Powerofwords deftlygoverned
Avid reader and book collector
Charles Raphoto has anchored his deep love, authoring and publishing Still Standing. He launched the book in fine style with young violinist Neo Motseki performing as he narrated the culmination of the journey
The launch was hosted in the Muse at the Sand du Plessis Theatre
In the book Raphoto reflects on his life’s journey and experiences that shaped him, including the origin of his love for books, which inspired the fire to pen and publish his first-ever book
“Seven of my friends and I were sitting around the fire, and our discussions led to the realisation that we shared deep scars beneath the veneer of accomplishment This prompted me to work on my own healing through writing down my thoughts, which ultimately turned into Still Standing to help others navigate their own healing”
He is delighted to have managed to release the book after some years of introspection
“It took technically seven years, but the purposeful completion of the manuscript this year took 160 hours”
also always told that my late father, Marks Mareka Raphoto, had been an avid reader He died when I was seven I guess I wanted to be like my father,” said Raphoto Raphoto said he drew inspiration from authors like John Maxwell, Noam Chomsky, Steve Biko and Robin Sharma
“The first step was slow, reluctant
But then, the power of words The profound healing I found in writing my story It transformed from a coping mechanism into a lifeline
My words, appearing on the page, growing stronger
Author Charles Raphoto narrating the background to his book titled Still Standing,which he launched in style with a complementary live performance by violinist Neo Motseki (right) in the Muse,which is a venue at the Sand du Plessis Theatre in Bloemfontein The event took place on Friday.Visit bloem-express.co.za for more. Photo: Teboho Setena
“My very tumultuous life was the inspiration However, the immediate inspiration came from hearthside discussions held at a farm retreat in Pietermaritzburg,” said Raphoto
Residing in Bloemfontein, Raphoto revealed finding joy in reading, and the importance thereof, had been fostered at a tender age at his home in Soweto
“My second eldest sister, Mamedupi Patience Maisela, from my nuclear family was a librarian, and she encouraged me to read I was
“And then, the incredible realisation: Helping others was a pathway to my own healing “This led to Coach I AM My work with the Bloemfontein Golden Ladies Football Club Juxtaposing my past struggles with this newfound ability to guide and inspire To show others the power to change, to choose differently”
TEBOHO SETENA
Hands joined to embody goodwill
Communities within Bloemfontein in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM) rolled up their sleeves on Friday, 18 July, to embark on various projects aimed at bringing about positive change
This was their response to the Nelson Mandela Day initiative of dedicating 67 minutes of their time towards service to the community The day coincides with the birthday of the late South African statesman, who became the first president on the advent of democracy in 1994 Celebrated internationally, the programme supports Mandela’s advocacy for humanitarian spirit BloemExpress, a publication of Novus Media Comunity News, share these photos of the eventful Mandela Day celebrations
All hands were on deck with the brandishing of pickaxes,shovels and rakes when a group of 16 students decided to repair the parking area at the Heidedal Police Station in Bloemfontein as part of their contribution to the annual celebration of Nelson Mandela Day,observed
Hospital embraces spirit of Mandela with pivotal surgeries
LIENTJIE MENTZ
The Busamed Private Hospital Group
honoured Nelson Mandela with 67 life-changing surgeries for people in need on Friday, 18 July
The Bram Fischer Private Hospital also saw local doctors roll up their sleeves to perform operations, as part of the group ’ s ongoing UniversalCare@Busamed Programme
In honour of Mandela Day for 2025, Busamed invited community members in need of life-changing surgeries to apply for such
The applicants were people who are either on long state hospital waiting
lists or have been unable to access the necessary care
All procedures were offered at no cost to the patients and services were provided by the hospital’s surgeons, anaesthetists, nursing staff, allied professionals and hospital teams
Medical consumables and pharmaceuticals were sponsored by industry partners On the day, employees volunteered in any capacity whether within their professional role or in support activities such as admissions, patient transport, catering, housekeeping, or hosting families The chief executive officer (CEO) of
the Busamed Group, Dr Dumani Kula, worked as a porter for 67 minutes
Two of the beneficiary patients who received operations were the Sethunya brothers, Rorisang (8) and Bokamoso (12), who both underwent medical male circumcisions (MMC) as opposed to traditional male circumcisions (TMC) Their mother, Vuyiswa Sethunya, a member of the housekeeping staff at the hospital, said she was very glad to have this opportunity
In addition to the benefit of it being performed under sterile conditions by trained professionals, MMC is also widely available through public health
programmes and private healthcare providers
Karlien van Tonder, marketing manager at Busamed Bram Fischer, said 16 operations were planned for the day
“We gave the opportunity to our staff members that do not have medical aid, and other patients were referred by local doctors,” she explained She said the Bloemfontein team also sent two patients to Busamed Harrismith for cataract surgeries to improve their vision “This was an effort to empower communities to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives”
Vuyiswa Sethunya with her son Rorisang (8),who underwent an operation at the Busamed Bram Fischer Private Hospital in Bloemfontein Photo: Lientjie Mentz
Photo: Teboho Setena
The Bloemfontein Secret Scarves Shh initiative was held as part of the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day campaign at the War Museum of the Boer Republics.This initiative spreads“goodwool”across the nation.From the left are,front: Diane Hilligenn (13); back: Ntombizodwa Valtuin,Jamilla Wymers-Magogo (both of Secret Scarves), Kate-Lynne Diedericks (15),Juliana Grundlingh (15) and Phoebe Hood (Secret Scarves) Photo: Lientjie Mentz
Meals on Wheels held a cook-a-thon on Mandela Day Businesses were invited to send volunteers to help cook a meal for 1 000 people New Dimension Auditors,the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Sasko joined hands for this event Here,from the left, are Kundiso Manditereza,Zuko Bhadulana (both of New Dimension) and Jojo Siphokazi (Meals on Wheels)while helping to prepare the food Photo: Lientjie Mentz
More than a handful of women took part in the War Museum’s Squares of Love initiative to celebrate Mandela Day.They knitted blanket squares for 67 minutes.The museum collected knitted squares from all over South Africa,which was then knitted together as blankets for Anchor of Hope and Tinkie Delport of Angel Arms in Erlichpark Here the women are with blankets that were donated to Angel Arms Photo: Lientjie Mentz
Lecturers and a group of students at the University of the Free State’s (UFS) Active Community of Care, through Engaged Scholarship for Sustainability,volunteered to give a new look to one of the apartments of the Reënboog Old-Age Home in Heidedal The group beautified the wall with creative colourful paintings, adding some personal flair Photo: Lientjie Mentz
Library geared to uplift the multitude
The state-of-the-art Qibing Library in Wepener, reportedly constructed to the tune of R23 million, is envisaged to foster much-needed positive change in the community. It is further believed it will fulfil the information needs of the community and further advance development and upliftment among community members.
This change is expectd to come through the provision of educational and skills development resources, as well as access to information
The Free State government, led by Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, officially opened the library on Friday, 18 July, which meant this tied in with the celebration of Nelson Mandela Day
She was accompanied by dignitaries that include Gayton McKenzie, minister of Sport, Arts and Culture; and Ntombizanele Sifuba, MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture
This year ’ s Mandela Day celebrations are conducted under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality”
According to Letsoha-Mathae, the library
reaffirms the provincial government’s commitment to upholding Mandela’s legacy when it comes to the upliftment of the impoverished people
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” she quoted Mandela as saying
“This powerful quote from former Pres Mandela calls on stakeholders to participate in efforts to improve the education of children and help the communities that are harshly affected by the realities of poverty,” said Letsoha-Mathae
The well-furnished library
boasts lending services provided in both the children and adult reading sections, as well as a computer room equipped with 18 computers These provide free internet access, e-mail services, and word processing facilities
The premier, MECs, and other government officials also participated in acts of kindness at early childhood development (ECD) centres and identified schools in Wepener, Van Stadensrus, and Dewetsdorp They donated food, blankets, educational material, and other essentials to make a difference in the areas
Habitual robber sentenced
TEBOHO SETENA
The Bloemfontein Regional Court showed no mercy to Itumeleng Molaoa (27), sentencing him to 25 years ’ direct imprisonment for the stabbing and robbing of a high school learner
The court handed down the sentence on 11 July, after finding Molaoa guilty of robbery with aggravating circumstances The victim of the crime was an 18-year-old learner, targeted in Bloemfontein on 17 February last year
The court threw the book at Molaoa and considered his extensive criminal history, which includes housebreaking, theft and robbery
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Free State has welcomed the lengthy sentence imposed on Molaoa, who had previous convictions Mojalefa Senokoatsane, provincial spokesperson for the NPA, said Molaoa had stabbed the victim with a knife during the robbery incident
“When the learner resisted, a scuffle broke out Then Molaoa drew a knife and stabbed the learner before fleeing with a cellphone,” he said Senokoatsane said the accused had brazenly robbed the victim in broad daylight, at around 15:00 The learner had been returning from school
Alerted by the commotion, community members gave chase and apprehended Molaoa, and thereafter handed him over to the police
Senokoatsane said during the trial, Prosecutor Palesa Molangoanyane presented evidence of Molaoa’s extensive criminal history
“He had three previous convictions for housebreaking with intent to steal and theft; one conviction for theft; and one conviction for robbery
“At the time of the trial, Molaoa was already serving a seven-year prison sentence for a prior robbery conviction While the minimum prescribed sentence for the current offence is 20 years, the court exercised its discretion to increase the sentence to 25 years, citing the accused’s persistent and escalating pattern of violent criminal behaviour
“The prosecution submitted that the accused poses a danger to society, has shown no remorse, and is a habitual repeat offender The NPA welcomes the sentence as a strong statement of the justice system’s commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society,” said Senokoatsane
He said the court further ruled that the new sentence of 25 years would not run concurrently with the sentence he was already serving
LIFE-CHANGING EYE SURGERIES PERFORMED
TEBOHO SETENA
The Free State Department of Health has commenced with the undertaking of performing life-changing cataract surgeries to aid 130 people as part of contributing to this year’s eventful Nelson Mandela Day celebrations
The department’s team of surgeons performed the first surgeries on Saturday, 19 July the day after Mandela Day at the Mofumahadi Manapo Mopeli Regional Hospital in Qwaqwa
According to Mondli Mvambi spokesperson the department plans to complete all 130 surgeries during July, which coincides with the birthday celebrations of the late statesman Mandela
The provincial MEC for Health, Monyatso Mahlatsi, has volunteered to participate in the eye surgery marathon at Mofumahadi Manapo Mopeli He said the 130 surgeries underscored the department’s ongoing commitment to combating poverty and
inequity, adding that it aligned with the theme of this year’s International Nelson Mandela Day: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”
Mahlatsi said the operations were part of a continued and concerted effort to reduce the backlog of patients on the waiting list to undergo surgeries to have cataracts removed, which is the leading cause of blindness globally
“This initiative aims to provide essential eye-care services to medically uninsured populations, emphasising the importance of restoring human dignity and upholding human rights This is highlighting the collective responsibility to ensure access to healthcare for all,” said Mahlatsi
Last year the provincial department performed 500 cataract surgeries during October, set aside as Eye Care Awareness Month Also undertaken as part of this campaign, was awareness raised to highlight the importance of eye health and preventative measures
WIN A
BrandNew
The Qibing Library in Wepener officially opened on Friday – tying in with Mandela Day celebrations.
Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae,Free State premier,at the newly opened Qibing Library in Wepener.The library boasts a computer room with 18 computers Photos: Supplied
Budding models flourish
LIENTJIE MENTZ
Two young talents from Bloemfontein, Amber Riddle and Liané Schmidt, are making waves in the international modeling and performance scene. Both girls, trained by V-Models South Africa, have earned invitations to participate in the prestigious New York Fashion Week this being an achievement many seasoned models only dream of
Th
ese bright young stars celebrated a string of accomplishments at the South African Youth Ambassadors Awards ceremony on 15 June in Johannesburg
In this way, marking their emergence as standout figures in the youth modeling circuit Amber (13) impressed judges and audiences alike with her stage presence and versatility
Selected to participate in the Universal Global pageant in America, and subsequently scouted for the
New York Fashion Week, Amber has also been chosen to represent South Africa at the Disco World Championships in America
Not only is she turning heads on the runway, but her talent extends to dance as well
“She simply takes the runway by storm,” says her coach, V-Models’ Tegan Botes
Liané (12) has shown extraordinary promise as a V-Model
Named runner-up at the South African Youth Ambassadors Awards, Liané has already secured a place at the New York Fashion Week and will also represent South Africa on the Universal Global stage
As with Amber, Liané’s dynamic range is not only limited to modeling, but also lends itself to competitive dance
She has also been selected to compete in the Disco World Championships
According to Botes, Liané “turns a camera upside down in photographic modeling,” a nod to her expressive and camera-ready persona
Suspects face court for brandishing blades
TEBOHO SETENA
One of two separate knife attacks resulted in the loss of a young man ’ s life, while the other saw a woman surviving a horrifying incident of gender-based violence (GBV)
The 22-year-old woman survived her attack, allegedly committed by her boyfriend, on the night of Saturday, 19 July
She was later admitted to a local hospital in Bloemfontein to treat the stab wound, including any associated bruising
The Bloemfontein police reported that the GBV incident reportedly happened when a dispute between the two lovers reached its boiling point
Sgt Sinah Mpakane, spokesperson for the Free State police, said members of the Public Order Police (POP) unit arrested the suspect after tracing him
She said he was expected in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court this week, facing a charge of attempted murder
Mpakane said the suspect allegedly confronted the victim about her recent unavailability, culminating in a horrific attack with a knife An investigation into the attempted murder case is ongoing
“According to the report, at approximately 22:30, the victim was at home when she received a phone call from her boyfriend, requesting that she meet him at Phase 06,” said Mpakane
“Upon her arrival at the location and not finding him, the victim proceeded to a nearby tuck shop to purchase airtime in order to call him again
“When she explained her unavailability was because she had been unwell, the suspect reportedly became aggressive and assaulted her by slapping her in the face He then insisted that she accompany him to his residence
“While walking, the suspect allegedly drew a knife and stabbed the victim in the back of her head He allegedly further threatened to kill her
The victim managed to flee the scene and sought help from nearby residents”
■ The other knife attack, resulting in the fatal stabbing of a man believed to be about 30 years old, occurred in Phahameng, Bloemfontein, in the early hours on Sunday, 20 July
Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, spokesperson for the provincial police, said members on night duty were on patrol when they received information about a fatal stabbing in the middle of the night on Sunday, at approximately 01:15
He said information gathering by the investigative police officers is what led to the apprehension of three male suspects, aged between 20 and 21 years
“Two of the suspects were found with bloodstains on their clothing Further investigation led to the discovery of the suspected murder weapon, an okapi knife with bloodstains, hidden on top of a wardrobe,” said Kareli
He said the motive for the fatal stabbing is part of the ongoing investigation
These suspects are also expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court sometime this week
Science ninjas poised for fairs
The Free State this week plays host to the first of three regional science fairs, in a series of 35, as part of this year ’ s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists’ national competition
The regional science fair series takes place annually across South Africa It is a platform affording school learners the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas, scientific research and problem-solving skills on a competitive platform
The province’s first event will be hosted at the New Horizon College in Harrismith on Saturday, 26 July
The other two events will take place at the campuses of the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State: in Bloemfontein on 2 August and in Welkom on 16 August
A total of 557 budding scientists have been selected to compete at the three provincial events They were chosen from more than17 500 learners who participated in various expo activities, including workshops designed to elevate scientific skills
They attended mandatory expos in their districts, where
they received guidance from experts and insights into conducting impactful research investigations
The participants also presented their research projects here
At the regional science fairs, the participants showcase their research in various categories
The winners thereof stand a chance to win a range of prestigious awards, with titles such as: best female project, best innovation project, best energy project and best development project
The regional winners qualify to take part in the Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) national final, this year scheduled to be held at the Emperors Palace Conference Centre in Kempton Park from 6 to 10 October, where they will compete against peers across the country
Rewards for the best candidates identified here include bursaries to pursue studies at a South African university of their choice
In addition to this they are granted a chance to be selected to showcase their projects at international science fairs in
Loyalty has its price tag
DEON SMIT AND EMILY ZUCCARINI
In a country where economic uncertainty, inequality, and unemployment are daily realities, it is assumed that primarily money is what keeps South Africans in their jobs.
But this is no longer the full picture As the workplace evolves, so do employee expectations For many South African employees today, pay is a symbol of value, recognition and trust Non-monetary benefits such as the flexibility to work from home have become increasingly valuable Not only is it an additional means for employees to increase their cash flow with regards to savings on expenses like transportation costs, it also provides a means of achieving balance
Understanding the psychological side of remuneration and reward is now a critical part of any organisation’s talent retention strategy So, what really drives employees to stay or leave?
In the past, remuneration has been viewed in singular terms: pay employees well, and they will stay; pay them poorly, and they will leave In South Africa, this perspective has been reinforced by high unemployment rates, significant income inequality, and rising living costs While salary remains important, it is no longer the only factor Emotional factors now weigh equally, if not more
At the foundational level, competitive salaries help meet employees’ physiological needs: food, shelter and basic living expenses When these are unmet, employees are primarily motivated to leave for survival reasons
Given the county’s high unemployment rate and economic instability, job security is a major psychological benefit A stable job, along with structured benefits (retirement and medical benefits), offers emotional peace of mind It is not always the size of the pay cheque that matters, but the certainty of it
South Africans are acutely aware of fairness and equity Employees who feel underpaid in comparison to peers or the market often feel excluded or disrespected This perceived injustice, even if inaccurate, erodes trust and team cohesion, and eventually leads to disengagement or turnover
America, Asia, Europe and the rest of Africa
More than 6 000 projects are set to be showcased across the country at this year
Mologadi Motshele, acting chief executive officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, said the entity perceived the importance of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (Stemi) as a strategic enabler of South Africa’s growth, innovation capacity and long-term sustainability
“By cultivating interest and excellence in Stemi from an early age, the Eskom Expo develops individual potential and contributes to the broader goals of economic growth, innovation and social equity,” said Motshele
“These young scientists are the future problem-solvers who will address the challenges of energy, climate change, healthcare, food security and digital transformation
“Our ongoing support of the Eskom Expo reflects our belief that investing in young minds today ensures a sustainable, skills-driven South Africa tomorrow”
Recognition, or the lack thereof, is one of the most underappreciated drivers of turnover In South Africa’s largely collectivist culture, employees want to feel part of something greater Regular praise, career conversations and symbolic rewards often hold more emotional weight than a small bonus When pay structures include performance bonuses or visible acknowledgment, employees feel their contributions matter, a key component in boosting self-worth and loyalty
For younger generations work must align with their values Many employees want to contribute to social good, support transformation efforts, or work for organisations that care about uplifting communities
Growth and development opportunities are key additional factors People do not just want a job; they want a future When organisations support employees’ career ambitions, they help satisfy esteem and self-actualisation needs
Initiatives like bursaries or promotion pathways show belief in an employee’s potential, fostering loyalty and motivation
The PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey for 2024 on African perspectives found that 56% of African workers prioritise opportunities to acquire new skills when deciding to stay with or leave their employer, reflecting a shift towards a skills-centric paradigm where skills are the currency of the future
Africa’s younger workforce places a high priority on fair pay, fulfilment, flexibility, and a collaborative working environment, emphasising the importance of feeling valued
The survey highlighted employees are seeking clarity and openness from employers, especially concerning
ciation (Sara) executive
and
Amber Riddle (left) and Liané Schmidt have been invited to participate in the New York Fashion Week Photo: Supplied
In pursuit of scholarly growth
The research ability of Dr Mantoa Contravetra Molete, a lecturer at the Central University Technology (CUT), Free State, has earned her feathers in her cap. She has received two prestigious national research grants.
Molete currently serves as a lecturer and departmental manager in the Department of Communication Sciences at the CUT campus in Welkom
The grants are for the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) Black Academics Advancement Programme (BAAP) postdoctoral grant and the University Capacity Development Programme’s (UCDP) junior researcher grant for the 2024-’2025 period This recognises Molete's significant contributions to her field and the university's research standing
Both grants are envisioned to support early-career academics in achieving their research goals They will be used for lecturer replacement, funding for conference attendance and mentorship opportunities among other things “These grants will enable us to grow as researchers They create a space for collaboration, building networks, and for advancing meaningful research without being overwhelmed by teaching responsibilities,” said Molete Molete’s research project, titled “Reform of Curricula: Creating the Language Practice Entrepreneur,” addresses the absence of entrepreneurship-focused training in the Language Practice and Media Studies curriculum Molete said through her work, she aims to embed entrepreneurial skills into the programme, preparing students to respond to
industry demands and become self-sustaining professionals in the language services sector
Molete holds a doctorate degree in Language Practice and is the first master’s and doctoral graduate produced by her department at the CUT
She supervises both master’s and doctoral students and serves in numerous leadership roles, including as chairperson of the Institutional Forum, the African Language Association of Southern Africa (Alasa), and the Goldfields TVET College Council The CUT believes Molete’s work continues to align with its 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, focusing on transformation, academic excellence, and the development of a strong research culture
Another great tree has fallen
TEBOHO SETENA
An astute teacher from Bloemfontein, Selelo Jonathan Steve Vinger, has closed the final chapter of his life’s story He passed on Tuesday, 15 July, marking the end of a remarkable life
Affectionately known as “Oom Steve” , Vinger had been battling ill health associated with old age However, he lived long enough to reach the remarkable age of 90
His funeral service will be held on Friday, 25 July
He is survived by his wife, Dikeledi, daughters Ipeleng, Keorapetse and Neo, sister Bahedile, and 11 grandchildren Vinger’s contribution in the teaching profession and education spans over four decades He was part of the generation of teachers who carried the baton during the apartheid era from 1948 to 1994 He worked at the Rutanang Primary School before retiring in 1996 Vinger’s compatriots include the late Free State premier Winkie Direko Their contributions stand out for continuing the struggle for freedom when several of their peers went into exile and all black political parties had been banned
Trevor Mokeyane, a teacher by profession, noted: “These are the men and women who toiled under the unscrupulous and draconic apartheid policies of segregation in education introduced by Hendrik Frensch
continue teaching as part of contributing to true liberation when many left the teaching profession due to the apartheid regime’s draconic laws
Vinger’s contribution in the improvement of black teachers and the quality of education was confirmed by playing the key role as one of the founding members of the Orange Free State African Teachers Association (OFSATA)
Verwoerd, who was the minister of Bantu education”
Mokeyane, one of the several individuals Vinger taught in St 6 at the Marang Public School in 1972, has fond memories about his late master
“Mr Vinger was an educator of note who served the Mangaung community with honesty, loyalty and dedication
“His ability to teach lingers and resinates with the poem: ‘O Captain! my Captain! our fearful trip is done,’ ” he said Those he taught have described Vinger as a great influence and a giant in South Africa’s teaching profession
According to an ad-brief biography, Vinger began his illustrious teaching profession at the Marang Primary School in the 1950s
Mokeyane said Vinger was remembered for making the vow with his colleague to remain in South Africa to
The other founding leadership members include the late D D M Rametsi and Maruping Lesley Mancwe, who were principal and deputy principal, respectively, of the then Bantu High School (now Sehunelo)
Vinger’s impactful contribution as a community builder involved serving as a member of the Mangaung Social Welfare, as well as being a player for the Young Darkies football club and conductor of thet choir, which won several trophies in school competitions In football, he reportedly nurtured talented players for two Bloemfontein giant clubs: Mangaung United and Bloemfontein Celtic These notable players include Wellington “Ngwenya” Wesi and the Melamu twins, Rabagolo and Rabanye
Some of the successful persons Vinger taught and moulded include Prof Itumeleng Mosala, Dr Maleho Seane, Keabetswe Motlhoiwa and Itumeleng Ditaunyane (retired teacher)
Dr Mantoa Contravetra Molete has received two research grants Photo: Supplied
Selelo Jonathan Steve Vinger Photo: Supplied
Heart care revolutionised
TEBOHO SETENA
Two Bloemfontein specialist cardiologists achieved separate milestones just days apart. Dr Nico van der Merwe and Dr Marius Oosthuysen successfully implemented cardiac interventions at the Life Rosepark Hospital
Oosthuysen completed an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) procedure on 14 July, following the first Medtronic cardiac resynchronisation therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) implementation by Van der Merwe on 8 July
The two specialists worked with a capable team of the cardiac catheterisation laboratory of the hospital Oosthuysen stated that the new ICD featured intravascular lead placement, providing targeted and effective defibrillation and pacing therapies to manage life-threatening heart rhythms and prevent sudden cardiac arrest The device incorpo-
The Life Rosepark Hospital in Bloemfontein’s catheterisation laboratory team worked with two cardiologists to accomplish milestones in healthcare From the left are Santos Mokoena (registered nurse),Mandie Ferreira (registered nurse),Elmarie du Plessis (clinical technologist),Dr Marius Oosthuysen (cardiologist),Ghena Ludick (radiographer),Nomsa Macete (enrolled nurse),Karin Vorster (medical representative of Medtronic) and Chrizanne van der Walt (technologist of Medtronic) Photo: Supplied
Surgeries of pure intent
TEBOHO SETENA
Six charitable robotic surgeries, corresponding with Nelson Mandela’s iconic prison number, 46664, will be performed at Bloemfontein’s Universitas Academic Hospital
Plans are afoot for private-public partners to embark on these surgeries in the spirit of Mandela Month, following an announcement by the University of the Free State (UFS) on 14 July The participating partners include the Free State Department of Health, African Synergy Health (ASH), CMR Surgical, and Marcus Medical The surgeries are scheduled to be performed between 21 and 28 July
Dr Nitha Ramnath of the university said the surgeries would entail 4 surgeons performing 6 robotic procedures on 6 patients over 6 days, across 4 specialities – corresponding with Mandela’s prison number “The surgeries will be performed in the Universitas Academic Hospital
Celebrated for seeing to safety
The Free State Crinums’technical team and the players who benchmarked the team as one of South Africa’s netball powerhouses after reaching its seventh final Photos: Supplied
Netball team shows mettle and looks ahead
Perseveranceondisplay
TEBOHO SETENA
The Free State Crinums’ progression to this year’s Telkom Netball League (TNL) final benchmarked the team as a powerhouse, while taking its existing rivalry with the Gautengbased Golden Fireballs and Jaguars to new heights The Crinums had reached their seventh final, winning four and losing three, adding a 40 47 loss to their scorecard against the new champions, the Fireballs, on Sunday, 20 July The final took place in the Durban International Convention Centre
The Free State girls were on the quest for a fifth title They hold an impressive record as one of the most successful teams in South Africa, behind the six-time winning Gauteng Jaguars (2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023)
En route to the final, they scored
back-to-back wins against the Jaquars in the semifinal and round-robin fixture
Despite finishing on the podium as silver medal winners, the Crinums had a fair share in claiming coveted accolades at the end of the competition and during its course, since April The team’s captain, Refiloe Nketsa, scooped the best centre accolade, in addition to the three player of the match awards she received Other deserving recipients of this title in the Crinums’ camp include Liamé de Lange, Reratilwe Letsoalo, and Ané Retief The versatile Retief was instrumental in the team’s hardfought 58 52 victory over the Jaguars in the semifinal Additionally, the Crinums received a financial reward of R100 000 in prize money as the runner-up However, the big celebration for the team’s superb performance is Retief securing a lucrative deal with an English outfit, the Nottingham Forest netball team
The team broke the news on Monday, 21 July The defender spent time with Manchester Thunder for the 2025 NSL season, and in the last year has been called up to the national team for fixtures against Malawi and at the Fast5 Netball World Series
Retief was also a part of the national Protea netball team that reached the final of the 2025 Vitality Netball Nations Cup tournament
In a statement, Chelsea Pitman, Nottingham Forest’s head coach, expressed joy at securing Retief
“Bringing Ané Retief into the Forest family is a massive win for us She’s got grit about her, defensive presence, and that classic South African playing style and work ethic
“From my first conversation with her, I knew she was someone we wanted to pursue in getting for next season I can’t wait to see her at Forest and see what she brings Everyone at Forest Netball wishes Ané the very best as she joins the group ” Ané Retief
with the prize money for being player of the match
Liamé de Lange,who won three player of the match accolades