While competing for Miss Universe Nigeria, former Miss South Africa finalist Chidimma Adetshina says she is still proudly South African as she fights for her diverse identity to be embraced.

Adetshina received a heartwarming welcome upon her arrival in Nigeria on Wednesday. The reception included flowers and balloons with messages such as “You are greatly loved” and “Welcome to the giant of Africa”.

She wore à La Jaqueta suit from the Pastel Power Collection similar to those worn by the top five contestants for Miss South Africa earlier this month.

In an interview with Rhythm 93.7FM Nigeria, she said she was excited to be in the country.

“I remember earlier this year I said to myself I need to go to Nigeria. I don’t know how, I don’t know when, but I need to go, so that I spoke it into existence and it is happening is a great start. I am excited. It feels nice to be appreciated. The love, the warmth, the support. Everything is incredible,” she said.

Adetshina joined the Nigerian crown chase after withdrawing from Miss South Africa over a citizenship probe.

Despite being born and raised in South Africa, questions were raised about her legitimacy in participating in the Miss South Africa competition due to her Nigerian father and her mother’s Mozambican heritage.

In the Miss Nigeria Universe competition, she quickly became a leading contender, securing more than 13,000 votes. Her closest competitors are Edeifo Aikhuele, who has 8,207 votes, and Queenth Igbokwe with 5,211.

Adetshina believes her diversity will be an advantage in Miss Universe Nigeria.

“I will make a powerful impact. There are a lot of people who are just as diverse as I am and I don’t want us to live in a society or community where we are excluded because of the diverse backgrounds we have. I want us to be included, to be celebrated, to be appreciated, loved and accepted.

“Me just being here, I am not only representing myself, but I am representing a lot of people who see themselves in me and are diverse in their culture.”

Adetshina plans to use her platform to share her story and bring awareness.

“My name has brought a lot of awareness into this but I don’t want it to come in a negative way because as much as I am still fighting for my identity I am still proudly South African and I am still proudly Nigerian and it’s really OK to be diverse. I want people to see that good side but also for us to start acknowledging it and accepting it.”

The Miss Universe Nigeria pageant grand finale is set to take place on August 31 at the Eko Convention Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The contestants will be in camp at the Festival Hotel in Festac, where they will undergo rigorous rehearsals and training leading up to the event.

Blackstreet music group from US is coming to South Africa

Grammy award-winning, legendary R&B group Blackstreet will be coming to South Africa for their music tour.

the tour kicks off on Friday, 25 October at the Sun City Superbowl, with the second show on Saturday, 26 October at SunBet Arena in Pretoria.

Closing off the tour will be the Sunday, 27 October show at Grand Arena GrandWest in Cape Town.

South African singer, Lwah Ndlunkulu is to be a supporting act at the show.

The group was founded in 1991 by Chauncey “Black” Hannibal and Teddy Riley, who split, and a new group featuring himself, Hannibal, Joseph “Street” Stonestreet, and Levi Little. The group was originally called Stonestreet but later changed to Blackstreet.

The all-male group promises sing-along classics and so much more, such as ‘No Diggity’, ‘Don’t Leave Me’, ‘Before I Let You Go’, ‘I Wanna Be Your Man’, ‘Never Gonna Let You Go’, ‘(Money Can’t) Buy Me Love’ and ‘Let’s Stay In Love’.

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.