Zolani Mahola to open Africa's greatest horse racing event
The countdown has begun, the excitement is palpable, and the spotlight is set to shine on one of South Africa's most celebrated voices. The 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, known as Africa's greatest horse racing event, will have Zolani Mahola, also known on stage as The One Who Sings, performing the national anthem. She will be part of a day that promises to have its signature blend of thrilling horse racing, high fashion, and electrifying entertainment.
Zolani Mahola, a marvel of Mzansi
The name 'The One Who Sings' reflects Zolani's transformation from a member of the celebrated band Freshly Ground to a solo artist, as well as her ongoing commitment to social change and her powerful voice that resonates with South Africans across generations. Having spent over two decades capturing the spirit of the nation, her solo journey continues to inspire, uplift and connect people through her music.
This performance is set to be one of the defining moments of the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, aligning perfectly with the event's theme of 'Marvels of Mzansi'. Zolani will honour South Africa's rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance in front of a live audience, providing a truly soulful and unifying experience.
Commitment to South African artists
'As part of our commitment to uplifting the local creative industry, the Hollywoodbets Durban July proudly supports homegrown artists who have shaped South African music over the decades,' says Devin Heffer, Brand and Communications Manager at Hollywoodbets. 'The event not only celebrates these artists on its grand stage but also plays a crucial role in sustaining their careers and amplifying the work they continue to do in their communities,' Heffer adds.
Hollywoodbets, a proudly South African company, has long been a supporter of artists who represent the heart and soul of the country's musical landscape. With a thrilling entertainment line-up to be revealed on Friday, 16 May attendees can expect some of the biggest names in South African music, all performing in one place. All this will be available to ticket holders for just one price, making the Hollywoodbets Durban July an unmissable event for lovers of sport, fashion and music.
With Zolani opening the show, this year's event is set to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Tickets for the event are available from Ticketpro and Payzone Kiosks at SPAR stores nationwide.
NOW READ: It's official: Hollywood rescues KZN racing
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The South African
7 hours ago
- The South African
The Rock pays emotional tribute to Hulk Hogan
Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson has paid a heartfelt tribute to wrestling legend Hulk Hogan following his death from cardiac arrest at the age of 71. Johnson, who grew up idolising Hogan, shared emotional memories of their first meeting in 1984. 12-year-old Johnson caught Hogan's famous 'Hulkster' headband at Madison Square Garden. The Rock returned the headband backstage, an act that left Hogan 'shocked and so happy' because it was his last one of its kind. Hogan promised to make more and later gave Johnson his headband, a gesture Johnson said 'meant the world to that little 12-year-old boy'. Seventeen years later, Johnson faced Hogan in the iconic WrestleMania X8 main event in 2002, a match still celebrated among wrestling fans worldwide, according to Entertainment Tonight. Johnson described the experience as unparalleled in his career. 'I've never felt anything like that in my entire wrestling career,' he said. The match electrified the Toronto stadium crowd. Hogan and The Rock delivered an unforgettable performance that showcased their mutual respect and skill. Johnson called Hogan 'the greatest of all time' and expressed gratitude for the torch Hogan passed to him. 'From deep in my bones, and on behalf of this wild and crazy world of professional wrestling that we love… thank you for the house, brother'. Hulk Hogan's impact was monumental. He helped elevate professional wrestling to global prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. He attracted huge audiences and inspired generations of wrestlers. This included Johnson, whose own wrestling persona 'The Rock' has become a global icon. Hogan's passing has been mourned by fans and fellow wrestlers alike, including in South Africa, where wrestling enjoys a vibrant and passionate following. His charisma and showmanship continue to resonate with fans who grew up watching the spectacle of wrestling on television. The Rock's journey from a star-struck boy in New York to a Hollywood megastar and WWE legend illustrates Hogan's lasting legacy across continents. As Johnson said in his tribute: 'To millions of little kids, you were a childhood hero, myself included'. Hulk Hogan's legacy will live on. His matches, larger-than-life persona, and kindness to young fans like Johnson endure. Hogan's legacy, celebrated through Johnson's words and their historic match, continues to echo globally. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
8 hours ago
- The Citizen
Fujifilm's GFX Challenge open to South African creators
The program is a global initiative designed to support and nurture aspiring creatives in bringing their imaging projects to life. Fujifilm has announced the launch of the GFX Challenge Grant Program 2025, with applications now open to creatives worldwide, including South Africa. The program is a global initiative designed to support and nurture aspiring creatives in bringing their imaging projects to life. South Africans have been encouraged to apply, following the success of Cape Town-based Jodi Windvogel, a Global Grant recipient of the challenge in 2023. Prize Creatives have the chance to receive a US$10 000 Global Grant Award or a US$5 000 Regional Grant Award, helping to transform their creative ideas into reality. Winners also receive access to a Fujifilm GFX System camera body and two GF lenses for the duration of their project, as well as mentoring and technical assistance from Fujifilm technicians and product experts. In total, there are five Global Grant Awards available, with 10 Regional Grant Awards in place. ALSO READ: Fujifilm launches X Half camera to make photography fun again Amateur and professional The GFX Challenge Grant Program 2025 is open to amateur and professional photographers and videographers who are residents of South Africa, with the submission period closing on 31 August 2025. The award recipients will be announced in January 2026, with the final projects to be exhibited in various countries as well as on the website. What to shoot? Windvogel was announced as a Global Grant recipient for her project 'The Body at Risk'. The project was a harrowing look at the landscapes in South Africa where incidents of gender-based violence took place. 'Start with a strong concept that is close to your heart – one that is well-researched, timely and meaningful. Ask yourself: why this story, why now and why you? Let your proposal reflect your commitment and the urgency of the narrative,' Windvogel said. 'The panel is not just looking for beautiful images; they're looking for work that moves, educates and sparks dialogue. Be honest, passionate and prepared to immerse yourself in the process.' Photographers and videographers looking to enter the GFX Challenge Grant Program 2025 are able to do so until 31 August 2025. NOW READ: Huawei unveils Pura 80 series smartphones with innovative camera system [VIDEO]
The South African
9 hours ago
- The South African
Vanessa Hudgens announces second pregnancy with post
Fans of Vanessa Hudgens have plenty to smile about, as the actress and singer recently shared a glimpse of her growing family. Pregnant with her second child, Vanessa celebrated with a sunny vacation in Mexico alongside husband Cole Tucker. The couple looked radiant during their stay at the luxurious Nobu Residences in Cabo San Lucas. Vanessa, 35, confidently displayed her baby bump in a brown bikini top paired with a straw cowboy hat. She smiled widely, capturing the joy of her journey into motherhood again. Vanessa posted several photos on Instagram, writing: 'Happy girl made it to @nobuloscabos.' In the snaps, she also sported black exercise gear, embracing both comfort and style. Fans loved seeing her glowing pregnancy in such a relaxed, summery setting, according to Page Six. Cole Tucker, a 29-year-old Major League Baseball star, was equally radiant as he shared the moment with his wife. They were both dressed in white for a sweet announcement shot. In one photo, he pointed fondly at Vanessa's bump, beaming with pride. The couple captioned the post, 'Round two!!!!' For fans who follow celebrity families, this happy news adds to the excitement of new parenthood stories in 2025. Vanessa and Cole welcomed their first child in July 2024, making this second pregnancy feel like a fresh chapter in their young family. The couple's Mexican holiday included close friends Alexander Ludwig and his wife, Lauren. The foursome soaked up the sun and luxury at Nobu, enjoying frozen virgin daiquiris and high-end hydration options. Vanessa also indulged in a day at the Essencia Spa and savoured a seven-course meal at Muna's rooftop restaurant. Asked about how she feels being a mum again, Vanessa shared: 'Every moment with my little ones is a blessing, and I'm so excited to watch our family grow.' Cole chimed in: 'We couldn't be happier. This journey is incredible, and Vanessa is glowing.' Known to South African fans from hits like High School Musical , Vanessa has kept a close connection with followers through her Instagram. The couple first met in a Zoom meditation group in November 2020, a reminder that love stories can begin in the most unexpected places. Their joyous announcement comes just weeks after Vanessa publicly revealed her pregnancy on 12 July. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
