• Midrand High was buzzing this morning as media personality Hulisani Ravele hosted the launch of Dove’s #ChangeTheCompliment campaign in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).

    The #ChangeTheCompliment campaign is set to empower young girls in South Africa. This initiative encourages parents, caregivers and educators to shift their praise from appearance-based compliments to recognizing girls’ values, achievements and inner strengths.

    Research highlights the need for this campaign, with:

    – Over 80% of South African girls reporting feelings of shame about their appearance

    – 83% altering or concealing their bodies before sharing photos on social media

    – 20% of girls aged 10-17 willing to be 25% less intelligent if they could be 25% more beautiful

    The #ChangeTheCompliment campaign urges South Africans to broaden their compliments, celebrating girls for who they are and what they do, not just how they look.

    By expressing sentiments like “You are beautiful AND courageous” or “You are intelligent,” we can foster a generation that recognizes their intrinsic worth beyond physical appearance.

    Through the Dove Self-Esteem Project, Dove has reached over 137 million young people globally with a goal of reaching 250 million young lives by 2030. In South Africa, the partnership with DBE and DBSA has delivered Body Confidence workshops reaching 600 learners and training over 500 Learner Support agents.

    Let’s work together to empower young girls and help them develop confidence that goes beyond appearance.

    To learn more and download free resources, visit the Dove website.

  • NIVEA MEN South Africa is proud to announce the extension of its partnership with Real Madrid through June 2030. This groundbreaking collaboration combines the nation’s love of football with NIVEA MEN’s mission to help men look and feel their best on and off the pitch.

    The NIVEA MEN and Real Madrid partnership reflects the principles of teamwork, preparation and care. This collaboration has inspired millions worldwide while driving meaningful engagement and building confidence.

    NIVEA MEN South Africa will continue to celebrate the country’s love for football, partnering with local voices and ambassadors who embody confidence and teamwork.

    Fans can look forward to the NIVEA MEN x Real Madrid Limited Edition range, launching in late 2025. This exclusive range will feature designs inspired by Real Madrid’s iconic players and will be available in over 40 countries including South Africa.

    NIVEA MEN and Real Madrid have also launched a new social film highlighting the importance of self-care and confidence. The campaign shows that true confidence is built from the inside out and skin care is an essential part of that.

    The partnership champions togetherness, a value deeply embedded in both football and NIVEA’s DNA. NIVEA MEN supports global and local initiatives that build meaningful connections and promote inclusion.

    “Football holds a special place in South Africa. It’s where passion, pride and community come together,” says Inez Valjee, Marketing Manager, Personal Care at Beiersdorf South Africa.

    This partnership extension is a win-win for football fans and NIVEA MEN enthusiasts alike. Get ready to experience the best of skincare and football!

  • In the heart of Joburg, a new culinary gem has emerged redefining the city’s dining and nightlife scene. Introducing BLACK, a bistro, lounge and cocktail kitchen that seamlessly blends sophistication with unforgettable vibes. Located near the Sandton highway, BLACK is the ultimate destination for discerning professionals, socialites and tastemakers.

    BLACK offers more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re meeting for a weekday lunch, grabbing after-work drinks, or dancing the night away, BLACK has something for everyone.

    The versatile menu boasts standout favorites like:

    – Mogodu Mondays, featuring traditional South African dishes

    – Sushi and meat platters, perfect for sharing with friends

    – Signature mains, crafted to delight foodies and casual diners alike

    Each plate is a feast for the eyes and taste buds guaranteed to have guests reaching for their phones.

    BLACK’s sleek, photo-worthy interiors have made it a hub for food-lovers and lifestyle seekers. The venue regularly curates themed events, including:

    – Karaoke nights, perfect for belting out your favorite tunes

    – DJ sets, keeping the party going all night long

    – Intimate celebrations, making BLACK the perfect spot for special occasions

    BLACK invites guests to discover their new menu launch, featuring curated pairings of signature dishes and signature cocktails. This innovative experience showcases BLACK’s culinary expertise while introducing Joburg’s food lovers to a one-of-a-kind pairing experience.

    Get in Touch

    To book a table, contact BLACK on 076 052 9013. Follow BLACK on Instagram at BLACK Woodmead for the latest menus, events, and specials. Visit BLACK at Dunwoody Shopping Centre, Western Service Rd, Woodmead, Sandton, 2080. Come and indulge in the ultimate dining and nightlife experience in Joburg!

  • The highly anticipated Cheetos Playground event finally arrived in Johannesburg, bringing together the city’s most influential tastemakers, music stars and content creators. Hosted by TV personality Tshego Koke at The Nest, the star-studded bash was the ultimate celebration of the global snack brand’s launch in South Africa.

    The Orange Carpet was rolled out and the who’s who of South African entertainment descended upon the venue dressed to impress in their best orange-inspired outfits. Lebohang Lephatsoana, Ayakha Ntunja, Ponahalo, Nkuley, Libho Geza, Thabang Mazibuko, Tshenolo Seabi and Moghelingz were just a few of the many celebrities who attended the event.

    The night was filled with show-stopping performances that left the crowd wanting more. Music superstars Robot Boii, Kamo Mphela, Ayanda MVP and Afro-tech DJ Oara took to the stage, delivering electrifying sets that got everyone on their feet. Robot Boii performed his hit song “Tjovi,” which was released in partnership with Cheetos, while Kamo Mphela brought the house down with his amapiano beats.

    The Cheetos Playground was more than just a concert – it was an immersive experience. Guests indulged in playful activities, food and drinks inspired by the new and addictive Cheetos flavors. The event was a true celebration of the Orange Side of Life and attendees were left with unforgettable memories.

    “Cheetos globally is such a cool cultural brand, and I was thrilled to lend my brand-new song ‘Tjovi’ to this campaign and get Mzansi dancing. Headlining the Cheetos Playground has been an incredible experience and I encourage my fans to head to stores and get on brand with Cheetos,” said Robot Boii.

    With its successful launch in South Africa, Cheetos is set to bring its signature cheesy goodness and playful spirit to the country.

  • Over 2,000 women gathered in Johannesburg for the Wisdom and Wellness WalkFest 2025, a powerful celebration of self-empowerment, wellness and sisterhood. Main sponsor Dove supported this incredible event which aimed to redefine beauty on individual terms.

    The 5km walk brought together women of all ages, united by a common goal: to promote confidence, authenticity and body positivity. Throughout the route participants encountered uplifting messages and moments of reflection, reinforcing the event’s theme.

    The panel discussion “Beauty on Your Own Terms: Regaining Control of Our Definitions of Beauty” was a highlight of the event. Hosted by Mpoomy Ledwaba, the conversation featured inspiring women who shared their personal stories of self-acceptance and empowerment. Amahle-Imvelo Jaxa, a bold and authentic influencer, spoke about her journey with psoriasis and hair loss, while Lerai Rakoditsoe, a Gen Z changemaker, emphasized the importance of honesty and presence in defining real beauty.

    Dove’s involvement in the WalkFest went beyond sponsorship, as the brand reaffirmed its commitment to creating a world where women and girls are seen, heard and celebrated for who they are. “At Dove, we envision a world where beauty is a source of confidence, not anxiety,” said Anele Maphanga, Dove representative.

    The event encouraged women to celebrate their true selves, support one another and reclaim their definitions of beauty. The Dove Experiential Stand offered guests the opportunity to engage with beloved products and innovations, including the New Dove Advanced Care Even Tone Deodorant.

    The Wisdom and Wellness WalkFest 2025 stands as a testament to the growing movement for beauty autonomy in South Africa, where women and girls are celebrated for expressing their true selves. Dove is proud to have been a part of this empowering event walking alongside women who dare to be themselves.

  • In a move that’s set to brighten up any social gathering, Jägermeister Original is proud to introduce Jägermeister Orange, a vibrant new addition to the iconic spirit brand’s family. This refreshing drink is poised to become the ultimate companion for easy-going social moments offering a perfect blend of flavor and fun.

    Jägermeister Orange is a unique fusion of the brand’s signature herbal notes and the fresh fruity taste of Sicilian oranges. Made with natural organically grown citrus fruits this smooth yet bold drink balances zesty sweetness with a light herbal touch. Whether enjoyed ice-cold in a shot or mixed into a cocktail, Jägermeister Orange promises a distinctive full-bodied flavor that sets it apart from other citrus blends.

    Jägermeister Orange is the perfect drink for:

    • Brunch gatherings
    • Festivals
    • Social gatherings
    • Anyone looking for a refreshing and versatile drink

    The new drink is presented in a clear glass bottle with a bright liquid, introducing a fresh, modern look that stays true to the brand’s heritage of 56 natural ingredients and commitment to quality.

    To celebrate the launch of Jägermeister Orange, the brand will host a series of digital campaigns that promise to bring an immersive experience, blending music, fashion and culture. Spotify will play a central role with exclusive playlists curated by Meisters KMAT and Young Stunna. Stay tuned to Jägermeister South Africa’s social media pages for all the latest updates and surprise moments.

    Get ready to brighten up your social gatherings with Jägermeister Orange!

  • In a significant boost for sports enthusiasts in South Africa, Disney+ has announced the availability of ESPN and ESPN 2 linear channels on its platform, effective October 2, 2025. This exciting development brings the world’s greatest sporting moments to the existing vast content library on Disney+, offering fans unparalleled access to their favorite sports leagues and events.

    With the addition of ESPN and ESPN 2, Disney+ subscribers can look forward to a diverse range of sports content including:

    – Football: English Football League (EFL), Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), Dutch Eredivisie, German Football Association Cup (DFB Pokal), Saudi Pro League, and Turkish Süper Lig

    – American Football: NFL and NCAA Football

    – Basketball: NBA and NCAA Basketball

    – Rugby: US Major Rugby and Japanese Rugby Leagues

    No Extra Cost

    The best part? Disney+ customers won’t incur any additional costs to access the ESPN and ESPN 2 linear channels. This move demonstrates Disney’s commitment to providing value to its subscribers and enhancing their entertainment experience.

    The addition of ESPN and ESPN 2 to Disney+ complements the platform’s vast library of content which includes:

    – Award-winning documentaries

    – Breaking sports news

    – Must-stream TV series like “Only Murders in the Building” and “The Simpsons”

    – Blockbuster movies like “Lilo & Stitch” and “Deadpool & Wolverine”

    – Content from iconic brands and franchises like Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic

    Disney+ prioritizes parental control allowing users to limit access to content based on ratings and add a PIN to lock profiles with mature content.

    The ESPN linear channels are available to all Disney+ Premium and Mobile plan customers with an 18+ content rating in South Africa. ESPN is also available on MultiChoice’s DStv and StarTimes across Africa.

    “We are excited to be adding the ESPN Africa linear channels to Disney+ today, offering South African customers more value through ESPN’s award-winning documentaries, breaking sports news and fixtures from the most popular and exciting sporting leagues from the United States and around the world,” said Kyle de Klerk, Director: Sports for The Walt Disney Company Africa.

    With this development Disney+ solidifies its position as a leading streaming platform in South Africa offering an unparalleled entertainment experience that combines sports, movies and TV shows.

  • In a stunning display of African luxury and elegance, two of South Africa’s most revered brands, Maxhosa and Brutal Fruit Spritzer are set to make a lasting impression at Paris Fashion Week. Maxhosa, the only South African designer showcasing on the official runway will unveil its latest collection, while Brutal Fruit Spritzer partners with Maxhosa to bring “The Pink Table Experience” to the City of Love.

    Maxhosa’s participation in Paris Fashion Week is a testament to the brand’s commitment to showcasing African cultural pride and excellence. With its unique blend of traditional aesthetics and modern designs, Maxhosa has resonated with international fashion markets solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

    Brutal Fruit Spritzer’s partnership with Maxhosa will bring together women from around the world to toast to some of fashion’s most dazzling moments in an atmosphere that reflects the brand’s sophisticated and elegant style. This experience is a perfect reflection of the brand’s values of aspiration, accessibility and female empowerment.

    The collaboration between Maxhosa and Brutal Fruit Spritzer is a proud moment for South Africa, highlighting the country’s exceptional talent and creativity. As Laduma Ngxokolo, Chief Creative Director of Maxhosa Africa, notes, “African luxury is often defined by those on the outside looking in.” With this partnership, Maxhosa and Brutal Fruit Spritzer are redefining what it means to be a luxury brand from Africa.

    Paris Fashion Week provides the perfect platform for Maxhosa and Brutal Fruit Spritzer to showcase their unique styles and products to a global audience. As Proudly South African’s Happy Makhumalo Ngidi notes, “Our participation at the Paris Fashion Show gives expression to our objective of elevating exceptional local brands into international powerhouses that can create jobs and put South Africa where it belongs.”

  • In a thrilling finale that captivated audiences, Noluthando Zwane from Soweto has been crowned the R1 million grand-prize winner of LottoStar’s Big September with 947. The live event held at the 947 studios in Sandton was the perfect culmination of a campaign that gave Gauteng listeners four chances to win significant cash prizes and life-changing rewards.

    Over three weeks more than 12,600 participants entered the competition not only vying for instant prizes but also contributing to a worthy cause. LottoStar’s Big September with 947 raised an impressive R864,500 for Surgeons For Little Lives supporting 5,763 surgeries for young patients. This partnership between LottoStar and 947 demonstrated the power of collaboration in making a meaningful impact.

    The final event was a dramatic four-round showdown that tested the luck and fortitude of 120 finalists. The competition’s suspenseful conclusion saw Noluthando emerge victorious winning the R1 million grand prize. The finale’s excitement was palpable with the crowd cheering on the finalists as they battled it out for the top prize.

    Noluthando’s win is a testament to the courage and aspirations of 947’s audience. Her victory highlights the importance of believing in possibilities and seizing opportunities. “LottoStar’s Big September with 947 brings excitement and real opportunity to our listeners while supporting a vital cause through Surgeons For Little Lives,” said Mzo Jojwana, Chief Content Officer at Primedia Broadcasting. “Noluthando’s win highlights how belief and a bit of luck can transform lives.”

    A Successful Campaign

    The campaign was a resounding success, with LottoStar giving away a staggering R584,800 in instant cash prizes prior to the finale. The partnership between LottoStar and 947 not only provided entertainment but also made a meaningful impact on the lives of many young patients.

    Huge congratulations to Noluthando Zwane on her life-changing win! Her story is an inspiration to many and we look forward to seeing the positive impact this prize will have on her life.

  • Volvo has introduced the refreshed XC90 to the South African market showcasing its flagship seven-seater SUV’s commitment to comfort, safety and sensible efficiency. The new XC90 boasts cleaner lines, a calmer cabin and the latest user experience while preserving its practical spirit and long-distance capability.

    This new beast offers a range of electrified powertrains including a mild-hybrid petrol (B5) option and a plug-in hybrid (T8) model. The T8 PHEV delivers combined outputs of 340 kW and 709 N.m, providing strong acceleration while returning a combined fuel consumption figure of 1.8 L/100 km. The B5 variant pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48-volt battery and integrated starter generator (ISG) to reduce fuel use in everyday driving.

    The XC90 prioritizes comfort with adaptive dampers and air suspension working together to provide a quieter and more composed ride. The cabin features a more horizontal dashboard, new decorative inlays and additional storage and cup holders. With the second and third rows folded flat, cargo space expands to a generous 1,950 litres.

    Safety and Technology

    The XC90 is equipped with a full suite of safety features, including dual front and driver’s knee airbags, Volvo’s Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and Inflatable Curtain airbags. The car also features the latest infotainment and connectivity suite, including a larger, higher-resolution 11.2-inch central touchscreen and over-the-air (OTA) updates.

    Pricing and Availability

    The new Volvo XC90 is available in four derivatives:

    – XC90 B5 Plus: R1,555,500

    – XC90 B5 Ultra: R1,657,500

    – XC90 T8 PHEV Plus: R1,834,500

    – XC90 T8 PHEV Ultra: R1,936,500

    All variants come with a five-year/100,000 km warranty, a five-year/100,000 km service plan and five years of unlimited roadside assistance.

    Grant Locke, Managing Director of VCSA, comments: “The XC90 has always been a cornerstone of Volvo’s success in South Africa. With this latest update, it remains a luxury SUV that families can trust for space, comfort, and safety while introducing the technology and efficiency that define our next chapter.”