Latest news with #Jozi
News24
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- News24
5 minutes with broadcaster Paulette Neo – ‘Dreams delayed are not dreams denied'
Paulette Neo has carved her own lane in the harsh world of media, and unapologetically so. The 30-year-old multifaceted broadcaster and fitness fanatic lights up South Africa's screens daily and takes on news and sports anchoring on S3. Her latest 'breakthrough', she tells TRUELOVE, is taking over traffic reporting from famed on-air voice Rob Byrne on Metro FM. 'It's lovely working with the teams at Metro. Everyone is incredible at the station. A dream,' she shares. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paulette Neo (@paulette_neo) Paulette's career journey spans across industries. As a former beauty pageant queen, Paulette holds titles like Miss Jozi 2016 and Miss Mamelodi Sundowns North West 2018, teaching her one or two things about grace and confidence. From pageantry and modelling to acting in shows like Unmarried and uBettina Wethu, the Wits University alumnus' first love remains with media and reporting. On what sparked her passion for media, Paulette says, 'Getting into the news and reporting was inspired by how I saw the Fees Must Fall movement being reported, propaganda and censorship therefore. So, from graduating, I knew I wanted to be in the space. 'It was matter of opportunity and time. Pageantry helped with my confidence and teaching me a few things.' The media industry is an unpredictable business, where trends come in and out of style and scrutiny comes with the job. 'I've learnt to roll with the punches,' Paulette explains as she shares some of the lessons she's learnt rising in the industry. 'Dreams delayed aren't denied. It can take literally one phone call, email or message for your life to change. Time out is important. To refuel, be centred and surrounded by love and authenticity.' In the next five years of her career, Paulette hopes to be 'established, learned and a household name in the space,' a path she is well on her way on. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paulette Neo (@paulette_neo)
The Citizen
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Gold and Glamour: Masango by Siphosihle Dazzles at the Hollywoodbets Durban July
This year's Durban July theme celebrates local creativity, heritage, and bold self-expression. Mihlale Ndamase, Cyan Boujee and Gogo Skhotheni at the Durban July. Pictures: Supplied The Hollywoodbets Durban July is in full swing at the iconic Greyville Racecourse, transforming the coastal city into a runway of high fashion, culture, and South African excellence. This year's theme, Marvels of Mzansi, is more than just a nod to beauty – it's a celebration of local creativity, heritage, and bold self-expression. From classic couture to proudly traditional garments, designers have interpreted the theme with flair, and one name stands tall in the glittering crowd: Siphosihle Masango. ALSO READ: PICS: What Mihlali, Gogo Skhotheni and Tbo Touch will be wearing at Durban July today! A Fashionable force from the City of Gold Hailing from Gauteng, Masango is proving once again why his brand, Masango by Siphosihle, is one of the most sought-after fashion houses in the country. Known for his detailed tailoring and artistic storytelling through fabric, Siphosihle brought a touch of Jozi glam to Durban, dressing some of the country's most talked-about personalities for this year's event. Masango's designs are being worn today by some of the biggest names in local pop culture—Cyan Boujee, Mihlali Ndamase, and celebrity stylist Phupho Gumede—each representing Joburg's glitz, grit, and cultural fusion. Social media sensation and beauty influencer Cyan Boujee stunned in a structural gold corseted gown with sweeping metallic draping, exuding the kind of boldness only Masango could deliver. 'This is my superhero moment,' Cyan posted on her Instagram, referring to the Marvels of Mzansi theme while posing against the Durban skyline. Mihlali Ndamase, no stranger to red carpets, took a more subtle yet equally powerful approach. She wore a regal black velvet number embellished with hand-beaded Ndebele motifs across the bust and sleeves. The look nodded to cultural royalty while keeping with Masango's signature luxury. Stylist Phupho Gumede—who has been making waves not only for his own style but also for that of his celebrity clients—showed up in a sharp, gender-fluid emerald green suit featuring layered fabrics and dramatic shoulder detailing. It was a standout moment that merged fashion-forward thinking with African identity. ALSO READ: Marvels of Mzansi: What to wear to the Durban July 2025 Design with a Purpose Masango doesn't just design clothes—he tells stories. 'My pieces are about where we come from, but also where we're going. Marvels of Mzansi isn't just about land or architecture, it's about people—people who shine despite the odds,' he said in a quick interview at one of the marquees. What sets Masango apart is his ability to merge structure with soul, and this year's Durban July collection was no exception. Every stitch and silhouette spoke to South Africa's resilience, vibrancy, and ever-evolving fashion scene. NOW READ: Here's to a Royal Victory at Durban July
Mail & Guardian
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Mail & Guardian
Diary: Comedy Jam at The Houghton Hotel in August, Vuma Levin returns with new album Allegories, Black Coffee at Hey Neighbour
Jozi jokes: Comedy Jam will be on at the Houghton Hotel on Friday 2 August. Comedy Jam – one night, five legends Johannesburg, South Africa — get ready for an explosive night of laughter as Comedy Jam hits the stage at The Houghton Hotel on Friday, 2 August. This one-night-only event assembles five titans of South African stand-up: Schalk Bezuidenhout, David Kau, Alan Committie, Mark Banks and Chris Forrest. From Bezuidenhout's quirky charm to Kau's fearless satire, Committie's theatrical brilliance, Banks' political punchlines and Forrest's deadpan gold — it's a comedy lover's dream. Set in the heart of Jozi, Comedy Jam is a celebration of the city's legacy as the home of boundary-breaking humour. Expect world-class stand-up, a full bar and food service and convenient underground parking — all in the luxurious surroundings of The Houghton. Seating is limited, so grab your tickets at Must-see moment in modern jazz with Vuma Levin Award-winning South African jazz guitarist Vuma Levin returns with Allegories, a genre-defying new album launching on 11 July. Developed through a Confluences Grant from ProHelvetia, and recorded in Switzerland's legendary Studio Flon, the project is a collaboration between Levin and top European musicians under the Swiss–South African ensemble In Motion. To launch the album, Levin is on a tour of Makhanda, Johannesburg and Cape Town this month, joined by renowned percussionist Gontse Makhene. Tickets are available from Webtickets, Fixr and Quicket. Black Coffee to perform at Pretoria music festival Caffeine rush: Black Coffee will be the main attraction on day two of the Hey Neighbour event. Get ready, neighbours — the next wave of the Hey Neighbour 2025 line-up has officially landed, and it's bringing serious heat, soul and unstoppable energy. Headlining this electric drop is global house music icon Black Coffee, returning to home soil with surprise guests in tow. From Ibiza to Coachella, he's set stages ablaze across the world and now he's coming to remind us why SA leads the global soundscape. Backing him up is a stacked day-two local lineup that hits all the right notes: Elaine's smooth R&B, Muzi's futuristic Zulu bounce, Khuli Chana's unmatched Motswako fire and Sun-EL Musician's transcendent Afro-electronic vibes. Add in deep house pioneers, amapiano angels and genre-pushing DJs, and you've got a soundtrack built for unforgettable memories. Happening 30 and 31 August at Legends Adventure Farm, Pretoria, this is more than a music festival — it's a movement.
Time Out
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Cape Town shines as global diversity hotspot
South Africans have long known that our cities are cultural crossroads - a mix of traditions, identities, languages and lived experiences that shape everything from our food to our festivals. Now, the world agrees. In Time Out's annual global city survey of over 18,000 people across 50 cities, Cape Town and Johannesburg have been jointly ranked ninth on the list of the world's most diverse and inclusive cities, according to locals. The list, topped by London, celebrates cities where people feel welcomed, represented and free to be themselves - and we're proud to be a beacon of belonging in the Global South. These are the most diverse and inclusive cities in the world London, UK Melbourne, Australia Brighton, UK = New York, USA Los Angeles, USA Chicago, USA Madrid, Spain Barcelona, Spain Bangkok, Thailand Johannesburg, South Africa= Cape Town, South Africa Montreal, Canada= Medellin, Colombia= Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia= San Francisco, USA What Makes Cape Town a Standout? Cape Town's inclusion on the list is a testament to its layered identity - beautiful and complex, shaped by centuries of cultural collision, resistance and reinvention. Here are three ways the Mother City is embodying a more inclusive spirit: 1. A Living Archive of Resistance and Representation From Robben Island to District Six, Cape Town's historical landmarks are not just tourist stops, but powerful reminders of struggle, displacement and the fight for dignity. Today, this legacy lives on in grassroots organisations, activist-led art spaces, and community museums that centre marginalised voices. 2. LGBTQ+ visibility and safer spaces Cape Town has long been known as South Africa's 'pink capital'. The list is a nod to the cities queer-friendly nightlife, inclusive events like Cape Town Pride, and safe spaces that range from community centres to cutting-edge drag shows. Ongoing work by local LGBTQ+ groups also pushes beyond visibility into advocacy and healthcare access in our city. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cape Town Pride (@capetownpride) 3. Cultural Neighbourhoods pushing artistic accessibility Each suburb tells its own story: the Cape Malay heritage of Bo-Kaap, the Afro-centric pride in Langa and Khayelitsha, and the coastal charm of communities like Muizenberg and Kalk Bay, where surf culture and township-run coffee shops co-exist. These layers are what make Cape Town's cultural landscape both challenging and extraordinary. Also, inclusive theatre productions at Artscape and the Baxter Theatre and contemporary African art at Zeitz MOCCA adds to the events designed to be accessible across income brackets and mobility levels. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Baxter (@baxtertheatre) A shared Honour with Jozi! Johannesburg's equal ranking comes as no surprise. Known as the country's financial engine and cultural nerve centre, the city pulses with Afro-urban energy, youth-led innovation and unapologetic authenticity. As cities around the world wrestle with rising inequality and cultural homogenisation, it's affirming to see two South African cities celebrated not just for their beauty or buzz - but for how they make their residents feel. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Johannesburg (@ Here at Time Out Cape Town we're excited to amplify these very aspects of our city. In our new Time Out Cape Town editorial series The Culture Edit, we're asking critical questions about the South African identity. What does inclusion look like beyond surface-level representation? And how do we avoid flattening cultures into commercial soundbites.
Mail & Guardian
08-06-2025
- Mail & Guardian
Johannesburg's housing crisis is like a movie on loop
Housing crisis: The City of Johannesburg must take action now to prevent a repeat of the 80 Albert Street building fire in which 88 people were injured and 77 died. (Delwyn Verasamy) I decided to rewatch the movie Gangster's Paradise: Jerusalema. Besides being an excellent film directed by Ralph Ziman, I started examining the fictional protagonist Lucky Kunene. He is a symbol of struggle and represents individuals who were involved with the hijacking of buildings in Jozi's suburb of Hillbrow during the 1990s. The character Lucky is not a real person, but the movie is based on real-life events, and it got me thinking. How much has changed since then? Well, basically nothing. In fact, I think the situation has worsened. I was in the Johannesburg city centre the other day, and the decay is nothing short of a tragedy. Looking across the once-iconic skyline that was home to some of the tallest buildings in Africa, it's hard to digest what has happened to the City of Gold. At about the time of Lucky's rhetorical escapade in 1990, Ponte City was hijacked. Then, in 2021, they officially declared the building to be Africa's first-ever vertical slum. Riddled with lawlessness and gangsterism, it was home to 8000 people, which is way past the legal occupancy rate for this building. Water and electricity were cut off from the building, and people threw so much trash into the centre of the building that it built up 14 storeys high. In later years, when the trash was finally cleaned up, they found 23 bodies. That's a pretty big fall from grace considering Ponte was once the tallest building in Africa for 48 years straight, measuring 172m in height. It was beaten by a skyscraper in Egypt — only 5m taller. Someone suggested that Ponte City be converted into the world's first vertical prison. From a design perspective, this might not have been a bad idea for the building itself. But, from a surroundings perspective, a building with such a prominent location surrounded by corporations, bank headquarters and schools was probably not a good match. I took a tour of Ponte City and according to the tour guide, who lives in Ponte, there are seven hijacked buildings and nine abandoned buildings in the suburb of Berea, where Ponte City is located. According to reports over the years, 643 buildings have been hijacked in Johannesburg, specifically in the Hillbrow, Yeoville, Berea and Joubert Park areas. More recent estimates have stated that this number has grown to more than 1100 buildings. When a building is hijacked, it means that the building has been occupied without permission. The owners of the building, or its managing agents, no longer have control over the property. How does this happen? The owners of the buildings cannot be traced. They die, move overseas, or no longer pay the costs of maintaining their assets. Water and electricity are often cut off by the city, and there are zero sewerage services. These buildings then become unsanitary and dangerous places to live. All the while, criminals force the tenants to pay rent to them and not to the owners of the building. The hijacking of buildings is a symptom of seriously deep-seated social problems in our society. The government's way of dealing with the hijacked-building crisis reminds me of my favourite South African term 'now now' — which could mean they will start dealing with the issue in the next five minutes, five months or five years. The range is what you dream of with no concrete solutions in place or a timeline to make those dreams a reality. And so the solution to the abandoned building problem remains precisely that, a dream without a plan of action. Many of these buildings are owned by the government. How can our own government no implement its policies and reclaim what is rightfully theirs? Ironically, they love to pass policies, but what about when it comes to implementing them? People are dying in these buildings, and the solution is in limbo. Remember the story about the five-storey building at 80 Albert Street, Marshalltown in Johannesburg city centre that caught on fire on 31 August 2023? The building was constructed in 1954 during apartheid and served as the main administration office for Johannesburg's non-European affairs department. People of colour would essentially collect their 'dompas' here. Later on, it transformed into the Usindiso Women's Shelter until its By 2019, more than 400 individuals occupied this property. The emergency exits were all locked or blocked at the time of the fire, in which 77 people died and 88 were injured. More recently, I have read that our current Johannesburg mayor, Dada Morero, plans to relocate his office from Braamfontein to this building. Renovations of the building are expected to be completed this year. If our government cannot uphold standard occupancy levels and fire regulations in their buildings, how can we expect other landlords to follow suit? Herman Mashaba, one of the um-teenth mayors of Johannesburg over the past decade, floated around some good suggestions once upon a time. He proposed the conversion of dozens of hijacked buildings, abandoned and government-owned buildings into social housing projects. He brought to the table ideas for incentives such as providing investors with rates and tax exemptions for the period of one year if they could include an affordable housing component in their development. This was not necessarily a bad start as far as solutions go. However, I don't recall any of the above happening during or after Mashaba's tenure. When Mashaba left his mayoral position in 2019, the City of Johannesburg passed an Inclusionary Housing Policy at the same time to encourage private companies to build social housing in the Johannesburg city centre. More specifically, it provides incentives for buildings with 20 units or more to allocate 30% of their units for low-income housing. Many agreed with the principle, while others were strong critics of the plan's practicality. The sad truth is that when we fast-forward to 2025, I don't know of many projects that have actually implemented the Inclusionary Housing Policy to obtain its incentives. Sure, there have been approvals of a couple thousand inclusionary housing units since the policy's implementation; however, not many that I know of have been constructed. It seems the policy was not so attractive for developers after all. And so here we are, it's 2025, and not much has changed. We're still having the same conversations. Still walking past the same burnt-out and hijacked buildings. Still holding the same memorials for lives lost in preventable tragedies. Still hearing the same political promises that come wrapped in red tape and delay. What's most maddening is that the solution is right in front of us, and has been for years. We have the buildings. Hundreds of them. Some of the most well-located buildings in the country, in a city built on gold and ambition. But instead of being used as catalysts for urban rejuvenation, social housing, and economic upliftment, they sit empty, hijacked, or decaying, becoming ticking time bombs. Not to mention that building costs are through the roof (excuse the pun). Rebuilding any of these buildings today would run into the billions. Sometimes conversions can be a cost-saving exercise in themselves. Johannesburg's current mayor, Dada Morero, has recently discussed the city's plans to intensify efforts to reclaim the city centre and address issues related to crime and deteriorating infrastructure. I have also read that Morero plans to relocate his office from Braamfontein to 80 Albert Street. Renovations of the building, which were initiated after the fire, are expected to be completed this year. Late last year, Morero announced that these problems would be addressed precinct by precinct. Morero says fewer than 50 hijacked buildings in the city belong to the government. He also mentions that the city cannot find the owners of about 100 hijacked buildings. He suggests that possible expropriation without compensation could be a solution here. In my opinion, if you can't manage your own buildings successfully, what is the point of taking ownership of others? It should not take another fire, another news headline, or another round of blame-shifting for us to act. And yet, here we are, stuck in this loop of policy without implementation, vision without backbone, crisis without urgency. If the government is serious about solving the housing crisis, then we need more than policies that look good on paper. We need plans to be executed. We need a multi-pronged approach: removing the criminals demanding rent from tenants, support for tenants in hijacked buildings, repairing the sewage, water and electricity, and putting in place refuse removal. Public-private partnerships can rehabilitate abandoned stock, and real incentives for developers who want to build or convert properties for mixed-income housing could be provided. And let's be clear, this isn't only a housing issue. It's a safety issue. A dignity issue. An economic issue. A human rights issue. Until we stop viewing hijacked buildings as isolated cases and start addressing them as part of a broader urban failure, nothing will shift. We'll keep rewatching Jerusalema and asking, 'How much has changed since then?' The answer must not be: nothing. Because people aren't just looking for affordable housing. They're looking for proof that someone, somewhere, still gives a damn. Ask Ash examines South Africa's property, architecture and living spaces. 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