Latest news with #Rhodes'

IOL News
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Rhodes University enhances cultural engagement at the National Arts Festival 2025
A scene from Umbhobho – The Red Pipe, an Empatheatre production built from true stories and designed within the framework of Life Orientation education. Image: Rhodes University This year, Rhodes University is reaffirming its commitment to cultural engagement by significantly enhancing its long-standing relationship with the National Arts Festival (NAF). Set against the vibrant backdrop of Makhanda, the university's diverse offerings are rich in research, pedagogy, and performance, shaping a national dialogue on art's role in reflecting and addressing pressing social justice issues. At the core of Rhodes' 2025 programme lies a powerful theme of historical reflection, prominently featured in the stirring play A Childhood in Chalk. Crafted by the Drama and Education departments, this narrative entwines childhood memories with the unsettling realities of political resistance, recalling the school boycotts in Fingo Village from 1975 to 1985. Educators Thembela Madliki and Phemelo Hellemann lend emotional depth and scholarly rigor to the production, inviting audiences to confront the upheaval experienced during extraordinary times. Meanwhile, Umbhobho – The Red Pipe, an Empatheatre production helmed by Rhodes Master's student Siphosethu Mankai, harnesses storytelling to address self-development and identity. Blending real-life accounts into dramatic form, it offers a heartfelt introspection into the human experience through the lens of Life Orientation education, encouraging viewers to reflect on their personal journeys. The integration of art and science finds compelling expression in Layers and Light, a unique exhibition by artist Ingrid Schudel. Presented at the Old Gaol on Somerset Street (now Hand Made Coffees), Schudel's work challenges viewers to engage with themes of entropy and order. Drawing from her research in environmental education, the exhibition invites a deep reflection on knowledge and our ecological responsibilities, urging the community to consider their role in environmental stewardship. 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 ✕ The Impact and Influence of Steve Biko on Creative Arts Activism invites reflection on the philosophical grounding of Black Consciousness in contemporary artistic practice. Led by Rhodes University alumnus Sanele kaNtshingana, the conversation centres cultural activism as a living, evolving force. Image: Rhodes University In addition to artistic showcases, the festival acts as a catalyst for public dialogue and political engagement. One such conversation, The Impact and Influence of Steve Biko on Creative Arts Activism, led by Rhodes alumnus Sanele kaNtshingana, explores the transformative power of Black Consciousness in contemporary artistic practices. This discussion aims to inspire a new generation of artists to harness their creativity for social change. Rhodes Music Radio (RMR 89.7 FM) also takes centre stage with its collaborative event, Tuning into Creativity: The Interplay of Radio and The Arts. Moderated by station manager Unathi Koboka, this lively discussion delves into the symbiotic relationship between broadcast and visual arts, illustrating how cultural production resonates economically and politically within communities. Performance art makes a profound statement with Emotional Black Male, a one-man comedy performance by Thumamna "Uncool Tea" Sibhozo. This acclaimed artist employs humour and vulnerability to unpack toxic masculinity and emotional trauma, offering a candid perspective that resonates with many, particularly young creatives in Makhanda. Music plays a pivotal role in this year's festival as well. Echoes Across Continents, a recital by PhD candidate Belinda de Villiers, traverses a musical journey from Europe to Africa. In contrast, Gedichte der Seele, featured in the Spiritfest programme, provides a meditative experience through classical Lieder by Rhodes lecturers Devon Florence and Garreth Robertson, reminding audiences of music's timeless emotional capacity. Emotional Black Male, a one-man comedy by Thumamna "Uncool Tea" Sibhozo. A celebrated voice on RMR, Sibhozo dissects toxic masculinity and emotional trauma with humour, vulnerability, and incisive wit. Image: Rhodes University Community engagement remains a focal point, exemplified by Butterfly Heart/Serurubele, a production designed to facilitate conversations about grief and healing among children and adults alike. Addressing themes of loss, memory, and recovery, it deeply connects with local families and schools, enhancing the festival's outreach. Emerging voices from Rhodes University's postgraduate cohort showcase their talents in new plays like Wounds and The Dinner, providing critical insights into issues such as gender-based violence and intimate relationships. These performances underscore the importance of creative research in interrogating power and vulnerability. The Eastern Cape Literature Festival complements the NAF offerings with a compelling discussion featuring Rhodes alumna Unathi Nkayi alongside respected literary figures Dr John Kani and Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha. The event unites literature, music, and performance, illustrating the potent intersection of storytelling as a political and cultural force. With 120 years of academic excellence embedded within the community of Makhanda, Rhodes University's contributions to the 2025 NAF highlight its dedication to merging art with research, protest, and imagination. This year's programme challenges participants to consider the complexities of learning and creativity in a city rich with contradictions and beauty. To explore the full festival programme, visit the NAF 2025 webpage.


Time of India
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘American Nightmare' returns? Cody Rhodes' surprise sighting sparks WWE buzz
Image via WWE Cody Rhodes' sudden disappearance from WWE programming following his dramatic loss to John Cena at WrestleMania 41 has kept fans guessing. But a recent sighting of the 'American Nightmare' just two hours away from the venue of Saturday Night's Main Event has reignited speculation about his return. Rhodes was seen in Orlando, Florida, enjoying time with his wife, Brandi Rhodes, and close friends outside the Epic Universe theme park. The former champion was spotted wearing a grey suit - an outfit choice that has become symbolic of his WWE persona. Fans quickly took to social media to express their curiosity. One post jokingly asked, 'so he don't see us stressing,out here having fun and shi' What's fuelling the buzz is that Orlando is only a short drive from Tampa, where WWE's Saturday Night's Main Event is scheduled for May 24. The timing and location of the sighting have led many to believe that Rhodes could make an unannounced appearance at the show. Post-WrestleMania silence adds to the intrigue Rhodes, who lost the Undisputed Title to Cena at WrestleMania - with outside interference from rapper Travis Scott, has been off television ever since. He was even advertised for last week's SmackDown but didn't show up, leaving fans and insiders alike puzzled. Bully Ray, speaking on Busted Open Radio , said Rhodes' absence could be a calculated move. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Thị trường có dấu hiệu suy thoái không? IC Markets Đăng ký Undo 'Absence makes the heart grow fonder... We miss him, and that's a good thing,' Ray noted, suggesting that the silence may make his eventual return more impactful. Interestingly, fans specualte that Rhodes might not be targeting Cena or Roman Reigns upon his return. Instead, current WWE World Heavyweight Champion Jey Uso could find himself in Cody's crosshairs. The two had a shaky alliance earlier this year, and with Uso defending his title against Logan Paul at the upcoming event, some speculate Rhodes may interfere. This could mark a darker chapter for the former babyface, possibly hinting at a heel turn. Given Rhodes' past storylines involving betrayal and frustration, such a shift wouldn't be entirely out of character. While WWE has not confirmed Rhodes' return for the May 24 show, fans are keeping a close eye on developments. With Money in the Bank 2025 just around the corner, the timing for Rhodes' comeback couldn't be more perfect. For now, the sighting in Orlando has added fuel to the fire. Whether Cody Rhodes steps back into the ring this weekend or continues his strategic silence, the buzz is certainly back. Get IPL 2025 match schedules , squads , points table , and live scores for CSK , MI , RCB , KKR , SRH , LSG , DC , GT , PBKS , and RR . Check the latest IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Kirsten Rhodes, Vice Chair and Client Relationship Development Leader at Deloitte, Named 2025 FWSF Financial Woman of the Year
Organization's Top Award Recognizes Exceptional Women Leaders in Finance and Financial Services SAN FRANCISCO, May 08, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Financial Women of San Francisco (FWSF) today named Kirsten Rhodes as the organization's 2025 Financial Woman of the Year. Rhodes is a distinguished leader at Deloitte*, serving as vice chair of client relationship development and a technology, media and telecom principal. With more than 30 years of experience in the finance and tech sector, she's responsible for developing and leading Deloitte's client relationship strategy to drive business growth and deliver solutions to her clients' most complex business challenges. Through her professional leadership and advocacy work, Rhodes' achievements exemplify her dedication to mentoring and empowering professionals in the financial industry. For example, her passion for leadership development served as a springboard for the creation of a Women on Boards program that explores topics relevant to today's board directors. She not only convenes leaders to foster growth, support and development, but also regularly shares insights from her network with a wide LinkedIn audience to exponentially reach more professionals seeking to learn from her experiences, financial acumen, and deep understanding of the C-suite. Rhodes' commitment to fostering an environment that supports career growth and well-being is reflected in Deloitte's recognition as one of the top 10 best companies for future leaders. A sought-after thought leader, Rhodes is consistently tapped by leading business publications to share her insights and knowledge about strengthening client relationships and cultivating personalized experiences to foster deeper connections. Inspiring and leading positive change within Deloitte and across the broader business community, Rhodes linked business, innovation, and purpose through her leadership of the Yes SF Challenge upon its launch in 2023, driving collaboration across sectors. Her multifaceted commitment to advancing women in leadership and improving the communities where they work, live and play are among the many reasons Kirsten Rhodes has been named as the FWSF's 2025 Financial Woman of the Year. "I am deeply honored to receive the Financial Woman of the Year award," said Rhodes. "I share this recognition with esteemed past honorees who have paved the way before me and inspired me to be a champion helping more women achieve their fullest potential. It takes a collective commitment to create cultures and communities where everyone has an opportunity to excel, and together, we can make an impact beyond our own workplace and drive meaningful change across broader society." In addition to her responsibilities at Deloitte, Rhodes' leadership extends to her involvement in local corporate citizenship strategies and board membership with organizations such as the Bay Area Council and the California Academy of Science, where she contributes to broader community initiatives. She was recognized through the Jefferson Award for public service in 2018 and was named among the San Francisco Business Times Most Influential Women in Business for three consecutive years. Mona Ahmadi, FWSF's 2025 president and director of FP&A at Earnin, also shared her excitement regarding the FWSF's 2025 honoree: "Kirsten exemplifies the very mission of Financial Women of San Francisco—to advance the success of women in finance through mentorship, leadership, and opportunity. Her distinguished career, commitment to inclusive leadership, and passion for uplifting women reflect the values we strive to promote. Kirsten's impact reaches far beyond her own accomplishments, inspiring and enabling the progress of countless women across the industry. We are proud to honor her as our 2025 Financial Woman of the Year." The Financial Woman of the Year award was established in 1996 to mark the 40th anniversary of FWSF. Created by past FWSF presidents Leslie Miller and Shelly Porges, the honor and related event serve three key purposes: fundraising for FWSF's scholarship program, expanding awareness of FWSF, and recognizing the leadership and achievements of senior financial executives. Over the years, the award has become a platform for trailblazing women to share their insights, inspire the next generation of leaders, and highlight the evolving landscape of finance. This year, Rhodes joins an esteemed group of past honorees, including Lisa Pantages, CFO of the San Francisco Giants; Teresa Bryce Bazemore, CEO of FHLBank of San Francisco; Nancy Pfund, founder and managing partner of DBL Partners; Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton; Terri Kallsen, chief operating officer at Wealth Enhancement Group; Heidi Roizen, partner at Threshold Ventures; Robin Washington, president and COO of Salesforce and former CFO of Gilead; Debbie Messemer, former managing partner of KPMG's Bay Area Market; Carrie Dolan, CFO of Kraken Digital Asset Exchange; Sarah Friar, CFO of OpenAI and former CEO of NextDoor and CFO of Square; and Pat Yarrington, former CFO of Chevron. ABOUT FINANCIAL WOMEN OF SAN FRANCISCO Financial Women of San Francisco advances the success of women in finance in the Bay Area. Formerly known as "The Financial Women's Association of San Francisco," the organization is an essential source of insight and inspiration to more than 300 financial women throughout the Bay Area. Members are executive and managerial-level women who work in finance or financial services. Many are CEOs, CFOs, corporate treasurers, CPAs, and attorneys. FWSF also welcomes commercial and private bankers, investment advisors, fund managers, securities analysts, administrators, financial planners, consultants, recruiters, marketers, and other professionals who work in financial services. It's membership represents all generations and cultural backgrounds. In addition to the FWSF's professional organization focused on advancing women, since 1985, the FWSF Scholarship Fund (a 501(c)3 organization) has awarded more than $3 million in scholarship grants to more than 355 Bay Area women. Beyond financial support, FWSF scholarship recipients are mentored by FWSF members, become members of the organization, and attend career development and networking events. Learn more at *Please see for a detailed description of the firm's legal structure. View source version on Contacts Media contacts: Lindsey ThomasContent 151Lindsey@ 224-522-2235 Julie LandmesserDeloitte Services LPjlandmesser@ 312.486.1945 Sign in to access your portfolio


Business Wire
08-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Kirsten Rhodes, Vice Chair and Client Relationship Development Leader at Deloitte, Named 2025 FWSF Financial Woman of the Year
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Financial Women of San Francisco (FWSF) today named Kirsten Rhodes as the organization's 2025 Financial Woman of the Year. Rhodes is a distinguished leader at Deloitte*, serving as vice chair of client relationship development and a technology, media and telecom principal. With more than 30 years of experience in the finance and tech sector, she's responsible for developing and leading Deloitte's client relationship strategy to drive business growth and deliver solutions to her clients' most complex business challenges. Kirsten exemplifies the mission of Financial Women of San Francisco—to advance the success of women in finance through mentorship, leadership, and opportunity. Her distinguished career and passion for uplifting women reflect the values we strive to promote Share Through her professional leadership and advocacy work, Rhodes' achievements exemplify her dedication to mentoring and empowering professionals in the financial industry. For example, her passion for leadership development served as a springboard for the creation of a Women on Boards program that explores topics relevant to today's board directors. She not only convenes leaders to foster growth, support and development, but also regularly shares insights from her network with a wide LinkedIn audience to exponentially reach more professionals seeking to learn from her experiences, financial acumen, and deep understanding of the C-suite. Rhodes' commitment to fostering an environment that supports career growth and well-being is reflected in Deloitte's recognition as one of the top 10 best companies for future leaders. A sought-after thought leader, Rhodes is consistently tapped by leading business publications to share her insights and knowledge about strengthening client relationships and cultivating personalized experiences to foster deeper connections. Inspiring and leading positive change within Deloitte and across the broader business community, Rhodes linked business, innovation, and purpose through her leadership of the Yes SF Challenge upon its launch in 2023, driving collaboration across sectors. Her multifaceted commitment to advancing women in leadership and improving the communities where they work, live and play are among the many reasons Kirsten Rhodes has been named as the FWSF's 2025 Financial Woman of the Year. 'I am deeply honored to receive the Financial Woman of the Year award,' said Rhodes. 'I share this recognition with esteemed past honorees who have paved the way before me and inspired me to be a champion helping more women achieve their fullest potential. It takes a collective commitment to create cultures and communities where everyone has an opportunity to excel, and together, we can make an impact beyond our own workplace and drive meaningful change across broader society.' In addition to her responsibilities at Deloitte, Rhodes' leadership extends to her involvement in local corporate citizenship strategies and board membership with organizations such as the Bay Area Council and the California Academy of Science, where she contributes to broader community initiatives. She was recognized through the Jefferson Award for public service in 2018 and was named among the San Francisco Business Times Most Influential Women in Business for three consecutive years. Mona Ahmadi, FWSF's 2025 president and director of FP&A at Earnin, also shared her excitement regarding the FWSF's 2025 honoree: 'Kirsten exemplifies the very mission of Financial Women of San Francisco—to advance the success of women in finance through mentorship, leadership, and opportunity. Her distinguished career, commitment to inclusive leadership, and passion for uplifting women reflect the values we strive to promote. Kirsten's impact reaches far beyond her own accomplishments, inspiring and enabling the progress of countless women across the industry. We are proud to honor her as our 2025 Financial Woman of the Year.' The Financial Woman of the Year award was established in 1996 to mark the 40th anniversary of FWSF. Created by past FWSF presidents Leslie Miller and Shelly Porges, the honor and related event serve three key purposes: fundraising for FWSF's scholarship program, expanding awareness of FWSF, and recognizing the leadership and achievements of senior financial executives. Over the years, the award has become a platform for trailblazing women to share their insights, inspire the next generation of leaders, and highlight the evolving landscape of finance. This year, Rhodes joins an esteemed group of past honorees, including Lisa Pantages, CFO of the San Francisco Giants; Teresa Bryce Bazemore, CEO of FHLBank of San Francisco; Nancy Pfund, founder and managing partner of DBL Partners; Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton; Terri Kallsen, chief operating officer at Wealth Enhancement Group; Heidi Roizen, partner at Threshold Ventures; Robin Washington, president and COO of Salesforce and former CFO of Gilead; Debbie Messemer, former managing partner of KPMG's Bay Area Market; Carrie Dolan, CFO of Kraken Digital Asset Exchange; Sarah Friar, CFO of OpenAI and former CEO of NextDoor and CFO of Square; and Pat Yarrington, former CFO of Chevron. ABOUT FINANCIAL WOMEN OF SAN FRANCISCO Financial Women of San Francisco advances the success of women in finance in the Bay Area. Formerly known as 'The Financial Women's Association of San Francisco,' the organization is an essential source of insight and inspiration to more than 300 financial women throughout the Bay Area. Members are executive and managerial-level women who work in finance or financial services. Many are CEOs, CFOs, corporate treasurers, CPAs, and attorneys. FWSF also welcomes commercial and private bankers, investment advisors, fund managers, securities analysts, administrators, financial planners, consultants, recruiters, marketers, and other professionals who work in financial services. It's membership represents all generations and cultural backgrounds. In addition to the FWSF's professional organization focused on advancing women, since 1985, the FWSF Scholarship Fund (a 501(c)3 organization) has awarded more than $3 million in scholarship grants to more than 355 Bay Area women. Beyond financial support, FWSF scholarship recipients are mentored by FWSF members, become members of the organization, and attend career development and networking events. Learn more at


Fox News
15-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Fox News
Cody Rhodes to launch podcast as part of WWE's partnership with Fanatics
Cody Rhodes will host an upcoming podcast as part of WWE's partnership with Fanatics, the company announced on Tuesday, days before WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas. Rhodes' "What Do You Wanna Talk About" podcast will be sponsored by Wheatley American Vodka. The first episode will debut later this month. "'What Do You Wanna Talk About' will feature Rhodes one-on-one with WWE Superstars across the WWE roster as well as WWE Legends as they share never-before-heard stories, discuss their career-defining moments and more," the company said in a news release obtained by Fox News Digital. "The podcast expands on the Rhodes-led digital franchise which launched in July 2024 and featured interviews with Randy Orton, Bianca Belair and others, as 'The American Nightmare' traversed the country in his Wheatley-wrapped tour bus. New episodes will be available across all platforms as well as WWE's YouTube channel, which has amassed more than 107 million subscribers." WWE said additional podcasts from other superstars and legends will be announced in the future. Fightful Select first reported Rhodes' podcast last week. Rhodes' podcast comes weeks after WWE and Fanatics announced "The Raw Recap Show," hosted by Megan Morant and Sam Roberts. Rhodes will defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against John Cena at Allegiant Stadium on Night 2 of WrestleMania 41. He has held the championship for more than a year after he defeated Roman Reigns. If Cena wins, he would set a record with the 17th WWE Championship reign of his career. Follow Fox News Digital's sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.