The engines may be silent for now, but South Africa’s F1’s dream is roaring back to life. With hundreds of millions of rands worth of upgrades and fans ready to “sell their livers” for a ticket, Kyalami’s revival could mark the nation’s return to the global racing map.
Kyalami, founded in 1961, hosted F1 races but lost status due to apartheid sanctions and financial issues.
The decision to host lies with the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and F1 Management, not Kyalami.
The planned R100-million track upgrades will be fully funded by Kyalami’s owner.
In 2010, the world’s gaze turned to South Africa as people from across the globe waved their flags, cheered, and danced during the FIFA World Cup. The streets of Johannesburg pulsed with energy, and local businesses experienced unprecedented growth. Fifteen years later, a parallel dream is emerging – this time, not in football, but in F1.
Could the roar of engines replace the roar of supporters? Could the return of F1 to Kyalami once again place Johannesburg on the global stage as a world-class African city, one that benefits ordinary citizens as much as the elite?
For lifelong F1 fan Kevin Matla, the idea of F1’s return is more than just news, it’s personal. “For me, F1 is life,” he says, recalling how he’s been following the sport since 2005. The possibility of a local Grand Prix fills him with pride and excitement, especially since the last race in 1993 was held under conditions that excluded many South Africans.
Kyalami’s Grand Prix Circuit has long been a place of transformation. Founded in 1961 with the “Kyalami 9 Hours”, an endurance race, the track rose to global prominence in 1967 when it hosted its first Formula One event, cementing its reputation for motorsport excellence.
Through the 1970s and 1980s, Kyalami thrived as a premier racing destination, until its F1 chapter closed in 1985 following international sanctions against South Africa’s apartheid regime.
Kyalami experienced a short-lived resurgence in the 1990s, hosting races in 1992 and 1993, but financial and political issues brought it to a halt again. By the early 2000s, the circuit had lost its international appeal, relegated to hosting local events and remembered fondly through nostalgia.
For Matla, hosting F1 again would mark a national achievement, boosting tourism, creating jobs, and reigniting pride among South Africans. He believes that while ticket prices may be high, the event will still attract strong local support, “I know there are rumours that tickets are going to be R10 000; people might have to sell their homes or their livers.
FIA Approval: A New Era for Kyalami
In 2014, entrepreneur Toby Venter, CEO of Porsche South Africa, acquired the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit at an auction, marking a major turning point for the historic track. His multimillion-rand investment transformed Kyalami into a world-class facility that now meets international racing standards. This effort culminated in the circuit earning FIA Grade 1 approval, the highest level of certification required to host Formula One races.
According to Porsche South Africa’s Group Public Relations Manager, Christo Kruger, the certification represents more than just a technical achievement; it’s a symbol of readiness and revival. With this recognition, Kyalami now stands as the only FIA Grade 1 circuit on the African continent, positioning it one step closer to reclaiming its place on the global motorsport stage.
With this recognition, the countdown has officially begun. “According to the FIA rules, Kyalami now has three years from the day of approval to do the upgrades and then the final inspection,” says Kruger. “Homologation [official approval] happens, and we are then accredited with Grade 1, if everything is done within the approved scope,” Kruger says.
A visual of precision and progress, the official circuit layout outlines Kyalami’s 16 turns and 18 camera points, symbolising South Africa’s readiness to meet international racing standards once again.
Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
The announcement has fuelled excitement within South Africa’s motoring community, reigniting hopes of seeing F1 cars roar through the Midrand circuit once again. Planning for upgrades is already underway, though construction has not yet begun due to Kyalami’s packed calendar of local events, such as the Festival of Motoring and M-Fest.
However, the future of the project ultimately hinges on F1’s commitment to return. Kruger noted that while some improvements will proceed regardless, the scale of investment will depend on whether the international organisers confirm South Africa’s inclusion in the upcoming calendar.
Eyes locked on the track, South African female driver Simphiwe Mohlahlo waits in her BMW, focused and ready for her race on one of the country’s most iconic circuits. For her, Kyalami represents both legacy and opportunity for women in motorsport. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Hands gripping the steering wheel, eyes locked on the track, Nathi Msimanga sits in full focus, ready for the challenge ahead. The determination in his gaze says it all: he’s here to compete, to push limits, and to belong among South Africa’s best. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
For Wits mechanical engineering student and professional Toyota Gazoo Racing driver Nathi Msimanga, Kyalami is more than just a circuit, it’s “the most prestigious track in the country;” a place that mirrors the speed and sophistication of international circuits. Yet despite Kyalami’s world-class design, Msimanga remains doubtful about Formula One’s return in 2027, though he believes it could shine a spotlight on South African motorsport.
“If F1 does come here, it’ll force companies, sponsors, and media to finally give our sport the attention it deserves,” he says. He adds that consistent funding, promotion, and government support are key to making racing accessible for all, and to inspiring the next generation of South African drivers.
And for South African female driver Simphiwe Mohlahlo, who competes in the MSA4 and Formula Libre series, Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit represents more than just asphalt and corners, it’s a symbol of legacy and opportunity. “Racing there feels like being part of history,” she says, noting how rare it is for local drivers to experience the track.
Screens, radios, and precision, the nerve centre of every race. From here, officials monitor every lap, every turn, every moment that defines safety and speed. It’s the unseen engine that keeps Kyalami running.
Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Mohlahlo believes that a possible F1 return in 2027 would not only spotlight the perseverance of South African motorsport but also open doors for emerging talent, particularly women. She praised initiatives like the F1 Academy for inspiring young girls and called for more national activations, academies, and sponsorship support to grow the sport sustainably. Confident in the country’s ability to host F1, she adds that such an event could invigorate the economy and elevate local representation on the global stage, a dream she hopes to see realised in her lifetime.
How Major Events Put South Africa on the Map
Hosting big sports events has been a game-changer for South Africa, and the potential F1 has the potential to be another.
The 1995 Rugby World Cup stands as one of South Africa’s most powerful symbols of unity and healing after apartheid. When Nelson Mandela wore the Springbok jersey to present the trophy, it became a defining moment that showed the world a nation coming together, united through sport and shared pride.
The iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, sprawled across Midrand’s picturesque landscape, is more than just a racing track, it’s the pulsating heartbeat of SA’s motorsport. This revered circuit has been the stage for countless thrilling moments. With its rich history and nostalgic charm, Kyalami is a treasured gem in the world of racing, and the nation is eagerly yearning for the day when it will once again reverberate with the thunderous roar of Formula 1 engines, sending shivers down the spines of petrolheads and reviving the country’s glorious racing heritage.
Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
In 2010, South Africa made history as the first African nation to host the FIFA World Cup, a moment that not only boosted the economy but reshaped the nation’s image. The government invested over R30-billion in infrastructure, from transport and airports to world-class stadiums, creating around 66 000 construction jobs and injecting R7,4-billion into the economy, with R2,2-billion benefiting low-income households. Beyond the numbers, the tournament became a nation-branding triumph, transforming global perceptions of South Africa’s people, cities, and capability to deliver on the world stage.
The World Cup showed the world that South Africa is a great country to visit and host events. Over 500,000 South Africans, including taxi drivers and volunteers, helped make visitors feel welcome. The country got the highest score ever for hosting a World Cup, which was a big achievement. After the tournament, more people came to South Africa for vacation (up 31%) and business (up 47% in Cape Town).
Hosting major events does more than bring sporting success; it reshapes how the world sees a country and strengthens national pride. For Johannesburg, a successful return of F1 to Kyalami could have the same effect, boosting the city’s reputation, inspiring locals, and attracting new investment. Beyond the race itself, it would signal that Johannesburg is not only capable of hosting world-class events but also stands out as a vibrant, globally recognized African city, a symbol of ambition, progress, and pride. Such high-profile events play a key role in nation and city branding, showcasing South Africa’s potential on the international stage while reinforcing Johannesburg’s identity as a world-class African city.
A relic of Kyalami’s F1 past, this worn Goodyear tyre carries the weight of history, rubber that once touched the same tarmac where legends raced three decades ago. It marks the last time South Africa hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix, a moment that still echoes in the hearts of local fans who remember the roar of engines and the pride of seeing their country on the global stage. Today, it stands as more than just an object of nostalgia, it’s a symbol of unfinished business, a reminder of a dream paused but never forgotten. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
According to Professor Mfaniseni Sihlongonyane from Wits University’s School of Architecture and Planning, hosting international events such as F1 presents both opportunities and significant challenges for cities. He notes that infrastructure, funding, and the “critical mass” of participants are key factors in determining whether a country can successfully host and sustain such events. However, Sihlongonyane acknowledges that F1’s return could stimulate multiple sectors, from hospitality and transport to food and automotive industries, creating employment and boosting economic activity. He cautions, though, that South Africa must ensure inclusivity by supporting small businesses, women, and youth through subcontracting and empowerment initiatives. “It shouldn’t just be about large corporations benefiting,” he explains. For him, Johannesburg’s approach should centre on a social contract with F1, one that promotes economic growth while advancing social justice and community participation.
Who Decides F1’s Return?
While Kyalami may be ready to host, the final decision on whether F1 returns to South Africa does not rest in its hands. According to Kruger, the circuit’s role is limited to being the venue. “Kyalami is not really responsible for F1 coming back, that’s very much up to the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and a promoter,” he explains.
The government, together with F1 Management, will ultimately decide whether South Africa secures a spot on the 2027 racing calendar. Kyalami’s task, meanwhile, is to ensure the track remains in top condition and meets all technical and logistical requirements once approval is granted.
Eighteen eyes on every corner. The circuit’s surveillance system reflects Kyalami’s world-class standards, a blend of technology, safety, and ambition as it prepares for potential FIA-level events. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Behind the scenes, negotiations and financial guarantees have already been submitted, but the costs involved are steep. “The planned track upgrades are expected to cost around R100-million, an amount that will be self-funded by Kyalami’s owner, OT Venter Investments,” Kruger says.
Formula One is a huge money-maker globally. In 2024, it earned over $3.4 billion, with a big chunk coming from cities and countries paying to host races. This shows how valuable it is to host an F1 event. The sport is also super popular, with 5.7 million people attending races in 2022, a big increase from 2019. Kruger acknowledged that while the enthusiasm for F1’s return is strong, the financial reality remains daunting. Hosting fees for international races can range between $25 million and $54 million, depending on the location.
Logistics and Local Impact
Bringing F1 back to South Africa would be a complex operation, one that extends far beyond the racetrack. Temporary grandstands, hospitality suites, and infrastructure upgrades would all have to be set up to meet F1’s international standards. The surrounding roads and access routes to Kyalami would also need attention to accommodate the thousands of fans expected to attend.
Shops and restaurants hum quietly inside Kyalami Corner, just a few minutes from the racetrack. For now, the calm reflects ordinary life, locals grabbing coffee, but if Formula 1 returns, this space could transform overnight. The sound of engines would spill into nearby businesses, bringing a rush of fans, tourists, and international media. For store owners, it’s more than just excitement, it’s the promise of economic revival, a chance to feel the same national buzz last seen during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Beyond the logistical hurdles, the project holds the potential to benefit local communities. Kyalami’s management has expressed plans to include fan parks and fan zones that would create space for small vendors and local entrepreneurs to participate, ensuring that the excitement of the event extends beyond the gates of the circuit.
Kruger emphasizes that a return of this scale would not be fleeting. “F1 doesn’t do once-off events. They will want to sign a deal for a minimum of five years to seven, and sometimes up to ten years,” he says. Such a long-term commitment would not only secure South Africa’s place on the global racing calendar but also demand consistent investment in maintenance and event management to keep the circuit world-class.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the possibility, Kruger remains grounded about the uncertainty of the outcome. When asked what message he had for South Africans hoping to see the sport return home, his response is simple: “Pray. It’s really not in our hands; we can only stay hopeful that negotiations with F1 Management are successful.”
As South Africa awaits an official decision, the prospect of F1 returning to Kyalami is tantalizingly close. Backed by Toby Venter’s revival efforts, FIA approval, and public excitement, this moment reinforces one thing, Joburg truly is a world-class African city, capable of hosting global events that bring people and opportunities together. The wait may be long, but South Africa’s F1 dream is finally on track and ready to take off.
From the outside, Kyalami stands as both a landmark and a promise, a place where South Africa’s motorsport legacy meets its future ambitions. Once the stage for legendary Formula 1 races, the circuit now waits, carrying decades of history, triumph, and struggle within its walls. For many, this circuit symbolise a new chapter, a nation eager to reclaim its place on the global racing map and prove that world-class competition can thrive again on African soil. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
FEATURED IMAGE: Kyalami Grand Prix Racetrack. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
The streets fell silent as South Africans lay down to honour women lost to gender-based violence, sending a message that silence is no longer an option.
Dressed in black and carrying the weight of a country perpetually in mourning, hundreds gathered at Constitution Hill on Friday, November 21, 2025, joining the nationwide shutdown organised by Women For Change to honour the lives of the 15 women murdered every single day in South Africa.
Participants of the national shutdown hold up placards on November 21, 2025 at Constitutional Hill, Johannesburg. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
At exactly 12pm, participants, including women, children and members of the LGBTQI+ community, lay down for fifteen minutes of silence under the scorching midday sun. Bodies pressed against the burning pavement, many visibly uncomfortable, yet committed to the symbolism of the moment. The air was still. The silence was heavy. The only sound that carried through the venue was the soft, steady calling of the names of the women who have lost their lives, spoken slowly, patiently, and with painful clarity.
In the crowd was *Lerato Madonsela from Braamfischerville, Soweto, a mother attending with her 15-year-old daughter, a survivor of a violent assault earlier this year. For Madonsela, joining the protest was not just an act of solidarity; it was a plea for justice.
“It’s very important for me to be here today because I’m supporting my daughter, who has been going through a lot,” she said. In April, her daughter was allegedly raped by a man dressed in full police uniform, mask, badge, and all.
The police officer waited for her daughter at the bus stop, “He called her and said I sent him to fetch her. She refused, he then intimidated her with a gun, forced her into a car, drove her to an area in Soweto and raped her,” she said.
Her daughter now panics at the sight of anyone in police uniform and cannot identify the man because he was masked.
Madonsela immediately opened a case. “The police took my statement and my daughter’s statement. They did all the tests,” she explained. But just three weeks later, she received an SMS saying the case had been closed. “So my daughter didn’t get justice.”
The ordeal has had lasting effects. Her daughter spent a month in a psychiatric hospital and is still on medication to manage nightmares. The trauma has also disrupted their daily lives. Madonsela said she recently lost her job because her performance suffered while she cared for her daughter. “For me to be here at the shutdown is a blessing,” she said. “I’m here for her.”
Placard that reiterates that enough is enough. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Women For Change spokesperson, Cameron Kasambala, said the scale of the turnout left her fighting back tears,. “People showed up by the hundreds.” For her, the silent protest demonstrated the collective power behind the movement.
“We matter. Our presence is important. Our voices are powerful,” she said, adding that the willingness of people to lie down in the blistering heat for 15 minutes reflected deep solidarity with victims and families.
She stressed that symbolic gestures from government are no longer enough. She called for proper implementation of policies, transparent communication, specialised training and dedicated units within law enforcement.
“We want real action,” she said firmly. “We have heard enough talking, enough policy promises, enough conversations. The President has acknowledged this crisis on global stages like the G20, that means he must act with the urgency and magnitude it deserves.”
Among those who lay on the scorching pavement was Nompumelelo Chiliza, a University of Johannesburg student, who said she joined the shutdown to stand with women silenced by gender-based violence, including moments in her own life when she could not speak out.
Nearby, Yola Sekgobela from Krugersdorp said seeing hundreds gather felt “inspiring” after years of worsening violence. Lying down, he thought of women who no longer have a voice and families still fighting for accountability. “This has to push leaders to act,” he said.
The 15 minutes may have ended, but the call for justice and accountability continues.
*Not their real name
FEATURED IMAGE: Participants lie down for 15 minutes. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
A new amendment to the National Credit Act could see students with debt blacklisted as soon as they graduate.
On August 13, 2025, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Parks Tau, submitted draft amendments to the National Credit Act, proposing that educational institutions may report student debt to credit bureaus. If passed, this would mean that graduates could be blacklisted for their debt. Public comment is open until September 12, 2025.
At first glance, this policy looks like accountability. But in reality, it is yet another tool that widens South Africa’s already staggering inequality gap. For wealthy families, paying university fees is not a burden. For the poor, especially the Black majority, it is another chain tying us down.
South Africa is already split in two: those who have, and those who struggle to survive. Instead of building bridges, the ruling party seems determined to burn them down, shutting off access and any chance to ever cross that bridge. The Afircan National Congress continues to oppress young people, creating more obstacles than opportunities. Instead of uplifting us, they are burying us deeper under the weight of policies that do not understand our lived realities.
Not every student has parents who can afford fees for tertiary education. Those who manage through bursaries and student loans, then graduate into an economy that demands work experience for jobs, while internships often pay next to nothing. The lucky few who evade unemployment through entry-level jobs can earn as little as R5000 a month. How must that cover rent, food, transport, and other essentials, and still stretch to settle student debt?
This amendment doesn’t simply manage debt, it weaponises it. It tells young South Africans that their dreams of education come with a punishment clause. That, unless you are privileged, your qualification is a curse that follows you into every financial decision, from applying for a job to renting a flat.
Are our leaders truly this blind? Or are they deliberately working against the success of young South Africans? Each new barrier makes it harder to believe they care.
But we are not powerless. The public has until September 12, 2025, to oppose this amendment. Send your comments to credit@thedtic.gov.za
Raise your voice, share your story, and remind those in power that the future of this country depends on its youth.
To the politicians who continue to oppress us: we will meet you at the ballot box.
A moving memorial service honoured Tshidi Madia’s dedication, mentorship, and enduring passion for journalism.
Tshidi’s memorial program. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Tshidi Madia, passed away, at age 42, after a short illness.
Remembered as a passionate journalist, mentor, and friend at her memorial.
Her dedication and influence have left a lasting mark on South Africa’s media community.
The South African media fraternity bid farewell to veteran journalist Tshidi Madia (42), Associate Editor for Politics at Eyewitness News (EWN), who died last week, on August 27, 2025 after a short illness.
On Tuesday,September 2, friends, family, and colleagues gathered at Primedia, Sandton for a memorial service that celebrated her life and lasting impact. The ceremony opened with a moving performance by the Greenside High School choir, whose soft, tender hymn wrapped the hall in an atmosphere of sorrow and grace.
Madia, remembered for her warmth and lively spirit, was described as a journalist who deeply loved her country, her profession, and the people around her. Nisa Allie, EWN’s Editor-in-Chief, spoke on behalf of the newsroom, recalled Madia’s tireless passion for political reporting.
“Even when she was not on diary, Tshidi would pop into our WhatsApp groups just to say she was going to stop by an event or gathering to see what she could get or who she could talk to. That’s how passionate she was,” Allie said.
For younger journalists, Madia was more than a colleague. Alpha Ramushwana, a news reporter at EWN, shared how she became his mentor when he first joined as an intern in 2022.
Tshidi’s memorial venue in Sandton. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
“Tshidi saw something in me that I didn’t see. She told me I would have a great career in journalism, and for the past three years, she kept affirming that,” Ramushwana said.
Her family, too, paid tribute to her unwavering dedication. Reabetjoe Makoko, Madia’s sister, said: “My sister worked hard, she loved what she did, and so many people didn’t know until that moment of the US, but trust me she’s been working so hard for many years.”
As memories and tributes flowed, a portrait emerged of a woman who was not only a formidable journalist but also a loving sister, mentor, and friend. Tshidi Madia will be remembered for her beautiful heart, her relentless work ethic, and the love she shared with all who knew her.
FEATURED IMAGE: Tshidi Madia’s image at the memorial. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Graduating no longer guarantees stability. With stagnant salaries, high living costs, and family obligations, young South Africans are working hard but falling behind.
“Financial freedom is possible, but it requires discipline, sacrifice, and smart investing,” said Dr Nkunzi
The cost of living is rising faster than paychecks.
Internships or entry-level jobs typically pay too little to cover the cost of living.
When Kgomotso Mogale graduated with a biomedicine degree from Eduvos in 2024, she imagined a future in a laboratory or research facility, applying her skills in a field she had dedicated years of study to. Instead, she found herself in sales at a private university, earning just R8000 a month. On paper, it’s a stable job. But in reality, the numbers don’t add up.
Living in Midrand, next to the school she works at, Mogale pays R6000 for rent, leaving only R2000 to stretch across food and other daily needs. By month-end, nothing is left of her salary. Saving for the future is impossible, considering the fact that she also sends her mother money at home.
“I thought getting my degree would mean independence,” Mogale said. “But I can’t even afford the basics. Everything feels too much,” she added.
Monthly Salary vs Expenses. Graph: Dikeledi, Canva
Dr. Sibulele Nkunzi, lecturer at Wits University’s School of Economics and Finance noted that it is shocking how little internships still pay, with many offering between R5,000 and R8,000.
“That barely covers the cost of a small apartment in Johannesburg,” he explained. What is more concerning, he added, is that this level of pay has hardly changed in 15 years, despite rising living costs. Entry-level salaries should be adjusted for inflation, but companies often point to budget pressures and higher operational costs as reasons for holding back. The result is that graduates in cities like Midrand face unaffordable expenses, sometimes forcing them to drop out of the job market altogether.
For a lot of South African graduates, Mogale’s story is very common. Graduating from university is meant to signal the start of adulthood, but for today’s generation, it often marks the beginning of financial struggle.
Internships or entry-level jobs typically pay too little to cover the cost of living in cities like Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town. Rent, transport, and food consume almost everything, leaving no room for savings or long-term planning.
Stats SA reports that youth unemployment remains very high, with thousands of graduates across the country struggle to find work in their fields. Many, like Mogale, are forced into roles outside their area of study simply to survive.
Stats SA data. Graph: Dikeledi Ramabula, Canva
Even people who have jobs are earning less in reality, because prices keep going up while their salaries stay the same. According to the BankservAfrica Take-Home Pay Index, real salaries in South Africa have barely grown over the past five years. That means even when graduates earn more on paper, their money stretches less every month.
“The cost of living is rising faster than paychecks,” says Johannesburg-based financial educator Ona Selepe. “Young professionals are earning, but they’re not getting ahead. Most can’t save, and many turn to debt just to stay afloat,” she said.
In Mogale’s case, small things like catching a taxi to go buy groceries drain her budget. “By the time I pay for taxis and groceries, I’m in the red. I’m not even thinking about things like medical aid or investments. I simply can’t afford them,” she said.
Beyond rising costs, there’s another layer of pressure unique to many South Africans: “black tax.” Graduates who are the first in their families to secure jobs often feel obligated to support parents or siblings financially, even when they themselves are struggling.
Human resources consultant Mummy Seriti says this expectation places young workers in impossible positions. “They’re expected to live up to the image of success, the car, the good suburb, but the money simply isn’t there to sustain that lifestyle.”
For Mogale, the thought of helping family members is overwhelming. “I want to support them, but how can I when I can barely support myself?”
Dr.Nkunzi explained how inflation is hitting new graduates especially hard. “The high cost of living makes it difficult for graduates to cope, particularly those starting out in low-pay internships,” he said. “Most of their income goes straight to rent, transport, and groceries, leaving little for basics like electricity, internet, or even toiletries.
“Without parental support, many are forced to stretch limited pay to survive. This constant financial pressure doesn’t just reduce quality of life, it also harms mental health, work performance, and relationships,” he added.
Dr. Nkunzi emphasised that financial literacy is crucial for young graduates trying to make the most of their limited income. “The truth is, many people only learn about money after making costly mistakes,” he said. Being proactive, learning how to budget, avoiding unnecessary debt, and starting early, can make a significant difference.
He stressed that financial freedom is possible, but it requires discipline, sacrifice, and smart investing. Graduates may also need to explore alternative income streams, which are increasingly available through technology and the gig economy, to ease pressure and begin building a more secure financial future.
Mogale’s journey reflects a generation caught between ambition and survival, a reminder that until conditions change, financial freedom will remain out of reach for too many graduates.
FEATURED IMAGE: Monthly Salary vs Expenses. Graph: Dikeledi, Canva
When boy problems or heartbreak have you on shaky ground, Shekhinah’s Less Trouble comes in like a wave, and it’s strong enough to drown you in your feelings.
Crowned as one of South Africa’s most celebrated voices, Shekhinah is back to prove that her music still hits where it hurts. Four years since the last album, Trouble in Paradise, her return is a reminder of just how good she is at what she does.
Shekinah’s album Less Trouble features several artists including Lordkez, Moliy, Young Stunna and Mars Baby.
A year ago, she released two singles, “Steady” and “Risk”, offering listeners a preview of the upcoming album’s direction.
“Devil in disguise, trouble in your eyes, every single time all we do is fight.” With these lyrics, Shekhinah sets the tone from the very start. The opening track, “Break up season”, lays the foundation, hinting that the album will centre on the highs and lows of relationships.
From her album Rose Gold to now, she’s stayed true to her signature sound, rarely chasing trends or charts, and instead focuses on making music that ages like fine wine.
Shekhinah’s album cover. Photo: Shekhina’s IG
On track 3, “Bare minimum”, Shekhinah strikes a chord with anyone who’s ever been given the bare minimum in a relationship. She reflects on asking for little yet receiving even less and ultimately reaching the point where letting go becomes inevitable.
The playlist opens with a sense of tension and frustration but soon transforms into bursts of pure joy. By the time you reach track 7, “Spoonky”, it feels like freedom itself, like cruising down the freeway with the windows rolled all the way down, warm wind rushing against your face, palm trees swaying past in a blur. You’re singing off-key, laughing uncontrollably with the love of your life in the passenger seat, every worry dissolving into the sunset. It’s a moment of pure happiness bottled in sound.
“Less trouble” isn’t just an album; it’s a celebration of love, happiness, and the freedom to finally feel complete, just as she says on “Spoonky”, “you’re the one that I want”.
Rating: 8/10
FEATURED IMAGE: Shekhina’s album cover. Photo: Shekhina’s IG
Four months later, a student’s mental health complaint is still unresolved.
Accountability gap exposed.
Investigation stalled by anonymity issues.
Matter escalated to higher authorities.
When we first reported on the disturbing experiences of a student seeking mental health support at Wits University’s Campus Health and Wellness Centre in May, the hope was that the university would take swift and decisive action to address the reported neglect and mistreatment.
A student had shared painful stories of being dismissed, scolded, and left without proper care during their most vulnerable moments. The troubling accounts raised serious questions about the quality and accountability of mental health services on campus.
In May, the Centre’s temporary stand-in, Brian Jele, a Primary Health Care Nurse, assured WITS VUVUZELA that the matter would be reported to the head of department, Tshidiso Ntshabele, who was expected to return soon. He highlighted the availability of a suggestion box for students to report issues anonymously.
On May 8, 2025, just a few days after Ntshabele’s return, WITS VUVUZELA visited the Centre to ensure he was updated on the allegations. During our meeting, Ntshabele requested that WITS VUVUZELA arrange a meeting with the student outside of Campus Health so he could hear the student’s side of the story.
Later that same day, after leaving his office, WITS VUVUZELA reached out to the student to set up the meeting. However, the student declined, saying, “I really don’t think I want to. I don’t feel comfortable with my anonymity now being compromised, so no!” said the student, who asked to remain anonymous.
Four months later, has anything changed?
After the failed meeting with the student in May, business continued as usual. Since then, no investigation, suspension, or any form of disciplinary action has been taken against the two nurses involved.
Ntshabele said he could not proceed with any investigation without knowing the identity of the complainant.
“I do not know who the student is; I cannot investigate if I don’t know who the person is. Part of the investigation, according to our complex procedure, is that I must also interact with the complainant,” said Ntshabele.
When Wits Vuvuzela asked what would happen if the student was too afraid to return to the Centre to go through the investigation process, Ntshabele emphasised that the student’s presence was still required.
“We are dealing with sensitive matters involving someone’s confidential health information. For me to investigate, I need to interview that person and find out exactly what went wrong, so that I can also ask relevant questions,” he said.
This raises questions about the purpose of the suggestion box, which allows students to submit complaints anonymously.
When asked what changes had been made to improve mental health care and ensure students are treated with greater respect and kindness, Ntshabele said no changes had been implemented because no investigation had taken place. “If I did not investigate or consider an investigation, I can’t give a report to say this is what I found. Only if I had found something could we introduce and implement changes,” he said. Ntshabele added that until he is able to interact with the student directly, he would not know where the department is lacking or what improvements are needed.
Head of department’s office. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Following the May publication of this story, WITS VUVUZELA sought to understand how staff at the Campus Health and Wellness Centre are trained and supported to better understand students’ mental health needs and to treat them with empathy rather than judgment.
Ntshabele said he had never received a complaint that any staff member had judged a student, adding that all mental health practitioners at the Centre are specialists with formal qualifications in the field. “Part of the mental health curriculum, when you are a nurse, is knowing that you must be non-judgemental,” he said.
“There are in-service training sessions that staff members attend, including a customer management course. If a specific staff member is found lacking, we identify the weakness, determine the area in which they are struggling, and then work to improve and empower them,” he added.
Ntshabele urged students who may still feel hesitant or fearful about seeking mental health services from Campus Health, to reach out to him directly, “The most important thing is for those students to tell me exactly what they are scared of and why they are fearful.”
“This clinic is for them, and no student should feel afraid. We are here to assist, particularly those with mental health conditions, because we know that for them to excel academically, they need to be well,” he continued.
Mental health is a serious condition, and at universities many students suffer from it. After discovering that Campus Health could not carry out an investigation because the student chose not to come forward, it became crucial to find out whether there is a higher authority that can intervene to ensure the complaint is properly addressed.
The matter was then escalated to the Dean of Students, Jerome September, who stated that all complaints are taken very seriously and investigated to the best of their ability. “Complaints are in the first instance made at the clinic, and these can be escalated to me as Dean of Student Affairs,” he said.
“Students are also able to lodge complaints through the Wits Integrity Line,” he added. September further requested that the affected student reach out to him directly so he can assist in resolving the matter.
FEATURED IMAGE: Campus Health And Wellness Centre corridors. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
SRC races to secure emergency housing for eviction-threatened students.
Campus Central management unavailable to address NSFAS eviction queries.
Application error caused by unclear NSFAS communication leads to housing crisis.
The Wits University Student Representative Council (SRC) has intensified efforts to provide emergency accommodation for students affected by a National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) application cycle miscommunication that has left dozens without funding.
The affected students unknowingly applied under the TVET cycle after NSFAS announced extended applications last year. NSFAS operates two primary funding cycles: the university cycle, in which applications typically open between September and November, and the TVET college cycle, where applications open several times a year to align with trimester or semester intakes.
According to the SRC Deputy President, Boipelo Setsepu, confusion arose when NSFAS extended the application deadline for both university and TVET students. However, unclear communication and the use of similar application platforms caused some university students to mistakenly apply under the TVET funding stream.
Setsepu said, since the start of 2025, approximately 65 Wits students have approached the SRC and Wits Citizenship and Community Outreach (WCCO) for help, as they are faced with eviction threats.
The SRC is urging all affected students to come forward by filling out the emergency accommodation form to ensure they can be assisted.
Student Representative Council Offices. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Priority is given to students directly affected by the error. “The process works as follows: you reach out to us via email or by filling in the form. From there, FASO will verify the information provided to ensure it is correct and confirm whether you applied during the TVET cycle. Once confirmed, you are then given priority.’’ said Setsepu.
Setsepu also highlighted that, priority is given to students in external accommodation facing eviction, as internal residence students are not at immediate risk.
Third-year Geology student, Botshelo Tshite, is one of the many Wits students caught in the NSFAS funding crisis. He says the problem only became clear in May, when his monthly allowance stopped coming in.
Soon after, his residence, Campus Central, began sending warnings that students who had not paid for the past few months would have their biometric access cut off. “That’s what happened to me,” he recalls, adding that he was later threatened with eviction.
Although he reached out to the SRC before the June holidays, help only came later. He was told to leave just a day before the second semester began.
Tshite says the experience was frightening, and believes his residence could have handled the situation with more care. “Even now, I’m being told to pay over R6,000 for the months NSFAS didn’t cover,” he said.
Campus Central student accomodation, ST Davids Place, Parktown. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Wits Vuvuzela reached out to Campus Central residence management to request an interview regarding how they handle student matters beyond their control, such as the NSFAS miscommunication that affected Tshite. Residence manager Edwin Muchibwa said he was not authorized to give external interviews and referred the request to senior manager Johan Scheepers. However, Scheepers had not responded by the time of publication.
Efforts were made to contact NSFAS but its spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi’s phone kept ringing with no answer.
FEATURED IMAGE: Student Representative Council Offices. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
A 12-year-old who never let go of her dream and is now a household name.
After two decades of chasing news, Chriselda Lewis is back in the classroom, now chasing assignment deadlines. Wits University was always her dream institution, but her parents could not afford to pay for the fees, so now she is paying her own way.
Born and bred in Mthata, Eastern Cape, where opportunities are scarce, Lewis was fortunate that her primary school came to her rescue.
“I was told that I was a shy kid; however, at the age of 12 years old there was a television scout that came to my school. My teacher selected me to become a children’s show presenter on Transkei Broadcasting Corporation.”
The moment she stood in front of the camera, she knew exactly what she wanted to be: “I liked the lights, I liked the camera, and I thought this is exactly what I’m going to become.”
Chriselda at the Drum Room, Wits Department. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Lewis completed her undergraduate studies in 2002 at Border Technikon, now known as Walter Sisulu University. After completing her studies, she began her career as an intern at The Sowetan in 2003.
“Working at The Sowetan was very challenging, as it was where I applied everything I had learned in tertiary education. It was also exciting because I had the opportunity to work with veteran journalists who had worked during the apartheid era, such as John Dludlu,” she said.
‘While I may not remember the first story I worked on at The Sowetan, I do remember cracking my first big story in 2004. One of them was the kidnapping and murder of university student Leigh Matthews,” she says.
As her career progressed from The Sowetan, she went on to work at the South African Press Association, followed by Talk Radio 702, then the SABC, where she made her first television appearance on SABC Africa.
In 2023, Lewis won the Journalist of the Year award in the Television: In-Depth/ Features/ Interviews category. Other career highlights include her coverage of the fall of Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe, the Oscar Pistorius trial and reporting on the earthquake in Türkiye-Syria.
Lewis always wanted to return to school, but never got the opportunity because her work life is demanding:
“As I speak to you, I’m in Bloemfontein to cover the memorial service of the police officers whose bodies were found in the Hennops River. Due to workload and insane working hours, I just never thought I’d find the opportunity to go back to school”.
Lewis says despite having 22 years of experience in her field, it doesn’t hurt to equip herself with better skills so that one day she can be a leader in the newsroom, and to do so, she must equip herself with the necessary qualifications.
But being back in the classroom hasn’t been easy. “If you give me a report I can do it for you, if you want me on TV, I can do it. I’ve moved into a different terrain doing academic writings which is a scary process,” she says.
When asked to share wisdom for aspiring journalists, Chriselda says, “This is not child’s play! Journalism is hard work; it is long hours. You are not going to survive if you don’t love this job. You have to love what you do!”
FEATURED IMAGE: Chriselda Lewis standing outside of the Wits Centre for Journalism. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Serious journalism is losing ground as short-form videos increasingly become the public’s primary source of news
Graphic content and privacy violations raise serious ethical concerns
Popularity on the app overrides accuracy
TikTok delivers fast, engaging news but lacks fact-checking
TikTok is designed to promote short videos, catering to a shorter attention span among its target audience. In a few scrolls on the app, one can learn about natural disasters in other countries, corruption, and bombing of ATM’s etc.
Scale showing the preferred platforms for news consumption among younger generations. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
At first the app was used for comedy, dance trends and lip-syncing challenges but now TikTok is changing the way media works. As more users make use of it for news, an important question emerges: is this good for journalism?
The answer is complicated. Comment sections of TikTok news creators like Jaxx Amahle, Amani Dube and Dylan Page, have people saying, “I don’t watch news at all, I follow you to get latest updates” and some say, “You make news sounds fun. That is why I follow you because generally news is boring”.
TikTok’s reach is indisputable, with the dominant presence of Gen Z, it has the power to shape public opinion faster than traditional outlets. In time of crisis, from the war in Gaza to wildfires in California, the app has outpaced traditional media providing unfolding, raw, and unfiltered events. The users offer real time flow of information that is immediate and feels authentic.
However, this is where the danger lies. On TikTok there is no fact-checking, which makes it easy for inaccurate information to spread faster. The accounts that have a large following and number of likes, are most likely to be seen as credible meaning people believe what is shared on such accounts without questioning.
It is difficult to tell the difference between what is true and what is not from TikTok citizen journalists. This comes with several risks because if individuals don’t recognize when something is false, a lot of damage can be done like the spread of misinformation, damage to reputation etc.
Some of these creators share information inaccurately and unethically. For example, they often reveal the names of sexual assault victims, along with where they go to school or work.
Sometimes, while scrolling through the app, I come across graphic footage of people bleeding to death at accident scenes, all because so-called “citizen journalists” feel the need to show every detail. Imagine being a parent and opening the app only to see your child dead in such a scene—how does one ever heal from something like that?
What is undeniable is that many find TikTok a convenient and fun platform to get news. But it is also true that some of the so-called news may be misinformation or disinformation. Thus, good fact-based journalism remains relevant regardless of the increasing influence of platforms such as TikTok.
FEATURED IMAGE: Scale showing the preferred platforms for news consumption among younger generations. Photo; Dikeledi Ramabula
University students in South Africa, like their counterparts globally, experience substantial mental health issues characterised by high levels of psychological distress and limited access to professional help.
A nurse allegedly dismissed a student experiencing depression, advising that more sleep would resolve her condition.
A student having an anxiety attack was allegedly scolded by a nurse while seeking help.
The Centre scheduled additional sessions for the student to resolve the matter, but she never showed up.
The student raised serious concerns about the quality of mental health support provided by Wits Campus Health and Wellness Centre.
“Sister Simangele Sitoe told me I was lazy and dismissed me with sleeping pills and antidepressants,” the student said.
Only after filing a complaint with a former intern named Karabo Molefe, was psychiatric assistance made available.
However, the issue continued in 2025. During an anxiety attack, the student returned to the Centre, only to be scolded by another nurse, Sister Ntombi Dantjie. “She shouted that she’s been a psychiatric nurse longer than I’ve been alive and that I was wasting her time”, the student alleged.
Wits’ Campus Health And Wellness Centre – Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Wits Vuvuzela reached out to both psychiatric nurses. Dantjie was unavailable for comment.
However, Sitoe denied the allegations, “I only interacted with the student once, after the first session, she decided that she does not want to interact with me ever again. After we referred her to another doctor here at the centre, the student would not avail herself and she did not come to collect her medication.”
In response, former intern, Molefe said, “The student came to me and complained about Sister Sitoe. I proceeded to book her multiple times to get assistance and sort out her issues with the nurse, but she never came.”
The head of department is currently not in the country to comment, standing in for him Mr. Brian Jele, the Primary Health Care Nurse at the Centre said: “There is a suggestion box available to all our patients here at the Centre, if any student has an issue, they have a right to voice out their matters, write everything down and put it in a box and everything will be investigated”.
Mr. Jele added, “When Mr. Ntshabele returns on Monday, I will report the matter to him and proper investigation will be conducted from there.”
FEATURED IMAGE: The Campus Health and Wellness Centre’s working hours. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
The multi-award-winning artist continues to prove that he has mastered the art of capturing his listeners’ emotions with his sound.
Since debuting in 2018 with his album “USHUN WENKABI”, Big Zulu’s versatility has made him one of the most complete creators in South Africa’s music industry – and his latest offering is one worth listening to.
Big Zulu’s fifth studio album, ICALA LE MPUMELELO dropped on April 11, 2025, featuring several artists including Shwi Mntombazane, Nkosazana Daughter, Zakwe, Siya Ntuli, Zeh McGeba, Zee Nxumalo, Aymos, Maseven, Emtee, Toss, Sir Trill, Xowla and Zakwe – on songs ranging from hip hop to afro pop.
Big Zulu’s music is the kind that one effortlessly falls in love with. After listening to the album only once, I was captured and able to pick the tracks that stand out the most.
Unlike some artists who make music based on trends, Big Zulu invests in making music that has a message, resulting in longevity of his work because what he sings about is relatable.
In the album’s opening track titled “ICALA LE MPUMELELO” the artist tells a story that many in South Africa relate to – raised by a caring grandmother who worked as a maid to provide food on the table, taught him survival skills, then succeeding against all odds.
“MTHULISE”, “MINA NGEDWA” and “MBALI YAMI” demonstrate the artist’s consistent devotion to love songs. Track 2, MTHULISE, stands out as an emotional and sad song. The artist sings about the challenge of being in a relationship with someone who is an orphan because when they cry, you also cry.
Big Zulu takes listeners on an emotional rollercoaster – from sadness to feeling like turning up in a club with friends vibing to “iNkululeko”, a rap track featuring Toss & Sir.
In a song already released in March, “ABAZAZI BAFUNANI” featuring Emtee, Big Zulu appears to have turned their rivalry into a beautiful collaboration.
This is certainly an album worth listening to.
Vuvu Rating 7/10
FEATURED IMAGE: Big Zulu’s album cover. Photo: Big Zulu‘s Instagram
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