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Kingsway High School take top honours in SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge
SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge
Southcity Christian School: Saturday 20 August
Kingsway High School took top honours in the KZN South Coast Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge at Southcity Christian School on Saturday 20 August.
They met local team, Port Shepstone High School in an exciting conclusion to the regional that had eight teams participate. In their earlier meeting, Kingsway won 7-3 in both teams' second game of the day. At the end of the round robin, Sheppie High was level on points with KwaMakhutha High School but qualified for the podium game having netted 48 goals in their seven games compared to KwaMakhuta’s 41.
In the final, Sheppie came out firing with their first attempt just 18 seconds into the game, their opening shot sadly missing the net. Kingsway snaffled the ball, quickly pushing play down to the other end and 30 seconds later landed their first goal with Elrika Laubscher opening her impressive account. 40 seconds later, Sheppie leveled the scoreline with their only goal in the first half, by Asemahle Ndabezitha.
Heading to half time, a tiring Sheppie team, who had just played the last round-robin game of the day, revealed a few cracks in their armour with a couple of simple mistakes. Pouncing on these opportunities, Kingsway quietly built on their lead giving them a comfortable 6 - 1 score at half time. Kingsway’s Laubscher added another three goals to her tally, and team-mate Dedré Gravett
netted two.
Fifteen seconds into the second half, Laubscher moved the score up to 7 – 1 with her fifth goal of the final. The tech table had a quiet patch, with both teams not able to find the middle of the ring for three minutes, with Laubscher breaking the dry spell by earning her sixth goal, and her team's 8th with 2.42 minutes left on the clock. Port Shepstone also shook off their goal drought and Ndabezitha popped in two more magnificent goals for her team, taking the score to 8-3.
On the final whistle, Laubscher launched the game's last attempt, sending the ball through the hoop and taking the end result to 9-3.
Captain for Kingsway, Aneliswa Maphumulo enthused after the game, “The tournament was really fun. We came in thinking we weren’t going to make it this far, so we were excited. Heading into the final, we thought we would be facing a different team, so had to change our game plan a bit. It was quite challenging facing the local team as the crowd was vocal in their support, but my team coped well with this and I am so happy that we won.”
Coach for the winning team, Ruan Engelbrecht shared, “The tournament was excellent. We came in today playing fast 5s for the first time this year, so we were going into it with open hearts and open minds, not expecting the result that we did today. I said to the girls each half was a new start, we take it as it comes. And the results showed how committed and focused the girls were.”
The fourth tournament heads to Ferrum Hoërskool for the KZN Northern Regional on Saturday 27 August. All games will be live-streamed on SuperSport Schools mobile app or their website.
Gold Silver Results
1 Kingsway High School, 2 Port Shepstone High School
Round Robin Results
1 Kingsway High School 21 points, 2 Port Shepstone High School 15 points, 3 KwaMakhutha High School 15 points, 4 Hoërskool Suid Natal 12 points, 5 Kuswag Hoërskool 12 points, 6 Southcity Christian School 6 points, 7 Amanzimtoti High School 3 points, 8 Creston College 0 points.
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Durban Girls’ College claim Durban North Regional title in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge
SPAR KZN Schoolgirl’s Fast 5s Netball Challenge
Durban North College: Saturday 13 August
Durban Girls’ College claim the inaugural Durban North Regional title in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge that took place at Durban North College on Saturday 13 August.
In a fast-flowing game, College took on Danville Park Girls’ High School in the regional final. College opened their account with a well-crafted, goal from right under the hoop by XYZ, after a nifty pass by xyz. Danville responded on the other side with a calm shot being netted by XYZ. The game yo-yo’d for a patch as one team progressed by scoring, only for the opposition to level the scoreline shortly after.
Nearing the end of the first half, College pulled slightly away with two back-to-back goals, giving them an advantage of 6 goals to Danville’s 4 going into half time.
Danville were first to score in the second half, edging the score up to 6-5 in favour of College, but then College dominated the next ninety seconds of play and took their tally up to 8-5. Danville pushed hard, sending up short, sharp bursts of play into the College circle but were unable to reel in the 3 point deficit. College’s signature long passes were always a decisive response to Danville’s fast attacks, and again the score stepped up with both teams firing in a goal, and then another goal being recorded on the other side.
With time almost up, College took the game further away from Danville with the last passage of play seeing College basketing three more quick fire goals, taking the score to 14-8 at the full-time whistle.
In the semi-finals, Durban Girls’ College met host school, Durban North College and dominated the game with an 18-2 victory. Durban Girls’ College’s players towered over their opponents, not giving Durban North College a lot of space under the net. Danville took on Crawford La Lucia in their semi-final and in a very even matched game, took the win 10-8, with both teams only scoring three goals each in the second half.
Captain for Durban Girls’ College, Tanna de Freitas stated, “It was a great tournament with some amazing competition. I am very proud of everyone here today, especially my team.”
Durban Girls’ College were invited to play in the week leading up to the tournament as one of the confirmed local teams, sadly had to withdraw.
De Freitas continued, “We were a late entry for this tournament so winning today was a bit of a surprise but the whole experience was very enjoyable.”
Coach for Durban Girls’ College, Annie Nurcombe said, “The tournament was very professionally run. It was really refreshing to play a fast 5s tournament, we haven’t played for a long time and the competition was brilliant and the umpires were amazing and I thank you all for your contribution and this opportunity.”
Coach for Danville Park Girls’ High School, former Protea’s netball player, Precious Mthembu said, “I think the girls improved as the games went on. It was the first time for them playing fast 5s. Thank you to SPAR and the team that put this event together, it was an opportunity for the girls to play again as a team. This tournament was a good measure to see how Danville have been doing. We played College earlier in the season and the difference was huge, and now to get a 14-8 loss against them shows that our team has improved a lot. Some wonderful netball was played today by all the teams, especially after the long CoViD break. Well done to everyone here today.”
The next tournament takes place at Southcity Christian School on Saturday 20 August where teams will participate in the KZN South Coast Regional. All games will be live-streamed by SuperSport Schools on their mobile app or on their website.
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Opportunity for 15 Producers to participate in the second Creative Producer Indaba
Submissions have opened for the second Creative Producer Indaba, the professional development programme offered by the Realness Institute, in partnership with EAVE, International Film Festival Rotterdam’s IFFR Pro, and the Marrakech International Film Festival’s Atlas Workshops.
The Creative Producer Indaba (CPI) offers 15 Producers an opportunity to further develop their producer-related leadership and entrepreneurial proficiencies and build on their creative skills.
2020 CPI Cohort: From top left: Oluwaseun Babalola (US/Sierre Leone), Carol Kioko (Kenya), Souleymane Kebe (Senegal), Frank Hoeve (Netherlands), Wafa Tajdin (Kenya)
Middle row from left : Maia Lekow (Kenya), Dina Emam (Egypt), Israel Mehari (Ethiopia), Flavia Motsisi (South Africa), Lesedi Oluko Moche (SA/Uganda), Thomas Kaske (Germany)
Bottom row from left: Thomas Hakim (France), Toni Kamau (Kenya), Yolanda Ncokotwana (South Africa), Lara Sousa (Mozambique), Chioma Onyenwe (Nigeria), Melissa Adeyemo (US/Nigeria).
"Strong creative producers with connections to international financing serve as engines that can spur local media markets to grow, adapt, and thrive. Our ultimate aim is to strengthen the pool of capable producers on the continent that can help drive the growth of our respective local markets and to equip these producers with the skills, community, and resources they need to develop and finance our stories," says Mehret Mandefro, Director of Development and Partnership, Realness Institute.
The programme comprises plenary sessions and group work, unpacking successful case studies, and having access to individual meetings with mentors and guest experts. As this is a producer-facing development programme, the focus will be on project development and planning, financing, legal, PR and marketing, advocacy and lobbying, organisational development, network management, and leadership.
Kristen Trapp, CEO at EAVE says, “Knowledge sharing leads to progress and EAVE is a community committed to sharing experience and expertise in order to sustain and transform the business in a collaborative effort. EAVE is proud to be a partner of Creative Producer Indaba for the second year to help foster a community of strong producers and industry leaders in Africa and build bridges on the continent as well as internationally.”
The programme is anchored by two workshops. Workshop 1 has online sessions from 9 – 12 November 2022 followed by in-person sessions at Atlas Workshops from 14-17 November 2022 during Marrakech International Film Festival. Workshop 2 has in-person sessions at the International Film Festival Rotterdam from 26 January to 2 February 2023.
“We are very proud and excited to be part of Indaba again, a programme that has proven to be pivotal in producers’ careers," says Inke van Loocke, Manager CineMart & Rotterdam Lab. "It not only brings their skills to the next level, but it consolidates their creative approach to projects and running a company in a sustainable way. One of the best parts of Indaba is the bridges that are built, nurturing not only individual careers but the industry as a whole. We look forward to the creative exchange and exploring all the opportunities and challenges that will arise during the workshop together with the participants, experts, and partners."
“Highlights worth mentioning from the 2020 edition were industry insights from Christopher Mack, Director of Grow Creative at Netflix, Makhosazana Khanyile from the National Film and Video Foundation in South Africa, ex-Director of Sundance, Tabitha Jackson, and Vanja Kaludjercic, Festival Director at International Film Festival Rotterdam,” says Elias Ribeiro, Head of Studies and Executive Director of the Realness Institute.
The selected participants will be mentored by Group Leaders, Mehret Mandefro and Diana Elbaum, Story Expert, Mmabatho Kau, plus a host of guest speakers, all in leading roles in our industry.
The call for submissions goes out to Producers (with and without projects) from Africa; producers from outside the continent with an interest in co-producing with Africa and film professionals from other disciplines such as funding bodies, international sales, distribution, broadcasters, and development executives with a stake in the African marketplace. Through a partnership with Brazilian foundation, Projeto Paradiso, one place is guaranteed for a Brazilian producer with a link to an African project.
There are relevant criteria for submissions and costs to cover to participate, like the flight to Rotterdam. All details can be found on the Realness Institute website; https://www.realness.institute/creative-producer-indaba.
Importantly, applicants are required to have produced at least one feature fiction, a series, or documentary film; or a minimum of two short films as a lead producer or co-producer (executive producer, associate, or line producer does not qualify). Film professionals must have a minimum of two years of professional experience.
The deadline for submissions is 22 August 2022 at 17:00 Central African time.
The Creative Producers Indaba is made possible through the support of Documentary Africa, International Emerging Film Talent Association (IEFTA), Institut Français d'Afrique du Sud, the Brazilian foundation Projeto Paradiso, and The Storyboard Collective in partnership with European Audiovisual Entrepreneurs (EAVE), International Film Festival Rotterdam Pro (IFFR Pro) and Marrakech International Film Festival (Atlas Workshops).
For any queries, please email submissions@realness.institute
Follow Realness on Twitter @rlnsinstitute, Instagram realnessinstitute or Realness Institute on Facebook for up-to-date information.
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Caption to 2020 CPI Alumni - the 2020 cohort of the Creative Producer Indaba
From top left: Oluwaseun Babalola (US/Sierre Leone), Carol Kioko (Kenya), Souleymane Kebe (Senegal), Frank Hoeve (Netherlands), Wafa Tajdin (Kenya)
Middle row from left : Maia Lekow (Kenya), Dina Emam (Egypt), Israel Mehari (Ethiopia), Flavia Motsisi (South Africa), Lesedi Oluko Moche (SA/Uganda), Thomas Kaske (Germany)
Bottom row from left: Thomas Hakim (France), Toni Kamau (Kenya), Yolanda Ncokotwana (South Africa), Lara Sousa (Mozambique), Chioma Onyenwe (Nigeria), Melissa Adeyemo (US/Nigeria).
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Holgate Defender Transcontinental Expedition reaches Alexandria, Egypt
Seven months after leaving Cape Agulhas, the Kingsley Holgate Defender Transcontinental Expedition has reached its geographic half-way point in Alexandria, Egypt, becoming the first exploration team in 30 years to cross the African continent from south to north through the disputed, hostile territories of Sudan.
Travelling in three New Defenders, this geographic and humanitarian expedition aims to cover 30 countries on its route from the southern tip of the African continent to the northern-most point of Europe at Nordkapp in Norway’s Arctic Circle, and then through Europe to reach Anglesey in Wales.
The core six-member team is made up of expedition leader Ross Holgate and his wife Anna, Kingsley Holgate and partner Sheelagh, Mike and Fiona Nixon, and assisted by African expedition members in each country who help with local knowledge and language. The team not only had to deal with mountains of paperwork related to overland travel in Africa, sharply rising fuel prices and the high costs and logistical challenges of Covid-19 restrictions and PCR tests at every border crossing, but also survived life-threatening situations and extreme hardships on the journey from South Africa to Egypt.
Four of the core team became extremely ill with malaria in East Africa as the route through Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda coincided with heavy rains and flooding in areas where malaria is rampant. On reaching South Sudan, the expedition needed a military escort to the capital of Juba and government permission to traverse regions further north where armed attacks and inter-tribal uprisings are common, particularly in areas where thousands of South Sudanese have been displaced by extensive flooding and conflict and live in UN-supported IDP camps. One occasion saw Ross and Anna Holgate ambushed by hostile soldiers; another resulted in Mike Nixon, who is cycling large sections of the expedition route, manhandled off his bike by belligerent police personnel.
The disputed, UN-controlled, oil-rich region of Abyei between South Sudan and the Republic of Sudan threw another set of dangerous challenges at the expedition. With the border between the two countries closed, no foreign travellers have attempted this route in 30 years but it was the only option available for the expedition, as the civil war in Ethiopia’s Tigray region blocked the alternative route north into Sudan. Soon after setting out from a large UN military compound, the team drove straight into conflict as the Abyei region erupted in unrest between militia from the Christian south and Moslem north and inter-tribal clashes.
After running a gauntlet of illegal roadblocks, being chased by heavily armed guerrillas demanding a ransom in US dollars, and narrowly missing being caught in an attack on a village market that left over 40 people dead, the expedition was forced off the road by the Republic of Sudan military. The team spent three days under arrest at an army base near the disputed border area before being allowed to continue to Khartoum, where they were delayed for a further seven days awaiting permission from the military coup government to travel on to Egypt.
The expedition’s route through the Bayuda and Nubian Deserts of northern Sudan saw daytime temperatures exceed 50’C and the team rationing water and fuel to reach Wadi Halfa on the Egyptian border, before continuing onto Cairo, traversing the Western Desert, and ultimately reaching Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast.
‘This expedition is the first long-distance, real-life test for the new Land Rover Defender and in the dangerous situations we experienced, our lives certainly depended on the three vehicles,’ said Ross Holgate. ‘If the two P400s and diesel-powered D300 had not performed – if any of them had had a single glitch when we were driving hell-for-leather to get away from the militia and their guns – or if they weren’t able to tackle the difficult terrain that the expedition confronted – weeks of torrential rain, flooding rivers and thick mud, rocky mountain passes, hundreds of kilometres of untarred dirt roads churned into bonnet-level-deep trenches by convoys of UN aid trucks, not to mention continuous days of mind-numbing heat, dust and desert sands – we would never have made it to Alexandria, let alone be alive and looking forward to the second half of the expedition.’
Despite the challenges, the expedition remained true to its geographic objectives. In particular, following the White Nile on its 6,650Km journey from Lake Victoria to Murchison Falls and Lake Albert in Uganda, through South Sudan to the impenetrable Sudd, reaching the confluence of the White and Blue Niles at Omdurman in Sudan, tracking the river’s winding route through the Nubian Desert to explore the ancient pyramids, tombs and temples of the Kushite Kingdom of the Black Pharaohs, and crossing the Aswan Dam in Egypt before finally reaching the Nile Delta at Alexandria.
This expedition is the 40th for renowned explorer Kingsley Holgate and like all his previous expeditions, is also a humanitarian journey of purpose. ‘Sometimes, it was a case of risking lives to save and improve lives,’ said Kingsley, ‘but we stuck to our aim of providing humanitarian support to 300,000 people en route through Africa. Thanks to the support of Land Rover and other key partners, I’m glad to say we achieved it.’
Before crossing into Mozambique, the expedition reached the milestone of providing two million meals of nutritional support and early childhood development teaching materials to children at 130 rural creches, upgrading 20 of the most dilapidated, and completed projects to supply thousands of community residents with clean drinking water in water-scarce areas of northern KwaZulu-Natal.
In Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda and South Sudan, the expedition worked with long-term partners Goodbye Malaria and in-country hospitals, churches, schools and community clinics on malaria prevention, providing educational material and distributing tens of thousands of Vestergaard high-quality, insecticide-treated malaria nets to pregnant women and mothers with young children who are the most vulnerable.
Throughout the expedition’s seven-month journey from South Africa to Egypt, the team also provided eye-tests and distributed thousands of pairs of reading glasses to mostly elderly, poor-sighted people in remote communities as part of their Mashozi’s Rite to Sight programme. ‘The need for sight is so great in the outlying regions we travel through – we will never forget the joy and instant change a simple pair of spectacles makes to someone’s life,’ said Sheelagh Antrobus, Kingsley’s partner. ‘Whether it was with a church community in Malawi, or working under a mango tree helping senior members of the towering Dinka people and their big-horned cattle in South Sudan, or being allowed into the inner sanctum of a deeply religious, desert-dwelling Moslem community near the Siwa Oasis during Eid celebrations to assist the heavily-veiled women folk – every experience was unforgettable and humbling.’
‘The diversity of cultures and landscapes on this expedition through Africa has been truly astonishing,’ continued Kingsley. ‘From Easter celebrations and church bells to Ramadan calls to prayer and the feast of Eid, from torrential rains to drought, from the vibrancy of southern Africa to the wildlife-rich savannahs of East Africa and the harsh, ancient deserts of Sudan and Egypt – we’ve been truly privileged. Despite the difficulties of crossing the two Sudans, we’ve been met at every turn with kindness, generosity and friendship; the expedition’s Scroll of Peace and Goodwill is already half-full of wonderful messages of hope in every language.’
Ahead lies the shipping of the three now battle-hardened Defenders across the Mediterranean to Greece and the second leg of the expedition through Eastern Europe to Nordkapp in Norway’s Arctic Circle. However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has thrown a major challenge at the geographic objectives of the expedition’s European chapter.
‘The ongoing situation in Ukraine is not only deeply upsetting but has forced us to do a complete re-think,’ explained Ross. ‘Our planned route included both countries; we were so looking forward to exploring Ukraine, reaching the Black Sea, and tackling off-the-beaten-tracks to get to Moscow and St Petersburg. Obviously, that’s now out of the question but there are still plenty of fascinating Eastern European countries to experience.
‘The entire expedition team remains focussed on reaching Nordkapp and finishing this, the first ‘Hot Cape to Cold Cape’ journey in recent years. From there, we’ll traverse Scandinavia and Western Europe, cross the Channel into the UK and end on the Isle of Anglesey in Wales, where 75 years ago, the first Land Rover design was sketched in the sands of Red Wharf Bay by engineer Maurice Wilks in 1947. It will be a world-first expedition, especially for the new Land Rover Defender.’
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SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge - KZN Ambassadors Announced
SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge - Saturday 3 September
KZN Ambassadors Announced
Four phenomenal local KwaZulu-Natal women have been selected as the race ambassadors for this year’s SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge that takes place nationally on Saturday 3 September.
With the National race theme for this year’s challenge being I Rise, the four local women can all attest to their own personal uprisings, having overcome various challenges and determinedly made their way to the top of their games.
The race ambassadors for the KZN leg of the 2022 SPAR KZN Women’s Virtual Challenge are former Protea’s Netball star, Baby Proteas coach and teacher, Precious Mthembu; life coach, radio, TV and film personality, Raeesa Mahomed; The Sharks and SA Rugby player and firefighting hero, Zinhle Ndawonde and actress; and comedian, Lisa Bobbert.
This year’s race theme is a celebration of how women of our nation have all mastered their challenges in this day and age. Using the hashtag, #IRise, the 2022 SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge inspires all participants to become a part of a triumphant community that rises above their challenges, especially with this province's most recent trials and tribulations.
Lisa Bobbert
No stranger to the spotlight, multi-award-winning actress and comedian Lisa Bobbert has overcome many hurdles in both her personal and professional life. Most recently, rising above the CoViD challenge that crippled South Africa’s live performance industry, Bobbert and her husband, Aaron McIlroy took the forced time out to re-create and re-envision themselves with their successful social media channel Welcome2Durban, and streaming their shows on online platforms.
Raeesa Mahomed
Well-known life coach, radio, TV and film personality, Raeesa Mahomed claims her greatest life achievement is raising and empowering her two beautiful daughters. Having conquered breast cancer in 2013, she went on a journey of self-discovery which led her to being certified as a Master Life and Transformation Coach. She has helped dozens of people rise above their challenges, become the best version of themselves and create the life they want.
Precious Mthembu
KZN Netball’s darling, Precious Mthembu life started out in Botha’s Hill and reaching her dreams, her life with Netball has taken her far and wide. She has been honoured with the 2021 KZN Sport Personality of the Year award, she has 97 National Netball Caps, is currently the U21 Baby SPAR Proteas Assistant Coach and the U19 SA Netball Head Coach. Her current role is inspiring youngsters in the Danville Park Girls’ High School’s classrooms where she teaches isiZulu and guides future netball stars – a passion of hers.
Zinhle Ndawonde
Rising above the stereotyping of being a female rugby player in a rural community, Zinhle Ndawonde hasn’t let anything stop her from realising her dreams. While the passionate and determined young woman’s journey has not been easy, Ndawonde claims that rugby offered her so many life-changing opportunities along with a chance to see the world. The combination of her tremendously physical career and passion demand a clean and healthy lifestyle which she embraces.
Taking to the roads on race day, the four ambassadors will be encouraging all and sundry to join them. They will be rising early to take to some of Durban’s most scenic routes where they hope to meet and greet members of the public participating in this fantastic event.
“We are so honoured to have such incredible role models as our 2022 Ambassadors for our Virtual Challenge,” says Max Oliva, Managing Director of SPAR KZN. “The last two years have been incredibly challenging to our KwaZulu-Natal province, and everyone has been affected in some way by the upheavals we have experienced. To have positive voices who have risen above their own personal challenges, provides us with a vision and hope that we can all rise. We look forward to seeing our KZN SPAR Women’s Challenge family and friends – old and new taking part this year – and to the sense of community the race offers people across the country.”
To enter, visit www.sparvirtualchallenge.co.za. Entries cost R120 and include a t-shirt, medal, face buff, drawstring bag and a My Virtual Challenge magazine. There are options to have the packs sent via the delivery service Pargo or delivered to participating SPAR stores.
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CAPTION TO PHOTOS:
KZN Ambassadors _ Raeesa Mahomed, Zinhle Ndawonde, Lisa Bobbert and Precious Mthembu
I heart Market 4 June from 8:30am - 2pm Moses Mabhida Stadium Lawns
Durban: What’s hot this winter? June’s I heart Market offers market-goers a range of heart-warming bespoke and artisanal fare just in time for Durban’s legendary “slightly-cooler-than-summer” mid-winter!
Taking place this Saturday, 4 June from 08:30 to 2pm, on the Moses Mabhida Stadium Lawns the I heart Market, is not just a “pop-in and out” affair, it’s not only designed to make you want to take a leisurely stroll around the various stalls, make contact with the artists, crafters, and artisans who have created their wares with love and care, but to also relax in the sun and try out the delicious culinary fare on offer.
Wicked Waffles - simply delish!
Some highlights to warm the cockles of your heart include Wicked Waffles - authentic Belgian waffles that are cooked on-site on a gas-fired waffle machine. They are golden delicious outside and soft inside and topped with fresh cream or ice cream. This is a tasty toasty option to warm up your taste buds, before trying out other scrumptious eats.
Savage Jewellery - exquisite rings
Looking for gifts? Savage Jewellery is an iconic long-time ‘I heart” linked brand which offers tactile organic sterling silver rings that have been sand cast with beach sand. Using a unique technique to create this effect, these rings feel like ancient relics that have been discovered at the bottom of the ocean.
Knotagain Macrame - the Tree of Life
Then Macrame, which incidentally was a “thing” in the Victorian era, made hugely popular in the 1960’s and 70’s, has started its fourth come-back into fashion. And it’s a fascinating craft. Visit Knotagain Macrame to see their amazing Tree of Life wall hanging, which will be the talking-point at this month’s market. The craftsmanship gone into this phenomenal piece will leave you breathless. But if that’s too big for your home - not to worry there are plenty of simply gorgeous smaller pieces for sale too.
Abby River has a beautiful and simple winter collection of children’s clothes
While we are reminiscing - Abby River has a beautiful and simple winter collection, of “old-fashioned-inspired” cotton children’s clothes in natural palettes – a reminder of days gone by when life was, well simpler!
Of course, there is so much more from décor and furnishings, clothes, and accessories, to loads of delectable food to take home- preserves, condiments, pastries, bread, biltong. And bonus – you can catch up with friends and make new ones in the sociable dining area, where you can try out a big variety of healthy and interesting cuisine, made as always, with love.
The market on the lawns of the Moses Mabhida Stadium is open from 8:30am to 2pm. The entrance is free and dogs on leashes are welcome.
For enquiries about I heart Market email info@iheartmkt.com
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Sharlene Versfeld
Versfeld & Associates
Public Relations and Communications
Mobile: +27 (0) 83 326 3235
Email: sharlene@versfeld.co.za
Twitter: sharlvers
Website: www.versfeld.co.za
JOMBA! Masihambisane Dialogues #2 - free online Colloquium for dance-makers, dancers, researchers and academics
MEDIA RELEASE
JOMBA! Masihambisane Dialogues #2 - free online Colloquium for dance-makers, dancers, researchers and academics
The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Centre for Creative Arts, and the JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience presents their second annual edition of the JOMBA! MASIHAMBISANE DIALOGUES #2 a free three-day online dance colloquium on YouTube which runs from 25 to 27 May 2022.
Aiming to support the growth of scholarship and dialogue as it affects the evolving development of dance, physical performance and its relationship to history, memory and our current society, these 2022 dialogues take the theme of “Dancing Archives”.
“The purpose of these dialogues is to stimulate robust discussions and debates over ideas of how embodied dance archivists (artists, scholars and curators) can be agents of change in how they create and think about an archive,” explains Dr Lliane Loots, a lecturer at UKZN and the Chair of the Colloquium Steering Committee. “We want to look at how and what is remembered, and this specifically in decentring capitalist, heteronormative, able-bodied patriarchy within the frames of, amongst other ideas, decoloniality and postcoloniality.”
Keynote speakers include Nadine Mackenzie from Unmute Dance Company, and she is joined, over the three days of the colloquium, by artists like Gregory Maqoma, Sonia Radebe, David April and Vincent Mantsoe. Continental voices, specifically looking at the role of dance festivals in re-making African archives, include Quito Tembe (Mozambique) and Adedayo Liadi (Nigeria).
The dialogues also welcome a range of local and international young and established dance and performance scholars who will be sharing their works and ideas on this digital platform in carefully curated sessions. The final outcome of the dialogues will be an edited collection of papers (both written and digital) that will freely be available in the JOMBA! MASIHMABISANE archives to read and watch.
The international editorial and steering committee include Dr Mbongeni Mtshali (UCT), Prof Yvette Hutchison (University of Warwick, UK), Clare Craighead (DUT), Dr Sarahlegh Castelyn (University of East London, UK), Dr Lliane Loots (UKZN), Gift Marovatsanga (UniZul), David April (UP) and Thobile Maphanga (UKZN).
The JOMBA! MASIHAMBISANE 2022 DIALOGUES will be live-streamed on 25, 26 and 27 May to the JOMBA! YouTube Chanel and can be accessed free of charge: https://www.youtube.com/jomba_dance
There will also be a closed ZOOM IP for direct participants and for those who wish to apply to join and be present in the DIALOGUES room. To apply for direct access and to be present in the digital ‘room’ please contact Thobile Maphanga on thobimaphanga@gmail.com
Please also access the full three-day programme via: https://jomba.ukzn.ac.za/masihambisane-dialogues/
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Amal and George Clooney’s Foundation Honours Justice Albie Sachs
MEDIA RELEASE
Amal and George Clooney’s Foundation Honours Justice Albie Sachs for his courageous work fighting for Justice
The Clooney Foundation for Justice, founded by Amal and George Clooney, has announced its inaugural awards ceremony in line with the Foundation’s vision to highlight brave justice activism in a number of sectors across the globe.
Photo: Vanessa September,, Amal Clooney, Albie Sachs and George Clooney
The Albie Awards named in honour of Justice Albie Sachs who is revered for his heroic commitment to ending apartheid will take place in New York later this year.
Not only have CFJ named the awards after South Africa’s Justice Albie Sachs but they will also award him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in Pursuit of Justice on the evening .
Other recipients at the ‘Albie’ will be the Nobel prize-winning Filipino journalist Maria Ressa who will receive the Justice for Journalists Award; iACT a ground breaking international organization that works alongside survivors of genocide and other mass atrocities will receive the Justice for Survivors Award; Viasna, a human rights group that has been a voice of resistance in Belarus for nearly 30 years as it has led a brave campaign for freedom and democracy against President Lukashenko's regime, will receive The Justice for Democracy Defenders award; and Dr. Josephine Kulea, the Kenyan women's rights campaigner and founder of the Samburu Girls Foundation that helps to rescue girls from child marriage, female genital mutilation, and other harmful practices received the Justice for Women Award.
Albert ‘Albie’ Louis Sachs is a South African activist, lawyer, writer, and a former judge appointed by Nelson Mandela to serve on the first Constitutional Court of South Africa. After twice being detained in South Africa for his anti-apartheid activities, in 1966 he went into exile and was later the victim of a car bombing executed by the South African security services. He lost his right arm and vision in one eye. In 1990 Sachs returned to South Africa to help write the Constitution of South Africa and later served for fifteen years on the country’s Constitutional Court.
"I take huge pleasure in working with Amal and George Clooney, and getting to understand and appreciate their deep feeling for justice. I delight in their imaginative, creative ways of doing things and connecting with people,“ says Justice Albie Sachs. “I am a living survivor of a generation of South African lawyers like Griffiths Mxenge and Bram Fischer, who gave their lives for freedom and justice. I will be thinking of them when I receive this wonderful award alongside the other remarkable people and organisations.”
The Awards hosted by George and Amal Clooney and Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, will take place on 29 September at the New York Public Library, with so
me of the biggest names in international human rights, philanthropy, law, business, and entertainment in attendance and will include powerful stories of the Clooney Foundation for Justice’s work fighting for survivors of human rights abuses.
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Newsletter; https://cfj.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/May-12-2022-Newsletter.pdf
Video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=ktKBhfH9IfY
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
SPAR KZN Schoolgirls' Hockey Challenge - Durban Central Regional hosted by Durban Girls’ College: Sunday 15 May
SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
Durban Central Regional
Durban Girls’ College: Sunday 15 May
Tournament number nine gets underway at Durban Girls’ College on Sunday 15 May where teams from the Durban Central Regional will be eager to hit the turf at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge.
Six schools join hosts, Durban Girls’ College on their turf to play in a full round robin programme of 18 minute quick fire games. Raring to get the ball rolling alongside College are first teams from Durban Girls’ High School, Inanda Seminary School, INK, Port Natal Skool, Maris Stella and St Henry’s Marist College.
After the 21 scheduled games, the top two teams will meet each other in the deciding regional final. Following the pattern of previous tournaments, a win puts 4 points on the board for your team, a draw with goals 2 points, a goalless draw only 1 point and a loss zero points.
The only team in the history of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge with the proud statistics of a 100% record, winning all their regionals is Durban Girls’ College. College have been crowned regional champions since the tournament’s inception in 2011 and they will be keen to continue their domination at this competitive region.
At the conclusion of the ten KZN regionals, the top team representing their area heads to the Grand Finals that takes place at St Mary’s D.S.G. in Kloof in July. The winner of this region will join eight victorious teams that have already earned their spot, they are Pionier Hoërskool (Northern KZN Regional); St Anne’s College (PMB North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (PMB Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (DBN North Regional); St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); Kuswag Hoërskool (DBN South Regional); King Edward High School (Ugu and Sisonke Regional) and most recently crowned team Domino Servite from the uMvoti and oThukela Regional this weekend (7 May).
Following this tournament, the challenge heads to Grantleigh College in Richards Bay next Saturday 21 May for the conclusion of the 2022 SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge regionals.
If you are unable to support the tournament at the games, you can watch all the action on the SuperSport Schools mobile App or on their website.
For more info like the tournaments Facebook page or follow on Instagram.
ENDS
Domino Servite for Grand Finals of SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
uMvoti and oThukela Regional
Deutsche Schule Hermannsburg: Saturday 7 May
In a surprise upset, Domino Servite took the honours in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge’s uMvoti and oThukela Regional at Deutsche Schule Hermannsburg on Saturday 7 May.
They met one of the favourites in the regions’ final game, toppling Wartburg Kirchdorf School in an all-important critical penalty shoot-out. After 25 minutes of play the whistle blew with the score line level on one each.
Domino were awarded their first real threat in the game, a short corner midway through the final. The ball was pushed to the top of the circle, where the castle sent the ball towards the goals finding its way to the right where a tussle right on the post saw Wartburg’s goalkeeper Yoliswa Khenyisa keel over, hitting the upright and concussing herself.
Domino’s captain, Liezel Green managed to knock their goal in shortly after Wartburg’s keeper’s unfortunate injury. As the game drew to a close, Wartburg responded with a barrage of attacks, including four short corners. On their final set piece, they managed to equalise after the ball was pushed out to the top of the D, with Lise-Lea Engelbrecht trapping it cleanly, shifting the ball from her favoured right, side-stepping the first wave, and knocking in a reverse stick leveller.
Seconds later the final whistle blasted announcing the outcome of the game would head to the penalty spot. Wartburg’s Robyn Vorster took their first opportunity scoring with her attempt and putting her team 1 point ahead. For the next four rounds the score board remained on 2 – 1 to Wartburg.
Domino’s captain Green stepped up to the spot, and determinedly took the ball up, zig-zagging as she went. A firm standing Wartburg’s stand in keeper, Andile Dube was unable to keep up with the quick footed, Green’s attempt and watched amazed as the ball rolled over her line, again levelling the score.
The game’s conclusion then moved to sudden death with Wartburg setting off first. Their fourth penalty being mis-hit giving Domino the edge. Amy van Tonder from Domino eagerly stepped up and calmly made her way goalwards, pulling the ball right and determinedly knocking the ball across the line earning her team their third goal and the regional title for the first time.
Chatting after the final, Captain for Domino Liezel Green shared, “We came here a little bit unsure but were quite excited. We knew we were stronger than two teams but Wembely and Wartburg we were a bit unsure about. We were delighted to reach the final, but we were exhausted, so it was a game that we played a lot more defensively. We didn’t expect to win but we are very happy and delighted to make it through to the grand finals for the first time.”
Coach for Domino, Willen du Toit, “We enjoyed it. It was tough and draining and a rollercoaster day. We got to the final and scored and then right at the end they scored and we had to go to a shootout. It was fun and I am very happy for the team, they did well.”
Acknowledged for his efforts with the whistle, Gareth Larkan from host school Hermannsburg was named Umpire of the Day.
In their inaugural appearance, Domino Servite will represent the uMvoti and oThukela Region as the eighth team at the Grand Finals in July, They join Pionier Hoërskool (Northern KZN Regional); St Anne’s College (PMB North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (PMB Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (DBN North Regional); St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); Kuswag Hoërskool (DBN South Regional); and most recently King Edward High School (Ugu and Sisonke Regional).
Next week the action moves to Durban for the second last tournament for 2022, the Durban Central Regional at Durban Girls’ College, followed by the Northern KZN Coastal Regional at Grantleigh School in Richards Bay on Saturday 21 May.
Results
1 Domino Servite 2 Wartburg Kirchdorf School 3 Wembley College 4 Greytown High School 5 Deutsche Schule Hermannsburg
Game Scores
Wartburg 2 vs Wembley 0
Domino 1 vs Greytown 0
Hermannsburg 0 vs Wartburg 5
Greytown 0 vs Wembley 1
Hermannsburg 0 vs Domino 3
Wartburg 0 vs Greytown 0
Wembley 1 vs Domino 1
Greytown 2 vs Hermannsburg 0
Domino 0 vs Wartburg 0
Wembley 2 vs Hermannsburg 0
ENDS
I heart Market - For some Mothers’ Day Gift Shopping on 7 May
I heart Market - For some Mothers’ Day Shopping
7 May from 8:30am - 2pm
Moses Mabhida Stadium Lawns
(Free Entrance & Dogs allowed)
Durban: May’s I heart Market takes place this Saturday (7 May) and comes just in time, the day before Mothers’ Day, offering a perfect opportunity to get some last-minute gift shopping done. The market also looks forward to welcoming international and out-of-town visitors here for the Travel Indaba this week.
The I heart Market remains one of Durban’s top-quality artisanal, craft, and entrepreneurial markets with delicious foods, crafts, décor, and fashion- all made with love and care, and with heart-stopping attention to detail.
To treat mums with something truly bespoke for Mothers’ Day, browse around the many inspired stalls for gifts, and take a break to refresh at some of the decadently delightful food stalls, offering something for the whole family.
Need some ideas for Mothers’ Day? Some unusual ideas include Lulubee Skin Health, for example, which is a Botanique Massage Bar that keeps one’s skin soft and muscles relaxed, as it is infused with Cape Snowbush - a natural muscle relaxant – just what mum needs to unwind.
Lulubee Massage Bar
Then the aromatic Nude Home Fragrances made in Salt Rock with 100% soy wax for an eco-friendly burn has a Cabin Fever candle that is a real winter warmer with notes of cardamom, clove, sweet orange, and vanilla, it's like sipping a cup of chai next to a fireplace.
Nude home Fragrance
Riverlea Soap's Fizzy Cubes also offers mum a great way to relax. She can pop them in a warm bath and enjoy the sophisticated floral scent from this nourishing bath bomb.
Riverlea Soaps - Fizzy Cubes
But there is so much more. There are gorgeous designer and affordable silver jewellery, handbags, and purses in leather, and an array of South African inspired fabrics, clothing, accessories, and gorgeous items for the home too. Like Handpicked Baskets that have a contemporary take on the traditional Zulu designs that are made by a team of local women-led by uMam'Majozi in a rural village in KZN, using the local 'Incema' grass and dry palm leaves. These stylish African pieces are a fabulous addition to a lounge, for stacking firewood or a place to store extra winter blankies.
Handpicked Baskets
The market on the lawns of the Moses Mabhida Stadium is open from 8:30am to 2pm.
For enquiries about I heart Market please mail info@iheartmkt.com
Young Cape Town Filmmakers Bag 3 Awards at Silwerskermfees
Young Cape Town Filmmakers Bag 3 Awards at Silwerskermfees
Cape Town, SA. Director Jordy Sank, and producers Gabriella Blumberg and Samantha Pelteret bagged three awards for Best Short Film, Audience Choice and Best Script for their film Leemtes en Leegheid at the recent kykNET Silwerskerm Film Festival in Cape Town.
This honour follows hot on the heels of Sank and Blumberg’s debut award-winning feature I am Here, a documentary about one of the last living Holocaust survivors, which recently played in over 85 theatres across America and won Best South African Documentary at the Durban International Film Festival.
Leemtes en Leegheid is a poignant film about Magdaleen, a recluse in her 80s, who numbs the pain of losing her husband by envisioning him beside her. After being locked away with the memory of him in her apartment, she desperately attempts to venture into the outside world again and to the sea she so longs for.
Produced by Sanktuary Films, with a screenplay by Jordy Sank, and Terence Makapan, the film features veteran actors of stage and screen, Lida Botha, Johan Botha and Ivan Abrahams. Lida and Johan have been married for over 50 years and intimately portrayed their love on screen.
"We have seen how this story of grief and isolation has resonated so widely, and we hope it brings comfort and closure to those who watch it,” says producer Gabriella Blumberg. “We are honoured that the film has received such high recognition at Silwerskermfees and we hope it travels to audiences around the world."
"Within the past few years we have all experienced tremendous loss and loneliness in many shapes and forms, which is why we believe the story of "Leemtes en Leegheid" truly resonates with audiences,” says director Jordy Sank. “It is an intimate film that explores what happens when we have to learn to live without those we love so dearly. Winning the Audience Choice, Best Short Film and Best Script Awards at Silwerskermfees show how deeply the themes and characters within the film are able to penetrate the hearts of those who watch it."
The short film will be coming to Showmax soon.
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Kuswag wins Durban South Regional of SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
Durban South Regional
3 Schools Trust Astro: Sunday 10 April 2022
Kuswag Hoërskool took the top honours in the Durban South Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge on Sunday 10 April at the 3 Schools Trust Astro in Glenwood.
With under a minute on the clock Kuswag managed to find a hole in the sterling last line of Kingsway High School’s defence. After 24 minutes, both teams managed to get some game-time in each other’s circle, with Kuswag’s aim being more on target. Captain for Kingsway, Aphiwe Masuku had some work to do as she whizzed around magically keeping Kuswag’s attempts away. She kept the ball out as Kuswag pelted her with several attempts but she was unable to keep an unmarked Silke Bester’s sneaky shot from slightly right of the top of the D, rolling across the goal line with only 56 seconds left of play.
Kuswag had more possession during the regional final and looked more threatening taking the game up with several well-crafted surges. Captain Anandi Strydom was the first Kuswag player to take aim at Kingsway’s goals, as she fired in a reverse stick shot midway through the final, with Bester directly following up with a missile fired from the top of the D. With 6 minutes and 23 seconds remaining, Kuswag secured the first and only short corner of the game, but Kingsway’s backline managed to stand strong and keep their neighbours at bay.
Strydom was again in the action, with yet another go for goals as she weaved and spun along the circle, spinning around and fired off her shot that was met by the ever present Masuku. Nearing a minute remaining, Strydom again had some space on the circle and tried to find a gap with yet another shot that was defended. The ball popped out to the right where a waiting Bester pounced on the ball and fired off the regional winning goal.
Both teams were completely level as they advanced through the day and ended with three wins and a draw against each other in the round robin.
Eleven games were played in wet weather, with the girls all relishing the cooler conditions.
Captain for the winning team. Anandi Strydom said after the game, “It was an amazing experience playing in the rain. I think all the schools that were here, and gave us the opportunity to come play were fantastic and well done to Kingsway for hosting a wonderful day.”
Continuing, she said, “Playing against Kingsway at the end was brilliant, we couldn’t have asked for a better team to play against. Silke scored right at the end. It was really tough; we were so evenly matched the entire final. It was literally 50 / 50 the whole time making for a great game.”
When the two medaling teams met in the round robin game earlier in the day, a composed Kingsway backline kept Kuswag’s attempts from amounting to anything, with three spectacular saves from Masuku in the goals keeping the scoreline level to a goalless draw.
Recognised for his efforts, Nick Vinek from Amanzimtoti High School was awarded the Umpire of the Day.
Kuswag join five teams who have already secured their spot for the Grand Finals, the other finalists are Pionier Hoërskool (Northern KZN Regional); St Anne’s College (PMB North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (PMB Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (DBN North Regional) and St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional).
The next tournament heads inland to Matatiele to King Edward High School for the Sisonke and Ugu Regional on 23 April.
For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page or follow on Instagram. All games will be livestreamed on the SuperSport Schools website or app.
Results
1 Kuswag Hoërskool 2 Kingsway High School 3 Werda School 5 Points 4 New Forest High School 2 Points 5 Amanzimtoti High School 1 Point
Game Scores
Werda 0 vs New Forest 0
Kuswag 5 vs Toti 0
Kingsway 2 vs Werda 0
Kuswag 1 vs New Forest 0
Kingsway 2 vs Toti 0
Kuswag 2 vs Werda 0
Amanzimtoti 0 vs New Forest 0
Kingsway 0 vs Kuswag 0
Werda 1 vs Toti 0
Kingsway 2 vs New Forest 0
Final Kuswag 1 vs Kingsway 0
April is World Autism Month - action in Autism Activities
Action in Autism is hosting a number of open events in recognition of World Autism Month in April.
On 9 April from 9am to 2pm Action in Autism invites people to pledge to be non-speaking and participate in a sensory heaven experience at The Action in Autism Centre, 105 Haig Road, Parkhill.
On 21 April at 9am there is a march for the right to basic education for the many out of school autistic learners, starting at The Durban City Hall and proceeding to The Department of Education and Culture, Truro House
On 22 April join in the Action in Autism/UKZN webinar on the Challenges faced by the Autistic Community at 2pm – 4.30pm. Zoom link to be shared.
The month of April, World Autism Month, can be a difficult time for autistic people and those who support them. Typical people highlight the condition through out-moded symbols such as puzzle pieces and the colour blue and parents speak about how exhausting it is to raise an autistic child and this can be very triggering for the autistic community who would simply like to be accepted, supported, and included in society.
Over 50 % of autistic people are non-speaking or partially speaking and, like all of us, autistic people long for agency and control over their lives. Action in Autism, a non-profit organisation that strives to improve services and resources for autistic people and their supporters, is using the month of April to focus on highlighting and advocating for the rights of autistic people to education and basic services. The organisation’s annual Pledge to be Non-speaking event, to be held at the Action in Autism Centre on Saturday 9 April from 10am to 2pm, will include a sensory heaven experience tailored by and specifically for autistic people. Those attending will be encouraged to use only alternative means of communication – signs, gestures, pointing, tapping or drawing – for the duration of the event. A foam pit, ball pond, lycra swing, trampolines and other sensory input will be available for our community. There is no prescribed fee, but a donation of R50 per family would be highly appreciated. Action in Autism does not receive funding from government and relies on donations and support from the community for the running of their services.
Inspired and encouraged by the many parents on the organisation’s Whatsapp support group who are struggling to find appropriate quality education services for their children, the organisation will hold a march on Thursday 21 April in Durban central to highlight the dire need for more schooling facilities to accommodate the many autistic children in the province who are currently out of school. The march starts at the City Hall complex and proceeds to The Department of Education and Culture, Truro House where a petition will be handed over to management. The following day, Friday 22 April, Action in Autism in partnership with the University of KwaZulu Natal will host a webinar on Autism and the dire needs of the Autistic Community and to discuss the many challenges and stereotypes that autistic people still face. Throughout April, the voices of autistic people will be most prominent through the organisation’s social media platforms in the form of videos and other postings by autistic people in order that society gains further insight into understanding and accepting this marginalised and much maligned community.
The central focus of Action in Autism is to improve the quality of life for autistic people and those who support them. The organisation builds partnerships between autistic people and the community through the provision of information, services, learning and research. The organisation’s flagship programmes are its Early Learning Intervention Centre and Walk-in Resource Centre, the Shahumna Centre, a Skills Transfer and Business Hub for autistics, and a new Assessment and Therapy Wing. Join the autistic community at the Action in Autism Centre on 9 April, engage in alternative forms of communication, enjoy the sensory heaven experience, and march with them for the right to educational services on 21 April and join the webinar on 22 April.
If you would like to support Action in Autism through donations in cash or kind or through volunteering, or for more information about these events, please call 031 563 3039, or email info@actioninautism.org.za.
Green Corridors Receives Award from Plastics SA
Durban-based NPO Green Corridors, which cares for green spaces around the City, this week was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by Plastics SA for its commitment and dedication to helping restore rivers and for protecting our waterways and natural environment.
Tri-ecotours founder and Green Corridors’ Litterboom Coordinator, Siphiwe Rakgabale (left photo) and Green Corridors’ Coastal and Waste Management Projects Officer Musawenkosi Shange (right photo) receive the Caroline Reid Award from Plastics SA’s Director of Sustainability Douw Steyn, on behalf of Green Corridors for its commitment and dedication to helping restore rivers and for protecting our waterways and natural environment.
The Caroline Reid Award was presented to Green Corridors’ Coastal and Waste Management Projects Officer Musawenkosi Shange, who works with the NPO’s Green Spaces programme, and Tri-ecotours founder and Green Corridors’ Litterboom Coordinator, Siphiwe Rakgabale.
Caroline Reid was an ocean conservation warrior who coordinated hundreds of beach and diving clean-ups, was central in the work done with the loss of plastic pellets (nurdles) in the Durban Harbour in 2017 and with her networking skills, increased the awareness of plastic pollution on the KwaZulu-Natal Coastline.
Green Corridors has a vision to provide solutions and support for cleaning of natural environments, ensuring waste is recycled, repurposed, or removed, and that communities within these areas are significantly involved.
“We would like to thank Plastics SA for this recognition as we continue to carry on the legacy of Caroline Reid,” says Musawenkosi Shange. “The work we do is very much in collaboration with a number of partner organisations and stakeholders including Adopt-a-River, WESSA, and Umgeni Estuary Conservancy, DUCT’s Amanzi Eyethu Nobuntu programme, the eThekwini Municipality’s Solid Waste and Parks Department, with support from sponsors such as SAPRIPOL and PETCO.”
“We hope that the work we do in restoring and cleaning riverways helps to create improved natural spaces for people to connect with nature, and the planet and improve their quality of life,” says Siphiwe Rakgabale.
For more information about Green Corridors visit https://durbangreencorridor.co.za
For more information about Plastics SA visit https://www.plasticsinfo.co.za/
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CAPTION TO COVER PIC by VAL ADAMSON
Siphiwe Rakgabale (litter-boom and clean up co-ordinator Green Corridors) (left) and Musawenkosi Shange (Green Corridors’ Coastal and Waste Management Projects Officer) (right) pictured here with Green Corridors' partners Margaret Burger (WESSA and Umgeni Estuary Conservancy) and Teboho Kikine (Adopt-a-River). They received the Caroline Reid Award from Plastics SA’s Director of Sustainability Douw Steyn, on behalf of Green Corridors for its commitment and dedication to helping restore rivers and for protecting our waterways and natural environment.
Fun Holiday Ideas for the family with Green Corridors in Durban and Surrounds
Holidays are upon us, and Green Corridors tourism sites offer a wonderful array of outdoor activities for the whole family, and only a short distance from Durban’s CBD – self-drive or fully-guided.
eNanda Adventure Park on the exquisite Inanda Dam has picnic sites and an awesome pump bike track for the adventurous. Guided mountain biking, birding excursions, hiking trails, and canoeing are on offer.
South of Durban is the beautiful Mnini Dam set in the heart of the picturesque uMgababa area offering two superb sites for picnics, canoeing, fishing (large-mouth bass, tilapia), and some spectacular birding, hiking, and MTB trails. Two offerings are found here: Thulas’ Adventures, with a special holiday event in the form of a pop-up camp taking place on 26 March for Earth Hour with a night walk; and the Mnini Dam Tourist Resort.
Hiking with Thula’s Adventures
Picnic site at Mnini Dam
The Mqeku picnic site in the exquisite Valley of 1000 Hills has a unique ‘bum-slide’ on its river, a sparkling clean tributary into the Umgeni. This crazy, fun slide ends in a serenely calm pool, where you can simply float on a tube. Walks, hikes, and birding are on offer here.
Tubing at Mqeku Picnic Site
Also in the Valley of 1000 Hills is Isithumba with hiking, MTB, and cultural tours; while Lower Molweni is a hikers, birders, and nature-lovers paradise with a network of community-developed nature trails that lead hikers through the spectacular rugged cliffs and forests of the area, just on the outskirts of the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve.
Hiking around Isithumba
Hiking around Molweni
Near the Blue Lagoon in Durban is the GreenHub with some amazing eco-tourism activities including birding, hiking, canoeing, and a visit to the fascinating Ezemvelo Beachwood Mangroves (on selected days).
Pop up Camp at Mqeku Picnic Site
Green Corridors sites and tourism experiences are so easily accessible, although guided tours can enhance one’s experience. Shuttle tours are offered to many of these sites in an aircon mini-bus and qualified guides. Most sites also offer some form of accommodation or spend a night or the entire weekend with one of Green Corridors fully-catered and arranged Pop Up Camps.
All sites have a nominal entrance fee - camping and activity fees vary from site to site, helping to drive the local tourism economy in these areas.
Bookings are essential and can easily be made on +27 (31) 322 6026 or email frontdesk@greencorridors.africa
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St Mary's DSG take the honours in Highway Regional
SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
Highway Regional
Westville Girls’ High School: Sunday 13 March
St Mary’s DSG continued their domination of the Highway Regional at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge with a determined performance ensuring their tenth title.
They squared off against a hard-working team from Thomas More College in the regional final at Westville Girls’ High School on Sunday 13 March. From the first whistle, Saints pushed the game up to the Thomas More circle with the first threat coming just seconds into the game. The defending champion’s intentions were obvious as they continued the pressure but Thomas More’s keeper Tiaasha Naicker and her defenders braved the various wave of attacks.
Saints opened up their account with their first goal being scored midway through the first half. Captain for St Mary’s DSG, Amy van Rooyen shared, “The first goal was quite an early one. I received the ball from one of my mids, and then plugged it straight in to the D and Anna Birt touched it. It was quite a lucky touch, but she got it in. It was quite nerve-wracking because I had to go and review it with the umpires. But it was awarded.”
Nearing the end of the first half, Saints perseverance paid off. Play moved down from the right, shuffled along the baseline and into the centre. The umpire blew up a foul and Thomas More quickly tried to get the play away from their danger zone. Intercepting the clearance, Saints caught Thomas More defence on the back foot with a blitz into the circle, and the daring Elizabeth Anderson firing off a rocket from two paces into the D.
Talking about the day, van Rooyen continued, “We were so excited going into the tournament. We started off quite shakily with drawing zero zero against Curro but we just got better and better and it was such a great day.”
Heading into the final, van Rooyen said she felt really nervous, “I trusted my team mates. We kept moving the ball, which was our aim and doing this we knew the goals would come as the space was very limited in the D.”
After three quarters of game time, Thomas More were given some space to play, taking their opportunity up to the Saints circle. In a good passage of play, Thomas More kept the ball up in the Saints 22, camping there for nearly 3 minutes but were just unable to capitalise on their good fortune.
Talking of this pressure, van Rooyen said, “I was worried, especially going back and forth setting up for the 5 meters but I kept talking to my team and we kept encouraging each saying defend, defend, defend. It really did help us that we were 2 nil up which made us feel a lot more confident, and with all the numbers dropping back to defend.”
The final score was 2 nil in favour of St Mary’s DSG. They are the fifth team to secure a spot at the Grand Finals which takes place on their home turf in July. They are joined by Our Lady of Fatima after yesterday’s Durban North Regional, Newcomer Pionier Hoërskool was the first team through, followed by St Anne’s College (PMB North Regional) and St John’s D.S.G. (PMB Central Regional).
Umpire of the Day went to St Mary’s DSG’s Letho Mngadi.
For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page or follow on Instagram. All games are livestreamed by SuperSport Schools
Overall results:
1 St Mary’s 21 points, 2 Thomas More College 16 points, 3 Westville Girls’ High School 14 points, 4 Curro Hillcrest 8 points, 5 Kloof High School 7 points, 6 Hillcrest High School 6 points, 7 Gelofte School 0 points
ENDS
Westville Girls to host Highway Regional of SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
Highway Regional
Westville Girls’ High School: Sunday 13 March
Nearing midway in the 2020 SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge, the fifth tournament takes place at Westville Girls’ High School where first teams will meet for the Highway Regional on Sunday 13 March.
Joining host school, Westville are Curro Hillcrest, Gelofte High School, Hillcrest High School, Kloof High School, St Mary’s DSG Kloof and Thomas More College.
The seven teams will have 18 minutes of turf time to create some magic on the field. The programme for the day has Westville meeting Thomas More in the first game at 8am. The format for the day is a round robin, where a win earns the team 4 points, a draw with goals 2 points, a goalless draw 1 point and zero points for a loss.
In the event of teams being equal on points at the end of the round robin, the positions will be determined by goal difference or goals for or goals against and should there still be a tie, then a penalty shootout will take place between three players from those teams. After the round robin, the top two teams with the highest scores will play in the final to determine first and second place. Should the game end in a draw, the final heads to the penalty shootout for the regional decider.
Over the years, St Mary’s DSG have dominated this regional with appearances in all but one Grand Final. In 2014, a courageous team from Westville Girls managed to topple Saints in the regional and make their first appearance at the Grand Finals. After 22 games in this round robin, the 2022 winner will be revealed.
The Grand Finals features each of the ten regional winners over two days of action-packed hockey. The victorious team from the Highway Regional will join teams already through to the Grand Finals that takes place at St Mary’s DSG in Kloof in July. Teams that have secured their berth at the finals are newcomer Pionier Hoërskool (Northern KZN Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (PMB Central Regional) and St Anne’s (PMB North Regional). The fourth tournament, the DBN North Regional, takes place the day before the Highway Regional.
For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page or follow on Instagram. All of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge tournaments will be live streamed by Supersport Schools on their app or website.
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St John's D.S.G. win PMB Centrals of SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge
PMB Central Regional
St John’s D.S.G. : Sunday 6 March
A golden performance by host school St John’s D.S.G. saw them claim victory in the PMB Central Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge on Sunday 6 March on their home turf.
After an intense regional final against defending champs, Epworth School, the yellow sticks managed to win 2-1 after 30 minutes of fantastic flowing hockey. St John’s showed their intentions when they knocked in their first goal after 180 seconds of game time. The first goal coming off a set piece in their first short corner. The ball flying in from a fiery flick but being bravely stopped by the Epworth keeper Lauren Roseveare. The ball falling favourably for St John’s Amy-Rene Jacobs who slapped it in.
Ninety seconds later, Epworth replied sending up a long ball through the middle of the field. The pass finding an unmarked Rebecca Cook who determinedly ran the ball up into the St John’s circle, and just continued while a surprised St John’s defender and an unsure keeper, both didn’t react in time as Epworth’s Cook literally ran the ball into the goal, squeezing it in between the right post and keeper.
The game intensified in the middle section, with loads of turn overs as passes didn’t find their players. Each team trying to find holes in their oppositions defence. With 5 minutes remaining, St John’s Captain, Olivia MacDonald was able to pounce on open space when she started play after being fouled. Epworth were on the back foot as she quickly took the ball up into the circle, moved it to her left and fired off a reverse stick rocket. The score line edged up to 2-1.
With three minutes left to play, Epworth earned their second short corner of the game. The home team’s defence stood strong, not allowing the visitors low flying flick to find the back of the net and surviving yet another well-co-ordinated Epworth attack.
St John’s shone brightly after a solid display throughout the day winning all the round robin games. They earned their second regional title after first winning the PMB Central Regional in 2017. The Most Promising Umpire Award went to Maritzburg Christian School’s Manqoba Mkhize.
St John’s D.S.G. from the PMB Central Regional is the third team to cement their spot at the Grand Finals. They join Pionier Hoërskool (Northern KZN Regional) and St Anne’s College (PMB North Regional). The Grand Finals takes place in July at St Mary’s DSG in Kloof.
For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page or follow on Instagram. All the games will be livestreamed by SuperSport Schools.
Overall results
1 St John’s 16 points 2 Epworth School 12 points 3 PMB Girls’ High 8 points 4= Carter High School 1 point; 4= Maritzburg College 1 point
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