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Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has announced the appointment of Satish Ranchod as its new Human Resources Director, effective November 1, 2025. This strategic appointment sees Ranchod joining the Board of Management, leveraging his 36-year tenure with the company and extensive experience in leadership positions across various business areas.

Ranchod’s career with Volkswagen began in 1989 as a Graduate Trainee in Internal Audit. He has since dedicated most of his career to Human Resources, playing a pivotal role in shaping compensation, benefits and governance structures that drive employee wellbeing and organizational excellence. His leadership on key committees, including the VWSA Provident and Pension Funds, Risk and Insurance Committee, and Joint Union and Management Benefits Committees, has been instrumental in driving business success.

Notably, Ranchod has represented VWGA in the Automobile Manufacturers Employer Organisation (AMEO) collective bargaining process, leading financial modeling efforts since 2016. His qualifications include a Bachelor of Science in Information Processing from Rhodes University, and he has completed the Volkswagen Group Junior Executive Programme at Ashridge Business School in London. He is also a Certified Internal Auditor and an Associate Principal Executive Officer with the Council of Retirement Funds South Africa.

“Satish’s long-standing commitment to Volkswagen and his extensive experience in Human Resources makes him an invaluable addition to our board of management,” said Martina Biene, Chairperson and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Africa. “His institutional knowledge of our people, culture, and business will continue to strengthen VWGA’s position as an employer of choice.”

With Ranchod’s appointment, VWGA solidifies its commitment to attracting and retaining top talent, driving business success, and fostering a culture of excellence.

The City of Love played host to the eighth annual L’Oréal Paris runway show, Le Défilé L’Oréal Paris, where South African actress Ama Qamata made a stunning debut on the catwalk. As the newly appointed Sub-Saharan Africa Ambassador for L’Oréal Paris, Qamata embodied empowerment and elegance in a striking red creation designed by Mélique Street.

The show, themed “Liberté, Égalité, Sororité. You’re Worth It,” celebrated femininity, feminism, and the democratisation of beauty. Qamata’s confident walk down the runway was a powerful embodiment of the theme, which reimagines the French national motto to focus on sisterhood and solidarity.

“I’m inspired by the power of dreaming big and hoping that this moment will motivate South African girls and women to believe in their worth and pursue their aspirations,” Qamata shared.

The brand’s Brand Business Lead, Sikelela Finini, expressed pride in Qamata’s appointment, stating, “With Ama’s inherent beauty, remarkable talent, and undeniable grace, she perfectly embodies everything our brand stands for – self-worth, empowerment, and authenticity.”

The event was celebrated in Johannesburg with an exclusive watch party hosted by Bonang Matheba, where L’Oréal Paris’ sisterhood of influencers gathered to show their support for Qamata’s achievement.

Ama Qamata’s appointment marks a new chapter for L’Oréal Paris in the region, with the brand committed to championing women’s worth and empowerment. As Qamata takes on her new role, she joins a legacy of inspiring women who have partnered with L’Oréal Paris to promote self-worth and confidence.

In a playful campaign featuring acting legends Joanna Lumley and Richard E. Grant, H&M is proud to introduce its latest collaboration with Belgian fashion designer Glenn Martens. The highly anticipated H&M Glenn Martens collection is a masterclass in wit, individuality and self-expression offering customers a chance to own never-before-seen designs alongside Martens’s signature pieces.

This diverse and versatile collection combines womenswear, menswear, unisex pieces and accessories, twisting clothing archetypes into new and unexpected forms. Each piece is a testament to Martens’s innovative approach, which has long pushed the boundaries of fashion. By exploring H&M’s archive, Martens has reimagined iconic pieces like best-selling t-shirts, checked shirts, bomber jackets and jeans, transforming them into extraordinary, newly-designed pieces that play with trompe-l’œil and customisation.

The collection is not only a reflection of Martens’s design philosophy but also a tribute to his journey as a designer. Nods to his iconic work for Y/Project are evident in various pieces, from boots to prints. “I see this collection as a big family of garments, all of which have multiple purposes and personalities: like people, they grow and change each day,” Martens explains.

The campaign, featuring Lumley and Grant, is a delightful celebration of British humour and wit. “It was great fun to be a part of Glenn Martens’s and H&M’s special family portrait,” Lumley says. “I always say that the best fashion is rule-breaking – people should wear whatever they want to wear – and I admire Glenn’s daring spirit and eye for twisting things in unusual ways.”

The H&M Glenn Martens collection will be available from October 30 at H&M Sandton City and online from Superbalist. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of fashion history and celebrate the art of self-expression.

Volkswagen has made a significant impact in the marketing and advertising world taking home a total of six prestigious awards at the 2025 Loeries Awards and Effie Awards. The brand’s innovative campaigns, developed in collaboration with creative partner agency Ogilvy South Africa, have been recognized for their creativity, effectiveness and impact.

At the 2025 Loeries Awards in Cape Town, Volkswagen won three awards, including:

– Gold Award for New Launch Campaign: Forever Golf

– Gold Award for Service Design: VW Night School

– Silver Award for Branded Content Film Series: Forever Golf.

These awards recognize excellence in brand communication and celebrate innovation across advertising, digital, design and beyond.

– Gold Award for Social Good: VW Night School

– Silver Award for Automotive Vehicle category: #ShouldGotaVivo

– Bronze Award for Marketing Disruption category: #ShouldGotaVivo

The Effie Awards are globally recognized as the benchmark for marketing effectiveness, celebrating campaigns that deliver measurable business results.

Bridget Harpur, Head of Marketing at Volkswagen Passenger Cars, said, “These wins are a testament to the power of creative partnerships and what is possible when we challenge conventions. With VW Night School, Forever Golf, and #ShouldGotaVivo, we set out to tell stories that connect emotionally while staying true to Volkswagen’s spirit of innovation.”

Volkswagen’s wins at the Loeries and Effie Awards demonstrate the brand’s commitment to innovation, creativity, and effectiveness in marketing. The brand’s campaigns have not only resonated with audiences but also delivered measurable business results.

Volkswagen’s success at the Loeries and Effie Awards is a testament to the brand’s dedication to delivering exceptional marketing campaigns that resonate with audiences and drive business results.

The Heineken World Tour is coming to South Africa, and Cape Town is set to become the ultimate playground for motorsports fans. On November 30, 2025, the city’s streets will be transformed into a high-octane playground, delivering a once-in-a-lifetime premium fan experience that combines the thrill of F1, urban lifestyle energy, and Heineken’s signature sophistication.

Imagine strolling past a real F1 car, feeling the engine’s roar in your chest, snapping photos in vibrant fan zones, and immersing yourself in live performances that turn the city into a festival of speed, sound, and style. The Heineken World Tour brings the global Formula 1 phenomenon to life, with a special live viewing of the Qatar Grand Prix to bring fans together.

According to Alex Drake, Heineken Brand Director South Africa, “This isn’t just about watching a race; it’s about stepping into the world of F1, feeling the adrenaline, the style, and the excitement firsthand.” The event will feature exclusive Heineken activations, immersive lifestyle experiences, and premium hospitality moments, creating memories that go far beyond the chequered flag.

Warrick Wyngaard, Marketing Communication Manager at Heineken South Africa, says, “We’re bringing global energy home. This World Tour isn’t only for F1 fans but rather for anyone who wants to feel the pulse of a global fanbase.” Cape Town is stepping into the spotlight, and everyone is invited to join this exclusive event and celebrate the pinnacle of motorsport.

Tickets are now available through Howler, and fans are urged to secure theirs early. Follow Heineken South Africa on Instagram, X, and Facebook for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and surprises leading up to the event.

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience! Get ready to experience Formula 1 like never before in Cape Town on November 30, 2025! 

Events details

– Date: November 30, 2025

– Location: Cape Town, South Africa

– Tickets: Available through Howler

– Follow Heineken South Africa on social media for updates and surprises!

Woolworths Beauty’s highly anticipated Summer Escape event has once again taken the beauty world by storm, cementing its position as a pioneer of experience-driven beauty in South Africa. The exclusive, invitation-only event at Summer Place in Hyde Park hosted by media personality Nandi Madida in Johannesburg, was a resounding success, with over 1,000 social media tags on Instagram and TikTok mentioning Woolworths and the event.

The event’s unique approach to beauty and luxury was evident in its immersive treatments, art-inspired installations, and interactive zones where beauty met fashion, theatre, and technology. Guests were treated to the best of WBeauty’s vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free range, alongside international and luxury partners.

According to Julie Maggs, General Manager for Beauty at Woolworths, “Summer Escape is not just about celebrating our products, but about connecting with our community.” This sentiment was echoed by Corey Goldman, Functional and Technical Trainer for Beauty at Woolworths, who emphasized the importance of inclusivity and sustainability in beauty.

The event’s success is a testament to Woolworths Beauty’s growing popularity, with over one million South African customers now shopping with the brand. Woolworths’ beauty business grew by 14.7% in the last financial year, solidifying its position as the go-to beauty destination in South Africa.

As Woolworths continues to expand its beauty offering across the continent, events like Summer Escape reflect the brand’s broader strategy of blending innovation, inclusivity, and inspiration to create unforgettable experiences.

With its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and inspiration, Woolworths Beauty is shaping the future of beauty retail in South Africa, making it accessible, aspirational, and unforgettable for every customer.

Get ready for the grand return of the highly anticipated reality TV show, “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.” The Emmy-nominated series is back with a new season that’s packed with drama, emotion and unforgettable moments.

The new season premieres on Thursday, November 13, with all 10 episodes available exclusively on Hulu in the U.S. and Disney+ in South Africa. The women of #Momtok are back, but their sisterhood is put to the test as damaging revelations and allegations threaten to destroy everything they’ve built. Loyalties shift, trust is tested and the lines between fact and fiction blur. Will the women find a path forward to salvation, or will their collective sins be their downfall?

The series features a talented cast, including Taylor Frankie Paul, Demi Engemann, Jen Affleck, Jessi Draper Ngatikaura, Layla Taylor, Mayci Neeley, Mikayla Matthews, Miranda McWhorter, and Whitney Leavitt.

The show is produced by Jeff Jenkins Productions, in association with 3BMG and Walt Disney Television Alternative. The executive producers include Jeff Jenkins, Russell Jay-Staglik, Andrea Metz, Elise Chung, and Dan Cerny.

Mark your calendars for November 13, and get ready to dive back into the world of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.” Will the women find redemption, or will their secrets tear them apart? Tune in to find out!

The NIVEA Blue Tin has been a symbol of care and skincare expertise for 100 years. Introduced in 1925, the iconic blue and white design has remained largely unchanged, becoming one of the most recognizable emblems of trust and quality globally.

For generations, the NIVEA Blue Tin has been more than just a cream – it’s a daily ritual, a connection across families and communities. Loved globally, cherished in South Africa, the Blue Tin has become a staple in many households. “For generations, the Blue Tin has represented more than just a cream — it’s a daily ritual, a connection across families and communities,” says Grita Loebsack, President NIVEA and Member of the Executive Board at Beiersdorf.

As NIVEA looks to the future, the brand is committed to care that goes beyond skin. Since 2024, each Blue Tin has been made with at least 80% recycled aluminium, significantly lowering its carbon footprint. This shift supports Beiersdorf’s global ambition to reach Net Zero emissions by 2045.

The NIVEA Blue Tin has stood for care that protects, connects and unites for 100 years. Whether it’s mothers using it on their children, young professionals carrying it on the go, or grandparents passing it down as part of family tradition – the Blue Tin remains a symbol of care that transcends age, background and occasion.

Join NIVEA in celebrating this milestone and discover more about the heritage behind the iconic tin by following NIVEA South Africa on all social media platforms.

Volvo Cars South Africa (VCSA) has opened two new facilities in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, and Mbombela, Mpumalanga, further expanding its presence in the country. The new facilities include Tom Campher Volvo Cars Gqeberha and Produkta Volvo Cars Mbombela.

Located in the William Moffett Retail Park, Tom Campher Volvo Cars Gqeberha offers full sales and service support to the Eastern Cape region. The dealership operates as a full-service centre, supporting customers throughout Gqeberha, East London, George, Plettenberg Bay, Port Alfred and surrounding areas. A dedicated multi-car transporter ensures convenient collection and delivery for vehicles requiring service.

Volvo Cars Mbombela provides comprehensive after-sales support, ensuring Volvo owners have access to premium care and maintenance close to home. The facility offers expert maintenance, repairs and care to Volvo owners throughout Mpumalanga.

Vic Campher, Managing Director of Tom Campher Motors, expressed pride in bringing Volvo’s renowned standards to the Eastern Cape. “Our team is committed to ensuring every Volvo owner in this region feels fully supported.”

Grant Locke, Managing Director of VCSA, emphasized the importance of convenient, premium support close to home. “These new facilities reflect our commitment to strengthening our presence in South Africa, and we will continue to look at opportunities to grow our dealer network.”

Through these dealerships and service points, VCSA continues to expand its footprint and provide customers with a premium, end-to-end ownership experience across sales and aftersales. The new facilities demonstrate Volvo’s commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and support across South Africa.

In a bid to simplify the car buying and selling experience, AutoTrader South Africa has launched AutoTrader Intelligence, an innovative AI-powered platform designed to make the process easier, faster and more transparent. The launch which took place at the exclusive AutoTrader Dealer Connect 2025 event, brings together over 500 dealer partners to showcase the latest Artificial Intelligence innovations and dealer packages.

At its core, AutoTrader Intelligence combines Live Market Data, deep automotive expertise and Large Language Model (LLM) AI to enhance the entire car-buying experience. For buyers, this means more relevant information, tailored recommendations and the confidence to make better informed decisions. For dealers, it means less admin, smarter listings and the freedom to focus on building connections with customers.

Key Features

– Vehicle Highlights: AI-powered comparisons that highlight a car’s unique features, such as lower mileage, fewer previous owners, and better fuel economy.

– Recommendation Engine: Personalized suggestions based on user browsing behavior, helping buyers discover relevant options and make informed decisions.

– Comments Generator: AI-generated descriptions that save dealers thousands of hours in admin work.

– Image Management: AI-powered photo analysis and classification, ensuring visually compelling listings that drive interest and sales.

– Dealer Insights: Real-time visibility into live market shifts, providing dealers with actionable insights to inform pricing and sales strategies.

According to George Mienie, CEO of AutoTrader South Africa, “Technology will never take the human element out of buying a car. It merely makes it easier to build that connection.” With AutoTrader Intelligence, dealers can focus on understanding their customers’ needs while buyers can make decisions that feel right for them.

As AutoTrader Intelligence continues to develop, future updates will incorporate even more insights from AutoTrader’s Ratings and Reviews and specifications database, offering richer, personalized content and deeper comparisons. This will further empower buyers to make confident decisions and give dealers a competitive advantage in showcasing each vehicle’s value.

With AutoTrader Intelligence, the future of car buying and selling has arrived, making the process simpler, smarter, and more human.