially surprising given her impressive track record. She has played lead roles in only a handful of productions, according to TVSA. Notably, she portrayed Captain Gumbi in Mzali Wami and had a remarkable run as Puleng in Rhythm City. Her character resonated deeply with viewers, showcasing her exceptional acting skills. Additionally, her role as Makhosi in The River further demonstrated her range as an actress.

Beyond her notable roles, Khalo is also a respected figure in the industry, having won the Golden Horn Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Soap Opera at the 2011 South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs). Such accolades only highlight her talent and the impact she has made on South African television.

Despite her success, Tebogo Khalo has managed to maintain a private life, away from the public eye. This has only amplified the curiosity surrounding her absence from the screen and events within the entertainment sphere. Fans often speculate about her age and personal life, longing for insights into the woman behind the beloved characters.

While it’s unclear what the future holds for Tebogo Khalo, her fans remain hopeful for her return to the small screen. Whether she is taking a well-deserved break, exploring new opportunities, or simply enjoying life out of the spotlight, her legacy as Puleng Mafokeng and her impressive body of work will not be forgotten. As the drama unfolds, many will be watching closely for updates on this talented actress who has captured the hearts of many.