EC Journal

21/11/2025

Celebrating the Giants Among Us: Home of Legends Excellence Awards Unveils 2025 Ceremony

Home of Legends Excellence Awards proudly launches a ceremony dedicated to honouring the living legends of the Eastern Cape individuals and organisations whose work is transforming communities and building a lasting legacy.

These awards celebrate community impact and legacy building, recognising excellence across arts, culture, business, leadership, education, youth empowerment, justice, and community development. The Eastern Cape continues to produce leaders who inspire South Africa and the world, and this initiative is designed to uplift and support them.

As a community-centred organisation, the awards preserve local heritage and amplify community voices. While the Great Child Award received fewer nominations than expected, the overall response highlights a strong desire to celebrate grassroots excellence. The awards will take place in two sectors on 5 December 2025 and May 2026 with developmental programmes introduced in partnership with government and the private sector.

CEO Mr. Romeo Qetsemane of the Human Rights Agency stated:
“The Home of Legends Excellence Awards will not only acknowledge excellence but restore dignity to community work, storytelling, culture, leadership, and development. Winners will sign developmental contracts that ensure continued growth for both themselves and their communities.”

Awards spokesperson Likhona Bubulu encouraged communities to vote, emphasising that “the community is the adjudicator of these awards.”

Categories for the Home of Legends Excellence Awards include:
• Poet of the Year
• Newsreader of the Year
• Provincial Traditionalists
• Actor of the Year
• Musician of the Year
• Community Builder of the Year
• GBV Activist of the Year
• Photographer of the Year
• Presenter of the Year
• Best Social Media Influencer
• Disability Activist of the Year
• Business Organisation of the Year
• Entrepreneur of the Year
• Radio Station Traditional Music Presenter
• Foundation of the Year
• Cultural Activist of the Year
• Traditional Dance Group of the Year
• Programme Director of the Year
• Best Traditional Music Composer
• Fittest Woman of the Year
• Traditional Religion Activist
• Greatest Home of Legends Excellence Awardsrt Interpreter of the Year
• Religious Presenter of the Year
• Caregiver of the Year
• Pastor of the Year
• Anti-GBV Organisation of the Year
• Best Beauty Saloon

15/11/2025

DSRAC Amathole District Celebrates a Successful 2025 Hip Hop Festival at Ngqushwa Art Centre.

The Amathole District office of the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC) proudly celebrates the resounding success of the 2025 Amathole District Hip Hop Festival, held on 14 November 2025 at the Ngqushwa Art Centre.

Now in its second year, this growing festival has become a flagship platform for young talent across the Amathole region, continuing to attract emerging artists, local audiences, and creative industry supporters. The Ngqushwa Art Centre once again came alive with powerful performances, energetic beats, and a strong sense of community pride.

This year, 11 performers from municipalities across the district competed for top honours. In addition to recognition and exposure, the top three winners received valuable prizes, including laptops, speakers, and microphones, equipping them with essential tools to advance their craft and professional development.

Among the attendees was well-known local personality Dani the Comedian, who kept the audience entertained with his signature humour and gave a glimpse of his upcoming music, adding an exciting layer of entertainment to the festival programme.

Acting Senior Manager responsible for Arts and Culture Development in the Amathole District, Mr Hastings Mqhayi, praised the success of the event and its positive impact on youth development.

“Today’s festival has demonstrated the incredible potential of Hip Hop as a powerful vehicle for youth expression, creativity, and social cohesion. We are proud to provide a platform where young people can showcase their skills, build confidence, and contribute meaningfully to the local creative economy. The energy and talent displayed here reaffirm our commitment to investing in programmes that uplift and professionalise the arts within our district.”

The festival also highlighted rising stars from across Amathole:

1st Place Winner: T**i Kwazi (24), aka Alterkay, from Mnquma Municipality, participating in his first-ever festival, expressed his gratitude:
“It’s my first time performing at a festival, and I’m grateful for the platform DSRAC has created for artists, especially those from rural areas.”

2nd Place Winner: Athaba Vumthi, aka ATP, from Stutterheim in Amahlathi Municipality, celebrated his debut performance at a festival:
“The best thing I ever did was submit my audition video for this competition. I’m here representing my municipality, and performing at a festival for the first time feels incredible.”

3rd Place Winners: GS Duo from Xora in Mbashe Municipality reflected proudly on the opportunity:
“This is huge for us. Being part of this festival means visibility and growth.”

The Hip Hop Festival forms part of DSRAC’s continuing mission to develop young talent, strengthen the creative arts sector, and promote cultural expression across the Amathole District.

DSRAC extends heartfelt appreciation to all artists, partners, guests, and community members whose participation made the 2025 festival a memorable and impactful success.

📸: Yanga Nginda

10/11/2025

Ngqushwa Drama Groups Shine at Community Showcase

The Ngqushwa arts scene came alive this week as local drama groups delivered powerful performances at the Peddie Extension Community Hall. The event featured Ngquma Drama with their production Uhambo Luka Zingiwe, and The Creatives with Don’t Look Back, drawing an enthusiastic audience from across the community.

Ngquma Drama continues to prove how arts can transform lives. Among the standout performers was Nolisindiso Mahlakahlaka, who shared how, despite being unemployed and having no formal education in the arts, she discovered her natural talent through acting. “I’ve learnt so much and I genuinely enjoy it,” she said.

Another emerging talent, Sihle Simakuhle, a Grade 9 learner, began her journey as a stage manager at the 2024 National Arts Festival in Makhanda. Her dedication and passion led her to become a full member of the group. Actor Mayibongwe Mbali added that being part of Ngquma has broadened his perspective and helped him grow creatively. “It’s all coming naturally now,” he said.

The Creatives, founded in January 2022 by Ludumo Mgobo, have steadily built a name for themselves with performances across the Eastern Cape. Their work continues to showcase young talent and bring fresh narratives to local audiences.

The rise of Ngquma Arts stems from the support received by Jo-Kinda People Organisation, which secured National Arts Council funding in 2023 for research in Tyhefu and later for drama development. This investment led to the formal establishment of Ngquma Arts under the leadership of founder Xolisa Ngubelanga. Today the group boasts ten committed members.

The initiative has already made a measurable impact in the area. One member Nolusindiso Mahlakahlaka has gone on to start her own drama group, proving that the project is not only nurturing performers but also creating leaders and entrepreneurs in the arts. Members receive stipends, bringing financial relief to their households and reinforcing the sustainability of the programme. The group meets diligently from Monday to Friday for rehearsals.

The showcase highlighted more than just talent; it reflected empowerment, community growth, and the lasting value of investing in the arts in rural areas.

09/11/2025

The Founder of Zion I Holy Jesus, Arch Bishop Phikani William Mtshwepe (92), Laid to Rest

The Founder of the Zion I Holy Jesus Church, Arch Bishop Phikani William Mtshwepe, aged 92, was laid to rest on Saturday, the 8th of November 2025, at Bell in Ngqushwa.

He was described as a man who believed wholeheartedly in God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those who knew this elder from Mampingeni say he was a quiet man who rarely spoke — even when provoked — but once he had spoken, he would simply say, “May the Lord bless you,” and walk away, trusting that God would fight his battles for him.

The funeral service was well led by Reverend Vuyisile Mbemba from Tuku B, himself a spiritual son of the late Arch Bishop Mtshwepe, affectionately known as Mawawa. Rev. Mbemba was thanked and commended for the dignified and respectful manner in which he handled the service of such a great man.

Also in attendance was Ms. Pinky Tsako of the #60 Walk a Child to School Foundation, who represented the Hintsaba clan as a relative of the late Arch Bishop.

The Ngqushwa Council of Churches was present as well, represented by its chairperson, Rev. Phumelele Mvubu of the Anglican Church. The service was also attended by Brother Luyanda Mcoseli from the Wesleyan Methodist Circuit of Tuku 0239.

It was heartwarming to see believers from different denominations coming together in unity to honor the life of a man of great faith.

19/10/2025

UIF Hosts Media Networking Session in East London

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), an entity of the Department of Employment and Labour, recently hosted a media networking session in East London, bringing together members of the media from across the Eastern Cape. EC Journal was among the media houses in attendance.

The session aimed to strengthen relations between the UIF and the media while providing key updates on the Fund’s services, compliance issues, and employment initiatives.

The Provincial Management Team was formally introduced, with Mr. Ramatsetse, Director of UIF, sharing his direct contact number (082 310 9018) for official work-related enquiries during office hours. He also emphasised the importance for employees to appoint a beneficiary on form UI.53 and to update personal details whenever they change, as UIF systems are linked with the Department of Home Affairs.

Representatives from GCIS (Government Communication and Information System) highlighted Media Sustainability and Compliance, urging media houses to ensure full compliance so they can be eligible to work with government departments.

The session also provided an in-depth overview of UIF’s benefits and services, including:
• Reduced Work Time Benefits
• Maternity Benefits
• Illness Benefits
• Dependants/Death Benefits
• Adoption Benefits

UIF reminded the public that applications for these benefits can be made online via https://ufiling.labour.gov.za/uif or at the nearest labour centre. Forms are also available for download at www.labour.gov.za.

The Compensation Fund presentation covered Injuries and Diseases on Duty, explaining that for claimants with minor children, unabridged birth certificates are required to process claims.

Other departments addressed included:
• Inspection and Enforcement Services
• National Minimum Wage Act & Basic Conditions of Employment Act
• Public Employment Services, which focuses on registering work seekers and connecting them with employer opportunities

The Eastern Cape currently has 16 Labour Centres and several satellite offices that assist with employment recruitment and UIF services. Officials encouraged online registration as a more efficient and convenient method for job seekers.

The session concluded with a shared commitment between UIF and the media to enhance public awareness and accessibility of employment-related services across the province.

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15/10/2025

Ngqushwa Community Builders Awards to be hosted on 16 December 2025🔌

🎉 Ngqushwa Community Builders Awards — 2nd Annual! 🎉
Join us on 16 December as we celebrate and honour those recognised as true game changers in our community. 💫

🎟️ Tickets are out!
Secure your table seat now — space is limited!

04/09/2025

🔌

01/09/2025

Here is a plug🔌
Follow the page & stand a chance to win

30/08/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“TIED” SHORT FILM TRAILER OFFICIALLY RELEASED: A POWERFUL STORY OF LOVE, LOSS, AND HEALING

Hamburg, South Africa – 30 August 2025. Filmmaker Phumeza Macwili has unveiled the highly anticipated trailer for her upcoming short film, Tied, a moving and thought-provoking drama about the painful realities of intimate partner violence and its lasting emotional impact.

“Tied” follows the journey of Ayanda and Siphe a young couple who falls in love but faces challenges. Ayanda a woman who sacrifices everything for love, and Siphe a man who loves to be in control, their choices lead them both down a heartbreaking path of loss

“This story was born out of a deep passion to use film as a mirror to society,” says Macwili. “We want to spark conversation, healing, and hope through storytelling.”

The trailer offers a powerful glimpse into the emotional intensity of Tied, set to premiere 30 September 2025.

🎬 Watch the Trailer Now: https://youtu.be/LYbHvAdDQdc?si=pmjOs4e3LQcSRJf8
For interviews, features, or festival inquiries, please contact Phumeza Macwili at [email protected] or +27 83 364 4062.

Love shouldn’t hurt …. But sometimes it does 💔 The official Trailer for short film Tied is finally here!!! Watch. Feel. Share

18/03/2025

Good Morning Honey Badgers, Sisaqhuba ngapha.

It's Day 3 of voting, and the energy is incredible! Let's keep up the momentum and show the world what we're made of. Every vote counts, so let's make each one count!

Remember, your support means everything to UYANDA. Let's continue to uplift her with our votes and positive vibes. Together, we can achieve greatness! 💪🏽✨

Don't forget:
📱Mobile: 100 votes
🖥️ Desktop: 100 votes
📲 MyDStv App: Up to 2000 votes.

Voting closes Friday night at 21:00. Keep the votes coming!

Link to Vote 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/yspm36zy

VOTE UYANDA ONLY
UYANDA FOR 2 MILLION




Credit: Big Brother Mzansi
No copyright infringement intended.

The 411 on Big Brother Mzansi voting.

17/03/2025

Press Release
For Immediate Release

Anqobile Development Foundation and CPUT Empower Rural Learners in Ngqushwa

Anqobile Development Foundation, in collaboration with the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), has embarked on a rural school outreach program to empower high-performing schools in Ngqushwa. The initiative aims to introduce students to career opportunities offered by CPUT and equip them with essential knowledge for their transition to university life.

The first school visited was Nathaniel Pamla High School, where learners engaged with Ms. Thandokazi Mtshekisa from CPUT’s Marketing and Communications Department. She provided valuable insights on career selection, emphasizing the importance of academic performance in securing placements at higher learning institutions.

Ms. Mtshekisa also cautioned learners about the responsible use of social media, highlighting how inappropriate online behavior can impact their future. She explained that many companies review social media profiles before associating their brands with individuals, making digital responsibility a crucial aspect of personal and professional growth.

Anqobile Development Foundation remains committed to uplifting rural communities, with a strong focus on youth empowerment. The foundation provides opportunities, platforms, and resources to underprivileged learners, ensuring they have access to information and support systems that can help them succeed.

This initiative marks the beginning of a series of school visits, reinforcing the foundation’s mission to bridge the gap between rural education and higher learning opportunities.

17/03/2025

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