Latest news with #MarvelsofMzansi
The Citizen
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Durban July 2025: Local artists elevate their brands on the big stage
Durban July 2025: Local artists elevate their brands on the big stage The Durban July weekend featured a range of local talent, with Thembisa artists representing their brands on the grand stage. Hectic, Siya and Vikk The Groove joined Johnnie Walker to experience the vibrant atmosphere, embracing the chance to mingle, learn and share their craft. Victor Vukeya, known as 'Vikk The Groove', described the event as an opportunity to transcend being just a stage performer and evolve into a brand. ALSO READ: Thembisa artist moves up in the world of entertainment 'Collaborating with Johnnie Walker Blonde was the perfect mix for me. Everything about the experience radiated fun, fashion, vibes and, of course, Blonde moments. Being there with my team at that perfect time was incredible. I'm looking forward to next year.' Vukeya's standout moment was the Boomtown Experience 2025, where Sjava stole the show, in his view. He also fondly recalled his debut set at the Perere Durban marquee. 'The Perere Marquee was my favourite. The celestial decor and homegrown vibe reminded me of home. 'It's clear the time is now; we're rubbing shoulders with the elites, and soon, we'll be the elites. 'This experience elevates me, allowing me to navigate stardom and position myself alongside industry leaders I hope to work with closely in the future. ALSO READ: Local youngster aims to make waves in entertainment 'Glory be to God for this opportunity. Huge thanks to Orchardon25 and Johnnie Walker Blonde for making it happen.' Siyabonga Nkosi shared how interacting with different people broadened his perspective on the industry. 'I'm a people person. Being in Durban was a new space for me, and I had the best time of my life. It was a challenge to interact with so many different folks, but I aced it. 'The Marvels of Mzansi theme was announced only three days before, so I improvised and wore what I felt comfortable in. I guess I was the marvel. 'My highlight was being invited to Durban and receiving VIP treatment. That showed growth in what we do and that we're taken seriously,' Nkosi added. ALSO READ: Tembisa Red Devils celebrate 20 years in entertainment Hectic Nkayane reflected on the up-close experience of the Durban July. 'Witnessing the fashion and the excitement around the horse races was unforgettable. 'I kept my outfit simple, representing the Marvels of Mzansi (iBince) with formal attire inspired by Zulu heritage. What better way to celebrate Zulu culture than wearing traditional attire on Zulu land?' Nkayane's favourite marquees were the Perere by Gushima and the Makubenjalo marquee, which reminded him of the township groove we cherish in Thembisa. 'Being in that space was a privilege, rubbing shoulders with fashion designers, influencers, TV and radio personalities and event co-ordinators. 'I even bumped into DJ Fresh at Boomtown, who told me, 'You are moving in the right direction, keep pushing'. That recognition from huge brands means our work is making an impact, sometimes without us even realising it. I believe we did an impeccable job and hope to be regulars at the event,' Nkayane said. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Fashion and culture fusion at the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July
Naliyani Uma Govender is an ambassador for the Hollywoodbets Durban July. Image: Supplied As anticipation builds around the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, local racegoers are ready to showcase their interpretations of this year's theme, 'Marvels of Mzansi'. The annual racing event will take place at the Greyville Racecourse on Saturday. - Naliyani Uma Govender, an entrepreneur, model and reality TV personality, said her outfit was inspired by South Africa's national treasures. 'Without giving too much away before the big reveal, I can say it is a piece of wearable art that pays homage to both my heritage and the natural beauty of our country.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Govender, who is also an ambassador for the event, said she started planning her outfit about a month ago. 'I sat down with my team and discussed the theme. I didn't want to just dress to impress. I wanted to represent. Every detail, from the fabric to the makeup and hairstyling, ties back to the essence of South Africa and my identity as a proud South African Indian woman.' She said her dress was designed by William Harry de Beer of Willet Designs Couture. 'His vision aligned perfectly with mine. We began with mood boards, research on cultural symbols, and experimented with dyeing methods to get the exact look we envisioned. 'The silhouette of the dress is fluid and regal. We worked with custom-dyed fabrics flown in especially for this, using artisanal techniques to achieve the most natural, ethereal effect. The colours are soft yet striking, and everything from the structure to the texture has been calculated to express grace, power, and meaning.' She added that her dress cost about R100 000. 'It is a couture, bespoke piece with imported materials and intricate detail. It definitely falls into the luxury bracket. But for me, this look is more than just an outfit. It is an experience and a statement.' Govender said she looked forward to the event. 'The Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race. It is a celebration of fashion, culture and creativity in the African context. I love how it brings people from all walks of life together in one iconic space. It is a place to be bold, expressive. 'I have been attending since my early twenties, and each year feels more exciting than the last. What keeps drawing me in is the electric energy, the mix of glamour, music, racing, and storytelling through fashion. It's where culture meets couture and now being one of the faces of the Hollywoodbets Durban July is a match made in heaven.' Govender added that she looked forward to seeing how others interpreted the theme. 'The theme is such a beautiful, open canvas. My advice for those who want to dress to the theme is to think proudly South African. In respect of accessories to elevate your look, I would say Ndebele and proudly South African designer jewellery. For makeup, be inspired by our African sunset.' Govender said it would not be the Durban July without placing a few fun bets. 'I have my eye on a couple of favourites, but I will keep that under wraps for now, maybe for luck.' Neevan Daniels Bullyraj. Image: Supplied - Neevan Daniels Bullyraj, a teacher and bridal stylist, said he decided to style himself this year. 'I believe that the true Mzansi spark dwells within yourself and you just need to channel it. Being proudly Indian and South African, I wanted to bring a bit of my Indian culture to the race course. I designed and styled my outfit from the material choice to the strategically placed motifs. I will be wearing tailored palazzo pants and a white formal vest. 'I decided to skip a cape and go for a five-metre shawl anchoring rich royal Indian heritage. The concept of royal Indian heritage stems from the Maharajas of India. The Maharajas were always draped in some of the most elaborate jewels curated in world history. I will also accessories with royal and regal Indian jewel pieces. 'I have always been told that my style is extremely unique and far from mediocre. I like to think that my lookbook is filled with only aesthetically unique pieces. The Durban July is the one event I can accelerate on this and have fun embracing a theme and fusing it with my personality and alter ego,' he said. Bullyraj said he looked forward to the fashion, networking with people from all over the country, and enjoying the glamorous atmosphere created by the event. He added he would take a few bets. 'I hope that I not only win with a good fit, but also with the right horse.' Jennifer Reddy. Image: Supplied - Jennifer Reddy, the CEO of a national chartered accountants firm, said her outfit was aligned to the theme, showcasing a chic and fashionable look that represented the country's cultural diversity. 'I will be wearing a two-piece outfit that includes my favourite colour, pink. It features a ruffled, high-waisted skirt paired with a fashionable designer top, adorned with unique cut-out, puffed sleeves. 'I always have a specific idea of what I want to wear, so choosing my outfit didn't take long. I usually visit my favourite shops to find pieces that match my vision. For this event, I purchased my outfit from The Space, a store known for selling unique pieces by African designers. The designer of my outfit is Confidence Designs,' she said. Reddy said she was excited about the event as it offered a chance to dress up and enjoy a day filled with entertainment. 'The Durban July is an event that many in South Africa eagerly anticipate. I have been attending for the last few years, and the combination of world-class racing, stunning fashion, and exhilarating entertainment makes it an event not to be missed. This year, I am particularly looking forward to celebrating our rich culture and heritage through fashion, as well as enjoying the great entertainment.' Reddy added she left the punting to her husband. 'I rarely win, however, I have heard that the favourites for this year are Eight on Eighteen and Madison Valley. I hope they perform well in the race.' Shiv Ramsander Image: Supplied - Shiv Ramsander, a music producer, DJ and event host, said it took him about a week to plan his outfit. 'Keeping the theme in mind, I tried to ensure that my coat was hero-like, while still keeping to our Mzansi culture. I will be wearing a black chino pants, white shirt and a formal black velvet coat with some detailing on it. I will complete the outfit with shiny black shoes.' Ramsander said he had been attending the event since 2019. 'It is definitely a calendar event for me. It is a day that allows me to express myself through fashion as I love dressing up. It is also an event where you get to experience many things in one place such as good vibes, trendy fashion, good food and, of course, the horse racing aspect. I am also excited as I will be performing in one of the tents at the event and will thereafter host an after-party at another venue.' Ramsander added that his bet was on Sparking Water, winner of the 2022 Hollywoodbets Durban July. 'I love a good success story and will definitely be rooting for Sparkling Water to take home the title for the second time.' TeKayha Anastasia Sukuram Image: Supplied - TeKayha Anastasia Sukuram, a marketing executive, dancer and model, said her dress was a depiction of South Africa's flora. 'I believe South Africa's flora is definitely one of the marvels of our country. I will be dressed in an elegant, yet bold floor-sweeping dress. It is a fitted silhouette with intricate beading throughout the entire dress. The rich, jewel-toned colours such as purple, orange and green in floral patterns on a black background create a beautiful effect. 'It also has attached cape sleeves which adds a touch of drama to the dress. To complete my look, I will use nude high heels and a few pieces of simple silver accessories,' she said. Sukuram said she spent about two weeks trying to find the perfect outfit. 'I wanted an outfit that goes with this year's theme. I originally purchased the dress from an evening wear boutique, but later had a lot of adjustments done and pieces added on by designer, Rishay Nohor of Rishay Nohor Studio.' Sukuram said she would attend the event for the first time. 'Growing up I watched my parents get ready to attend the Durban July. It was something that I looked forward to experiencing one day. I am now looking forward to experiencing the exhilarating atmosphere for the first time. 'I also can't wait to see the fashion and all the different ways that people have interpreted this year's theme. However, I am probably going to give the betting a skip and just soak in everything else that the event has to offer.' Denver Naicker Image: Supplied - Denver Naicker, a TV presenter and retail manager, said he was excited about this year's theme. 'I will be dressing to this year's theme, which really allows us to show off our African culture to the world. I started planning my outfit about a month ago. To match the theme, I will be wearing an 'Indian-meets-African' inspired coat.' Naicker said he looked forward to the fashion shows and meeting people. He added that he had yet to decide on which horses he would bet on. THE POST
TimesLIVE
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Celebs turn up the glam at Durban July: Marvels of Mzansi
All eyes were on the Marvels of Mzansi as South Africa's A-list showed up and showed off at this year's Durban July. Style stars Mihlali Ndamase, Jessica Nkosi, Mohale Motaung and Zanele Potelwa brought the heat to the country's biggest horse racing day, turning fashion into a cultural celebration. However, the real VIP experience was the Weekend of Marvels hosted by Savanna Premium Dry which started with a pre-race day party at a luxurious mansion in Ballito on Friday night before moving to the Neat Speakeasy on Saturday. Forming part of the ultra-luxe Chaise Lounge marquee, the golden ticket delivered an unforgettable trackside affair for guests, including Comedian of the Year Celeste Ntuli, funnyman Mpho Popps, media personality Moshe Ndiki and the newest stars on the block, the Zama twins, Ayanda and Andile, from The Real Housewives of Durban. Watch the full roundup for the best looks, the glam and inside access to the party everyone continues to talk about.
IOL News
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Touchline makes stylish Hollywoodbets Durban July debut at Saso's brunch marquee
Rapper Touchline made his debut at the Hollywoodbets Durban July and was a guest at Saso's brunch marquee. Image: Instagram/karabo_selolo Rapper Touchline attended the Hollywoodbets Durban July for the first time this year and was a guest at Saso's Brunch Marquee. Speaking to IOL, the rapper, whose real name is Thabo Mahlwele, shared how he had felt a bit of pressure when it came to attending Africa's biggest horse racing event. He enlisted the help of a stylist, KandyBoi, to help execute the Marvels of Mzansi theme. 'We just put a few things together and came up with like a look for myself, who never wears formal clothing, by the way. I went with him (KandyBoi) because I was probably going to buy a tracksuit.' Touchline admitted that his late arrival had him missing out on the day's main attraction, the horse races. 'It looks a lot like a lot of the events that we attend, but I've also had a limited experience because I haven't seen the rest of it,' he shared. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ He went on to reveal how excited his mother was for him to be attending the big event, which draws out thousands of people from all over the country and is a known celebrity attraction. 'I'm very grateful to be here, to see that your gift can put you in spaces that you couldn't even dream of, and meet people that you just looked at and marveled at,' he shared. For its second year at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, Saso's Brunch Marquee moved away from the winning post, but expanded in terms of size, allowing for 800 guests. Curated by hip-hop star and cultural tastemaker Lusaso 'Saso' Ngcobo, the marquee made headlines last year for its historic debut and unmatched atmosphere. Once again, Saso's Brunch Marquee partnered with Maxhosa Africa for the decor and lifestyle elements. MaXhosa founder Laduma Ngxokolo, speaking to IOL, shared why they decided to come on board for the second time. 'Last year, we showed off; this year, we showed out and we showed up,' expressed Ngxokolo. It's a beautiful space, I don't think people get it yet, but once it hits their head, it will be a type of experience that they will always be longing for. 'I think Saso's Brunch has got its specific, well-refined market, if we're talking levels, if we're talking nuances.' Ngxokolo explained that when it came to the deco, MaXhosa curated elements such as the wallpaper, carpets, cushions, throws, and umbrellas. 'These are products that we offer as part of our Makosa Lifestyle brand, which is an extension of MaXhosa, a luxury fashion brand.' For first-timers like Touchline, the Hollywoodbets Durban July offered more than fashion, it was a moment of affirmation, proof that talent and authenticity can open doors to the grandest stages. IOL Entertainment
The South African
07-07-2025
- Politics
- The South African
'This is my portfolio': John Steenhuisen, wife take on Durban July
Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has jokingly defended his decision to attend the Durban July, a popular horseracing and fashion event on the social calendar. The 49-year-old leader of the Democratic Alliance and his wife, Terry, wore matching ensembles in the day's theme of 'Marvels of Mzansi'. Speaking to content creator and fashion designer Craig Jacobs, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen and his wife Terry showed off their Durban July looks. Terry wore a coat dress featuring a navy shweshwe print, while John donned a suit with a matching tie. When asked about the DA's decision to withdraw from the national dialogue, John laughed and responded, 'We're not talking about that today.' John added that he was en route to place a bet for one of the races, specifically on an 'outsider.' When asked if he felt like an outsider at the event, John responded, 'Not at all. I feel very much at home. This is my portfolio.' @craigsalist Spotted DA leader (and minister for agriculture) John Steenhuisen at the Durban July #TheAListers #CraigsAList ♬ original sound – CraigsAList It's not the first time John Steenuisen attended the Durban July, in 2010 and 20111. In 2013, he walked the red carpet event with Terry, his then-fiancée. While John Steenhuisen put his best fashion foot forward at the Durban July, red carpet regular Julius Malema was nowhere to be found. The Economic Freedom Fighter leader is known for his expensive taste in fashion, especially for five-star events. A year ago, the Minister of Agriculture condemned Malema and his then-right-hand man, Floyd Shivambu, for 'spending VBS money at the Durban July'. He said during a media briefing: 'The money was not spent on social good, projects that would uplift and save the poor. Instead it was spent on luxury items, splurges at the Durban July on campaign, and other luxury goods. 'It shows that the EFF has no intention of being the vanguard of the poor. This is a mask that they use to justify the types of activities that they get up to'. 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.
