Soweto Life News

05/11/2025

"A BOLD NEW AIRCRAFT UNVEILED"


FLYSAFAIR UNVEILS PROTEA LIVERY DESIGNED BY 22-YEAR-OLD SOUTH AFRICAN STUDENT.

Fan-designed aircraft celebrates one year of partnership between FlySafair and Cricket South Africa

Johannesburg, 5 November 2025: FlySafair and Cricket South Africa (CSA) yesterday unveiled a bold new aircraft livery celebrating their partnership, featuring a design created by 22-year-old Gqeberha student Dinika Naidu. The reveal took place at FlySafair’s Johannesburg hangar, marking one year since the airline became the Official Domestic Airline Partner of the Proteas.

The livery was selected from hundreds of entries in a nationwide competition launched when the three-year sponsorship was announced in October 2024. Naidu's winning design features elegant calligraphic lines that evoke both the protea flower and FlySafair's iconic branding, symbolising the unity between South Africa's national cricket teams and the country's leading low-cost carrier.

"This past year has been absolutely incredible," said Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair. "When we partnered with Cricket SA, we wanted to do something uniquely South African, something that gave fans a real stake in the journey. Dinika's design captures that spirit beautifully, and we're proud to have it flying across the country."

The partnership has coincided with standout achievements for both Proteas teams. The men's team claimed the ICC Test World Cup title earlier this year, with FlySafair supporting the trophy tour that brought the iconic mace to fans nationwide. The women's team has also delivered exceptional performances on the global stage, reinforcing their status among the world's elite.

"We're thrilled to celebrate this milestone with FlySafair," said Mtunzi Jonas, Chief Commercial Officer at CSA. "This partnership is about more than logistics, it's about unity, excellence, and connecting South African cricket fans around the country. Having a young South African designer play such a central role in this story makes it even more significant.”

Naidu, a self-taught graphic designer and student at Nelson Mandela University, funds her studies through freelance work. Seeing her creation come to life has been a surreal experience.

"I don't think there are words to describe how excited I am," Naidu said. "As a young designer, you dream about moments like this, but you never expect them to happen. I'm so grateful to FlySafair and Cricket SA for this opportunity, it really feels like I've made it."

The design incorporates colours drawn from both FlySafair and Proteas branding, with flowing lines encompassing a cricket player to represent the partnership. Naidu intentionally kept the visual elements "simple but impactful," ensuring the livery communicates the collaboration instantly.

Looking ahead, the partnership enters an exciting phase with both Proteas teams playing domestically this summer. FlySafair and CSA have planned fan activations throughout the season, building momentum toward the 2027 Cricket World Cup, which will be hosted across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

"This partnership is about celebrating South African cricket and creating extraordinary moments along the way," added Gordon. "From flying the Test World Cup trophy to supporting the women's team's incredible performances, it's been a privilege to be part of the journey. And now, with Dinika's design flying our skies, we're taking it to new heights, literally."

The Protea-liveried aircraft will serve FlySafair's domestic routes, ensuring visibility at airports nationwide.

Story By: Soweto-Life News.com

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31/10/2025

"GET READY TO LACE UP WITH SOWETO MARATHON 2025"

African Bank Reveals Kabelo Mabalane as Official Brand Ambassador for the 2025 Soweto Marathon and Unveils the Iconic Runners’ T-shirt,In Johannesburg, 31 October 2025 — African Bank has officially announced musician, athlete, and philanthropist, Kabelo Mabalane as the brand ambassador for the African Bank Soweto Marathon 2025 (ABSM 2025).

The announcement was made during an energetic internal launch event at the Bank’s headquarters, where hundreds of staff members gathered to celebrate the reveal of the ambassador for the race.
This year’s marathon is particularly momentous, marking 30 years of the Soweto Marathon and 50 years of African Bank. These are two proudly South African institutions, founded in Soweto, that share a deep connection to endurance, purpose, and community upliftment.

Sbusiso Kumalo, Chief Marketing Officer at African Bank, said, “We’re excited to have Kabelo join the team this year. Him being Soweto born and bred makes him a natural fit for ABSM 2025. His running journey, which is well documented in his book, I Ran For My Life, speaks to the same audacious spirit the founders of African Bank possessed when a bank for the people, by the people, seemed impossible. Our founders believed that persistence could overcome any limitation. Kabelo embodies that same belief.”
Mabalane, a seasoned athlete, musician, and philanthropist, described his role in the ABSM partnership as both humbling and inspiring. “When two iconic South African brands like African Bank and the Soweto Marathon celebrate milestones together, it’s more than just numbers — it’s a story of endurance and purpose,” he said. “The Soweto Marathon represents the heartbeat of our people, and African Bank has been that heartbeat in the financial space for 50 years.

This partnership reminds us that with the right support, you can go the distance.”
The much-anticipated 2025 runners’ T-shirt was also unveiled at the ABSM launch event. The shirt is a symbol of tenacity, drive, and ambition — qualities that unite all runners who take on “The People’s Race.” Each registered participant will receive the shirt as part of their race pack.
“We are thrilled to have Kabelo Mabalane join our ABSM 2025 edition and equally as pleased to unleash the superb race shirt to our valued community,” smiled Soweto Marathon spokesperson Jabu Mbuli.

Registered runners can collect their race packs and T-shirts at the Soweto Marathon Expo, taking place at Nasrec from 26–28 November 2025.

There will be no shirt collection on race day, and shirts are not for sale — they are exclusive to official participants of the 2025 African Bank Soweto Marathon.
Kumalo summed up, “A race T-shirt isn’t just fabric — it’s pride, identity, and the badge of honour you wear before and after the run. It says, ‘I belong. I’m part of something bigger. Ziyakhala ke manje!”

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24/09/2025

"FNB STADIUM WILL BE TRANSFORMED INTO KOTA LOVERS PARADISE"

All roads leads to Jozi Kota Festival on the 04 October 2025 as it returns for the 2nd time this year.
A celebration of one of South Africa's most beloved street food delicacies
(The Kota)

Jozi Kota Festival is about more than just food,it is a true showcase of "Kasi" (township Culture)
Over 50 different Kota stalls; each with its own unique twist on the classic township sandwich will be lined on the field.
From the traditional Kota stuffed with clover cheese, russian sausage, slap chips, atchaar, to more daring creations with gourmet fillings and secret sauces, there will be a Kota for every palate.

"Our biggest vision is to tell our kasi food stories and take Kota to the world"
" The growth of Jozi Kota Festival is a testament to the cultural and economic values of the township traditions"
"Kota Festival is proud to receive the support from sponsors as it assists with elevatingthe Kota business into a nationally celebrated symbol of our creativity, community and entrepreneurship" said the project manager of Jozi Kota Festival Buyisile Nkosi.

Jozi Kota Festival is proudly sponsored by Albany ,Clover;the official supporting sponsor Sunfoil,Thompson Meats,
All Gold and OROS.

As Jozi Kota Festival returns it will be bigger and more delicious than ever.The greatest chance for people to relax; enjoy great Kotas and soak in the festive atmosphere with friends and family.

BY: Soweto-LifeNews.com
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21/09/2025

"JOZI KOTA FESTIVAL "

Get Ready For Jozi Kota Festival that will be happening on the 04 October 2025 at FNB Stadium.

SECURE YOUR TICKET NOW
NOTE: No Tickets Will Be Sold At The Gate




JOZI KOTA FESTIVAL POWERED BY ALBANY BREAD.

BY:Soweto-Life News.com

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20/08/2025

20/08/2025

23/07/2025

"MANDELA DAY 2025 WELL SPENT WITH GOGOS AND MKHULUS IN SOWETO"

This year the theme for Mandela Day was; "It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity." This is what the team at the NPO ‘Merchants of Light’ set out to do and to achieve, thus bringing warmth, hope, light and impact to families in and around Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni; from Pimville and Klipspruit in Soweto to Germiston and Primrose on the East Rand. This initiative was supported by Kit Kat Cash and Carry, Cyber Dexterity, PKF Octagon, Villamoura Restaurant, The Media Factory, Rage Inc Productions, Red Cherry Foundation, Freeway Toyota, Toyota Knights, 321 Technical Systems, anonymous donors, friends, and family. Grocery hampers were filled, Gogo’s were spoilt, children were treated to days of fun and in true Merchants of Light style more than 500 people were fed across the allocated project days.

Merchants of Light believe in Mandela Day and have turned it into Mandela Month with weeks of feedings, grocery hampers, beanies, blankets and hot meal distributions to bring warmth and light to the darkest corners of our communities, These family hampers are packed with non-perishables, tinned items, maize meal, rice, pasta and cooking items like salt, sugar and oil, additional items handed out were loaves of bread, oranges and fresh produce like carrots and potatoes. It is actions such as this, from organizations and corporates, that came together to reignite our hope and love for one another thus building and nurturing our nation. “That is how we should live every day with a smile and a thank you for one another, that is the Madiba Magic and flows through our veins as South Africans and we have to live that legacy every day,” said Ella Bella co-founder of Merchants of Light.

Catherine Constantine, the Director of Merchants of Light spoke in a passionate address on Mandela Day at the Pimville Community Hall about, “Our simple acts of kindness, a simple bowl of food, a warm blanket, or a gesture of love goes a long way to creating strong bonds of a community. It is our job to keep creating these bonds in the communities we call Home.” Constantinides went on to explain, “This is the only way to keep Tata Madiba’s memory and legacy alive; through these acts of kindness. We have not managed to do these grocery hampers alone, it is our angel donors, corporates like Kit Kat Cash and Carry, PFK Octagon, Cyber Dexterity, The Media Factory and so many other donors that have allowed for our Mandela Day to be such a success.”

Merchants of Light have different community projects throughout the year, weekly feeding programs, school shoe and stationery drives, along with disaster management and relief. From packing of toiletries, mattresses, and blankets for victims of floods and fires, to cooking or dishing up bowls of hope, love and light. If you are able to support this initiative please contact or message 082 5050 664.

Merchants Of Light Bring Hope, Love And Impact.

BY: Soweto-LifeNews.com
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21/06/2025

BREAKING NEWS:

Mr Phumlani Msibi passed away on Friday after a short illness at age 57.

May His Soul Rest In Peace.

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04/04/2025

"NEDBANK IMPACTS FINANCIAL EDUCATION THROUGH DANCE"

How the is making financial education fun and accessible for all South Africans.

Financial education can be fun! Nedbank is turning financial literacy into a movement – quite literally – with the launch of its exciting new challenge, led by TikTok sensation and Amapiano choreographer and dancer Raizor Steezy. By combining the universal appeal of music and dance with key money management tips like smart spending and saving, the challenge aims to enable all South Africans to make better money choices in a relatable , engaging, and contextually relevant way.

The is a vibrant celebration of South African culture, where the rhythm of dance mirrors the rhythm of the game. Just as footballers express their passion, creativity and skills on the pitch, dance is a powerful form of self-expression that unites communities, ignites energy, and fuels celebration. From the Nedbank Cup goal-scoring celebrations to fan chants in the stands, dance has always been part of football culture.

'Among many of South Africa’s cultural exports is our prowess to entertain and build social cohesion through music and dance. By tapping into this innate ability, we aim to deliver financial education in a manner that corresponds with the activities South Africans enjoy engaging in while living their daily lives. We are redefining the delivery of financial education by making it fun, interactive, and relatable to all South Africans', says Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head of Marketing for Retail and Business Banking at Nedbank.

'Financial literacy is a critical skill that all South Africans must be empowered with to manage their money better. According to the 2024 NedFinHealth Monitor Report, South Africans continue to navigate the pressure of a tough economy. Over 40% of South Africans have no emergency savings, leaving them vulnerable to unexpected financial shocks,' says Dr Frank Magwegwe, Financial Wellness Expert at Nedbank.

The insights from the NedFinHealth Monitor Report (2024) underscore the urgent need for innovative financial education initiatives that engage South Africans in meaningful ways.

Nedbank is using the challenge to showcase the many benefits of being a Nedbank accountholder. Through your MiGoals Plus Account, you can get up to 30% off flights and 50% off Nu Metro movie tickets and snacks. With your JustSave Account, you pay no monthly fees and have instant access to your money.

Raizor highlights the critical role of financial literacy for creatives like himself and elaborates on how the Challenge is designed to blend movement with meaningful money lessons. 'As a creative, financial literacy is everything,' says Raizor. 'Opportunities in this space are endless, but without the right knowledge, long-term success can slip away. This challenge is more than just a dance; it’s about making better money moves with the right banking partner and the right tools to turn financial goals into a reality.'

Dr Magwegwe further highlights the importance of this initiative and shares some tips on how creatives like Raizor can make better money choices. 'In today’s fast-paced world, financial literacy is key to long-term security and success. Understanding how to save, spend wisely, and invest empowers young South Africans to make smarter money choices.'

Link To Video -

Follow Raizor Steezy’s TikTok page, recreate the today, and take the first step toward financial empowerment! By joining the challenge, you stand a chance to win an all-expenses-paid VIP experience for 2 to the 2025 Nedbank Cup final.

How to enter:
Follow .

Record yourself doing the .

Upload your video on TikTok using and tag and .

Get moving, show off your best dance moves, and make money moves with Nedbank!

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03/04/2025

"STEP INTO LUXURY: EYETHU,THE PREMIER EVENT DESTINATION"

Eyethu Multipurpose Function Venue launched as Premier destination for entertainment and leisure.

In a grand celebration,Eyethu Multipurpose Function Venue officially launched its doors to the public,ushering in a new era of entertainment,leisure and community building.

Located in the heart of Soweto, Eyethu is poised to become the go-to destination for individuals,families,and businesses seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.

The state of the Art Venue offers an unparalleled range of facilities and services including:

-Luxurious event spaces for weddings,conferences and parties.
-A cutting edge cinema and live performance theater .
-A trendy restaurant and bar serving local and international cuisine.
-Exclusive shopping boutiques and retail outlets.

During the launch event, guest were treated to a spectacular showcase of Eyethu Multipurpose Function Venue offerings.
The venue was a buzz with excitement as attendees explored the various facilities, enjoyed live music and dance performance and more.

"We are thrilled to introduce Eyethu Multipurpose Function Venue as a premier destination for entertainment, leisure and community engagement " said
(Tebogo Phiri) Founder Of Eyethu Multipurpose Function Venue.
"Our vision is to create a vibrant hub where
People can come together, socialise,and enjoy unforgettable experiences".

With its stunning architecture, world-class amenities and commitment to excellence, Eyethu Multipurpose Function Venue is set to revolutionize the entertainment and leisure landscape in Soweto.

For more information and bookings on how to host the upcoming events Multipurpose Function Venue Contact: [email protected] or visit www.eyethufunctionvenue.co.za

BY: Soweto-LifeNews.com
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03/04/2025

"THE SEARCH IS ON FOR MISS SOUTH AFRICA 2025"

And reigning Miss South Africa Mia le Roux has useful tips for entrants as the age limit for entry is increased

Wednesday, April 2, 2025: Are you ready to embrace your boldness and bravery? The time has come once again for powerful young women to dare to dream big, challenge the status quo and inspire others to face their power.

The search has started for the dynamic successor who will follow in the footsteps of the current Miss South Africa, Mia le Roux, and become one of South Africa’s most prominent ambassadors and inspirational leaders.

Entries for Miss South Africa 2025 open at 14h00 today (Wednesday, April 2) and will close on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 18h00.

Le Roux has some important advice to those thinking of entering the Miss South Africa competition this year.

“When entering Miss South Africa the most important thing you can do is to come in with an open heart and an open mind because this journey will really challenge you to explore who you are and what you stand for. And, if you embrace the journey fully, you will come out knowing yourself so much better whether you take the crown or not.”

The most important thing, Le Roux says, is that entrants stay true to who they are and be authentic.

“This is how you will be consistent. Also be prepared; know yourself, know your country and be informed about the challenges that women face. You must have a strong work ethic but, above all, be kind. If you are sitting on the fence on whether to enter or not, go for it. Your voice can be a vehicle for change thanks to the role you will play and with the support of the Miss South Africa Organisation.”

She stresses that entrants don’t have to be perfect:

“You are allowed to be human and it’s okay if you don’t always have the answers to everything, as long as you show that you are completely at peace with who you are and that you are always willing to learn.”

Has being Miss South Africa lived up to Le Roux’s expectations?

“Being Miss South Africa 2024 has been beyond my expectations. Your life really changes forever but you also get to truly change others lives and redefine what it means to be a powerful woman. With each new woman being crowned, the definition of a powerful woman becomes more and more encompassing.”

South Africans will once again get to know the finalists through the fascinating Miss South Africa reality competition television series Crown Chasers. Season 4 will include more episodes and for the first time ever include a post finale reunion episode.

The age limit for entry has been changed this year. An applicant must be at least 20 years old and be under 32 years of age as of August 30, 2025. This means that an applicant can turn 32 within her year of reign. Previously, an applicant could only turn 30 in the year of reign. There are also no height or weight specifications or requirements.

Those who wish to enter can do so on the Miss SA App (under the ENTER NOW page) or visit www.misssa.co.za, answer several questions, upload entry images (one head and shoulders and one full body image in colour) and the link to their entry video. All entrants have to submit their Miss SA 2025 entry video via their personal social media channels.

Those wishing to enter can watch the Miss SA Masterclass session on the Miss SA App for expert advice and insights and should join the preparation sessions that will be hosted on Miss South Africa’s social media channels. Follow social media for more info. Further details can be found under Miss SA 2025 on the official website www.misssa.co.za.

Download the Miss South Africa App from the Apple App Store or Google Play store

Miss South Africa is presented by Weil Entertainment in association with Sun International. AFI is the official fashion sponsor.

Go to:

https://www.misssa.co.za
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissSouthAfricaOfficial
X:
Instagram:
Tik-Tok:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MissSouthAfricaOfficial

BY: Soweto-LifeNews.com
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03/04/2025

"FNB UNVEILS AGENCYPLUS,A DIGITAL BANKING SOLUTION FOR FINANCIAL INCLUSION"

As financial inclusion continues to be a major challenge for many communities across South Africa, FNB is enabling access to basic banking services and cash in close proximity to both the unbanked and under banked individuals, through FNB AgencyPlus.

AgencyPlus is a safe and convenient way for individuals to deposit cash into an FNB account and withdraw cash from their FNB account or eWallet at a local shop or small business registered as an AgencyPlus agent. Users can also buy airtime and electricity through the solution. Banking services are provided at the store (agents) via the FNB App or cellphone banking (USSD).

FNB currently has 70 active agents in various regional communities across the country, including Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape. Later this month, FNB is also looking forward to onboarding Spar Utrecht in KwaZulu-Natal and Engen Potchefstroom in North West as AgencyPlus agents.

Zibu Nqala, CEO of FNB Points of Presence says, “We have had an overwhelmingly positive response from businesses and communities since we initially rolled out AgencyPlus last year. It is unfortunate that in this day and age, a lack of access to basic banking services, which are essential to growing our economy, is still a reality for many people and families across the country. To help address this, we aim to expand AgencyPlus to as many locations as possible, as part of our commitment to ensuring that basic banking services are easily accessible in and around communities.”

“In line with our alternative distribution channel strategy, the combination of our nation-wide branch network, extensive ATM footprint with the inclusion of our newly introduced Kiosks’ in Pick n Pay and our growing AgencyPlus locations allows us to help more customers to manage their cash needs easily and conveniently. Our customers really appreciate the convenience, safety and cost-efficiency that the banking service offers, as they don’t have to travel far to malls or busy towns to get their banking done,” adds Nqala.

Andiswa Bata, CEO of FNB Business explains that AgencyPlus is designed to empower small businesses (agents) to expand the services they can offer to their own customers, all done conveniently while the customers’ shop. Eligible agents also get training on compliance, business, and products, along with marketing and branding materials to use in their stores and business areas.

“AgencyPlus offers several benefits for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with growth potential. It can attract more customers to their stores and helps them manage cash flow more efficiently. The ability for customers to deposit and withdraw cash at an approved agent; means we can recycle cash closer to the places where people live and do business. This in turn reduces the need for agents to hold excess cash on site, which saves valuable time and money as the agent will have a less frequent need to travel to a bank branch to deposit their earnings. Additionally, SMEs can earn extra income through the commission paid by FNB for the services the agents provide,” adds Bata.

"The launch of AgencyPlus is in line with our strategy to offer customers a wider choice of simple, real, and affordable help through accessible everyday channels. The objective is to provide an additional FNB point of presence for our customers, as we meet them at their point of need and offer them a greater choice on how and where they can manage their transactions. We are continuously working on ways to expand and improve these solutions, to provide an enhanced experience for both our customers and SMEs,” concludes Nqala.

BY: Soweto-LifeNews.com

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