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In South Africa, cooking is more than just a necessity; it’s a way to bring people together. Whether it’s a Sunday lunch, a quick midweek meal, or a vibrant backyard braai, every dish tells a story of togetherness. At the heart of these everyday moments is KOO, South Africa’s trusted kitchen companion for over 80 years.

KOO has always championed easy, accessible, and feel-good meals that are perfect for busy schedules and tight budgets. With pantry staples like KOO Baked Beans, Chakalaka, and farm-to-table Veggies, cooking up a delicious meal is just a can away.

“Cooking with KOO isn’t just about feeding people, it’s about creating simple, meaningful moments where ordinary days become extraordinary,” says KOO. With just a few ingredients and a can of KOO, everyday pantry basics can become wholesome, budget-friendly meals, perfect for effortless cooking that makes the most of what’s already in your kitchen.

Here are a few quick ideas to elevate your weekday meals:

– KOO Boerewors & Baked Bean Relish: Sauté boerewors with onions, peppers, and spices, then stir in KOO Baked Beans for a rich, comforting relish.

– KOO Baked Bean Pasta Salad: Toss cooled pasta with fresh veggies, sweet chilli sauce, and KOO Baked Beans for a quick, refreshing salad.

– KOO Potato & Bean Stew: Simmer diced potatoes with tomatoes, stock, and KOO Baked Beans for an easy, hearty one-pot stew.

– KOO Chakalaka Maotwana: Cook chicken feet in spices, stock, and KOO Chakalaka for a bold, flavour-packed dish.

– KOO Chakalaka Marinated Chicken: Coat chicken pieces in blended KOO Chakalaka and roast until golden for an effortless, flavourful dinner.

These ideas show how quick, budget-friendly, and creative everyday cooking becomes when you’ve got the right pantry staples on hand. From everyday dinners to special occasions, KOO continues to bring warmth, comfort, and familiar flavour to South African homes.

In a powerful celebration of leadership, fatherhood, and the evolving meaning of manhood, Jaecoo hosted The Grootmans Table, an intimate gathering of men from across Johannesburg. The event, held at ZOR, Johannesburg, brought together influential figures and everyday heroes to reflect on their roles within families and communities.

Hosted by Blaque Nubon of That Husband Podcast, the afternoon was filled with meaningful dialogue, expert perspectives, and shared storytelling. Guests engaged in moderated discussions, exploring the responsibilities, challenges, and triumphs of modern manhood, and left inspired and empowered to lead with intention.

The event featured Jaecoo ambassadors and celebrated cultural figures, including TV personality Sipho Alphi Mkhwanazi, music artists Zulu Mkhathini, Solo, and Maggz, as well as veteran actor Nimrod Nkosi. Their presence and insights brought energy, relatability, and cultural resonance to the conversation.

“The Jaecoo Grootmans Table is about more than conversation – it’s a space where men can reflect, share, and support one another,” says Blaque Nubon. “It reminds us that true strength lies not only in leadership, but in emotional presence and self-care.”

Through this event, Jaecoo continues to champion platforms that nurture emotional well-being, strengthen community, and honour the evolving role of modern men in South Africa. The Grootmans Table is more than an event; it’s a movement that champions men’s health, emotional well-being, and self-care, while normalizing conversations about masculinity and resilience.

GWM South Africa marked its 18th anniversary in style with the inaugural FAM FEST, a vibrant celebration that brought together customers, dealers, partners, and friends at Syringa Park in Muldersdrift. The festival was a joyous tribute to the brand’s journey, showcasing its commitment to innovation, adventure, and shared experiences.

The day kicked off with a spirited convoy of GWM owners, led by the GWM Owners Club and Haval Ladies community, making their way into Syringa Park in style. The atmosphere was electric, with families and friends enjoying a day of music, movement, and fun.

The festival grounds were alive with activity, featuring food stalls, interactive installations, photo opportunities, and test drives of GWM’s latest models. A dedicated kids’ zone kept little ones entertained, while adults enjoyed games, relaxation spaces, and a 4×4 test drive experience.

The music lineup was a highlight, with performances by local favourites MiCasa, Oscar Mbo, Kamo Mphela, Karen Zoid, Jo Black, and Mapantsula Movement. The crowd sang along to favourites and danced the day away, creating unforgettable memories.

“FAM FEST reflects our commitment to family, fun, and lifestyle, while looking forward to the next chapter of GWM in South Africa,” said Conrad Gronewald, Chief Operations Officer at GWM South Africa. “We’re proud of the community we’ve built and excited for the future, which will be filled with stronger customer connections and innovative experiences.”

With the Jolion emerging as the most popular model, GWM South Africa is poised for continued success. “Our story is written with our customers,” said Floyd Ramabulana, Head of Marketing at GWM South Africa. “We’re committed to building vehicles and experiences that reflect the lifestyles and aspirations of South Africans.”

As the curtain closed on FAM FEST, GWM South Africa looked to the future, grateful for the support of its customers and partners, and ambitious about the next decade of innovation and connection.

Get ready to be transported to the breathtakingly beautiful Italian landscape with JAN Voyage: Italy, a new six-part series premiering exclusively on Primedia+. The show follows multi-talented Michelin-star chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen as he explores the country’s hidden culinary gems, accompanied by his adorable dog, Elizabeth.

JAN Voyage: Italy is Primedia Studios’ first original production, and it’s a game-changer. The series showcases Jan Hendrik’s passion for food, people, and connection, taking viewers on a journey of simplicity, inspiration, and the beauty of shared meals.

“Food is never just about what’s on the plate; it’s about the hands, the hearts, and the histories that bring it to life,” says Jan Hendrik. The series features intimate encounters with local artisans, chefs, and families, highlighting the stories behind the food.

The first three episodes of JAN Voyage: Italy will be available on Primedia+ from Friday, 21 November, with the remaining episodes added a week later. Don’t miss this unforgettable culinary journey – download the Primedia+ App or visit the website to start streaming.

“Jan Hendrik brings the Midas touch to everything he does, and JAN Voyage: Italy is a sure-fire recipe for binge-worthy viewing,” says Jan du Plessis, Primedia Studios’ President.

Join Jan Hendrik and Elizabeth on this incredible adventure and experience the beauty of Italy, one delicious meal at a time.

J.C. Le Roux, South Africa’s iconic sparkling wine, is shaking up the celebration scene with its new ‘EXACTLY’ campaign. The brand is rewriting the rules of celebration, encouraging South Africans to pop a bottle not just for special occasions, but for everyday moments that matter.

Leading the charge is rugby star Makazole Mapimpi, who embodies confidence, originality, and style. As J.C. Le Roux’s ambassador, Mapimpi brings a unique cultural flair to the celebration, setting the tone for authentic moments that embrace the specialness of everyday life.

“For me, it’s about celebrating who you are – your story, your journey, and your wins, big or small,” says Mapimpi. “I love that J.C. Le Roux is encouraging South Africans to celebrate themselves, not just the occasion.”

The ‘EXACTLY’ campaign is all about embracing the freedom to celebrate life’s moments, big or small. With its premium sparkling wines crafted in Stellenbosch, J.C. Le Roux is the perfect wingman for any occasion.

“J.C. Le Roux is redefining what premium celebration looks like – bold without gatekeeping, stylish without asking permission,” says Siphokazi Solani, Assistant Brand Manager for J.C. Le Roux. “It’s designed to show up on your table, at your brunch, in your TikTok feed, and throughout your weekend.”

So, raise a glass of J.C. Le Roux and celebrate the moments that make life special. Whether it’s a milestone night, a romantic evening, or just because it’s Friday, J.C. Le Roux is the ultimate celebration partner.

It’s time to say yes to more sparkle, and absolutely to more joy.

Suzuki Motor Corporation has announced its Official Global Partnership with the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 and the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026. The agreement, signed in Hamamatsu, Japan, solidifies Suzuki’s commitment to African football and its presence on the continent.

The partnership will see Suzuki serve as an Official Global Partner for four major CAF tournaments, including the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026, TotalEnergies CAF Champions League 2026/27, and the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup 2026/27.

“Sports has the power to bring people together and nurture hope for the future,” said Yusuke Kato, Managing Officer and Executive General Manager, Automobile Marketing, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Suzuki Motor Corporation. “Through this partnership, we wish to strengthen the links between Suzuki, football, and Africa, while further establishing our presence on the continent.”

Suzuki Auto South Africa is proud to be part of this global collaboration, which aligns with the brand’s commitment to sport as a unifying force and a platform for community development. Locally, Suzuki has partnered with Orlando Pirates Football Club, Cricket South Africa, and Griqualand West Rugby Union, among others.

“We are thrilled to see our global brand contributing to the growth of football across the continent,” said Henno Havenga, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Suzuki Auto South Africa. “This partnership with CAF is a natural extension of our local initiatives, from football and cricket to rugby and grassroots programmes. Sport unites communities and creates opportunities, and we are proud to be part of that journey, celebrating the passion and spirit of African sport.”

The Macallan hosted an exclusive evening at the Cirrus Aircraft Hangar in Lanseria, marking the grand entrance of its Timeless Collection in South Africa. The event brought together the country’s most discerning tastemakers, creators, and cultural voices for an immersive journey into the artistry behind the world’s most valuable single malt whisky.

Diane Stuart, Whisky Maker at The Macallan, made her first visit to South Africa to share the brand’s vision for the future. With precision and passion, she guided guests through the whisky-making process and the philosophy that has shaped The Macallan since 1824.

“The Timeless Collection captures the essence of who we are: a brand rooted in heritage, driven by creativity, and always looking to the future,” said Stuart. “At The Macallan, every detail tells a story, from the casks we craft to the natural colour drawn from them.”

The new Timeless Collection, comprising The Double Cask, The Sherry Oak, and The Colour Collections, represents a striking new era for The Macallan. Conceptualised through the artistic lens of graphic design visionary David Carson, the refreshed look draws inspiration from The Macallan Distillery’s iconic architecture and the Sherry Triangle of Spain, uniting the brand’s past and future in one elegant design.

Guests, including style icon & reality star Kefilwe Mabote, fan’s favourite Kwenzo Ngcobo, and Rapper Ricardo Moloi (aka Priddy Ugly), toasted to The Macallan’s continued story of timeless craftsmanship. The evening was a fitting tribute to The Macallan’s enduring legacy, blending heritage with innovation, and mastery with imagination.

With the unveiling of its Timeless Collection, The Macallan continues to shape the future of whisky with the same integrity that defined its past. For over 200 years, The Macallan has remained a symbol of refinement, creativity, and excellence, and this new chapter is sure to delight connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has launched Create Possible, a free online education programme designed to support teachers and students aged 11-14 in tackling classroom challenges and bridging the UK’s STEM skills gap. The initiative comes in response to a survey of 1,000 pupils, which revealed misconceptions and barriers around STEM subjects.

The survey found that over a quarter (26%) of students believe STEM is “just for boys,” while only 1% think it’s “just for girls.” However, 75% of girls say they would consider a career in STEM, highlighting the potential for more to be done to encourage girls to pursue STEM fields.

Create Possible offers curriculum-aligned lesson plans, interactive activities, and engaging Q&A videos with JLR employees to support teachers and help students identify their strengths, boost motivation, and improve academic outcomes. The programme aims to address regional disparities in access to STEM opportunities and provide equal access to STEM education.

The launch of Create Possible responds to growing concerns about the UK’s STEM pipeline with demand for STEM skills outpacing supply across key sectors such as engineering, digital and manufacturing. Without targeted interventions, the UK risks falling short of the workforce needed to drive innovation and economic growth.

“Teachers face real pressures in preparing students for a fast-changing world,” says Morgan Gore, Schools Engagement Lead at JLR. “Through the launch of Create Possible, JLR is making a vital investment in future talent – helping address the UK’s STEM skills gap and secure the next generation of innovators.”

The programme has already received positive feedback from educators, with Lorna Trout, Head of Design Technology at Oakley School in Warwickshire, praising Create Possible for providing students with early access to real-world career insights and hands-on experiences.

Create Possible builds on JLR’s long-standing commitment to advancing youth futures, complementing a suite of initiatives designed to inspire and empower the next generation. These include the JLR Schools’ Partnership Programme and the virtual work experience programme, which has engaged over 7,500 students since its inception in 2023.

By providing access to STEM education and opportunities, JLR aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and help bridge the UK’s STEM skills gap.

Continental Tyre South Africa has joined forces with Mercedes-Benz South Africa as the official tyre partner for the AMG Experience, held at Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria. This partnership sees Continental’s SportContact 7 ultra high-performance (UHP) tyre fitted across the fleet of Mercedes-AMG models used for driver training, delivering exceptional driving precision and confidence on track.

The SportContact 7 is Continental’s range-topping UHP tyre, preferred by many vehicle manufacturers and fitted as original equipment on the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance. It has won numerous awards in independent UHP tyre tests worldwide.

“We are delighted to join forces with Mercedes-Benz South Africa as its official tyre partner for the AMG Experience,” says Dustine Gascoyne, Market Manager at Continental Tyre South Africa. “The SportContact 7 is engineered to provide exceptional grip, handling, and safety, making it the perfect choice for high-performance driving experiences.”

The AMG Experience offers a range of high-performance driving courses that focus on car control and safety, featuring a thrilling lineup of Mercedes-AMG models, including the A45, C43, C63 S E Performance, and the AMG GT 63 S E Performance.

“Mercedes-Benz South Africa is proud to announce its partnership with Continental Tyre South Africa as the official tyre partner of the AMG Experience,” says Alexandra Boavida, VP Sales and Marketing at Mercedes-Benz South Africa. “This collaboration brings together two brands renowned for precision engineering, innovation, and performance excellence.”

The SportContact 7’s exceptional performance is attributed to its unique Macro Block tread design, Adaptive Pattern, and advanced Harmonised BlackChili compound. These features work together to provide outstanding grip, control, and safety on both wet and dry surfaces.

“This partnership highlights Mercedes-Benz South Africa’s dedication to providing drivers with the very best in performance and control,” says Clint Weston, AMG Experience Head Instructor. “Together, Mercedes-Benz and Continental are reshaping what it means to experience pure driving performance at its most exhilarating.”

October proved to be a sweet month for Suzuki Auto South Africa, with the Japanese carmaker achieving a new overall sales milestone. According to the latest data from naamsa, Suzuki sold 6,890 passenger and light commercial vehicles, surpassing its previous record of 6,534 units set in August.

This impressive feat marks the fourth consecutive month that Suzuki has exceeded 6,000 vehicle sales, solidifying its position as South Africa’s second-best-selling manufacturer. The brand’s robust performance was driven by strong sales across its model lineup, with the fourth-generation Swift hatchback taking the top spot with 2,377 units sold.

Other top-performing models included the Fronx crossover SUV (1,369 units), Baleno hatchback (596 units), Ertiga MPV (521 units), and Dzire sedan (409 units). Dealer sales accounted for 4,842 vehicles, while government, rental, and fleet customers added 2,048 units, beating the January record by 183 units.

“We are absolutely thrilled to set a new monthly sales record this October, and I want to thank every customer who chose Suzuki for their journey,” said Henno Havenga, General Manager of Auto Sales and Marketing at Suzuki Auto South Africa. “From our best-selling Swift to our versatile commercial and SUV lineup, every model has played a part in this achievement. I also want to extend my sincere gratitude to our dedicated dealer network – their passion and commitment to service excellence make milestones like this possible.”

As the year draws to a close, Suzuki Auto South Africa remains focused on delivering exceptional experiences to motorists across the country. “With the final stages of 2025 ahead of us, we are more motivated than ever to finish the year strong and continue bringing exceptional Suzuki experiences to motorists across South Africa,” added Havenga.