Table of contents for 2024-12-07 in Saturday Star

South African comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout’s latest docuseries, The World’s Strangest Jobs, is a whirlwind of laughter and discovery as he steps into some of the most unexpected professions across the globe. From wrestling crocodiles in Florida to making adult toys in Germany, Bezuidenhout’s charm and humour shine through each unique experience. Bezuidenhout joins a group of professionals tasked with relocating these intimidating creatures, balancing his fear with his comedic wit. His attempts to “befriend” a croco- dile and rescue it safely had viewers holding their breath and laughing in equal measure. One of the more entertaining stops is in New York, where he tries his hand at being a pet detective. The docuseries shifts gears in Germany, where Bezuidenhout explores the unexpectedly intricate world of adult toy manufacturing. Stepping into…

THE Indaba Institute, a South African education institute based in Stellenbosch, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in addressing the nation’s literacy and numeracy crisis. A recent survey brought a ray of hope by revealing that young children from the disadvantaged Kayamandi township have achieved exceptional literacy scores, dramatically outstripping their peers nationally. According to the survey, children aged four and five enrolled in early childhood development (ECD) centres where CoRE-trained teachers are employed scored an impressive 94% in “Emergent Literacy Language.” This figure starkly contrasts with the Western Cape average of 71% and the national average of just 54.7%. Furthermore, in the realm of “Emergent Numeracy and Mathematics,” these youngsters attained 57%, notable compared to 47% and 33.9% in the Western Cape and nationally, respectively. It is explained that this…

THIS week, as South Africans reflected on Nelson Mandela's legacy, the Nelson Mandela Foundation took a momentous step in seeking justice for the country's disenfranchised citizens. Thursday, December 5, marked the 11th anniversary of Madiba's passing, a day that holds significant meaning in the nation’s history and offers an opportunity to recommit to his vision of a just society. In line with this mission, the Foundation has filed a legal challenge in the Western Cape High Court arguing for the state’s compliance with Section 25(5) of the Constitution, which addresses equitable access to land. In its application, the Nelson Mandela Foundation contends that the government has failed to meet its constitutional obligations and seeks a court declaration to that effect. The Foundation's plea is clear: the state must enact national…

Tanya and Izolda Visser are hosting an Open Garden this coming weekend: December 7 and 8 in their Assagay home. They will be joined on Saturday morning by special guest Leon Kluge who will talk on his experience at the Chelsea Flower Show this year. Visser is knownas the television presenter of the Home Channel’s popular show, The Gardener, although she still considers herself a regular gardener by profession who’s taken on lots of additional ‘day jobs’ in order to do what she loves best. She is also the editor of The Gardener and Die Tuinier magazines, author of various gardening books, a public speaker, and she hosts various television and live shows throughout the year. Award winning South African designer Leon Kluge will be giving a talk…

REPAIRS at the Claudius Substation in the south of Pretoria have been completed, and testing is now under way, according to Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya. The facility was damaged by a fire, prompting a swift response from the municipal repair teams. During her site inspection on Thursday evening, Moya expressed satisfaction with the progress made, noting that about 90% of the work is done. It is anticipated that power supply will be restored to households on Sunday. Moya said: "We obviously are coming to monitor the progress in terms of the work the team has been doing. We are very happy that the team has done a lot of work here; that about 90% of the work is done.” She urged residents to exercise patience, allowing the testing and protection…

AS the countdown begins, with less than three months to go, the Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2025 is poised to make waves in the contemporary art scene with its exciting line-up of exhibitors under the innovative theme: Celebrating Art, Creativity and Exploration Through the Power of Play. Scheduled to take place from February 21 to 23, at the iconic Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), this year’s fair promises a vibrant showcase of art that invites a dynamic interaction between creators and audiences alike. In its twelfth edition, the fair will spotlight more than 100 artists and feature works from an impressive roster of 124 exhibitors. Reflecting on this year’s theme, fair director Laura Vincenti describes play as a multifaceted concept that shapes the event's framework. “Interrogating the dynamics…

Mindy Howell had just finished breakfast at her long-term care centre this month when she spotted something she’d never seen before: a pig walking the hall on a leash. Brett Martin, who oversees maintenance at the Good Samaritan Society senior living facility in Olathe, Kansas, was sauntering along with his house pig. He told Howell the little spotted pig was named Odin, after the Norse god of wisdom and magic. Howell, 62, said she soon learned Odin likes to be hand-fed cereal. She was more than happy to oblige. “I gave him some Cap’n Crunch and he really seemed to enjoy it,” Howell said. “I’d never fed a pig before, and I’d never petted one either. But he loved it, and he gave me a good oink.” Martin, 43, had…

The all-new BMW X3 is now on sale in Mzansi, marking a new era for the midsize sports activity vehicle (SAV), with a choice of diesel, petrol and plug-in hybrid power as well as a more luxuriously appointed and hi-tech cabin. Like the outgoing X3, which took over from the 3 Series as BMW’s export hero in 2018, the next-generation X3 is built here in South Africa, with about 96% of production to be exported to overseas markets. This follows a R4.6-billion investment in the Rosslyn-based assembly plant near Pretoria. But enough about international relations for now. The new X3 is available in South Africa with three powertrain options. The headline grabber is the new X3 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant, which pairs a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine to an…

As the year wraps up, your money is at risk more than ever. Scammers are relentless, watching for any opportunity to steal your hard-earned cash. Don’t fall victim – stay vigilant. John Manyike, group head of financial education at Old Mutual, warns that people often become complacent about their financial security, especially with the widespread use of passwords and biometric authentication. “You still need to be alert to suspicious activity,” Manyike says. “If you think your accounts have been compromised, act immediately – contact your bank and block them.” A recent case should serve as a brutal wake-up call. A well-known public figure had their bank accounts wiped out after their cell phone was stolen. At first, they thought losing their phone was just a stroke of bad luck. Two…

"Our children are the rock on which our future will be built, our greatest asset as a nation. They will be the leaders of our country, the creators of our national wealth, and those who care for and protect our people", former South African president, Nelson Mandela. Experiencing poverty during childhood can lead to lasting harmful effects that compromise not only children’s health and welfare but can also hinder future opportunities for economic mobility, which may be passed on to future generations. An intergenerational cycle of economic disadvantages weighs heavily not only on children and families experiencing poverty but also on the nation by reducing future national prosperity and increasing the burden on the educational, criminal justice, and healthcare systems. In South Africa, we wish to break that cycle. Single-parent…

Trevor Noah has yet another admirer; this time it’s Kenya Moore, the former Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) star. On a recent podcast, Moore was all smiles when asked about her celebrity crush. She confessed that Noah was her ultimate type. “That is my type all day long.” Explaining her admiration, she added: “He’s funny. He’s attractive. He’s successful. He is woke. He’s just smart – I love a smart man.” Mzansi readers might agree that the SA-born Noah’s charm, intelligence and signature dimples are a winning combination. Moore was unsure of Noah’s relationship status and jokingly apologised if he was already taken. While she was light-hearted about her crush on Noah, Moore recently found herself at the centre of heated controversy on RHOA. In season 16, she hosted an…

THE Santa Shoebox Project, one of South Africa’s most cherished charitable initiatives, is ending 2024 on a good note, through a partnership with Hyprop. Throughout 2024, Hyprop’s eight malls across the country played a key role in spreading festive joy. Of the 74 751 Santa Shoeboxes donated around the country this year, 23 636 of them came through Hyprop’s malls helping to positively impact disadvantaged children. “The support of the Hyprop malls and the Hyprop Foundation enable our beloved Santa Shoebox Project to achieve its mission of providing equal access to quality education for all children in South Africa facilitated through acts of kindness. It is incredibly valuable to have a partner in Hyprop that shares our values,” said Santa Shoebox Project spokesperson, Debbie Zelezniak. Since its inception in 2006,…

DEPUTY Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, has highlighted the crucial role young people must play in driving innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa. Speaking at the Youth in Innovation Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, she urged governments, industries, and educational institutions to support young entrepreneurs in transforming their innovative ideas into viable businesses. The symposium was hosted in Pretoria ahead of a two-day 2024 Science Forum South Africa, which concluded yesterday. It was aimed at empowering young innovators by exploring the potential of emerging technologies to address pressing challenges such as food security, poverty, and climate change. The event is aligned with the African Union’s 2024 theme for education, “Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century,” which highlights the importance of inclusive, lifelong learning in…

ONE of the first Nama children’s books published in South Africa, titled My Third Ouma, has now seen the light. Emerging from the 2024 Vroedvrou film documentary by University of Pretoria Professor Siona O’Connell, the groundbreaking children’s book was launched in Kuboes in the Northern Cape. The book delves into the heart of a Nama midwife’s legacy. Ten-year-old Sonnetjie, entrusted to the care of Ouma Toesie, witnesses first-hand the wisdom and healing hands of a traditional midwife. As Sonnetjie’s mother prepares to give birth, the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a community deeply rooted in tradition. The book pays homage to the invaluable contributions of Nama midwives, whose knowledge is slowly fading away in the face of modern medicine. Professor Loretta Feris, Vice Principal: Academic at Tuks, and Professor…

IN a world where viewers seek not just entertainment but compelling stories and emotional journeys, Showmax has stepped its game with an impressive line-up of reality TV shows with some of the leading local stars. From heart-wrenching family dramas to high-stakes fashion competitions, there’s something to captivate every reality TV enthusiast. Mntase Mntase, Mzansi Wethu’s acclaimed reality show, dives deep into the often tumultuous relationships between siblings. This emotionally charged series does not shy away from exploring the depths of resentment and conflict that can tear families apart. With the charismatic Moshe Ndiki at the helm, families are given a safe space to confront painful issues, fostering an environment aimed at reconciliation and healing. The show's unique approach highlights the importance of communication and understanding within familial relationships, making for…

Jaguar has taken a great deal of flak for its rebranding campaign, encapsulated by an “exuberant” ad featuring no cars. But now we finally get to see a car and it goes by the name of Type 00. Strictly a concept car, the Type 00 (pronounced zero zero) is not slated for production, but it does show the British firm’s new design identity. The “reimagined” Jaguar will reveal its first new production car late next year and it will take the form of an electric four-door GT car, likely with much design inspiration from the concept design study. The production model will be the first vehicle to use the new Jaguar Electric Architecture (JEA), an EV exclusive platform. The company is targeting a range of up to 770km between charges…

The actual day of Black Friday this year coincided nicely with payday, which allowed thousands of South Africans to benefit from deals when they actually had money in their bank accounts – with billions ringing through the tills. Perhaps as a function of this, with the month-end grocery shop due to happen anyway, most of the spending went through grocery retailers according to payment providers. This spending pattern could also be due to the economic hardships South Africans have needed to deal with throughout 2024. There were, however, big spenders out there. FNB reported that one of the biggest, out of the 20 million card transactions processed on the day, was for a purchase made at Cartier Boutique, for R780 000. Absa had a similar finding: one single R1 million…

With the arrival of summer, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a heatwave alert, cautioning residents and visitors to brace themselves for persistently high temperatures that could bring serious health and safety risks. The heat alert primarily affects parts of Gauteng, North West, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the north-western regions of KwaZulu-Natal. Now, more than ever, it is crucial for citizens to find ways to stay cool and safe during the sweltering months. To combat the effects of extreme heat, SAWS recommends a series of precautionary measures. Staying hydrated is key, so residents are advised to drink plenty of water while avoiding alcohol and caffeine. Protective attire will also help; light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing paired with wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can shield you from sun exposure. Applying sunscreen…

Any production that has Tyler Perry’s name attached to it attracts eyeballs. Translated: it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Celebrated as Hollywood royalty, Perry has proven his Midas touch as a writer, director and producer. He’s also left an indelible impression as an actor embodying his Mabel “Madea” Simmons alter-ego in his hit comedy movies. Aside from Sistas and The Oval, he struck a chord with audiences through poignant features like Mea Culpa, Good Deeds, Temptation: Confessions, Acrimony, Gone Girl, A Fall from Grace or For Colored Girls. Not to sound like a fangirl here, but I’ve enjoyed his offerings – until now. Beauty in Black on Netflix, an eight-part series which has been trending since it debuted on the streaming platform, held so much promise. But it fell…

The picturesque vineyards of Franschhoek buzzed with excitement recently as South Africa’s beloved author Chantal Lascaris launched her much-anticipated book, All Sorts of Junk Food Made Healthy. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of the country’s most popular MCC (Méthode Cap Classique) homes, the event was a delightful blend of light-hearted conversations, culinary insights, and, of course, healthy indulgence. With the festive season knocking on our doors, Lascaris’s book couldn’t have come at a better time. It offers a refreshing spin on the foods we love to crave but often feel guilty about eating. And let’s face it, who doesn’t secretly crave a good slice of pizza or a plate of crunchy fried chicken every now and then? Lascaris didn’t shy away from addressing the elephant in the room.…

It’s the festive season and we’re all about spending time with family and friends and soaking up lots of time outdoors (hello summer). This year, we’re welcoming gardening traditions. Planting Together Gardening during the holidays can be a great way to bond with your loved ones. Imagine the joy of sowing seeds with toddlers, planning a vegetable garden with parents or picking flowers together for a thoughtful bouquet. Planting bright begonias or vibrant fuchsias can be a fun activity, or arrange trailing plants like petunias in hanging baskets. Plants such as succulents and aloes are perfect for holiday planting, adding beauty and resilience to your festive garden. Succulents like Echeveria, with its pastel rosettes, and Crassula (jade plant), a symbol of good luck, make stunning table centrepieces or gifts.…

THE Tshwane Women in Business Awards celebrated the achievements of women across various sectors, highlighting their contributions to the local economy and addressing the challenges they face during a prestigious event hosted at the Ditsong Museum. Organised by the Tshwane Economic Development Agency (Teda), the event honoured female business owners who are breaking barriers and driving change. Under theme of the event was ‘Advocating diversity and inclusion of Tshwane women trailblazers for economic emancipation’, the awards recognised women in the manufacturing sector, agro-processing, automotive, and energy fields, recognising their significant contributions to the city's economy Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya, who graced the occasion, talked about the importance of celebrating these women, saying they are innovators, farmers, tech entrepreneurs, and manufacturers who are driving local production. Moya also acknowledged the…

THE University of Pretoria (UP) and the Department of Public and Ecosystem Health at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine are doing research on how climate change affects infectious diseases. The have received a grant from the USA’s National Institutes of Health to establish the Center for Transformative Infectious Disease Research on Climate, Health, and Equity in a Changing Environment (C-Change). Climate change is accelerating the spread of diseases transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks, as well as increasing the risk of zoonotic viruses spilling over from animals to humans. C-Change aims to address these challenges, offering new solutions to the ways climate change is directly impacting global human health. The centre’s research will involve collaboration between faculty and students from both UP and Cornell. “The collaboration between the University…

Forgive me if I’ve said this before, but a minibus makes more sense than an SUV, especially if you’re looking to comfortably carry four or more people and their luggage. Everyone is SUV mad so the minibus seems hard done by locals. Having driven a few over the years my advice would be to take a closer look at what is on offer. There’s the Hyundai Staria, Kia Carnival, Opel Zafira, Toyota Quantum, Mercedes-Benz Vito (and the luxury V-Class) and most recently the Ford Tourneo Custom. For now only the Ford long wheel- base eight-seater Trend model is available with additional models to be launched later. It’s certainly one of the bigger buses out there at just over 5.4m in length that provides ample room for eight people to…

We’re all so eager to spend over the festive season – on gifts, entertaining, holiday accommodation, and Black Friday “deals” – that it’s little surprise most of us are broke in “Janu-worry”. If your expenses are putting a strain on your budget, if you want to make a start on reducing your debt and on saving in earnest, or if you are simply frustrated with the excesses of today’s consumer culture and want a change in direction, here are a few suggestions, in no particular order, on saving money and shifting focus away from possessions. It’s not rocket science, mostly just common sense (which, as I have said before, is not all that common.) Curb spending on gifts Generosity is a virtue, but scale it to your budget. Gifts to…

Qatar Airways has taken a dynamic leap in passenger engagement by unveiling its latest in-flight safety video, featuring comedian and actor Kevin Hart as the airline’s global brand ambassador. Set to premiere on select flights this month, this star-studded production aims to capture the attention of travellers with compelling visuals and humorous performances while delivering essential safety instructions. The innovative safety video merges the seriousness of flight protocols with a touch of entertainment and is directed by acclaimed Hollywood film-maker, Tim Story. Hart is joined by social media influencers and renowned personalities, including supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, who assists him in demonstrating how to reach the overhead lockers. The video also features Anwar and Amal Jibawi, who remind passengers about the importance of securing their seatbelts. Influencer Adam Waheed provides…

As South Africa’s festive holiday season kicks into high gear, Airbnb hosts are gearing up for one of the busiest times of the year. With a surge in bookings and back-to-back guests, it can be challenging to maintain the high standards that travellers expect, said Lourandi Kriel, CEO of Sweepsouth. “To make things trickier, many domestic workers head home to be with their families, leaving hosts in need of extra support,” said Kriel. She offered five practical tips to help you stay on top of your game if you’re an Airbnb host preparing to receive guests this season. Quick turnarounds The holiday season usually brings a rush of bookings that come in quickly and keep you busy. “You may need to prepare your property for the guests without…