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Woolworths has solidified its position as South Africa’s leading fashion destination after securing two major honours at the 2026 South Africa Fashion Awards.

The retailer took home both Best Fashion Retailer and Best Fashion E-Commerce Brand at this year’s awards, which celebrates creativity, innovation and influence in South African fashion in partnership with the World Fashion Awards. Winners are chosen through a combination of public engagement, consumer votes and professional assessment.

The double victory recognises both sides of the Woolworths fashion experience – the in-store journey customers know and love and the fast-growing digital platform that is changing how South Africans discover and shop fashion.

“To win both Best Fashion Retailer and Best Fashion E-Commerce Brand is really profound for us,” said Manie Maritz, CEO of Fashion, Beauty and Home at Woolworths. “These awards reflect the work of teams across our business who are constantly thinking about how we can make the Woolworths Fashion experience better, from the product we create and curate, to how our customers discover and shop it.”

The win comes as Woolworths continues to evolve its fashion business through considered design, seasonal collections and powerful local collaborations.

Most recently, the brand set social media alight with its viral Heritage collection in collaboration with acclaimed South African designer Thebe Magugu, which brought his signature approach to South African heritage and storytelling to Woolworths customers nationwide.

“South African fashion is incredibly dynamic, and our customers are constantly evolving,” Maritz added. “That challenges us to keep listening, innovating, and creating fashion that feels relevant and distinctly Woolworths. We are proud of this recognition, but even more excited about where we go from here.”

The awards underscore Woolworths’ ongoing commitment to meeting customers wherever they choose to shop – whether in-store or online – with fashion that feels relevant, local, and distinctly Woolworths.

Flying Fish unveils new Halloween Limited Edition and sends South Africans to Dracula’s Castle

It started with a refrigerator. Then another.

Across South Africa, something strange began happening after dark. Products fell from shelves. Cans were discovered bitten. CCTV footage from participating stores captured a figure that looked suspiciously like Dracula himself.

No explanation. No announcement. No logos. Just enough evidence to make Mzansi wonder: there must be something fishy going on.

Then the videos started appearing online. Influencers investigated. Fans joined the hunt. And as sightings continued, one thing became clear, every incident had one thing in common: Flying Fish Flavoured Beer.

Now the mystery has been solved.

Dracula didn’t come to South Africa for blood. He came for something surprisingly good: Flying Fish.

And now, he wants South Africans to follow him home.

Flying Fish has officially launched its NEW Halloween Limited Edition – Passion Fruit & Lemon – the familiar refreshing taste of Flying Fish Lemon with a surprising splash of passion fruit.

And the surprises don’t stop at the flavour.

BUY. REGISTER. WIN.

This Halloween, Flying Fish is giving fans the chance to win an unforgettable trip to Transylvania, Romania. On 4 November, competition winners will leave Mzansi behind for an exclusive Halloween experience, including a party with international artists inside Dracula’s Castle itself.

For those staying home, Flying Fish will bring its signature Surprisingly Good Sets to life with a Halloween celebration in South Africa on 31 October, giving fans a chance to join the party before the lucky winners head to Dracula’s home turf.

From a mysterious trail of bitten cans to the heart of Transylvania, Flying Fish is making this Halloween surprisingly good.

Grab the new Flying Fish Halloween Limited Edition Passion Fruit & Lemon, register and stand a chance to win.

Full competition terms and conditions apply.

Robot Boii, Khanyi Mbau and Judith Sephuma unmasked in epic finale

In the epic season finale of SABC 2’s The Masked Singer South Africa Season 3, the cutest pooch in the country ran rings around her fierce competitors to snatch the coveted Golden Mask trophy.

And the guessing game is over! The undercover Mzansi superstar bouncing around on stage as the friendly, furry-faced Spotty was dancer and choreographer extraordinaire Bontle Modiselle.

Multitalented Bontle, who has also made her mark as a television presenter, actress, creative director and entrepreneur, now follows in the famous masked footsteps of previous winners Holly Rey and Warren Masemola. SAMA-winning songstress Holly won Season 1 as Lollipop, while acclaimed actor Warren towered above the rest as Giraffe in Season 2.

To become the tail-wagging top dog, Spotty had to jump through a couple of hoops in the finale, which featured two face-offs and the ultimate showdown. After Mosquito swatted away cute Chopsticks and Spotty put a paw on Gogga’s crawl to the trophy, a battle of note ensued between the gigantic insect and the sweet canine.

When runner-up Mosquito came out of his net, it was revealed that the man behind the buzz was a massive crowd-puller – none other than content creator, award-winning dancer, musician and television presenter Robot Boii.

Mzansi’s “Queen of Bling”, sensational screen star Khanyi Mbau, was unveiled as the nimble Chopsticks, while Gogga’s showstopping voice belonged to Afro-jazz legend Judith Sephuma.

Did the detectives crack the case?

The detective panel J’Something, Somizi Mhlongo, Sithelo Shozi and Skhumba Hlophe had a mixed night deciphering the final four.

After Chopsticks and Mosquito performed “APT.” by Rosé and Bruno Mars in the first battle, J’Something guessed Chopsticks was Nandi Madida. But for Somizi, Sithelo and Skhumba, all the clues pointed to his long-time friend, Khanyi Mbau. Sithelo noted Chopsticks was clearly an “It girl” and a clue about being close to her grandmother sealed the deal.

J’Something redeemed himself by correctly identifying Gogga after weeks of recognizing Judith Sephuma’s vocal artistry beneath those pink dreadlocks. He recalled setting up her rehearsal room back in the day. Somizi also cracked it via a clue about “cinematic greatness” linked to Hans Zimmer.

Sithelo guessed Nomzamo Mbatha for Gogga, while Skhumba jokingly guessed Dr Rebecca Malope.

After the spectacular final battle, in which Mosquito and Spotty set the stage alight with “Drive” by Black Coffee and David Guetta, Somizi declared it the best finale ever in the history of The Masked Singer. For once, the detectives were unanimous in their conviction that Mosquito was Robot Boii and they were right.

Unmasking winner Spotty proved trickier. J’Something was torn between Bontle Modiselle and Boohle and locked in the wrong name. Sithelo guessed Vatiswa Ndara, while Skhumba settled on Motshidisi Mohono. But again, Somizi sniffed out the truth: Spotty was Bontle Modiselle.

An emotional Bontle told the audience: “I had fun and the time of my life, and, you know, the 8-year-old me who was insecure and didn’t think she was able or capable was validated for thirteen weeks.”

While Bontle walked off with the prestigious Golden Mask trophy, another prize was up for grabs for the detective with the most correct first guesses this season. After identifying Khanyi Mbau, Lasizwe and Judith Sephuma, an overjoyed Somizi claimed the Golden Ear.

If you missed the thrilling episode, catch the rebroadcast on Thursday at 21:00 on SABC 1 or on Friday at 13:30 on SABC 2.

Farewell to the flock, SA’s first-ever duo bows out just before the finale.

They danced, they sang, they pulled the wool over everyone’s eyes. The Masked Singer South Africa’s first-ever duo, Sheep have officially been unmasked and behind the fluffy costumes were power couple Simz Ngema and Tino Chinyani.

For weeks, the cuddly fan-favourites grazed their way into viewers’ hearts on SABC 2, leaving the detective panel completely stumped. That is until the semi-final, when J’Something finally followed the breadcrumbs to the right pasture.

Mama Sheep is no stranger to the spotlight. Simz Ngema first made her mark as Thuli Nkosi in SABC’s Muvhango, before starring in Broken Vows, The Queen, Isidingo and Rockville. She also releases music as Quing Simz.

Papa Sheep, Tino Chinyani has journeyed from international runways as a top model to co-hosting e.tv’s The Morning Show and now performs Afro-pop and Afrobeats as Tiyani Afrika.

Tino described his time behind the mask as “absolutely liberating” while Simz said she loved finally showcasing her triple-threat talent.

In a super-sized semi-final, the detective panel grew to five with Somizi Mhlongo, J’Something, Sithelo Shozi, Skhumba Hlophe and guest detective amapiano sensation Zee Nxumalo.

Sheep raised the barn roof with a vibrant rendition of Justin Bieber’s Beauty and a Beat ft. Nicki Minaj. Their final clue package spoke of road trips, roast lunches, birthdays and festive reunions. Holding a copy of The Silence of the Lambs, Mama Sheep teased: “I’ve spent years becoming and convincing you that I am.”

The Mystery Box then dropped the biggest hints: a tiny red toy sewing machine (a nod to Tino’s fashion roots), a statue of Mother Mary (Simz’s devout faith as a pastor’s daughter), a gold bar and an eagle statuette (Tino’s eagle tattoo).

J’Something cracked it. Recalling Simz’s famous post after buying her Range Rover “Call me Miss Rover from now on”. He connected the recurring Range Rover clue and correctly guessed Simz and Tino.

The rest of the panel went in different directions: Somizi guessed DJ Shimza and Athi Geleba, Zee went with Pabi Moloi and Focalistic, while Sithelo and Skhumba locked in Reason and Gigi Lamayne.

After solo performances from Gogga, Mosquito, Chopsticks, Spotty and Sheep, the vote sent Chopsticks and Mosquito straight to the finale. Sheep, Spotty and Gogga were left in danger, and ultimately, it was time to slaughter the Sheep mask.

Though they narrowly missed the finale, Sheep will go down as one of the most memorable acts of Season 3, joyful, affectionate and baa-rilliantly disguised.

Who will take the Golden Trophy? Find out in the much-anticipated finale.

The Masked Singer South Africa Season 3 airs on SABC 2 on Saturdays at 19:00, with repeats on SABC 1 on Thursdays at 21:00 and SABC 2 on Fridays at 13:30.

South African sporting icons Benni McCarthy and Cheslin Kolbe are taking their competitive spirit off the field and into a new arena.

The duo will represent Mzansi in SportyBet’s first-ever Crash Games World Championship (CGWC), a three-week global tournament that fuses sport, entertainment and gaming.

They will join an all-star line-up of Sporty Group ambassadors including global entertainment heavyweights DJ Khaled and Burna Boy and Ivorian football star Yan Diomande with a sixth ambassador still to be revealed.

The Championship will feature six high-octane Crash Games titles: Rugby Blitz, Sporty Skills, Jet Golf by DJ Khaled, Sporty Jets by Burna Boy, Sporty Hero and LaLiga Penalty. Players from across SportyBet markets will compete for the title of CGWC World Champion and exclusive limited-edition prizes, including money-can’t-buy rewards.

For Mzansi fans, it’s a chance to see two of the country’s most beloved sportsmen in a completely different kind of contest – trading the football pitch and rugby field for the fast-paced, high-stakes world of Crash Games.

“With DJ Khaled and Burna Boy adding global star power and McCarthy and Kolbe bringing that proudly South African fighting spirit, the CGWC is shaping up to be a truly international showdown with a local heartbeat,”

The tournament marks a major moment for SportyBet, bringing together its growing gaming portfolio and the international reach of its ambassadors in a format designed to create a new experience for players across the ecosystem.

Further details on how to enter, the final ambassador and the exclusive prizes will be revealed soon.

The countdown to the Crash Games World Championship has officially begun.

This Heritage Month, two of South Africa’s most loved names in style are coming together to tell a deeper story.

Woolworths has unveiled Lineage, an exclusive fashion and fragrance collaboration with internationally acclaimed South African designer Thebe Magugu.

More than just a collection, Lineage is a celebration of connection. It asks what happens when South Africa’s many visual languages, traditions and perspectives are allowed to speak to one another. The result is a collection that embraces contrast and proves that our differences are what make us whole.

Launching across three carefully curated drops from September, Lineage spans womenswear and an exclusive signature fragrance – inviting customers to build a wardrobe and beauty collection that unfolds over time.

For both partners, this is a full-circle moment. Woolworths first worked with Thebe early in his career through its StyleBySA platform, created to champion a new generation of local talent. While those projects introduced Woolies customers to his emerging language, Lineage marks their first collaboration of this breadth and scale.

Extending beyond clothing into fragrance makes the world of Thebe Magugu more immersive than ever before.

“At Woolworths, we believe the most meaningful design tells a story,” says Manie Maritz, CEO of Woolworths Fashion, Beauty and Home. “Our relationship with Thebe began at an important stage in his journey, and it has been incredibly rewarding to witness the impact he has gone on to make both locally and internationally. Lineage allows us to come together again in a far more expansive way.”

“Woolworths supported my work early in my career, so returning to the relationship in this way feels particularly meaningful,” says Thebe Magugu. “With Lineage, we have been able to create a complete world across fashion and fragrance. The collection explores the beauty that emerges when different traditions and histories exist alongside one another.”

Drawing inspiration from South Africa’s rich cultural landscape, the collection balances restraint with bold expression, tradition with modernity and structure with freedom.

The collaboration is also brought to life through Woolworths’ Inclusive Justice Initiative (IJI), which aims to create meaningful opportunities for local producers and creatives.

The Lineage collection launches from 10 September 2026 in selected Woolworths stores nationwide and online at woolworths.co.za.

NIVEA Black & White has announced a stylish new partnership with Lindani Styling as its founder, acclaimed stylist Lindani Ndwandwa, celebrates 15 years in the fashion industry.

The collaboration, titled Own Your Moment, brings together fashion, storytelling and trusted protection and it’s about much more than just black and white clothing.

A Partnership Grounded in Growth

While there is an obvious creative connection between NIVEA Black & White and Lindani’s signature black-and-white aesthetic, the partnership runs deeper. It celebrates a 15-year journey shaped by growth, self-expression and the courage to be seen on his own terms.

“For me, styling has always been about more than creating a look. It is about understanding who someone is and helping them feel confident in how they show up,” says Lindani Ndwandwa. “Fifteen years later, I am proud of how far I have come, but I am even more excited about where I am going.”

The partnership forms part of NIVEA Black & White’s Own Your Moment campaign, which honours the confidence to step forward authentically. It’s a tribute to the part nobody sees the preparation, the unseen effort, the nerves and the decision to keep going.

“Confidence does not suddenly appear when someone steps into the room. It is built in all the small, unseen moments that come before it,” says Yolanda Katsha, Brand Manager at Beiersdorf. “Own Your Moment recognises that journey and helps people feel protected, prepared and ready to show up as themselves.”

Bringing Own Your Moment To Film

The campaign is brought to life in a hero film featuring NIVEA Black & White creators Sishi, Chad, CJ, FreshByCaddy and Sphokuhle N. In the film, the creators reflect on the experiences that have shaped them, the work that happens away from public view, and what owning their moment means in their own lives.

Their personal stories prove that confidence looks and feels different for everyone.

Protection That Supports Confidence

At the core of the campaign is trusted protection. NIVEA Black & White helps take care of the everyday concerns that can distract from feeling confident.

The range combines 72-hour sweat and odour protection with anti-stain protection that helps guard black clothing against white marks and white clothing against yellow stains. Its new fragrance collection adds freshness and scent to the preparation ritual, helping people feel protected and ready to step out.

Black & White Meets Summer

To bring the partnership to life, Lindani Styling x NIVEA Black & White: Black & White Meets Summer fashion experience will take place on 3 October 2026 in Johannesburg.

Through fashion, music and storytelling, the experience will move from the timeless confidence of black and white into the colour, energy and self-expression of summer, while celebrating Lindani’s 15-year journey and the confidence to step into what comes next.

Because the moment may belong to the world, but the confidence to step into it begins with you.

NIVEA Black & White helps you step forward with confidence. Own Your Moment!

The Palace of the Lost City, Sun City’s flagship five-star hotel and one of Africa’s most iconic luxury destinations has unveiled a refined new chapter in its storied legacy with the launch of The Plume Jazz Lounge.

Officially opened on 29 August 2026, the elegant new venue is dedicated to live jazz, exceptional dining and curated evening experiences — a sophisticated addition that cements The Palace’s position as the pinnacle of luxury at Sun City.

Since 1992, The Palace has been celebrated for its legendary architecture, royal hospitality and immersive guest experiences. Plume Jazz Lounge represents a natural evolution of that promise delivering meaningful, memorable luxury for both hotel guests and visitors seeking world-class entertainment in an iconic setting.

“The launch of Plume Jazz Lounge is a strategic investment in the continued evolution of The Palace experience and our broader luxury hospitality offering,” says Brett Hoppe, Sun City Resort General Manager.

“Luxury travellers today are seeking more than exceptional accommodation. They are looking for immersive experiences that create lasting memories and meaningful connections. Plume Jazz Lounge enables us to expand our premium food, beverage and entertainment portfolio while strengthening The Palace’s position as a leading luxury destination in Africa. It is an exciting addition that enhances guest choice, creates new reasons to visit The Palace and reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class hospitality experiences.”

An Intimate Sanctuary Where Music Meets Design

Inspired by the timeless elegance of the world’s great jazz houses, Plume Jazz Lounge has been designed as an intimate sanctuary where music, culture and hospitality meet.

Rich emerald and gold tones, warm ambient lighting and sophisticated interiors create a contemporary yet inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing, connecting and indulging.

At its heart is live jazz. Nightly performances from talented resident musicians provide an evolving soundtrack, transforming every evening into a unique experience, whether for pre-dinner cocktails, a celebratory night out, or a leisurely evening immersed in exceptional music.

The venue’s aesthetic was thoughtfully crafted by leading South African design specialists, with original room inspiration and interior direction led by David Muirhead and Associates. Their vision reimagines the space through luxurious finishes, elegant detailing and a contemporary interpretation of The Palace’s renowned grandeur.

Adding a distinctly African luxury identity is a bespoke handcrafted ceramic collection by Claylat, inspired by African landscapes and textures.

A Curated Culinary Journey

The Plume Jazz Lounge experience centres around a signature fine-dining tapestry menu crafted for sharing, exploration and discovery. Featuring premium local and international ingredients, the menu celebrates bold flavours, exceptional craftsmanship and contemporary presentation.

Guests can further elevate the evening with a curated caviar offering, an extensive champagne collection, premium South African and international wines, rare spirits and signature cocktails all complemented by expert pairing recommendations.

As the newest addition to The Palace’s acclaimed collection of dining venues — including Crystal Court, Tusk Bar, the Pool Deck, Grill Room and the Lost City Croc Lounge.

Developed over six months from concept to opening, Plume Jazz Lounge marks the beginning of a new chapter for The Palace where music, cuisine, design and service come together in perfect harmony.

The Plume Jazz Lounge is now open at The Palace of the Lost City.

For reservations, contact The Palace Concierge on 014 557 4307 or email lerato.molefe@suninternational.com

From dorm room to boardroom Nedbank is giving young entrepreneurs aged 18-26 the funding, mentorship and global platform to turn potential into progress.

Every great idea starts with potential. But turning it into impact requires the right opportunity to grow.

That opportunity is back.

Nedbank has officially opened entries for the 2026 YouthX Awards inviting ambitious young South Africans aged 18 to 26 to share their ideas and unlock their entrepreneurial potential.

Whether your next big business idea was born in a university residence, a township community, a garage workshop or as a late-night spark captured on your phone YouthX is where it can grow.

More than just an awards initiative, YouthX by Nedbank is a full entrepreneurial ecosystem designed to turn potential into progress. By combining funding with mentorship, financial education, business support and access to real opportunities, YouthX gives young people the tools, connections and confidence to build sustainable businesses.

Whether you’re building a business, solving a community challenge, creating a product or developing an innovative solution, YouthX is built to help you take your next big step.

“We believe South Africa’s young people already have the ideas, creativity and ambition to shape the future. YouthX by Nedbank is about helping them unlock their potential by giving them the confidence, support and opportunities to turn their ideas into action,” says Elwin Smith, Head of Group Sponsorships and Events at Nedbank.

What’s Up For Grabs?

This year’s winners will walk away with more than just prize money. Winners will receive:

• Cash prizes to grow their business
• Mentorship through Nedbank’s enterprise development team
• Financial literacy training and guidance from Nedbank financial advisers
• Long-term business support and networking opportunities

And for the top 3 winners up for grabs is a career-defining opportunity to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit, joining a global community of young leaders driving positive change.

How to Enter

Ready to unlock your X?

Young entrepreneurs can enter by visiting the YouthX website, submitting their idea or existing venture, sharing how YouthX can help unlock their potential and providing supporting material that brings their vision to life.

Key Dates:
Entries Open: 14 August 2026
Entries Close: 9 October 2026
Winners Announced: 21 November 2026 at the YouthX Awards

Finalists will go through a rigorous judging process before pitching their ideas to an independent panel.

Every successful business starts with an idea. Now it’s time to unlock yours.

Unlock your X and take your idea from potential to possibility.

Luxury fashion and glowing skin took centre stage at Pere House in Midrand this past weekend as South African luxury house Malondié and Vaseline Cera-Glow hosted the exclusive Malondié SS26 Fashion Experience brought to you by Vaseline Cera-Glow.

The landmark collaboration brought together South Africa’s top celebrities, media personalities, fashion icons and industry tastemakers for an electric afternoon celebrating the unveiling of Malondié’s Spring/Summer 2026 (SS26) collection and the power of healthy-looking skin to complete every look.

Hosted by award-winning media personality Pamela Mtanga, the immersive showcase went beyond the traditional runway. Built on Malondié’s creative theme, Follow The Glow, the experience positioned Vaseline Cera-Glow as the ultimate “skin stylist” proving that radiant, healthy-looking skin is the ultimate accessory for every outfit and every occasion.

The partnership spotlighted the science behind the Vaseline Cera-Glow range, which is powered by Pro-Ceramides to help skin build its own ceramides and support a healthy-looking, natural glow. Backed by science and suitable for all skin types and tones, the range reinforces its role as a skin-styling essential.

The highlight of the afternoon was the surprise runway debut of actress and official Glow Doll, Gugu Gumede. Fresh off her breakout international success in Netflix’s global hit The Polygamist, Gumede captivated guests as the mystery runway model, embodying body confidence, grace and effortless glow as she closed the show.

With fashion, beauty and self-expression seamlessly intertwined, the Malondié x Vaseline Cera-Glow SS26 Experience set a new benchmark for fashion-beauty collaborations in South Africa where the glow is not just worn, it’s lived.